EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Southern Indiana Volleyball (4-7) sweeps the crosstown series against University of Evansville (1-10) with a riveting five-set victory (23-25, 25-14, 21-25, 25-11, 15-9). Screaming Eagles Arena was on fire for the home opener with a USI Volleyball record setting arena crowd of 824 fans, eclipsing the previous Screaming Eagles Arena Volleyball record of 375.
USI attacked the Purple Aces as a team similar to Tuesday night’s match, with five different Eagles notching double-digit kills from sophomore Ashby Willis (14), sophomore Leah Coleman (12), junior Bianca Anderson (15), senior Paris Downing (10), and senior Jasmine Green (15). Senior setter Carly Sobieralski shinned on the big stage once again with a season-high 57 assists and a new career high of 25 digs.
Set 1: UE 23, USI 25
Anderson came out the gate swinging with three early kills to give USI an early 9-5 lead. Green added to the fast start with two powerful kills making it 15-10. Sobieralski caught the defense off balance late in the set as USI led, 23-19. The Aces erupted on 6-0 run stunning the crowd by robbing the first set after the Eagles seemed to have all the momentum. Starting the game slow continues to be a problem, as the set loss marks a 1-10 record in first sets.
Set 2: UE 14, USI 25
The Eagles quickly flipped the page as Coleman took over with three early kills as USI led 13-6. USI surged on a 6-0 run as the Aces defense struggled to defend the Sobieralski to Anderson connection. Downing smashed a kill straight up the middle to even the match at one. Evansville committed ten errors opposed to Eagles three in set two. USI’s defense forced the Purple Aces to a .025 hitting percentage through two frames.
Set 3: UE 21, USI 25
Set three was intense as both teams traded blows tied at nine as Downing and Willis both racked up three kills each. The Aces started to separate themselves capitalizing on multiple USI errors, leading 19-13. However, USI mounted their own 7-3 run to pull within two points. UE’s middle blocker Chloe Kline finished the Eagles with two huge kills. The error statistic stuck out again, as UE only committed one opposed to USI’s eight.
Set 4: UE 11, USI 25
Green took her turn in set four giving the Eagles the early 7-5 lead with three kills. Senior Abby Weber, Anderson, Coleman, Downing, and Willis peppered the Aces with attacks going on an 8-0 run as the Eagles lead by 12. Sobieralski dropped her 43rd match dime to help force a fifth set. USI were extremely efficient in set three with a .429 attacking percentage. Junior Keira Moore totaled 22 digs through four sets. The race to 15 points in set five would be the decider of the crosstown second leg.
Set 5: UE 9, USI 15
The energy in Screaming Eagles Arena heightened in the final set as every point erupted with noise. Team leader Jasmine Green finished the Aces with three-straight kills to help the Eagles finish the match on a 6-0 run. Sobieralski tallied her season-best 57th assist to finish the game with 13 assists in the final set along with her career-best 25th dig. USI hit a season-best .483 hitting percentage in set five.
The Eagles are tough to beat because of multiple different players able to step up offensively at any moment. This match marketed the first time all season five different Eagles tallied double-digit kills.
Anderson and Green both tallied 15 kills leading the way. Sobieralski’s 57 assists led both teams as she finished with 106 assists combined in both rivalry matches. Moore and Sobieralski were tied with 25 digs each. Downing dominated up the middle once again with six total blocks. Moore and Weber both added service aces.
As a team, USI totaled 72 kills, 67 assists, 94 digs, eight blocks, two service aces, and a .274 hitting percentage. UE finished with 47 kills, 46 assists, 78 digs, five total blocks, six service aces, and a .114 hitting percentage.
USI completes series sweep against UE in front of record crowd
Aces drop weekend opener
UE back in action on Sunday
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Friday’s USI Invitational opener saw the University of Evansville volleyball team drop a 3-2 match to USI inside Screaming Eagles Arena.
Another big performance saw Giulia Cardona finish with 26 kills and 13 digs. Playing in her first match of the season, Ainoah Cruz tallied 23 digs while Cardona added 13. Angelica Gonzalez and Chloe Cline posted 8 and 7 kills, respectively. Lexi Owen wrapped up the match with 35 assists. Five USI players recorded double figure kills led by Jasmine Green and Bianca Anderson who had 15 apiece.
Set 1 – UE 25, USI 23
Evansville took the early 2-0 lead before USI fought back to go up 6-4. They continued to add to the lead as they took a 17-11 edge. Back-to-back service aces from Giulia Cardona highlighted a 4-0 run that cut the deficit to 17-15. An error by the Screaming Eagles allowed UE to get within one (19-18), but USI retook a 23-19 lead.
Helped by a service ace by Blakeley Freeman, the Aces stormed back. Her ace made it a 23-22 game before the rally continued. Following a time out, Cardona knocked down the final two kills to seal a 25-23 win and a 1-0 lead. Evansville reeled off the final six points to take the set.
Set 2 – USI 25, UE 14
After UE scored the opening point on an Angelica Gonzalez kill, USI took control. They opened a 9-4 advantage before extending the lead to 20-9. Things continued to go their way as they tied the match with a 25-14 win.
Set 3 – UE 25, USI 21
Things were close in the early moments as the teams swapped the lead on multiple occasions leading to a 10-10 score. That is when Cardona took control. Following a block, she posted consecutive aces to give her team a 13-10 lead. Madisyn Steele registered a kill that pushed the lead to 19-13.
USI never gave up and fought back within a pair at 22-20, but the Aces held strong with Chloe Cline notching two late kills to seal the 25-21 lead and a 2-1 match lead.
Set 4 – USI 25, UE 11
A big start saw the Screaming Eagles take a 6-2 lead out of the gate. Kills by Cardona and Cline cut into the deficit, but USI retook control and pulled away to force a fifth set on the strength of a 25-11 victory.
Set 5 – USI 15, UE 9
Jenna Heidbreder’s first kill of the evening was a big one as it capped a 5-3 start to the frame. USI scored the next two as they tied it up before a Cardona kill put Evansville back in front. The tides turned with the score knotted at 9-9. USI scored the final six points to seal the match.
Sunday’s tournament finale will see the Aces play IU Indianapolis at 2 p.m. at Screaming Eagles Arena.
Gov. Holcomb selects Judge Mary DeBoer to join Indiana Court of Appeals
Gov. Holcomb selects Judge Mary DeBoer to join Indiana Court of Appeals
INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced he has selected Porter County Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer as the next member of the Indiana Court of Appeals. Judge DeBoer will replace retiring Judge Patricia Riley.
“Judge DeBoer is a person of immense integrity, intellect, and energy. I’m proud to appoint her to the Court of Appeals,” Gov. Holcomb said. “Judge DeBoer’s commitment to the law and justice will serve her fellow Hoosiers with distinction as she joins the second highest bench in Indiana.”
Mary DeBoer is an exceptional lawyer who has been active in the legal profession and community during her career. She has extensive experience in the courtroom and has used that experience to run an efficient and effective court.
As Circuit Court Judge in Porter County, she handles a mix of civil and criminal cases, from malpractice to murder. She oversees the juvenile justice center & leads the juvenile services team. She presides over 3 problem solving courts (juvenile & family drug court, truancy court, and transformation (mental health) court) – two of which were implemented by her. She also leads the Alternative Dispute Resolution program and the local Domestic Violence Committee.
Judge DeBoer is a compassionate individual that cares greatly for others, eagerly contributes her leadership to worthy organizations, and has an approachable personality that would serve her well on the Court of Appeals.
Judge DeBoer studied criminal justice & political science at Western Michigan University and received her J.D. from Valparaiso Law School.
Immediately before being appointed to the Circuit Court, DeBoer was a Magistrate Judge in the Porter Superior Court for eight years. Prior to that she served as a Deputy Prosecutor, Porter County and Starke County; Associate Attorney in private practice; Chief Probation Officer and Magistrate Judge, Starke County; and Adjunct Instructor, Brown Mackie College.
A date for DeBoer’s swearing in and robing ceremony will be determined by the Indiana Court of Appeals.
River City Racing Club presents the 2024 Jack Kohlmeyer Fall Classic
Evansville, Indiana – September 21, 2024 – Evansville’s River City Racing Club is pleased to announce the anticipated RCRC 2024 Jack Kohlmeyer Fall Classic, a thrilling racing event that will showcase the skills of more than 70 talented competitors from across the tri-state area with more than 200 boats. The event will take place at Deaconess Sports Park on Saturday, September 21st at 8AM.
RESTURANT REPORT
Board of School Trustees of the EVSC Meeting
The Board of School Trustees of the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation will meet for the regularly scheduled Board meeting Monday, September 23, 2024 at 5:30 PM in the Board Room of the EVSC Administration Building located at 951 Walnut Street, Evansville, IN. Board meetings can also be observed by tuning to EVSC’s radio station, 90.7 WPSR or live streamed online at https://www.wpsrhd.com/. During this meeting the Board will hold a Public Hearing to take public testimony from Vanderburgh County residents regarding the Additional Appropriation for 2024B General Obligation Bonds.
Prior to the regularly scheduled Board meeting, three members of the Board, along with district administrators, will hold a Town Hall beginning at 5:00 PM. This Town Hall is for Vanderburgh County residents to speak directly with Board members in attendance about issues involving EVSC schools. The Town Hall will be held in the Technology and Innovation Center located at 951 Walnut Street, Evansville, IN. Members of the public who would like to attend the Town Hall should register by completing the Town Hall Registration Form located on our website at district.evscschools.com
Vincennes University launches two new scholarships to empower Latinx/Hispanic students
VINCENNES, Ind. September 19, 2024 – Latinx/Hispanic students represent one of the fastest-growing demographics in higher education, but they often face unique challenges in accessing higher education resources and succeeding in college. According to the Pew Research Center, Latinx college enrollment has surged in the past decade, yet gaps in college completion persist.
In a bold effort to close this gap, Vincennes University is proud to announce two new scholarships tailored to support Latinx students and their families. These scholarships are a key part of VU’s commitment to making higher education accessible for underrepresented groups and fostering a campus where all students feel welcomed and supported.
Dedicated Support for Latinx Students
“At Vincennes University, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to fulfill their education and career dreams, regardless of their background,” said VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson. “These scholarships, combined with mentorship, academic support, and partnerships, are designed to break down barriers for Latinx students and support student achievement and success.”
Among the two newly launched scholarships, a total of six students will be selected each year. The first scholarship available for Latinx students, the VU Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship, is available through the Vincennes University Foundation and has an application deadline of Nov. 1, 2024. The second scholarship, set to debut in the 2025-26 academic year, is part of the Vincennes University/ILI Promise Scholarship initiative in collaboration with the Indiana Latino Institute (ILI). Both scholarships are designed to assist with financial costs while paving the way for Latinx students to pursue higher education.
For more information, please contact admit@vinu.edu.
Partnerships with the Indiana Latino Institute and ALASI
VU has further solidified its support for the Latinx community through strong partnerships with local organizations such as the Indiana Latino Institute and ALASI (Alliance of Latin Americans of Southern Indiana). These collaborations not only help expand access to scholarships but also provide students with a wealth of resources, from mentorship programs to career guidance, that support their academic and personal success.
“We are proud to partner with organizations like the Indiana Latino Institute and ALASI,” said April Yap-Hennig, Senior Latinx/Hispanic Recruitment Strategist at Vincennes University. “These partnerships ensure that Latinx students have the resources they need to thrive, both academically and professionally. Scholarships like the Vincennes University/ILI Promise Scholarship represent more than financial aid—they are a bridge to students’ dreams.”
“¡Te Estamos Esperando!” – New Spanish-Language Campaign
Recognizing the need to create meaningful connections with Spanish-speaking students and their families, Vincennes University has launched a new Spanish-language campaign: “¡Te Estamos Esperando!” (We Are Waiting for You!). This campaign emphasizes VU’s deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Latinx students and demonstrates the University’s commitment to delivering marketing materials and outreach programs that truly resonate with Spanish-speaking families.
The “¡Te Estamos Esperando!” campaign includes a range of bilingual resources, such as brochures and digital content, designed to communicate VU’s educational opportunities and financial assistance programs directly to Latinx families in a culturally relevant way.
“We know how important it is to meet families where they are, in a language they understand,” added Yap-Hennig. “This campaign is about ensuring that families feel supported from the moment they consider admission to Vincennes University.”
Comprehensive Support and Resources for Latinx Families
VU’s efforts go beyond financial aid. The University has created a dedicated webpage at vinu.edu/LatinX. This Spanish-language website provides essential information and resources in both Spanish and English, including details on scholarships, financial aid, and academic programs. The webpage can also be translated into any language, ensuring accessibility for all families.
In addition, VU has hired bilingual Student Ambassadors and current members of the VU Latino Alliance, to assist Latinx students and their families. The University has also launched a Spanish language voicemail (812-888-4343) and email address (admisiones@vinu.edu), where parents and students can communicate directly with staff in Spanish or English. For those looking to visit the campus, Spanish-language tours are now available to help families feel more comfortable and informed about their future at VU.
Conveniently Located, Strong Community Ties
With campuses in Jasper and Vincennes, VU is committed to making education accessible to Latinx families in Indiana. By providing educational opportunities close to home, students can stay connected to their communities and families while pursuing degrees in high-demand fields. In addition to offering affordable programs, VU has established partnerships with local industries like Toyota, Amazon, and John Deere, providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for successful careers.
A Commitment to Affordability and Seamless Transfers
VU is committed to providing affordable pathways to higher education. Students can complete their first two years at Vincennes University at a fraction of the cost of traditional universities and then seamlessly transfer to top institutions like Purdue University, Indiana University, or the University of Evansville.
Vincennes University ensures that Latinx students and their families have the resources and opportunities to succeed with these new scholarships, the “¡Te Estamos Esperando!” campaign, and comprehensive support initiatives. VU’s partnerships with local organizations like ILI and ALASI further underscore the university’s dedication to strengthening community ties and welcoming a diverse student body.
A NEW DAWN
GAVEL GAMUT
By Jim Redwine
www.jamesmredwine.com
(Week of 23 September 2024)
A NEW DAWN
Instead of turning on the morning news at 6:00 a.m. today I took my coffee out on the veranda and watched Mother Nature paint her sunrise. There was an opening of a rose and grey curtain upon a magical mist across the meadow. At 6:30 there was a series of white puffs of clouds in a vee shape reminiscent of a flight of geese heading southeast.
Two hummingbirds appeared at one of Peg’s feeders about 6:45 then a covey of quail marched across the yard raising dust as they pecked for their breakfast. No other humans could be seen or heard as I anticipated Peg joining me. It was good to hear nothing but birds and see nothing but waving grass and the occasional tree standing sentinel surrounded by the glistening golden dew that coated the tall bluestem.
My thoughts turned to what a peaceful home we enjoy and how fortunate we are to be in a place where strangers wave to you on the road and speak to you on the street. I savored the knowledge that Americans are generally good and America is a special place where strangers volunteer to help other strangers and us. The reverie the sunrise brought was belied when I opened the news app on my cell phone and was assaulted by the cable news reports.
Two assassination attempts in two months. Each of the four people seeking to lead us for the next four years spouting vile invective about the other side. The TV anchors choosing their favorite victim to attack and amplifying their aspersions with innuendo and an attitude of pious indignation. Reports of terrorism in the Middle East, much of it enabled and abetted by our country’s military might and political power. The terrorism involving Israel did not begin with October 7, 2023. The origins harken back to 1948 when much of the world’s sympathy for Jewish victims of the Nazis led to Arabic victims from Zionism. The Palestinian victims in Gaza whose woes began in 1967 are now joined with what the national media appears to admire as a clever Zionist incursion into Lebanon with boobytrapped pagers and walkie-talkies provided to Hezbollah members.
Indiscriminate bombing of militants and civilians has been the Zionist approach in Gaza and in its most recent detonation of explosive pagers and walkie-talkies without regard to the innocent Lebanese bystanders. Many Israelis disagree with their government’s prosecution of its destruction of Gaza and attacks in Syria and Lebanon. This is also true of many Americans who observe helplessly as our government aids and abets the Zionist regime’s military aggression.
Young Americans on several college campuses and in several cities are putting their futures at risk by raising their voices against our government’s myopic vision of what is justice in the Middle East. Perhaps this new generation will accomplish what college students in the 1960’s and ’70’s did; finally help bring peace to foreign lands.
A major strategic error Israel’s government may have made was the failure to consider the long-term effect its actions in Lebanon would have on the highly motivated and energetic youth of America. When I returned to the campus of Indiana University in 1966, my oldest brother and I already had our honorable discharges and did not need to fear the draft. However, my middle brother was still in the army and some of my classmates were always concerned.
But about all we had was folk songs and protests rallies. There were no cell phones to be constantly stuck to our ears and communicate calls for peace. However, with today’s under 30 crowd the constitutional right to a cell phone is like the 11th Amendment to the Bill of Rights. If our government does not take action to assure America’s youth can have the confidence to use their cell phones, I pity the politicians. Our incursions into the Middle East may soon fade away just as the beautiful sunrise did. Of course, just like the next war, tomorrow will bring another dawn.
For more Gavel Gamut articles go to www.jamesmredwine.com
OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA HONORS THE LEGACY OF SCOTT GUZZO WITH ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE AW
Evansville, IN – September 18, 2024 – The Old National Events Plaza announces an annual service award in honor and memory of Scott Guzzo, a beloved team member who inspired our staff, and many others throughout the community. Beginning this year, the venue will recognize an employee who demonstrates a commitment to excellence and the highest levels of guest service.
Scott Guzzo began as a volunteer usher for the Events Plaza more than a decade ago and continued to serve guests as a part-time team member until his passing on June 19, 2023. Scott’s dedication to his role was characterized by consistent positivity and enjoyment in serving others. Guzzo was enthusiastic about assisting our guests with wayfinding, helping resolve challenges and ensuring all voices were heard and valued.
Old National Events Plaza General Manager, Nick Wallace said, “We were all saddened to hear of Scott’s passing last year. He played an integral part on our events team. We wanted to honor his memory and his impact on each of us. With the help of the Guzzo family, we created the annual Scott Guzzo Memorial Service Award. The award will honor staff members who embody admirable qualities in their service, ensuring that Scott’s legacy lives on for future generations.”
The inaugural Scott Guzzo Memorial Service Award celebrates the service of Joe Miles, our long-time welcome desk representative. The Old National Events Plaza is pleased to recognize Miles for his exceptional service and dedication, illustrating the values that Scott Guzzo personified.
Joe is often the first member of our team to connect with guests at our welcome desk. He is kind, respectful and always helpful in directing traffic, answering event questions, and helping visitors find their way around downtown Evansville. Miles consistently offers his best and continues to be an example of the values we aim to achieve as a team.
“Joe is an excellent example of how every role matters. His work at our welcome desk keeps our guests happy, the team operational, and our workflow efficient. His smile represents our organization in the community, and we are proud to recognize his service and commitment to helping others,” said Wallace.
The Scott Guzzo Memorial Service Award was presented to Miles on Sunday, September 15th, in the Aiken Theatre at Old National Events Plaza. The ceremony included members of the venue’s event staff and Scott’s parents.
Regarding the memorial service award, Guzzo’s parents stated, “Scott would be so pleased and in awe of this award being presented in his honor and memory. He always looked forward to volunteering and working at Old National Events Plaza’s events. His favorite part was greeting the guests. Since Scott’s passing, we’ve been told by many patrons that they miss seeing him. Scott’s contribution to the Evansville community was greater than we knew.”
For media inquiries or comment from any person mentioned, please contact Ginger Harper at 812.893.8732 orGharper@oldnationaleventsplaza.com.
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.