Marshall Charloff & Purple xPeRIeNCE is the most celebrated tribute to Prince in the world. The group was co-founded by Marshall and Matt “Doctor†Fink (keyboardist from Prince & The Revolution) in 2011, an era where Prince closely monitored the use of his art. Their vision was to deliver Prince’s music on the highest level, played live and untracked by skilled musicians, while paying respectful visual homage through costuming and likeness. Immediately met with success and adoration from discerning Prince devotees, the band has now been touring for over a decade, nationwide and internationally, and has performed for over 500,000fans. In 2019, they were officially licensed by the Prince Estate, and in 2021, Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE were selected by the US Department of State to be featured in the USA Pavilion of the World Expo in Dubai. Minneapolis-native Marshall was raised in the epicenter of 1980’s music production, and cut his musical teeth working with Superproducers John Fields and Steven “Funkytown†Greenberg. At age 19, Marshall, like Prince, was discovered and signed by producer Pepe Willie. Marshall is featured on 94 East albums with Prince, where he plays guitar and Prince is on vocals. A multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer in his own right, Marshall has written for, produced, and recorded for the multi-Platinum and Grammy award-winning Commodores and for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Little Anthony & The Imperials. Marshall’s second original album, “Unperfect†achieved the distinction of “Top 100 Albums of 2020†on global smooth jazz charts. Marshall has also played keys for the Atlanta Rhythm Section, and has played bass guitar with Bobby “Zâ€, Matt “Dr. Finkâ€, and Andre Cymone (all Prince alumni players). In addition to his work with The Purple xPeRIeNCE, Marshall has had the honor of fronting 25 of the finest symphonies in North America, performing the music of Prince to great acclaim. He has been the feature of two full-length PBS Broadcasts; fronting the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and fronting The Purple xPeRIeNCE in the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. Marshall completed a Las Vegas residency, where he headlined starring in “Purple Piano: The World’s Only One-Man Tribute to Prince‖a highly-engaging show in the style of Prince’s final tour, “Piano and a Microphoneâ€. This production continues to tour nationwide, interspersed with full band performances. In all of his avenues of honoring Prince, Marshall’s vocals are uncannily accurate, his guitar and piano skills are masterful, and his endearing stage presence is irresistible in its paradox of finesse and reverence. Marshall Charloff’s all-star band, Purple Xperience, hosts a number of world-class players, including Tracey Blake on lead guitar (played with New Power generation, Sons of Almighty featuring members of NPG, Tracey Blake Project, Westside: inducted in the Midwest hall of fame), Ron Long on bass guitar (played with Christina Aguilera, The Backstreet Boys, 98°, also recorded with John L., Larry Blackman of Cameo, and Spike Lee), Ron Caron on drums (played with the Rembrandts, Tina and the B sides, The Melismatics). Cory Eischen on keys (played with New Power Generation, Prince’s protégé group: Mazarati, Soul Asylum’s Dave Pirner and Dan Wilson from Semisonic)
Addition of New Affordable Flights
Good morning! I’m Cheryl Musgrave, President of the Vanderburgh County Commission. Today we celebrate an exciting milestone by welcoming Allegiant’s new Tampa/St. Pete service.Â
The addition of new affordable flights opens doors to new travel, offering greater convenience for everyone who lives right here in Vanderburgh County.
Strong infrastructure is fundamental to our economic growth. It’s through the airport’s success as a regional economic engine that our community grows its economic base. Congratulations to the Airport Board and staff for their success in expanding our travel options and building a better foundation for our regional economy.
It is important to note that airlines invest where travelers are actually flying. So, let’s get behind this new route and all EVV’s flight options, because the more success you have, the more success you have. We want all our airlines to find Vanderburgh County an impactful place to do business, by expanding their routes right here at EVV.
Together, we can elevate our county’s connectivity and prosperity. Let’s continue to go to new places with EVV!
INDOT, ISP Encourage Drivers to Plan Ahead for Upcoming Total Solar Eclipse
(Indianapolis, IN) —Indiana will play a pivotal role in hosting eclipse enthusiasts as they flock to the Hoosier State to catch a glimpse of the first total solar eclipse in seven years on Monday, April 8. The eclipse will be visible over a large portion of the state, with the path of totalityspanning from Evansville to the outskirts of Fort Wayne, entering southwest Indiana at 3:01 p.m. EDT/2:01 p.m. CDT and exiting to the northeast at 3:12 p.m. EDT/2:12 p.m. CDT. Other parts of the state will experience a partial eclipse of at least 90 percent totality from approximately 1:30 p.m. EDT/12:30 p.m. CDT to 4:30 EDT/3:30 CDT.
Nearly 4 million Hoosiers live within the path of totality, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to visit Indiana for the event. Increased traffic and congestion are also expected as residents and tourists alike make their way to viewing destinations. Areas near the eclipse centerline are anticipated to see the greatest influx of visitors, including Vincennes, Bloomington, Franklin and just north of Richmond. Indianapolis and Evansville are also included in the path.
To ensure a smooth trip, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and the Indiana State Police (ISP) urges drivers to plan ahead and prepare for potential travel impacts before, during and after the eclipse.
Before the eclipse
- Research your viewing site, considering accessibility, parking and crowd size. Check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions. Plan to arrive to your destination early.
- Anticipate increased traffic and congestion, especially in areas in or near the path of totality.
- Reach your destination safely — buckle up and put your phone down while driving.
- Pack plenty of snacks and water, as well as charging cables for electronics and mobile devices, in the event you or your group become stranded.
- Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and top off fluids before you head out in case you’re stuck in traffic for a long period of time. Use this eclipse-ready checklist for more road trip essentials.
- Don’t forget your solar eclipse viewing glasses! You will need specially designed glasses to avoid damage to your eyes.
During the eclipse
- Avoid travel during the eclipse or in the main path if possible.
- Exit the roadway to stop and view the solar eclipse. Do not stop along highways or park on the shoulder for viewing.
- Do not take photos or videos while driving. Indiana is a hands-free state. Holding mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets while driving is prohibited by state law.
- Do not wear eclipse glasses while driving.
- Turn on your headlights. Do not rely on automatic lights.
- Watch for pedestrians, especially along secondary roads.
After the eclipse
- Plan your post-event transportation method well in advance. If celebrating, ensure everyone has a safe and sober way to return home. Designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation.
- Exercise patience when leaving your viewing location as traffic may be heavy. Follow instructions from law enforcement or emergency personnel and be considerate of fellow drivers. Stay put and stick around to avoid the post-event rush.
- Clean up after yourself and dispose of trash in designated receptacles or take it with you.
- Once again, check INDOT TrafficWise on the mobile app or at 511in.org to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions.
INDOT will limit road closures and restrictions where possible on state routes to help with traffic flow surrounding the eclipse. Oversize and overweight permits will also be temporarily suspended during this time. View current construction and maintenance activities on INDOT TrafficWise or the free mobile app.
Visit the sites below and follow INDOT and ISP on social media for more information regarding the total solar eclipse in Indiana.
Kali Mayes Elevated to Director of Events at Evansville Regional Economic Partnership
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (February 12, 2024) — The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) proudly announces the promotion of Kali Mayes to the position of Director of Events. In this elevated role, Mayes will bring her exceptional expertise to both E-REP and the Evansville Regional Sports Commission (ERSC), marking an exciting development in our commitment to fostering regional growth and community engagement.
Previously serving as the Events Manager, Mayes has been an instrumental force in shaping and executing impactful events for E-REP. In her expanded capacity, she will now assume a hybrid role, overseeing events for both organizations.
“This multifaceted role aligns seamlessly with Kali’s experience, goals, strengths, and, most importantly, her passions. Our team has confidence in her abilities and looks forward to collaborating and supporting events under her leadership in 2024,†stated Justin Groenert, Chief Strategy Officer.
In addition to continuing her ownership of E-REP events, Mayes will play a pivotal role in ERSC activities, bringing her wealth of experience in sport management to the planning and execution of sports-related events.
“My goal within the events industry and the world of sports is simple: it’s to create environments where memories are made and authentic connections can thrive,†said Mayes. “I’m truly grateful to both E-REP and ERSC leadership for supporting this alignment and having faith in my ability. As a female in business, and more specifically, a female in the sports industry, I don’t take this opportunity lightly.â€
Mayes’ promotion reflects the collaboration and commitment of E-REP and ERSC to advancing regional excellence through dynamic event management. Together, they look forward to creating impactful experiences for the community.
THUNDERBOLTS HOST QUAD CITY THIS WEDNESDAY BEFORE TRAVELING TO ROANOKE, BIRMINGHAM
 Evansville, In.:  After another weekend split against the first-place Birmingham Bulls, the Thunderbolts prepare for a busy week ahead, beginning with a home game against Quad City this Wednesday night at Ford Center, followed by a multi-day road trip to Roanoke this weekend and Birmingham next Monday.
Week In Review:
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The Thunderbolts defeated the Birmingham Bulls 2-1 on Friday night at Ford Center behind goals from Brendan Harrogate and Brady Lynn, along with a 31-save performance from Brendahn Brawley. On Saturday at Birmingham, the Thunderbolts were defeated 4-2 in a game filled with power plays for both teams. Jordan Spadafore and Kenny Britton scored Evansville’s goals on Saturday, while Brawley was busy yet solid, stopping 40 of 44 shots.
The Week Ahead:
The Thunderbolts host the Quad City Storm this Wednesday, February 14th for Valentine’s Day.  Valentine’s Day will feature a special deal of two goal zone tickets along with two movie tickets to use at Showplace Entertainment for only $35. A package of two tickets for the Valentine’s Day game without movie tickets will also be on sale for only $14. More information can be found at https://bit.ly/BoltsVMD24.  For tickets, call (812)422-BOLT (2548), go to EvansvilleThunderbolts.com, or visit the Ford Center Ticket Office. Following Wednesday’s home game, the Thunderbolts will hit the road for three away games, starting in Roanoke this Friday and Saturday night, both games starting at 6:05pm CT. The Thunderbolts will then play at Birmingham on Monday the 19th, opening face-off at 1:05pm CT. Fans can watch all three road games on FloHockey with a paid subscription or can listen in for free on the Thunderbolts Mixlr Channel. Fans can also watch the road games at the Official Thunderbolts away game watch party at Parkway Pizza on 3911 Broadway Avenue on Evansville’s West Side.
Coming Soon:
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The Thunderbolts return home to host the Peoria Rivermen for 90’s Night on Saturday, February 24th. The Thunderbolts will be wearing specialty 90’s themed jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game, replicas will also be on sale at the Thunderbolts merchandise stand. Space Monkey Records will be providing music in the Ford Center lobby while DJ Chidi will provide 90’s throwback tunes inside the arena.
Scouting the Opponent:
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- Quad City Storm:
- Record: 18-18-0, 36 Points, T-6th Place
- Leading Goal Scorer: Leif Mattson/Cole Golka (16 Goals)
- Leading Point Scorer: Leif Mattson (36 Points)
- Primary Goaltender: Brent Moran (10-8-0, .910 Save %)
- Thunderbolts 23-24 Record vs QCS: 3-5-1
The Storm split their past weekend’s two games against the Peoria Rivermen, beginning with a 5-4 shootout victory at home on Friday. Doug Blaisdell, John Schiavo, Logan Nelson and Cole Golka scored goals in regulation, while Patriks Marcinkevics, Nelson and Schiavo scored in the shootout as Brent Moran stopped all three Rivermen shootout attempts and 26 of 30 shots in-game. Quad City was shut out 3-0 in the rematch in Bloomington, Illinois on Saturday, with Moran stopping 39 of 42 Peoria shots.
- Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs:
- Record: 22-10-6, 50 Points, 4th Place
- Leading Goal Scorer: CJ Stubbs/Jacob Kelly (12 Goals)
- Leading Point Scorer: Tommy Munichiello (27 Points)
- Primary Goaltender: Austyn Roudebush (17-3-3, .907 Save %)
- Thunderbolts 23-24 Record vs RNK: 1-1
The Rail Yard Dawgs started the past weekend at home with a 7-3 win over the Macon Mayhem on Friday, with Jacob Kelly scoring three goals, John MacDonald scoring twice, and one goal each from CJ Stubbs and Bailey Morrissette. In goal, Austyn Roudebush stopped 27 of 30 shots. Saturday’s game against Knoxville did not go as well, as Roanoke was defeated 5-4 in overtime. Owen McDade scored twice, while Billy Roche and Brenden Stanko each scored once, with Stanko’s goal forcing overtime. Roudebush had a difficult night in goal, stopping only 20 of 25 shots.
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- Birmingham Bulls:
- Record: 26-7-6, 58 Points, 1st Place
- Leading Goal Scorer: Drake Glover (23 Goals)
- Leading Point Scorer: Carson Rose (39 Points)
- Primary Goaltender: Hayden Stewart (18-5-4, .936 Save %)
- Thunderbolts 23-24 Record vs BHM: 2-2
MacGregor Sinclair scored Birmingham’s lone goal on Friday in Evansville, while Carson Rose scored twice in Saturday’s rematch, along with Sinclair and Scott Donahue. In goal this past weekend, Hayden Stewart stopped 28 of 30 shots on Friday, while Drennan Atherton secured the win on Saturday with 35 saves on 36 shots.  The Bulls host the Huntsville Havoc this Friday and Saturday night before hosting Evansville on Monday afternoon.
Call-up Report
– Colton Kalezic (Cincinnati Cyclones – ECHL)
– 30 GP, 4 G, 3 A, 7 P, 6 PIM
– Chays Ruddy (Orlando Solar Bears – ECHL)
– 2 GP, 0 G, 2 A, 2 P, 4 PIM
– Bair Gendunov (Tulsa Oilers – ECHL)
– 13 GP, 6 G, 3 A, 9 P, 4 PIM
– Scott Kirton (Cincinnati Cyclones – ECHL)
– 7 GP, 1 G, 0 A, 1 P, 5 PIM
– Mike Ferraro (Cincinnati Cyclones, prev. Savannah – ECHL)
– 16 GP, 1 G, 4 A, 5 P, 4 PIM
– Cole Ceci (Worcester Railers – ECHL)
– 0 GP, 0-0-0, 0.00 GAA, .000 Save %
Transactions:Â Â Â
Fri. 2/9: F Kenny Britton activated from Injured Reserve
Fri. 2/9: F Vadim Vasjonkin loaned to Estonian National Team
Gov. Holcomb announces Director Zac Jackson to step down from State Budget Agency
INDIANAPOLIS-Zachary (Zac) Jackson notified Governor Eric J. Holcomb he is stepping down from his role at the State Budget Agency (SBA) after almost five years as director. Jackson announced he accepted a job with the City of Carmel as the chief financial officer and controller. He will begin his new role on Monday, April 8.
“Zac has dedicated almost 20 of years of his career to serving the State of Indiana,†Gov. Holcomb said. “He has successfully managed balanced budgets and maintained the state’s AAA credit rating through unpredictable times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m truly grateful for his service.â€
Jackson was appointed director of SBA by Gov. Holcomb in 2019. Â Prior to his role as director, he served in a number of roles in the State Budget Agency since 2005.
During his time at SBA, Jackson accomplished the following:
- Developed and managed 10 biennial balanced budgets
- Managed state finances through financially unpredictable times in history such as the Great Recession of 2008 to 2009 and the COVID-19 pandemic
- Designed and managed the implementation of technology that fundamentally changed the way that SBA manages budgets and tracks spending
- Overhauled, updated and streamlined SBA’s Financial Management Circular (FMC) system – a set of guidelines for state agencies to promote sound financial management practices
“Serving as State Budget Director for the last few years has been an incredible experience,†Jackson said. “I’m forever grateful to Governor Holcomb for this opportunity to serve Hoosier taxpayers and for the hard work of the dedicated staff at the State Budget Agency and my colleagues across state government.â€
Jackson’s last day as director is April 5, 2024. Click HERE for a headshot.
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JOE BONAMASSA ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED BLUES DELUXE TOUR – THIS SUMMER ONLY!
TICKETS GO ON SALE FEBRUARY 16 AT 10 AM
Evansville, IN - February 12, 2024  — Three-time GRAMMY®-nominated guitarist and unparalleled chart-topper Joe Bonamassa, announced his Blues Deluxe Tour which will route to 21 cities across the U.S. this summer. The tour is heading to Old National Events Plaza on August 16, 2024, andpromises to be a defining moment for live blues-rock, showcasing the music that has defined Bonamassa’s career. A special venue pre-sale will take place on Valentine’s Day at 10 AM and fans can access the code by visiting the venue’s social media pages.
The Blues Deluxe Tour pays homage to Bonamassa’s critically acclaimed albums, including his best-selling Blues Deluxe from 2003 and its current chart-topping successor Blues Deluxe Vol. 2. The setlist is an electrifying journey through Bonamassa’s repertoire, featuring a mix of beloved fan favorites and deep tracks making their live debut, all performed alongside a band of world-class musicians.
Bonamassa’s impact on the blues-rock genre is immeasurable. Guitar World has hailed him as “the world’s biggest blues guitarist,” a testament to his skill, influence, and role in bringing blues-rock to the forefront of the music scene. With a career spanning over three decades, Bonamassa has consistently captivated audiences around the globe with his dynamic live performances and musical ingenuity.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.jbonamassa.com.
Ticket Information:
What: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Joe Bonamassa, The Blues Deluxe Tour
When:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Friday, August 16, 2024, at 8:00 PM
Where: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Old National Events Plaza | 715 Locust Street | Evansville, IN 47708
Tickets: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Tickets start at $49.00 plus applicable fees and tax.
Thum to lead Soil Conservation Division
INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 12, 2024) — Jennifer Thum has been promoted to Soil Conservation Director for the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). Thum has worked for the department for over a decade and was most recently deputy soil conservation director.
“Soil conservation and water quality initiatives are critical for Hoosier farmers and our numerous partners across the state, and they need a strong leader to enhance conservation practices,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Jennifer has been a dedicated public servant for over 10 years with ISDA and I am looking forward to her leading the largest division at the department with energy and grace.”
Thum hails from Milford, Mich. and attended Oakland Community College and Eastern Michigan University for her undergraduate degrees and received a Master of Public Administration degree from Northern Michigan University.
Her previous role with ISDA included securing over $50 million in funding for soil conservation projects. She also oversaw the Western Lake Erie Basin Regional Conservation Partnership Program, Kankakee Regional Conservation Partnership Program, a team of six staff and the upcoming iCover project.
“Jennifer has been a tremendous team player for over the past decade,†said Don Lamb, Indiana State Department of Agriculture director. “She has transformed the Western Lake Erie Basin group, secured funding in the millions of dollars and led her staff with tenacity. We are so excited to promote her to role of director and we know she will go above and beyond for farmers, landowners and her staff.â€
In her new role as director, she will continue to work with conservation partners, farmers, landowners and all 92 local Indiana Soil and Water Conservation districts. She will oversee the Division of Soil Conservation staff and its various programs like the Indiana Conservation Partnership and data collection, the State Nutrient Reduction Strategy and is Secretary of the State Soil Conservation Board.
“Over the past several years, I have been very fortunate to work with Indiana’s incredible agriculture industry, from the commodity groups to the non-for-profits and our 92 SWCDs, and our neighboring states on several projects,†said Thum. “I am looking forward to continuing to work hand-in-hand with our partners across the state to enhance soil health and water quality.â€
Thum resides in Fort Wayne with her family. In her spare time she enjoys backpacking and hiking with her family and attending her three sons’ various sporting events.
USI events and updates for the week of 2/12/2024
Tuesday, February 13
USI Romain College of Business presentation to address building student wealth and careers in investing
The USI Romain College of Business will present “Markets, Building Wealth as a Student and Careers in Investing†with Ross Mayfield, Baird Private Wealth Management Investment Strategist, at 4 p.m. Tuesday, February 13. The presentation will take place in the Business and Engineering Center, BE0035, and is open to the public at no charge.
Thursday, February 15 through Sunday, February 18
USI Theatre continues 2023-24 season with Ride the Cyclone
USI Theatre will continue its 2023-24 season with Ride the Cyclone. The book, music and lyrics are by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, and the production is directed by Joshua Robinson, Professor of Musical Theatre in USI’s Philip H. Hagemann Performing Arts Department. Performances will run from Thursday, February 15 through Sunday, February 18 in the USI Performance Center.
Friday, February 16
USI International Food Expo to offer taste of culture on campus
The USI International Club and Center for International Programs will host the annual International Food Expo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, February 16 in Carter Hall, located in University Center West on campus. The International Food Expo provides an avenue for USI’s international students to showcase the rich tapestry of their home countries’ cultural diversity, customs and cuisine to both the USI community and public.
February 23
2024 USI M. Edward Jones Engagement Award now open for nominations
USI Outreach and Engagement is now accepting nominations for the 2024 M. Edward Jones Engagement Award through Friday, February 23.February 28
USI Romain College of Business to host Azzip Pizza co-CEO Andy Niemeier
The USI Romain College of Business will present “Ready for Change: Adapting to the Marketplace and Lessons Learned in Azzip’s Journey†with Andy Niemeier, co-CEO of Azzip Pizza at noon Wednesday, February 28. The presentation will take place in the Business and Engineering Center, BE0035, and is open to the public at no charge.
February 28
USI to host second annual Be a Teacher Day
The USI Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education is hosting its second annual Be a Teacher Day on Wednesday, February 28 on the USI campus. The event will highlight the importance of the profession of education, allow students to meet current teaching professionals and teacher education students, as well as ask questions about the profession.
USI faculty to present on eclipses ahead of SolarpaloozaDr. Kent Scheller, Professor of Physics, will present Eclipses and Humans: Science, Shock and Awe ahead of the University of Southern Indiana’s Solarpalooza event, happening Sunday and Monday, April 7-8 on campus.
March 15
USI 26th annual Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Symposium happening March 15
Barb Bancroft, RN, MSN, NP will be the presenter at USI’s 26th annual Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Symposium on Friday, March 15.
March 23
Southern Indiana Dance Marathon returns for 12th year
Southern Indiana Dance Marathon will return to USI for its 12th year on Saturday, March 23 in Carter Hall, located in University Center West. Participants will be on their feet for 12 hours straight to raise money and awareness for Riley Hospital for Children. This year’s event will begin at noon Saturday, March 23 and continue until midnight Sunday, March 24.
April 3
USI Nursing Leadership Conference happening April 3
Steve Gutzler, President of Leadership Quest, a Seattle-based Leadership Development company, will be the presenter at USI’s 21st annual Nursing Leadership Conference on April 3. His most recent book, Lead with No Fear, provides practical and thought-provoking strategies for exceptional leadership and growing leaders at every level.
April 17
USI conference focuses on healthcare research, evidence-based practice
A former member of the USI Nursing faculty will be the keynote speaker at the 28th annual USI Research, Evidence-Based Practice and Performance Improvement in Healthcare Conference, slated for Wednesday, April 17 in Carter Hall, located in University Center West.
April 24-26
USI to present 40th annual Historic New Harmony Heritage Artisans DaysÂ
USI is excited to present Historic New Harmony’s 40th annual Heritage Artisans Days, happening Wednesday through Friday, April 24-26. Artisans will demonstrate their professions and roles as they were in the 19th century. Students from the Tri-state area will hear and see how these artisans lived and worked in the early days of New Harmony.
USI CALENDAR
A collection of events on campus and in the community can be found on the