In December, 1994, Evansville joined other cities across the country in celebrating on New Year’s Eve with an event called “First Night.” The concept was simple, hold throw an alcohol free party and invite everyone, regardless of age.

At the first event in 1994, there was live music, stories for kids, an interfaith service, and other family activities. Different venues were used downtown and people walked from venue to venue.

First Night was a New Year’s Eve event in Evansville for 11 years before it fell victim to declining interest and attendance.

The past year has provided us with many interesting stories. Here are some of the top stories of 2024:

19. Evansville sports standout Clinton Keown dies in a car crash

18. Fall Festival breaks records in more ways than one
A week of good weather helped bring out record crowds for the weeklong event that raises funds for numerous nonprofit groups. This year’s half pot went to $2 million, turning Al Lindsey into a millionaire with his winning ticket.

17. Police and firefighters received hefty raises
The pay increases brought Evansville police and firefighters to par with other cities in Indiana, improving recruiting and retention.

16. Ryan Hatfield elected Circuit Court Judge
Ryan Hatfield decided to step down from his seat as State Representative for District 77 and ran for Circuit Court Judge.

15. Evansville baseball beats No. 1 Tennessee in game 2 of the NCAA Super Regional
The Purple Aces took down the #1 national seed Tennessee Volunteers, 10-8, and, with the victory, Evansville evened the best-of-three Super Regional series with the Volunteers and forces the “if necessary” game. Tennessee won game three.

14. Liberty Federal Credit Union buys naming rights to USI sports arena for $10 million
In October, the University of Southern Indiana announced Liberty Federal Credit Union has made a historic $10 million gift to the University of Southern Indiana Foundation for USI Athletics, securing the naming rights to the Screaming Eagles Arena for the next 20 years. The Arena will now be named Liberty Arena, Home of the Screaming Eagles.

13. City Councilman Alexander Burton is Elected to the Statehouse while questions swirl about the eligibility of his replacement
Burton ran unopposed for the District 77 Statehouse seat vacated by Ryan Hatfield. After the caucus held by Democrats to fill Burton’s city council seat, allegations were raised about the eligibility of the new 4th Ward Council member. The controversy is likely to continue in 2025.

12. ONB/ Bremer merger
Old National and St. Paul, Minn.-based Bremer Financial Corporation jointly announced that they are entering into a definitive merger agreement.Bremer, with $16.2 billion in total assets, bolsters Old National’s presence in the Twin Cities and expands its footprint into several other vibrant Midwestern markets

11. Lloyd Expressway construction
The Lloyd Expressway created headaches for drivers in 2024. While the re-engineered intersection at Epworth Road was finished, work at Vann/Stockwell and on the westside continues to be the scene of plenty of orange barrels.

10. Parks board passes a $24 million bond
The Evansville Parks Board approved a $24 million bond measure to pay for a handful of park projects. Before passage, they removed a planned $10 million giraffe breeding barn from the list of projects.

9. Pike Mattress Factory Fire
The Pike Mattress Factory on Division Street burned down in September. The ruble on the site remains open with no fencing to keep children (or adults) off of the big piles of bricks.

8. The Haitian grew this year in Evansville, prompting Attorney General Todd Rokita to investigate local businesses and non-profits.

7. Lilly King brings home more Olympic gold
Stating that it would be her last Olympic competition. Evansville native Lilly King competed in the Paris Games, bringing more gold home with her.

6. Berry Plastics sold
Switzerland-based Amcor has agreed to buy Berry Global for $8.43 billion in an all-stock deal, creating a consumer and healthcare packaging giant with combined revenues of $24 billion.

5. Upheaval in the GOP
Despite the Republican victories at the federal, state, and local levels, the GOP experienced a year of turmoil throughout Indiana. The year started with record numbers of Republicans filing to run for Precinct Committee members (PCs) and Convention Delegate positions. The Vanderburgh County Chair filed challenges against some candidates and expelled three party members as not being “Republicans in good standing.” The newly elected State Delegates went to the convention and approved Micah Beckwith for Lt. Governor over the choice of Gubinitorial candidate Mike Braun. Additionally, the state party chair stepped down after five months on the job. Despite the party turmoil, Republicans elected Mike Braun as Governor and swept the elections for county offices.

4. EREP Riverfront plan unveiled
The plan calls for a total renovation that would create a park setting along the entire Evansville riverfront. The total price tag for improvements to the riverfront in Warrick, Posey, and Vanderburgh County is $600 million over 30 years.

3. Cheryl Musgrave defeated in the primary
After decades of public service, Cheryl Musgrave was defeated during the primary in her bid for re-election to county commissioner.

2. Mayor Terry takes office
Evansville’s first black and first female mayor was sworn in for her first term in January. Mayor Terry announced an initiative to fight blight in the city, distributed opioid settlement money to non-profits, and crafted a city budget for next year that totals almost half a billion dollars.

1. The Eclipse
In perhaps the most anticipated 2 minutes of 2024, the Evansville area was in a perfect position for total darkness during the total eclipse that drew thousands of visitors to the area. Explore Evansville reported the following economic impact to the region:

Twelve Things to do in 2025 to Make America Better

by Joe Wallace December 31, 2024

In 2025, the United States stands at a critical juncture, facing opportunities to address deep-seated challenges and shape a brighter future. Here are twelve key actions the nation can take to foster progress and unity:

1. Revamp Education for the 21st Century The U.S. must prioritize a modernized, inclusive, and equitable education system. This includes expanding STEM programs, vocational training, and digital literacy to prepare students for evolving job markets. Investing in teacher training, infrastructure, and free community college initiatives can bridge education gaps and bolster economic competitiveness.

2. Advance Clean Energy and Combat Climate Change Accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources is vital. Federal support for solar, wind, and nuclear energy projects, alongside incentives for electric vehicle adoption, can reduce emissions. Infrastructure upgrades, such as a modernized grid and sustainable public transportation, will solidify America’s leadership in combating climate change while creating jobs.

3. Reform the Healthcare System Affordable and accessible healthcare remains a pressing need. Expanding Medicaid, controlling prescription drug prices, and implementing mental health programs can improve overall well-being. Addressing systemic disparities in care is essential to achieving a healthier, more equitable society.

4. Invest in Infrastructure and Housing A robust infrastructure plan can revitalize the nation’s roads, bridges, and water systems. Tackling the housing crisis by incentivizing affordable housing development and offering assistance to first-time homebuyers will address homelessness and housing insecurity.

5. Strengthen Bipartisan Governance Bridging political divides is paramount to restoring faith in government. Encouraging bipartisan initiatives on key issues like criminal justice reform, election integrity, and economic policy can rebuild public trust and foster national unity.

6. Support Small Businesses and Innovation Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. Simplifying tax codes, providing low-interest loans, and reducing regulatory hurdles will empower entrepreneurs. Enhancing funding for research and development can drive technological advancements and maintain the nation’s competitive edge.

7. Address Systemic Inequality Combating racial, gender, and economic inequality requires targeted policies. Strengthening anti-discrimination laws, closing the gender pay gap, and offering economic opportunities in underserved communities will promote inclusivity and equity.

8. Reform Immigration Policy A comprehensive immigration reform plan is long overdue. Streamlining visa processes, creating pathways to citizenship, and enhancing border security can balance compassion with practicality, benefiting both the economy and humanitarian interests.

9. Prioritize National Security and Cyber Defense Emerging threats demand a robust and adaptive national security strategy. Investments in cybersecurity infrastructure, international alliances, and counter-terrorism measures will protect citizens and maintain global stability.

10. Promote Civic Engagement and Media Literacy Strengthening democracy starts with an informed and engaged populace. Encouraging voter participation through accessible voting methods and implementing media literacy programs to combat misinformation will enhance civic responsibility and informed decision-making.

11. Improve Government Efficiency Streamlining government operations and reducing bureaucratic red tape will enhance public trust and effectiveness. Implementing technology-driven solutions, eliminating redundant programs, and fostering accountability can ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.

12. Ensure a Healthier Food Supply Promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring access to nutritious, affordable food can improve public health. Incentivizing local farming, reducing reliance on processed foods, and regulating harmful additives will create a stronger, healthier population.

By addressing these twelve priorities, the United States can take meaningful strides toward a more prosperous, sustainable, and unified future. Achieving these goals will require collective effort and visionary leadership from government, businesses, and communities alike.