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Trailblazers building momentum after Region 24 road sweep at Frontier

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FAIRFIELD, Ill. – The Vincennes University volleyball team hit the road Tuesday night for another Region 24 road showdown, this time heading to Fairfield, Ill. to take on Frontier Community College.

The Trailblazers handled business against the Bobcats, coming away with a big sweep 25-12, 25-11, 25-10 ahead of the 2024 Showdown on the Wabash tournament.

VU got the night started off strong by quickly building a 14-5 lead over Frontier in the opening set.

Frontier would cut the deficit to six after three unanswered points but Vincennes was able to rebound and pull away late with a 6-0 run to take set one 25-12 and gain a 1-0 match lead.

Set two began as more of a back-and-forth affair, with Frontier gaining their first lead of the night at 5-2 before Vincennes answered back with six straight to take the lead back at 8-5.

Vincennes would hold on to this lead, closing out the second set with a massive 13-2 scoring run to take set two 25-11 and earn a 2-0 match lead.

The Trailblazers continued to show their strength in set three, looking to close out the sweep, Vincennes only allowed Frontier to score consecutive points once in the set as VU again pulled away late with a 10-1 scoring run to take set three 25-10 and complete the three set sweep.

“We wanted to play hard and to play hard respectfully,” VUVB Head Coach Gary Sien said. “We talked about being on task in all parts of the game and especially do better in our offense, which was way off last week.”

The Trailblazer offense was led by sophomores Laura Tavares (Merida, Venezuela) and Elisa Dalla Pozza (Vincenza, Italy) who each recorded nine kills in the match.

Tavares also added one block, while Dalla Pozza led the Blazers with three blocks, two aces and two digs.

Sophomore Isadora Dias (Rio Grande de Norte, Brazil) and freshman Martyna Sadowska (Pila, Poland) each finished the night with five kills, with Dias adding four digs and one block and Sadowska adding two blocks.

Sophomore Allison Czyzewski (Louisville, Ill.) finished her night with four kills and two blocks, while freshman Paulina Fister (Tuszyn, Poland) came away with four kills, four digs, three set assists and one block.

Freshman Karen Kodi (West Carrollton, Ohio) rounded out the VU offensive numbers with a pair of kills on the night.

Sophomore setter Libby Mehringer (Jasper, Ind.) ran the VU offense very well, distributing the ball to 17 set assists, three digs and two aces.

Freshman Rylee Edwards (Fairfield, Ill.) put on a show for her hometown crowd, finishing with 12 set assists and five digs.

Sophomore Dylan DeCoursey (Montgomery, Ind.) entered the match in the third set and finished her night with seven set assists and three digs.

Sophomore libero Grace Flexter (Oblong, Ill.) led the Vincennes back row defense with a team-high 11 digs and one ace, while freshman Ashley Earp (Mattoon, Ill.) added four digs and a pair of aces.

Freshman Julianna Rettig (Antioch, Ill.) closed out the VU box score with a pair of digs and one ace on the night.

“I thought Paulina swung very well tonight and we need her to,” Sien added. “I thought our setters, Dylan, Libby and Rylee made some great setting choices, especially in the middle. Allison and Elisa had some great swings in the middle as we hit over .300 percent tonight.”

“Laura swung well too and Grace was on point in serve receive as well,” Sien said.

 

USI ties for sixth at Bubba Barnett Intercollegiate, Vertanen shoots one off USI career mark

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JONESBORO, Ark. – University of Southern Indiana Men’s Golf finished in a tie for sixth place this week at the Bubba Barnett Intercollegiate hosted by Arkansas State University.
 
As a team, Southern Indiana shot 863 (292-280-291) over three rounds and 54 holes of competition. Senior Sam Vertanen led the Screaming Eagles in red numbers by shooting four under par and 212 (71-70-71), earning a tie for 17th on the individual leaderboard. Vertanen was one stroke off his 54-hole USI career best.
 
Round 1
The opening round saw Vertanen finish atop the scoresheet with a one-under 71. In addition to Vertanen, junior Carter Goebel finished second on the team at 73 (+1).
 
The Screaming Eagles carded 292 (+4) as a team, putting them in ninth place after the first round.
 
Round 2
Senior Jason Bannister and Goebel each logged a four-under 68 in round two, the best individual round scores by USI in the tournament.
 
After an impressive first round, Vertanen improved further in round two by shooting one stroke less with a two-under round of 70.
 
USI made its team leaderboard jump in the second round, going from ninth to sixth place. The Eagles improved by 12 strokes in round two by shooting 280 (-8) collectively, three strokes ahead of Ohio Valley Conference foe University of Tennessee at Martin.
 
Round 3
Southern Indiana cooled off a bit in round three Tuesday but held its spot in sixth. The Screaming Eagles posted a 291 (+3) in the final round. UT Martin started the day hot to catch USI but cooled off to tie the Eagles in sixth on the team leaderboard.
 
Sophomore Hunter Reynolds and senior Wade Worthington, who each notched an eagle in the opening round Monday, saw their best round in round three shooting 73 (+1). Vertanen tied his first-round performance at 71 (-1), earning him the top spot for USI.
 

Andres Rodriguez leads UE men in Arkansas

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 Aces finish in 15th place

 JONESBORO, Ark. – With a 2-over 74 in the final round of the Bubba Barnett Intercollegiate on Tuesday, Andres Rodriguez picked up the top finish for the University of Evansville men’s golf team at RidgePointe Country Club.

After carding scores of 74 and 71 in the opening rounds, Rodriguez posted a 74 in round three.  His 219 tied him for 40th place.  Completing the tournament two behind Rodriguez was Omar Khalid.  He matched Rodriguez’ team low for the day, registering a 74.  His final tally of 221 tied him for 48th.

Finishing third on the Purple Aces squad was Daniil Romashkin.  He shot a 79 on Tuesday, giving him a 229 for the weekend.  His scored tied him for 69th.  Following him was Mason Taylor.  Highlighted by a 74 in the first 18 holes, Taylor wrapped up the tournament with a 232.  Making his debut for UE, Jamison Ousley posted an 80 in the third round and finished with a 242 over the course of 54 holes.

Evansville’s final tally of 898 put them in 15th place, just four behind Eastern Illinois.  Arkansas State cruised to the team and individual wins.  Their team final of 822 bested Oklahoma Christian by 15 strokes.  Thomas Schmidt of ASU was the medalist with a 197.  He matched his tournament-low round of 65 on Tuesday.

Just two more fall events remain for UE.  Next week, the team will be in Lexington, Ky. for the Cullan Brown Collegiate.  It will take place on Monday and Tuesday.

Brenner named MVC Freshman of the Week

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Its the Purple Aces first weekly honor of 2024
 
ST LOUIS — For the first time in her career, defender Emmy Brenner has earned a weekly honor from the Missouri Valley Conference.

Following a big performance at Missouri State last Thursday, freshman defender Emmy Brenner (Arlington, Tenn. / St. Benedict at Auburndale HS) has been named the MVC Freshman of the Week by conference office staff. Brenner scored the Aces lone goal of the match on Thursday, September 26th to help UE to their first result against the Bears since 2021.

While Missouri State took the initial lead in Springfield on Thursday in the 71st minute, Evansville answered back quickly thanks to Brenner. In the 74th minute, the Aces took a corner kick on right side of the pitch. Junior forward Amy Velazquez (Avon, Ind. / Avon HS) took the kick for the set piece and found Brenner just outside the six. Brenner rose up and headed the ball into the back of the net for her second goal to equalize the match and earn Evansville a point in conference play.

Brenner’s goal was her second of the season and the first goal the Aces had scored in Springfield since 2014. Brenner now offensively leads UE with four points on the season with two goals along with senior forward Hailey Autenrieb (Cincinnati / Seton HS). Along with leading the team offensively, Brenner has also registered eight shots with five on goal for a shot accuracy of 62.5%.

Evansville will be back in action with Brenner this Thursday for a home conference match against UNI. Kick-off from Arad McCutchan Stadium on October 3rd is set for 6 p.m.

Taylor records hole-in-one as UE completes two rounds in Arkansas

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Aces tied for 14th place

 JONESBORO, Ark. – Mason Taylor recorded a hole-in-one on the final hole of the day as the University of Evansville men’s golf team completed the opening two rounds of the Bubba Barnett Intercollegiate at RidgePointe Country Club.

Taylor’s walk-off shot gave him a 3-over 75 in the second round.  After posting a 74 to open the day, Taylor completed Monday’s action with a 149 and is tied for 55th.

Leading the way for the Purple Aces is Andres Rodriguez.  Sitting in a tie for 36th, Rodriguez opened with a 74 before carding a 1-under 71 to finish the day.  Two behind him was Omar Khalid.  His first-round score finished at a 76 before he completed the day with a 71 in round two.  His 147 is tied for 49th.

While Taylor ranks third on the team, Daniil Romashkin is fourth.  His low score of 71 came in the first 18 holes before he registered a 79 in the second.  Jamison Ousley rounded out the team with scores of 77 and 85 to wrap up the day with a 162.

As a team, the Aces are tied for 14th place with a 591.  They are tied with Eastern Illinois.  Arkansas State paces the team standings with a 548.  The Red Wolves lead Austin Peay and Texas State by 11 strokes.  Thomas Schmidt of ASU is the individual leader with a 132.  His scores finished at 67 and 65.

Tuesday will mark the third and final round of the tournament.

Vanderburgh County Arrest Warrants

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Vanderburgh County Arrest Warrants

Vanderburgh County Recent Booking Records

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Booked Last 24 Hours-Public

A TRIBUTE TO MIKE WHICKER FROM HIS FAMILY

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OCTOBER 2, 2024

In remembrance of Mike Whicker, we celebrate a man whose life exemplified resilience, determination, compassion, love, and service. Mike was many things to many people—a beloved husband, father of five, dedicated teacher, skilled plumber, respected coach, celebrated author, and devoted public servant. His journey was a testament to the power of perseverance, as he balanced the roles of provider, mentor, and family man while pursuing his dream of becoming a teacher.

With a full-time job, five children, and a passion for coaching football, Mike refused to let any obstacles stand in his way. He remained resolute in his goal of entering the classroom and inspiring young minds, all while juggling the demands of a family and his career as a plumber. His drive and commitment never wavered. Those who knew him couldn’t help but admire his grit, as well as the kindness and friendship he extended to everyone he met. Whether it was as a favorite plumber, teacher, coach, or public servant, Mike had a lasting impact on countless lives.

People would ask about Mike wherever his family went, sharing their fond memories of his influence on their lives. His notoriety spread far beyond his many titles and roles—he was a friend to all, never turning away someone who approached him, be it a former student, an avid reader of his novels, former football player, or someone he had met through his community work. He had a gift for making connections, for building bridges between people and leaving a positive mark on everyone he encountered.

Mike’s love for travel was unmatched. Having visited 31 U.S. states and over 16 different countries, many of which he traveled to multiple times for research and to guide tours for his readers, he was always eager to explore the world. But no matter where his travels took him, his heart remained at home with his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to play cards, coaching them in football, taking them to the circus, or simply watching movies together. He shared a deep bond with his loved ones, filled with laughter, stories from his childhood, and his legendary pranks.

A devoted fan of the Denver Broncos, Notre Dame, great Italian food, and a good cigar, Mike enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—family gatherings, local restaurants, and reminiscing with his children. His pride in his family was boundless. He taught them to dream big, work hard, and never give up on their goals, leaving behind a legacy of determination that his children and grandchildren carry forward.

Mike’s accomplishments are as vast as his heart was generous. With more than 30 published novels, including the acclaimed Invitation to Valhalla series, he made his mark as a celebrated author. He was awarded the Key to Evansville and played an instrumental role in bringing the LST 325 to the city, a proud moment for the community he loved so deeply. His contributions were recognized when he was named Evansville’s Best Author by Evansville Living. Mike’s impact extended to Reitz High School, where he dedicated over a decade to teaching English and Literature, coaching football, and track, always striving to help young people succeed.

Mike’s personal memories were just as rich as his professional accomplishments. From playing semi-pro football for the Colorado Colts and forming his own semi-pro team, the Colorado 76ers, to helping scout for the University of Notre Dame during the Gerry Faust era, he lived a life full of passion and adventure. He cherished riding motorcycles, experiencing flights in WWII-era planes, and the thrill of throwing out the first pitch at an Evansville Otters game. One of his most cherished moments was flying over Reitz Bowl in a helicopter with his son, Zach, a memory he held dear.

Above all, Mike Whicker was a man of service, compassion, and love. He celebrated his children’s and grandchildren’s successes, never missing an opportunity to encourage and support them. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the love he shared so freely. As we remember Mike, we honor a truly well-lived life—a life filled with determination, friendship, family, and an unwavering commitment to making the community a better place.

Handling Credit Claimers: How to Deal with Organizations That Publicly Take Credit for Economic Success

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Handling Credit Claimers: How to Deal with Organizations That Publicly Take Credit for Economic Success

BY JOE WALLACE-GUEST COLUMNIST

SEPTEMBER 16, 2024

In the realm of economic development, there’s a familiar cast of characters: Chambers of Commerce, economic development entities, and various non-profits. Many do valuable work, connecting businesses, fostering growth, and improving communities. But there’s a recurring issue—some of these organizations and their leaders frequently step into the limelight to claim credit for successes, often overshadowing those who genuinely contributed. Whether they’ve played a role or merely seized the narrative, dealing with these credit-claimers requires a strategic approach. Here are ways to navigate this dynamic and maintain focus on genuine contributions.

1. Recognize the Pattern

Understanding the motivations behind these credit claims is the first step. Organizations, especially those reliant on public perception for funding and influence, often use moments of economic success to showcase their value. This behavior is not inherently bad; they need to justify their existence and funding. However, the problem arises when these groups overstate their impact, diminishing the contributions of those who were truly involved. Recognize that this behavior is common and often strategic rather than malicious.

2. Document Contributions Clearly

Documentation is your best defense against misplaced credit. Whether you’re an individual, business, or another entity actively involved in a successful initiative, keep clear records of your contributions. Detailed documentation, including timelines, actions taken, and specific outcomes, can serve as evidence of your role when disputes arise. Not only does this safeguard your efforts, but it also sets a precedent that contributions should be transparent and accountable.

3. Be Proactive in Telling Your Story

Rather than waiting for others to claim the narrative, be proactive in sharing your story. Use press releases, social media, blogs, and other platforms to highlight your role and contributions. Being first to the story often positions you as a credible source of information. Don’t shy away from using data and specific examples to underscore your impact. The goal isn’t to discredit others but to ensure that your work receives the recognition it deserves.

4. Build Relationships with Media

Media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception. Building strong relationships with journalists and local media outlets can help ensure that your contributions are accurately reported. Engage with reporters, provide them with clear, concise, and factual information, and make yourself available as a reliable source for stories. By establishing a reputation as a credible and accessible contributor, you increase the likelihood of balanced coverage.

5. Engage in Collaborative Recognition

Sometimes, the best approach is to turn the tables and involve these credit-claiming organizations in a collaborative recognition effort. Publicly acknowledging all parties involved, including those who tend to overstate their impact, can foster a spirit of inclusivity and shared success. By framing recognition as a collective effort, you not only validate your contributions but also subtly hold others accountable for the accuracy of their claims.

6. Stay Focused on Your Mission

The noise created by organizations seeking attention can be distracting. However, staying focused on your mission and continuing to deliver results is the most effective long-term strategy. Results speak louder than claims, and a track record of consistent, impactful work will ultimately overshadow empty proclamations. Over time, the community, stakeholders, and media will come to recognize who truly drives economic progress.

7. Call Out Misattributions Tactfully

When credit-claiming crosses the line into outright misrepresentation, it’s appropriate to address it—tactfully. Publicly correcting the record should be done carefully to avoid unnecessary conflict. Focus on stating the facts rather than attacking the other party. For example, a statement like, “We are proud of our role in this initiative, where we led the development of [specific action],” can correct the record without appearing confrontational.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of credit-claiming organizations requires a mix of diplomacy, strategic communication, and a steadfast commitment to your mission. While it’s frustrating to see others take undue credit, remember that your ongoing work and genuine impact will speak volumes in the long run. By proactively telling your story, building credibility, and staying focused on meaningful contributions, you can ensure that the right parties receive the recognition they deserve.

City Investigating Groundwater to Supplement New Water Treatment Plant

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Evansville, IN) – Evansville Water and Sewer Utility (EWSU) is investigating the use of groundwater as a cost-saving alternative to building an all-new surface water treatment plant.

EWSU Executive Director Vic Kelson made the announcement at today’s meeting of the Evansville Rotary Club, saying that the Utility is putting a temporary pause on the new water treatment plant to further explore the groundwater option. Utility officials believe that supplementing surface water from the Ohio River with groundwater from wells could save upwards of $50 million on a new plant now, lower the cost of treating PFAS later, and reduce the need for significant water rate increases in the near future.

Kelson said the idea first came up after state regulatory officials made clear that the Utility is required have a plan to treat PFAS – known as “forever chemicals” – by the summer of 2025, and the Utility must be ready to implement the plan five years later.

Treating PFAS is extremely expensive, Kelson said, and could add an additional $100 million in future capital expenses, plus future operation and maintenance costs.

“At that point, we considered the possibility that our groundwater might not have PFAS,” Kelson said. “After realizing that an earlier groundwater study hadn’t looked at treating groundwater and surface water separately, we decided to investigate and see if that would be a viable approach to dealing with PFAS.”

EWSU drilled several monitoring wells and a test well to determine the groundwater quality, and to find out how much water each well could produce. Tests found no detectable levels of PFAS, and that the wells could pump enough water to decrease the City’s total reliance of surface water.

In addition to saving money on capital projects and providing better water quality, using groundwater would diversify the City’s water supply so our community is not completely reliant on a single source of water. Currently, EWSU’s only water intake structure is on the Ohio River several yards from the riverbank, where it is vulnerable to passing barge traffic.

The savings could also allow the Utility to restore the long-term water main improvement program that was suspended as a cost control measure.

Reducing capital costs, lowering operational expenses, better water quality and holding down significant rate increases is a win for the entire community, said Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry.

“As a city, we’re committed to moving forward in the most responsible – and the most fiscally responsible – manner possible,” Mayor Terry said. “By incorporating groundwater into our water system, we could not only see tremendous financial benefit for the city and all EWSU customers, but we also could see cleaner water from a more diversified water supply.

“So I encourage Vic and the EWSU team to continue exploring this option, because if their early findings hold true, this has the potential to offer numerous benefits to our entire community.”

 

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