Thank You to the Heroes of the Winter Storms

By Johnny Kincaid and CCO Staff

A week ago, we were all challenged by the power of the weather. We listened to the trees crack under the weight of the ice that coated everything, and we heard the loud booms as transformers blew all around us. Many were plunged into darkness and counted the hours (or, in some cases, days) until power was restored. We stayed in because our roads were transformed into icy challenges.

But now, gratitude warms our hearts as we reflect on the heroes. While we stayed hunkered down, safe within our homes, countless individuals were braving the elements to ensure that our community remained safe, functional, and cared for.

Today, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the heroes who worked tirelessly through the winter storms.

To our dedicated road crews, Indiana Department of Transportation, Evansville Street Maintainance Department, Vanderburgh County Highway Department, and Darmstadt Town Maintainance: your relentless efforts to clear the streets and keep transportation routes open allowed emergency services to function and essential workers to reach their destinations. The sound of snowplows and salt trucks was a reassuring reminder of your commitment to our safety.

To the utility workers: through bitter cold and hazardous conditions, you restored power, repaired lines, and kept the lights on when we needed them most. Your expertise and bravery in adverse weather were nothing short of extraordinary. Centerpoint Energy put all hands on deck with an army of over 1,000 workers, including hundreds that came to Evansville from elsewhere to help our community.

To first responders, firefighters, and healthcare workers: your unwavering dedication ensured that those in need received care and assistance. From responding to emergencies on treacherous roads to offering medical aid, you proved once again why you are the backbone of our community.

To our law enforcement officers from Indiana State Police, Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, and Evansville Police Department: you are always counted on to take on tough and dangerous assignments. You were there standing on the icy streets to direct traffic around accidents, you rushed to a variety of emergencies, and you answered those calls from people who spent too much time couped up together. Thanks to Sheriff Noah Robinson and Police Chief Phillip Smith for leading your teams and encouraging an atmosphere of respect, compassion, and dignity.

To the delivery drivers and essential workers: many of you traveled through the storm to provide food, supplies, and services, making life a little easier for the rest of us. Your efforts did not go unnoticed.

To the neighbors who checked in on one another, shared resources, and lent a helping hand: your kindness and community spirit were a beacon of hope in trying times. Whether shoveling driveways, offering rides, or simply providing a warm smile, you reminded us of the strength we find in each other.

To Evansville Watch: you were the online source of information as it happened. Your relaying of information helped people updated as the storm moved through and reminded us about the dangerous driving conditions.

Finally, to everyone who worked behind the scenes, from dispatchers coordinating emergency responses to shelter volunteers offering warmth and refuge: thank you. You embodied the very best of Evansville—a community that comes together in times of need.

Winter storms test not only our infrastructure but our resilience and compassion. This storm showed us that Evansville is a city filled with individuals who rise to the occasion, who face challenges with determination, and who care deeply for their neighbors.

As we look back on these days of snow and ice, let us carry forward the spirit of gratitude and unity. To all who worked through the winter storms, we offer our deepest thanks. You are the unsung heroes of Evansville, and we are forever grateful.