Home Blog Page 878

Trailblazers overcome early deficit to down Lady Statesmen in four sets

0

ROBINSON, Ill. – The Vincennes University volleyball team added another win to their already impressive 26-game Region 24 winning streak Thursday night when the Blazers traveled to take on Lincoln Trail College in Robinson.

VU fell behind early after dropping the first set but were able to bounce back and win the match in four sets, 22-25, 25-16, 25-19, 25-18.

Vincennes got off to a great start in their first road game of the season, scoring the first three points of the match to begin set one and held onto this lead at 9-7.

Lincoln Trail then seemed to take control in the middle of set one, going on a 7-1 scoring run to take a 14-10 lead over VU and grab all the momentum.

VU would answer back to even the score at 16-16, before the Statesmen again rallied late to come away with the first set victory 25-22.

The Blazers looked to bounce back from this early deficit and took control of set two from the beginning, scoring the first four points before continuing to build an 18-8 lead.

Lincoln Trail would attempt to mount a late comeback, going on a 5-1 scoring run of their own, but it was not enough as VU took set two 25-16 and evened the match at 1-1 heading to the third.

Lincoln Trail looked to grab the early momentum in set three, jumping out to a quick 4-1 advantage, before VU launched a massive 8-0 scoring run behind some excellent serving by freshman Isadora Dias (Rio Grande de Norte, Brazil).

Lincoln Trail would again rally back on their home floor, cutting the deficit down to a single point, but were unable to complete the comeback and take the lead as VU pulled away to take set three 25-19 and gain a 2-1 advantage in the match.

VU looked to put the match away early in set four, building off of their momentum from set three, after a back and forth start Vincennes would outscore the Lady Statesmen 13-3 to take a 19-9 advantage.

The two teams would trade points down the stretch as the Trailblazers were able to close out the set and take the match 25-18, extending their winning streak against Region 24 opponents to 26 matches.

“Our offense ran okay in the first set but we needed more of the serve receive and blocking,” VUVB Head Coach Gary Sien said. “When we had those two items in play, we were able to make big, big runs. In the first set, we went side out, side out and side out, we did not control the set at all. Lincoln Trail did. We did a great job of basically pulling it together in those three phases in sets two, three and four.”

The VU offensive attack Thursday night came from all angles as sophomore Paige Parlanti (Las Vegas, Nev.) led the way with a double-double with 13 kills, 18 digs, four blocks and one ace.

Freshman Laura Tavares (Merida, Venezuela) came through with 10 kills, seven digs and three blocks.

Sophomore Audrey Buis (Franklin, Ind.) and freshman Isadora Dias also had very effective hitting performances, with Buis finishing the night just shy of a double-double with nine kills, 11 digs, three blocks and a block assist. Dias ended with eight kills, three blocks and one dig.

Sophomore Maecy Johnson (Chrisman, Ill.) had a tremendous all-around performance, setting up the VU offense on her way to 33 set assists, while also contributing at the net with four blocks, three kills and three digs.

Freshman Allison Czyzewski (Louisville, Ill.) and sophomore Kennedy Sowell (Effingham, Ill.) rounded out the VU offense, each recording a kill, with Czyzewski adding four blocks and a dig, while Sowell came through with one block as well.

The Trailblazer back row defense was again patrolled by sophomore libero Morgan Netcott (Montague, Mich.) who led VU with 27 digs on the night, while also adding one set assist and one ace.

Freshmen Libby Mehringer (Jasper, Ind.) and Grace Flexter (Oblong, Ill.) also helped contribute to the victory, with Mehringer adding five set assists and two digs, while Flexter entered in the fourth set to record a dig.

The VU offense continues to work efficiently early in the season, finishing the night with a .405 hitting percentage, led by a .522 hitting percentage by Parlanti and a .474 percentage by Tavares.

The Trailblazers also controlled the net very well defensively on their way to 22 total blocks on the night.

“We controlled the first contact and that was when we were able to run the offense efficiently,” Sien added. “The sets were well distributed all along the net and each hitter had great swings for the majority of the time. In particular, Paige, Audrey and Laura swung very well.”

“When we pass or when we are in system, it is very difficult to stop us,” Sien said. “When given those passes on point, I thought Maecy did an excellent job of spreading the offense and giving a couple of good looks to each hitter in different tempos and different locations, including the back row.”

The Blazers will look to add a couple more to the win column this weekend when VU hosts Region 24 opponent Lake Land College and Ancilla College for a tri-match Saturday, Aug. 26 at the Physical Education Complex.

VU will begin the day by taking on Lake Land College at 10 a.m. eastern, before closing out the day against Ancilla College at 2 p.m. eastern Saturday.

“We talked about how it is a dogfight in every Region 24 game,” Sien added. “Unless you have been in a Region match, you will not fully understand the immense pressure that is out there. Winning a couple of championships will add even more responsibility and accountability as you are not only playing for the ones presently on the team, but for all those who came before you.”

Eagles make second-half push, come up short at Wright State

0

University of Southern Indiana Women’s Soccer made a solid second-half push against Wright State University on Thursday evening, but the Screaming Eagles came up just short in a 2-1 final from Dayton, Ohio. USI moved to 0-2-1 on the season while Wright State improved to 1-2-0.

The match started in back-and-forth fashion as both teams tried to settle in. In the sixth minute, Southern Indiana’s freshman forward Pilar Torres (Chula Vista, California) tallied the match’s first shot. Then the Raiders started to apply some pressure midway in the first half with shots on goal. Wright State grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 19th minute. USI recorded a couple more shots but could not tie the game before halftime.

The early minutes of the second half went the Raiders’ way, scoring a second goal in the 54th minute. However, the Screaming Eagles were not fazed, creating relentless pressure on Wright State three minutes later. After a pair of shot attempts by junior midfielder Maggie Duggan (Defiance, Missouri) and sophomore midfielder Peyton Murphy (Bargersville, Indiana), Torres stepped up and buried a shot high into the back of the net to make it a 2-1 game. It was the first career goal for the freshman Torres.

Both teams exchanged shots in the middle portion of the second half. Duggan continued her strong start to the 2023 season, registering a shot on target in the 76th minute. The junior has posted a shot on goal in each game this season for USI. The Screaming Eagles had another late chance to even the match, as freshman midfielder Greta Ohlwein (Chicago, Illinois) put a shot on goal that was saved.

Torres, Duggan, Murphy and Ohlwein each took two shot attempts for Southern Indiana. The freshmen, Torres and Ohlwein, led USI with two shots on goals each. USI had eight total shots on target. As a team, USI tallied its highest shot total of the season so far with 11 attempts. The Screaming Eagles outshot the Raiders 8-6 in the second half. In goal, sophomore keeper Anna Markland (Hoover, Alabama) made a pair of saves in 62 minutes of action. She was substituted for by junior keeper Zoe Lintner (Wildwood, Missouri), who made one save while playing the last 28 minutes of the match.

Southern Indiana will return home Sunday at 2 p.m. against Purdue Fort Wayne University. The home match is the back half of a USI soccer doubleheader at Strassweg Field. Sunday’s match can be seen with a subscription to ESPN+.

EVANSVILLE MAYORAL CANDIDATE MICHAEL DAUGHERTY ANNOUNCES POLITICAL PLATFORM

4

EVANSVILLE MAYORAL CANDIDATE MICHAEL DAUGHERTY ANNOUNCES POLITICAL PLATFORM

AUGUST 25, 2023

Obviously, my opponents have realized my candidacy as valid as their attacks have started. I’m here to put my campaign for Mayor of Evansville into perspective.

After much prayerful thought, and talking to family, friends, and supporters, I have come to the conclusion to make the following public commitments to you, the citizens.

First of all, I joined the race for Mayor of Evansville because I know Evansville is at the crossroads of economic and financial peril. I know that with the help of the citizens of Evansville combined with my educational background, life experiences, and business background, we can truly bring Evansville back from the current financial crisis.

One of the reasons why I ran for Mayor of Evansville is to help stop the financial and economic decline of Evansville during the last twelve (12) years.

If elected, I hereby commit to the citizens of Evansville that I will be a one (1) term mayor who will take a political non-partisan approach to revitalizing Evansville’s infrastructure and stagnant economy. I want to stress that I will not be a typical politician but a public servant who will practice “Good Public Policy” and therefore will be a “Good Steward Of The Public Trust”.

If I’m fortunate to be elected Mayor of Evansville I hope that you understand that I understand that I will work for you and that I will be an employee of you, the citizens of Evansville.

As your next mayor, you can expect to see me either in the neighborhoods looking at issues that need addressing, or behind my desk making sound business decisions within our budget restraints and not in front of the camera promoting myself or a self-serving political agenda.

My campaign slogan is “People Over Politics”, which simply means, I will govern with the US in mind, not me!

You can expect me to govern without bias or political affiliation. It is important to point out that if I’m elected, Mayor of Evansville  I am not going to be a “Good Mayor but I pledge that I “Will Be A Great Mayor”

Your vote is not a vote for me, but a vote for you! The days of political patronage, nepotism, and “Party Over People” will end with my administration.

Finally, I would like to point out that there are many talented people currently working for our city and I will ensure you that they are retained and rewarded for their devotion and hard work for the citizens of Evansville. I will also commit to appointing the most qualified people for numerous boards and commissions, without regard to political affiliations.

However, I shall be appointing a new Police Chief and Fire Chief and expect to find their replacement within the current ranks.

When I am elected Mayor of Evansville, get ready to roll up your sleeves because we have a lot of work to do correcting our public safety issues, addressing our serious financial problems, revitalizing our parks, and repairing our streets and sidewalks that have been ignored during the last 12 years.

I will always choose TRUTH OVER  POPULARITY!  My administration will truly be an administration for ALL people of Evansville.

ABOUT LIBERTARIAN MAYORAL CANDIDATE MICHAEL DAUGHERTY

Born and raised in Evansville, Indiana Michael is no stranger to Evansville’s rich history. He left to attend Purdue University where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. While at Purdue, he worked for an information technology company. After graduation, he was promoted to Vice President of IT. He worked there for 7 years, assisting in a patent that emerged as telehealth for adults with disabilities.

Michael passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) to become a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Indiana. Michael returned to Purdue University receiving his Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) while working full-time.

He then taught at Ivy Tech for two years. In 2008, he founded an information technology company. Growing this company from the ground up, Michael supported customers in IT all across the world. With family health issues.

He returned to Evansville in 2020 to assist his family. Selling his thriving IT business, he retired and purchased a 47-acre horse farm to ensure his mother could retire with her passion, horses.

Upon his return to his roots, he noticed Evansville was not the same.  He began to investigate what had happened to his hometown. Increased crime, drugs, crumbling roads, decrepit parks, political patronage, and fiscal irresponsibility pushed Michael to stand up and do something about his beloved hometown.

This is why Michael Daugherty entered the race for Mayor.  “I’m proud to announce my campaign slogan, PEOPLE OVER POLITICS!” 

For more information, please visit www.PeopleOverPolitics.vote

FOOTNOTE:  THE CITY-COUNTY OBSERVER POSTED THIS ARTICLE WITHOUT OPINION, BIAS OR EDITING.  WE SHALL DO SIMILAR FOR MAYORAL CANDIDATES STEPHANIE TERRY (D) AND NATALIE RASCHER (R).

VANDERBURGH COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MOURN LOSS OF OLD COURTHOUSE CLOCKKEEPER

0
Working behind one of the four clock faces on the Old Courthouse in downtown Evansville, clock keeper Carroll Hickrod lubricates a little gear box that allows the clock minute and hour arms to move at different speeds Wednesday, September 28, 2016.

It is with heavy hearts that the Vanderburgh County Commissioners announce the passing of Carroll Kenneth Hickrod, the dedicated volunteer clock keeper of the historic Old Courthouse.

For more than fifteen years, Carroll Hickrod toiled in the hidden corners of the Old Courthouse, dedicating countless hours to repairing, maintaining, and nurturing the intricate mechanisms that powered the clock’s hands. His hands, weathered by time much like the clock itself, worked with a meticulous precision that only true dedication could
inspire. His unwavering commitment meant that, even as the world around us evolved, the courthouse clock continued to mark the passage of moments with grace and authenticity.

But Carroll’s legacy extended beyond the mere mechanics of gears and cogs. His steadfast presence became a bridge connecting our community’s present to its history, reminding us that continuity and preservation are values worth embracing. His humility and dedication resonated with all who crossed his path, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.

As we reflect on Carroll’s journey, let us remember the power of selfless service. His story teaches us that heroes are not always those in the limelight; they are the ones who, quietly and consistently, contribute to the tapestry of our lives. Through his actions, Carroll showed us that love for community and history can manifest in the smallest of gestures, yet their impact can be immeasurable.

The courthouse clock shall continue to chime, its cadence echoing the legacy of Carroll Hickrod. As we bid him farewell, let us stand in awe of his dedication and honor his memory by upholding the values he held dear. In his name, let us strive to become guardians of our heritage, ambassadors of unity, and champions of the timeless spirit
that binds us all.

May Carroll’s soul find eternal rest, knowing that his legacy lives on, ticking alongside the heartbeat of our town, reminding us that every moment is a precious gift and that the spirit of service can illuminate the darkest of hours.

In a heartfelt tribute to Carroll and with the support of the Board of Commissioners, the Old Courthouse Foundation will be illuminating the clocktower in a serene blue hue beginning August 24th through August 27th. This display of blue lights is a symbolic gesture and beacon of remembrance to honor Carroll’s unwavering commitment to preserving and guarding our town’s history. We invite our community to join us in this tribute by taking a moment to reflect on Carroll’s contributions and the indelible mark he left on Evansville.

CK Newsome Center Cooling Center Reopening Tomorrow

1

“The CK Newsome Center will reopen as a cooling center on Friday, August 25th, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. While we’ve implemented temporary repairs to the HVAC system, we’re seeking a long-term solution. Thank you for your understanding and patience.”

Please help us spread the word to those who may benefit.

USI Recognizes Award Recipients, Collects Over 2.3 million Volunteer Hours

0

Volunteer USI, the University of Southern Indiana’s volunteer organization, celebrated its 2023 award recipients and dedicated volunteer community during the annual Volunteer USI Recognition Dinner on Wednesday, August 23. During the 2022-23 fiscal year, volunteers devoted 52,262 hours to USI and the local community. Since 1996, Volunteer USI has recorded a total of 2,400,022 volunteer hours.

Each year, Volunteer USI recognizes three award recipients who have contributed outstanding service with a lasting impact to USI and/or the community. The award categories include Volunteer of the Year, Mentor of the Year and Student Volunteer of the Year.

Volunteer of the Year 

Dr. Terry Alvey ’84 has been named the 2023 Volunteer of the Year. A long-time member of the USI Alumni Association, Alvey served on the Alumni Council for four years and currently holds a pivotal role on the USI Foundation Board of Directors. Alongside his wife Jean, also a USI alumna, the Alveys have shared expertise as workshop presenters for the Pott College Alumni Medical Professionals Celebration, offering guidance to students pursuing medical careers.

Notably, his commitment to mentorship shines through his active involvement with USI pre-med students. He advocates for the USI Mentor Program, provides career counseling and encourages students to embrace all the USI community has to offer.

Alvey’s impact goes beyond campus as he generously supports various community initiatives. With his wife, he established the Terence A. ’84 and C. Jean ’85 Alvey Unrestricted Endowment, a testament to their dedication to education and community welfare. Now enjoying retirement after an influential career as a podiatrist, Alvey’s passion for enhancing educational experiences and fostering growth continues to shape both the USI and Evansville communities.

An anonymous nominator says, “Dr. Alvey volunteers out of the spotlight, making great use of his interpersonal skills and attention to detail.”

He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from USI and a doctorate in podiatric medicine from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.

Student Volunteer of the Year 

Christina Butler ’24 has been selected as the 2023 Student Volunteer of the Year. She is pursuing a major in finance and minoring in public and nonprofit administration.

An active member of USI’s Tri Sigma sorority, Butler dedicates numerous hours weekly during both Fall and Spring Semesters to coordinate various events related to the sorority. In addition, she holds the position of Vice President for two student organizations: Be the Match, which strives to give students and the local community the opportunity to join the bone marrow registry, provide financial support and volunteer their time; and USI Eagles in Action, a student organization focused on developing and leading community service projects.

An anonymous student nominator says, “Christina Butler exemplifies strength, compassion and kindness in everything she does. She has proven to be a woman who exceeds expectations at all costs, without ever asking for anything in return. She takes challenges in stride and uses her keen organization skills to help others follow her example in excellence.”

Mentor of the Year 

Dr. Urska Dobersek, Associate Professor of Psychology, has been named the 2023 Mentor of the Year. At USI, Dobersek leads a dynamic research lab where she guides undergraduate students on various research endeavors, including survey and experimental research, systematic and scoping reviews and meta-analyses.

Her research focuses on individuals’ identity, sexual and mate selection, objectification of women and diet and mental health. Dobersek has published over 90 peer-reviewed abstracts, publications and book chapters in her professional career.

Praised by an anonymous student nominator, Dobersek’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in her efforts to support and elevate students in the same regard. Her passion for psychology and research is readily apparent, inspiring those around her.

Dobersek earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in general/experimental psychology, both from McNeese State University. She earned a doctorate in sport and exercise psychology from Florida State University and is currently completing a master’s degree in clinical mental health psychology at the University of the Cumberlands.

Attorney General Supports School District’s Legal Battle Concering Bathroom Useage

3

Attorney General Todd Rokita issued the following statement supporting the Metropolitan School District of Martinsville, which is seeking affirmation from the U.S. Supreme Court that it may require students to use bathrooms corresponding to their biological sex:

“Nothing in the U.S. Constitution, Title IX or any other federal law requires schools to have coed bathrooms, locker rooms and showers, which pose a direct threat to the health, privacy, safety and security of our children. Accordingly, federal courts should never mandate that boys and girls must be able to use the same school bathrooms depending on gender identity.

“For these reasons and others, I applaud the Metropolitan School District of Martinsville’s decision to appeal the Seventh Circuit’s recent decision mandating coed bathrooms to the U.S. Supreme Court.

“I strongly encourage leaders in the Vigo County School Corp. to stand strong and do the same.

“Fortunately, at least one other U.S. Court of Appeals has reached a different conclusion and affirmed schools’ right to maintain separate boys’ and girls’ bathrooms, regardless of gender identity.

“Amid such inconsistency, the time is ripe for the U.S. Supreme Court to resolve the dispute over coed bathrooms once and for all—for the sake of children, parents, schools, and the rule of law.

“As legal actions proceed, my office and I will continue working boldly on the side of Hoosier families and school officials by advocating for the safe and sensible policy of protecting our children with single-sex bathrooms.”