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Tripodder

Tom Fischer — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:27:27 GMT

Tripodder.com

Become A Slacker

As you adjust the volume while you’re listening to your favorite song, a magic genie appears and grants you a specific wish: “I will create a radio station just for you that you can take wherever you go. You are completely in control the content. Your wish is my command, what would you like?”

The hours and cost of downloading music from iTunes (or Limewire) are now over and you may only want to use your iPod on rare occasion. The genie has made this fantasy into reality with Slacker.com.

With our focus on innovation, technology and music, Tripodder.com interviews Slacker Vice President of Marketing Jonathan Sasse to bring you a more detailed understanding of why Slacker is being called, “the iPod killer.”

“We got a chance to do all the things we’ve wanted to do over the past decade and we’re having a lot of fun doing it,” Sasse. Sasse joined the Slacker Team of seasoned digital music space executives with resumes spanning from the release the first portable mp3 players in the ‘90s to creating the MusicMatch which became Yahoo! Music.

Compare the following process to your current routine of gathering and listening to music and see which you’d prefer.

Visit Slacker.com and type in your favorite artist. An intuitive system gives birth to your personalized station putting songs into spin that you should like from your selected artist and similar artists. If you land on an artist or song that you love, you can “heart” it and hear it more often. Find an artist or song you hate, you can ban it forever.

To further the experience, you can select several artists to create a comprehensive playlist of your favorites within one station. Tweak your station with varying levels of “artist discovery” to hear new artists with similar styles that you’ve likely never heard of. Bios of each artist and the song the album comes from pop up on your screen and with one click you become an instant expert.

If you don’t want to fool with creating a station, opt to select one of the 100 professionally programmed stations like “’90s Alternative,” “Today’s Hits,” even “Comedy.” Ok, you’re getting the picture.

Slacker.com has agreements with all four major publishing houses (EMI, Sony/ATV, Universal and Warner/Chappell) and experiencing the music online in the above described process is a free service. This last step will cost you, but is worth the investment. Plug in your Slacker Portable Radio and up to 4000 songs will be sent directly to the personalized stations on the Portable for your take with you on the go. Later in the day when you are in WI-FI range, you can instruct your Slacker Portable to connect to your account and keep your station fresh.

Imagine hundreds of new songs flying across the office automatically storing them on your Portable for you to listen to on you way back home that evening. You’re receiving new music you’ll love and you’re not even working to make it happen. In fact, Slacker’s slogan is, “Your Music Without the Work.” The cost for a Slacker Portable ranges between $199 and $299 depending on the number of stations and memory you want.

If you have 4,000 songs in your mp3 player, it took time to download them, right? The name “Slacker” truly represents the convenience of having a service do the work and research for you.

“We appeal to an interesting group of people who like a radio experience, but they are frustrated with traditional FM radio, satellite radio and how stale their music gets on mp3 players,” explains Sasse. For music lovers who want to keep their favorites to hear wherever they go, the Slacker portable allows users to upload their own mp3s too.

While Slacker.com is free service, it will soon have a minimal number of advertisements on both the online player and the Slacker Portable. For only $7.50 a month, users can purchase Slacker Premium Radio. Premium makes the online player and the Portable commercial-free, provides unlimited skipping and gives listeners the chance the save any song from the radio onto a personal library for “on-demand listening.” Having Slacker without the Premium option still gives users the ability to skip six songs an hour, pause, and create an unlimited number of personalized stations. The only catch with either service is you can’t rewind, you can only pause and skip to the next song.

Slacker DJs across the country are constantly programming and hand-selecting the channels to keep the experience fresh. “You might even get songs that were released on an album that hit the streets that day and you didn’t have to go research or download them,” says Sasse.

For Myspace.com users, Slacker has a publishing widget that lets you add your personalized radio station to your Myspace profile. Or surprise your friends and send them a station with their favorite artists they can enjoy. It’s the “mix tape” of the future.

Listen to our Slacker.com podcast interview with Jonathan Sasse on Tripodder.com’s podcast channel and add us on Myspace.com/Tripodder.

Horrorscopes

Swami B2 — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:43:47 GMT

They’re baaack! Move over Miss Cleo, Swami B2 answers all your questions on love, life and the pursuit of happiness.

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Aries

March 8-April 2

Your work week will be drawn out and "totally amazing" like the season finale of The Rock of Love 2. In other words, it will suck and leave you miserably unfulfilled. Tasks mount as you drone your way past vapid days. Hedge weekly spending for a weekend bender, and possibly bail.

This week: Fast food yields a touch of the pukes.

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Sagittarius

November 31-December 8

Your cats cooperate and figure out how to breach the refrigerator door. While they munch on your leftovers, the dog ravages your beer stash and yaks all over the kitchen floor. Don't let this rattle your cage. Tonight, relaxation is replaced with pine-sol.

This week: Your iPod is stolen and maliciously replaced with an awful Jon Secada mix tape.

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Leo

January 16-February 11

Congratulations, You'll be receiving a hefty check in the mail! Or... not. Actually, you'll just get bills, and a summons for jury duty. Bummer.

THIS WEEK: PAY BRANDON.

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Capricorn

June 4-June 29

The Yankees suck this season, loyal baseball fan. An obnoxious Red Sox faithful insults Derek Jeter to your face, forcing an immediate and electrifying scuffle. His stupid Kevin Youkilis replica jersey is ripped off his back, the cops are involved, charges are filed....ehhh, but at least you eradicated that muttonhead smirk from his face. Further indicating the apocalypse is among us, the Cubs have a WINNING SEASON. Disgusting.

THIS WEEK: DON'T FORGET TO WATCH MONDAY NIGHT BASEBALL.

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Virgo

August 6-September 16

A Trading Spouses marathon lets you catch a break from your crap life and sneak a peek into someone else's. Revel the insanity and awkward tension as two contrasting families invert for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy the ridiculous humanity with some popcorn, although you'll probably burn it.

THIS WEEK: TELL AN OFFENSIVE JOKE AT WORK.

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Cancer

February 29-March 6

A clumsy tumble down the steps starts your day off on a sour note. Coworkers jeer and rudely point at your battered face and busted lips. Just because someone circulates a company-wide e-mail calling attention to the gaping rip in your pleated work khakis (with attached picture) doesn't mean you can't handle the heat. You shine through because you are a professional, and dammit, you have a job to do. No task is too mundane for you, worker bee.

THIS WEEK: INVEST IN NEW PANTS.

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Aquarius

December 1-December 25

The day erupts with a bang (literally) as you discover your porcelain throne has exploded. Rank toilet juice smatters every inch of your previously sanitized bathroom. Curious cats creep into the swampy fray and scatter mucky slime throughout your dwelling as you frantically shoo them away. An excruciating migraine adds to the fun.

THIS WEEK: GIVE UP.

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Scorpio

April 3-May 17

Escalating temperatures mean hairball season is in full swing. Prepare for battle with your shedding critters. Locate your grooming brush and perfect your stroke or else they'll be firing off hairballs left and right, leaving putrid surprises in your favorite sneakers. Ghastly hacking and revolting upchucking can be avoided with daily diligence.

THIS WEEK: WEAR FLIP FLOPS.

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Taurus

July 4-August 1

Your conservative girlfriend quits her job to pursue exotic dancing. Slathering on fruity lotion and gyrating for a filthy creep sporting an eye patch and Wild Turkey breath turns her crank more than crunching numbers and balancing budgets. It will be wise to concede your relationship, or her new found "passion" could leave you with more than you bargained for, like a nasty rash that requires medical attention.

THIS WEEK: YOUR eHARMONY PROFILE IS REJECTED.

What to do on Fridays

Brad Linzy — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:14:09 GMT

DOWNTOWN FRIDAYS
Owensboro and Evansville Get Out of the House this Summer

Spring and summer are a time of activity – a time to look for ways other than vegetating in front of a television to feel relaxed or entertained after a long workweek. Fortunately, for the cities of Owensboro and Evansville, the spring and summer months see the downtown riverfront districts come alive with things to do that won’t make you feel like you’re wasting your life away indoors …or breaking the bank.

Evansville’s “Fabulous First Fridays”

If I say “FFF,” that’s not a way of censoring myself and shielding my readers from an outburst of dirty language, it’s a reference to Fabulous First Fridays, which, from May 2^nd through the end of September, will bring a fun and unforgettable array of activities to the downtown and riverfront on the first Friday of every month.

Those who take advantage of FFF will enjoy free activities such as a “Movies By the Water,” which offers the public an opportunity to take in family-oriented films and share in a romantic and fun experience with friends, neighbors, and family under the stars and beside the Ohio River. Spring and summer revelers will also want to check out FFF’s “Cruise Ins,” which showcase antique and classic cars from bygone eras on Main Street. Also of interest are the live music shows and the new Multicultural Festival on June 7^th, which will introduce tri-staters to the menagerie of cultures that all call the River City home.

May will also witness the arrival of the annual Farmers Market, which, every Friday through summer, occupies the area near the corner of 2^nd and Sycamore from around 7 a.m. ‘til around 2:30 p.m. and features fresh produce booths, arts and crafts, flower vendors, herb growers, and just about anything else produced by the capable hands of area residents. Those interested in obtaining space for a booth should call Jocee at Downtown Evansville Inc. The number is 424-2986. Space is free but limited, so call now and book your spot.

Enjoy fresh produce from the farmers market.
Photography | Kirk Kirkpatrick

As always, check your News-4U for updated FFF summer event schedules or visit www.downtownevansville.org. See you there!

Owensboro’s “Friday After 5”

When a weary Owensboro workforce punches its Friday time clock signaling the end of a long workweek, something magical happens to help jumpstart a fun and rejuvenating weekend downtown. “Friday After 5” (FA5) was started in 1996 by Downtown Owensboro, Inc. as a 10-week summer festival to help revive the downtown riverfront as a prime entertainment destination and, thanks to sponsors like Coldwell Banker/Image Builders, has grown from there into a 16-week-long celebration of summer.

The weekly festivities kick off May 23^rd with a concert by The Velvet Bombers and will run through August 29^th. They feature performances on the RiverPark Center patio from some of the area’s most accomplished and seasoned regional and local acts like Bonepony, Black Widow, and more. Each week’s entertainment schedule is rounded out with a street fair activity focusing on something like motorbikes, pets, farming, or the annual chili cookoff, and a roundup of alternative courtyard entertainment. Some weeks will also see special events featuring even more local acts and live entertainment!

Jam every Friday next to the river with Fridays After 5.
Photography | Kirk Kirkpatrick

Friday After 5 is a massive logistical undertaking that many Owensboro residents agree improves the quality of life in the city and achieves its stated goal of enriching and enlivening the downtown area. We at News-4U are excited to continue covering it and look forward to this year’s events.

For a complete schedule of FA5 events, check out the website at www.fridayafter5.com, or keep picking up your News-4U all summer long!

Executive Inn Rivermont’s “Sprint Sunset Series”

And finally, proving that capitalistic competition is the heart beat which drives creativity in commerce, the Executive Inn Rivermont’s “Sprint Sunset Series” also features an exciting lineup of free summer entertainment every Friday just down the street from FA5 at the Mitch McConnell Plaza. This is a win-win situation for the public as The Sunset Series provides yet another alternative to sitting in your underwear eating corn chips in front of the boob tube on a beautiful Friday evening this summer. The Series kicks off on May 16^th with a concert by Flat Stanley and Wildman and continues the following Friday with a show from Evansville rockers Gonzo’s Toybox. Check www.executiveinnrivermont.com/SunsetSeries.html for more on who’s playing each week, or call 800-626-1936.

Photography | Executive Inn Rivermont

On the Page: AJ Alexander

Booker and Sarah — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:07:06 GMT

Pick up this month’s issue of Playboy Magazine and you’ll notice Miss May is Harrison High School graduate and Evansville native Amanda Herrmann, now known as AJ Alexander. She was hand-picked by Hugh Hefner and is well on her way to becoming Playmate of the Year. Booker & Sarah sat down with AJ to discuss her kids, showing up naked at her class reunion, and envious ex-boyfriends.

How did you get involved with Playboy? I first started by driving to Atlanta to a Casting Call with another friend from Evansville. She and I were both selected as the top 10. From there on I have appeared in 3 Special Edition Issues.

You were in a movie. Tell us about that. Yeah, it is called American Summer. The producer is the same as American Pie and Final Destination just to name a few. It was a great experience and I got to meet a lot of cool new people like Efrain Ramirez and Matthew Lillard. I played a deaf DJ (go figure...lol) so my lines were done by signing. The movie should be released in theatres by 2009. To top it off, that is how I met fellow Playmate, Jennifer Walcott, and she told me I had to be a Playmate.

You mention your hometown as Evansville. Thanks for keeping it real. Are you planning to keep EVV as your home? For now, yes, there is a small possibility of moving in the future. But I'd rather be with my family more than anything. That is what’s awesome about Playboy is that you can live wherever and still do what you love. And yeah, I had to help to put "the Ville" on the map...haha!

Everyone's worst dream is to show up at school naked. Is it weird that your classmates will all see you naked now? I never thought of it that way...haha! Everybody sees naked people from movies to magazines to fine art. I don't think it is weird. No one is forced to look at it if they don't want to.

What must you eat at Fall Fest? Pulled Pork, Fried snickers, and I gotta have my cherry cider!

Did you get to spend anytime with Kendra, Holly and Bridget from The Girls Next Door? Yes, with all three of them. I rode with Holly everyday to my shoot. They are all so wonderful in their own unique way! Kendra is my girl! She and I like to work out together and ride down Sunset Boulevard bumpin’ to music in her Escalade...HAHA!!! You will get to see me on Season 5 coming up on Girls Next Door. Check it out on E! Channel.

Is Kendra really as funny as she seems on the show? Kendra is hilarious! That’s why we bond so much. Some people may not like her laugh, but it cracks me up. She does some silly stuff coming up on Season 5 of the show.

Have any ex-boyfriends contacted you since appearing in Playboy? Funny you ask! A boyfriend from my freshman year sent me a message congratulating me. I am signing an issue for a guy whom I was HIS first kiss and none of his co-workers believe it!

What's the best way for a guy to pick up a Playboy model? Geez, I hate this question. I don't like to get hit on at all. Just because I am a Playmate doesn't mean I have "single" written on my forehead. A guy that keeps to himself and gives you respect are the kind that I go for. You can ask the guy I am dating now...

What do you do to stay fit? It mostly is all genetics, but I do try to hit up the gym here and there. Doesn't playing every sport for like 15 years count? LOL!

Have you ever kissed anyone famous? I never kiss and tell.

See AJ online at www.ajalexander.net

16 Bars: Cyclopean

C4 the General — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:06:02 GMT

Tip of the month (from Cyclopean Super Hero): Never give up and always try your best, when in doubt go to www.illmuzik.com/forumz tell them I sent you.

Known for finding the good in all things, protecting the weak, and flying drunk, hip hop has found a new power on the mic.

Look up in the sky! It’s 16 bars ya’ll, and it’s time to talk to a real life super hero…

It’s The Cyclopean Super Hero y’all…

10 things you didn’t know about Cyclopean Super Hero.

- Has a heart of gold.

- Dislikes robots, ghosts and unappreciative people.

- Is too trusting of others especially women.

- I am shy and quite humble.

- I drink too much.

- The number 1 question I get asked is, who are you?

- The second question I get asked the most is, why do you have one eye?

- Treats his fans like royalty.

- I’m addicted to Ski and Grippos.

- My alter ego has an alter ego.

N4U: When was the first time you realized you had super powers?

CSH: I think everyone has special abilities. Sometimes people don’t believe in themselves because they are constantly told that you can’t do or be a certain thing. Every person on the planet has the power to be a hero. You just have to look inside to find your super power.

How long have you been using hip hop for good?

I have been involved for such a long time. The exact distinction between good and bad are just opinions. I have always supported the music scene. From the days of DJ Paul Bunyon to DJ Raj. From the days of 64 Posse to CasOne. I have been here, watching, keeping a careful eye on those I love.

What powers do you have?
I have the ability to fly and the power to move you !

What do you hope to accomplish with those powers?

First and foremost I would like to let the people know that making music is all that I do. So the first things that need to be accomplished are to pay rent, and keep some food in my belly. Beyond that, I would like to open people’s minds with my special blend of hip hop. For all the hip hop heads out there, I have plenty of metaphors for you to dissect. I generally want to have fun, and want others that come see me to have the time of their live. Some people have the ability to look beyond themselves. Selflessness is a virtue not present in today’s hip-hop. Is it a weakness to be humble and to love? I think the scared prey on the uneducated and confused, because they are easily programmed. Before you mock or judge, look in the mirror and define yourself. Everyone needs to be saved in one way or form. We all look to the future hoping for a brighter day.

What is your alter ego? Or would it be too dangerous to tell me?

The Hero comes from a collection of all my faults. I took everything that I thought was negative about me and put all those ingredients into a mixing bowl. It’s about 75% heart, 15% love, 05% skill. I tried to do the exact opposite of what everyone else is doing in hip-hop. I came to the conclusion that no one is perfect. The Hero has his faults and he is ok with that.

Do you have any albums coming out, or shows coming up that you want to speak of?

Yeah of course ! You can get mp3s on my myspace page now. I have a full length album coming out real soon. The date isn’t finalized, but for now we'll just say ASAP. I will be having my first show at synchronicity the art gallery over by Haynie's Corner, just keep posted to the mypace page for dates. I am also currently involved in a contest to get on the Vans Warped Tour. It’s set up where people can vote daily for their favorite artist. There is only a couple of hip hop acts even signed up for this, so go vote for me!
http://warpedtour.battleofthebands.com/CyclopeanSuperHero

How do we signal you if we need your help?

You could always beatbox, I'll be there in a jiffy. For anybody else that needs help or advice they can contact me on myspace. I will always try my best to give a positive response or outlook.

Learn more about Cyclopean Super Hero @
www.myspace.com/cyclopeansuperhero

Little Monsters!

Katarine mcKinney — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:04:22 GMT

Local artist Jane Case Vickers has a house stuffed with treasure. 1930s Fiestaware, 1950s aluminum pitchers, and lots of her own art made from found objects: lamps with cake tin shades, earrings punched from soda cans. But lately her Arts and Crafts era home has been invaded.

Monsters. They eat her candy stash. They sing in her shower. Some are cute, and some are diabolically clever. But in a house already full of vintage artifacts there is simply no room for these creative critters. So Jane starting putting them in her Etsy shop hoping someone would adopt them. News4U sat down with a few of these mischief makers to get their opinion on this eviction.

Cricky The Cupcake Thief: Kate...you look FABULOUS! Have you lost weight?

Kate: Yes...actually, I gave up cupcakes so I don’t have any for you, you naughty boy. Now lets get down to business...What happened?

Fawkes the Trickster: Well, it all boils down to a space issue. We like sleeping in the cupboard but it crowds the vintage glassware. We mutually decided it would be best to make other living arrangements.

Fizzle-Puff the Worrier: Mutual, you say? *sneezes* Excuse me, I just can’t shake this cold. I like living there. I found a very cozy spot on the victorian sofa.

Cricky the Cupcake Thief: I’ll miss Jane’s mother. That woman does wonders with bacon grease and a cast iron skillet. Not enough cupcakes to suit me, though.

Fawkes the Trickster: Yes, but she can’t take a joke! She strongly objected to me hiding her spatulas.

Kate: Fizzle-Puff, can you speak for your siblings? What do Finkle and Twinkle think?

Fizzle-Puff: I don’t think those two know the meaning of the words “plan ahead.” *sighs and shakes head* They are completely unconcerned.

Fawkes the Trickster: There is one thing we can all agree on...we just want to find a person who will understand us. I’ve been called irresponsible, but I just like having a good time!

*Cricky & Finkle nod in agreement*

Jane’s Lil Monsters are made of recycled wool, fleece and felt. They can purchased at her Esty Shop, LostandFoundObjects2. 10% of proceeds go to support programs at Patchwork Central, home of “Monster Week”, June 9th -12th from 1:30-4:30. Children ages 10 and up can create their own monsters as well as put personal touches on a big monster created by the group. Cost is $5.

Jane will also have her work on display in the show “Reuse Reclaim Reimagine” at the Artifacts Gallery in Indianapolis May 9 - June 22. The show will feature other nationally known artists who incorporate recycling into their pieces.

The Hot Seat: Lynda Hillenburg

Fangirl — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:47:56 GMT

Helping to keep the University of Evansville area culturally eclectic is a nifty new little shoppe called Widdershins. Since November, they have been located at the corner of Weinbach and Lincoln in the old Abyss Bookstore basement space. The business is not just an outlet for buying supplies such as incense, talismans, herbs and books on alternative spirituality; this unique establishment also offers a place for Pagans to network and participate in building their skills through workshops and practice sessions. Thursday night meditation sessions are held at 7:00 and owner Lynda Hillenburg makes a point to mention that you don’t have to be Pagan to be there. You should check them out in person, or on the web at www.widdershin.net. Lynda calmly assumed the Lotus position in the Hot Seat…

#1 What is the most comforting comfort food?

Macaroni & Cheese -The old fashion kind, baked and oozing with cheddar. It makes me feel like I'm wrapped up in a fuzzy blanket.

#2 Have you had any great celebrity encounters?

None that I would call great.

#3 What would your deserted island picks be for a CD, DVD, and a book?

CD - House of Secrets by Otep

DVD - Fight Club

Book- Magick Book 4 by Aleister Crowley

#4 Will you tell us your most embarrassing obsession?

Bellydancing . The only embarrassing part is if I mess up the choreography in a public performance. I prefer freestyle so no one knows if you mess up.

#5 What is your dream car?

One that doesn’t pollute the planet. I think if we all would ride bikes (those who can) it would solve two problems. It doesn’t make sense that people pay money to ride a bike at the gym that doesn’t go anywhere and then get into their gas guzzling SUV and go to work.

#6 Are you a cat person or a dog person?

Cat person. A cat is a very good judge of character; they are still wild and become feral very quickly. They are very useful in detecting ghosts and other multi-dimensional beings. Dogs are great, but too needy for me.

#7 What is your favorite website?

www.witchvox.com - This is a great Pagan networking site and full of articles about the Craft.

#8 Do you have any tattoos or other interesting distinguishing characteristics, like webbed toes?

I am planning my first tattoo. I want it to be included in a Rite of Passage Ceremony to represent my Spirituality.

#9 What is your favorite quote and who said it?

“To thine own self be true.” -Shakespeare

#10 Who will play you in the movie version of your life?

Michelle Pfeiffer

#11 What was the first concert you ever attended?

Aftershock

#12 Random trivia question: Name two famous people who married their cousins. (No fair Googling!)

Edgar A. Poe, I’m not sure about any others. (Fangirl says, there’s also Bach, Darwin, Einstein…and Jerry Lee Lewis among others.)

#13 What’s your poison?

Aftershock

#14 Name your favorite heroes: one fake, one real.

Joan of Arc - For her bravery and conviction, and She-Ra from the He-Man comic. She kicks ass!

#15 What was your best Halloween costume ever?

Kali

#16 Name your favorite invention ever?

The Internet

#17 Free association time! What is the first word that comes to mind when you see the word “ruminate?

“meditate”

#18 Have you ever been arrested? If so, dish!

No, sorry no juicy jail stories yet.

#19 If you had a chance to ask anyone, alive or dead, just one question, what would it be?

To George Bush - Why does my son have to risk his life in an unjust war?

#20 Any advice for the young people today?

Stop listening to Hip-Hop it's making you stupid!

#21 If you had one wish to use selfishly, what would it be?

To have the ability to control time at will.

#22 Where is the coolest place you’ve ever been?

Circle Sanctuary in Ohio - For the Pagan Spirit Gathering, primitive camping, workshops and rituals, Pagan music and other performances .VERY COOL.

#23 What will you be remembered for?

I hope I will be remembered for trying to make a difference in the local Pagan community.

Blogger

Fangirl — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:46:30 GMT

Monday April 14^th

Current Mood: Chilly

Listening to: “Jingle Bells”-Robert Goulet version

Higher Ground

It’s snowing right now. SNOW. The kids were in shorts just a few days ago!! After almost a week of nice weather, nice enough to trick all the early blooming things into appearing and kick in everyone’s springtime allergies, we then get oceans of rain, and now this. The schizophrenic weather that is becoming the standard here in Evansville just seems to keep getting weirder. Between this and the circadian clock-defying time changes we endure, I am surprised we aren’t seeing clusters of serious weirdness in both human and animal behavior. Either it is sweeps week in some kind of Truman Show production so the powers that be have cranked the weather machine up to 11, or it’s time to take a step back and admit that we have gone past the point of no return with Global Warming. We have annoyed the planet; bitten hard enough that the Earth is in the process of trying to scratch us off. Please, still go ahead and try to live greener and maybe we can prevent the next crisis. But for now get ready to ride this one out. I don’t think the consequences will come so fast and furious that we can’t adapt; but it will change the way we live. Everyone might just have to wear zip-off pants and sleeves from now on. And if you live in an area that keeps flooding, well, take the hint. But, for the record, I predict there will be no global application of advantage, humankind will endure (however gracelessly), we will just be dealing with some unpleasant flea powder for awhile. A-choo!

Next Month's Topic: Questionable Meats

Bullet Points

Brad Linzy — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:44:53 GMT

April showers have brought Mayflowers, but the Pilgrims won’t put down them turkey guns …and who could blame them? Turkeys are fierce and dangerous beasts that are capable of causing a very serious infection if they manage to bite you with their blood-sucking beaks of disease and death! I remember it well; it was a clear Mayday (no pun intended) some years back when my cousin Jeb was mauled to death by a savage, bloodthirsty, farm turkey. I can still hear his dying wish: “Avenge me, cousin. Avenge me!” Come third Thursday in November, I will have my revenge! I will look upon that turkey and say, “Hello! My name is Inigo Montoya. You kill my cousin. Prepare to die!” My name is not really Inigo Montoya, but if the turkey survives or if there are witnesses, the cops will be looking for some “Inigo Montoya” character with a fake Spanish accent. And after that pointless, digressive load of blather, here are your bullet points for the merry, merry month of May.

• Casting Crowns – May 3^rd @ Mesker

Casting Crowns is the top selling Christian artist out there; their tour came in at #30 overall in Pollstar magazine’s concert pulse list, and they will be at Evansville’s Mesker Amphitheatre on May 3^rd. The concert’s purpose does not stop at pure entertainment for the members of Casting Crowns. They are using the notoriety to do what they feel is the Lord’s work, by bringing together children and sponsors through the World Vision child relief organization. Seats are $19.50, $24.50 and $39.50 for the show and can be gotten at all regular Ticketmaster outlets or by calling by (812) 423-7222 in Indiana and (270) 926-6661 in Kentucky. As a way of encouraging more church and organizational groups to come to the show, on tickets purchased through The Centre Box Office, groups of 15 or more will receive 2 free tickets for every 15 purchased tickets! …So what you do is buy 15 tickets, get your two free ones, scalp all the ones you don’t need, and get in free! Just kidding, don’t really do that. Scalping is apparently not illegal in Indiana, but it’s probably not a very ethical way to get in an event for free. Best way to do that is write for News-4U and trade promotional blurbs for free concert passes. So what about it, Casting Crowns? Where are my complimentary tickets?

• Movin’ Out (Billy Joel’s Broadway Musical) – May 8^th @ The Centre

Having already conquered the pop charts and super model Christy Brinkley in his prime, 5-time Grammy man Billy Joel’s maturing age sees him turning to the world of Broadway and winning yet more awards, more acclaim, and probably more groupies than ever before. Opening in 2002, around the same time he started seeking help for his alcoholism, the hit musical Movin’ Out shares the same name as one of his songs from The Stranger album. Look for it on May 8^th at The Centre. Tickets are $50, $35 and $20 through The Centre box office. And no, Christy Brinkley will not be at the show …or will she?

• Hardin County Country Jamboree feat. Little Texas – May 16^th and 17^th

Princeton University’s WordNet® 3.0 defines the word “jamboree” to mean “a gay festivity.” (Just thought I’d pass that along. I don’t know about you, but harboring a juvenile sense of humor makes my days go so much faster.) The gaiety will commence in Hardin County, Illinois the weekend of May 16^th at the Hog Rock Campground in Cave In Rock. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Friday. Tickets are $30 per person. Children 6-12 get in half price. There will be camping and food vendors all weekend. Revelers are encouraged to bring your own coolers and beer. Showers will be available (because we all know how much we end up stinking when we camp out). There will be plenty of country entertainment to fill both days with acts like Tony Phillips, Jason Jones, Mustang Sally, Marion Deaton (Willie Nelson Tribute), Darren Warren Band, Most Wanted, and more. But the music will culminate on Saturday night with a live performance by Nashville recording artists Little Texas. Call (618) 289-5001 for details or visit www.hogrock.com/jamboree.htm.

• Evansville Otters Baseball Season Opener – May 21^st thru 23^rd @ Bosse Field

“Put me in, coach. I’m ready to play.” May sees the return of the 2006 Frontier League Champion Evansville Otters’ professional baseball season. They will open a three game series at home in the friendly confines of historic Bosse Field May 21^st thru 23^rd against the Windy City Thunderbolts. Bosse Field is the 3^rd oldest and one of the most beautiful baseball stadiums to be found anywhere in the country, and a day at the ballpark doesn’t have to empty out your bank account. Why travel all the way to Cincinnati or St. Louis to see a bunch of steroid-fueled cheats in some overpriced, newfangled, state-of-the-art facility that only adds $20 to your hot dog costs when you can see hungry, up-and-coming athletes right in your own backyard for just $5 general admission? Doesn’t make much sense, does it? If you’re as disgusted with big league baseball as I am these days, go check out an Otters game instead. These guys play twice as hard, and for near minimum wage!

Charlie Brown and Billy Joel: So Uncool

Katharine McKinney — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:44:10 GMT

“The only true currency in this bankrupt world if what we share with someone else when we're uncool.” –Lester Bangs

The Uncoolest of the Uncool: Charlie Brown and Billy Joel

By Katharine McKinney

If you are anything like me you are not cool. I’ve tried to fake it over the years, from wearing a leather jacket that never quite got broken in enough to look authentic, to dyeing my hair black (Ok, I’m still trying.) Like any good nerd I love the theater, but even there the geeks get the shaft. Consider the hopelessly square Sandy, from Grease. Yes, she gets Danny Zucko at the end, but only after she rats her hair, dons a painted on pair of cigarette pants, starts smoking and presumably engaging in all other forms of bad-girl behavior in her attempt to find coolness. Theatrically speaking, what’s a nerd to do? Is there a show out there for the uncool?

Enter Civic Theater’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” There’s no better way to celebrate being uncool than a night of theater showcasing the quintessential American symbol of insecurity. The show is scripted from various famous Peanuts cartoons fashioned together to represent a single day in the life of “Good Old Charlie Brown.” Performance dates are May 16th,17th, and 18th. As the proud owner of of a Peanuts lunch box, The Complete Peanuts box set and mother of a boy named Linus, I’ll be there, even if I have to get past a kite eating tree.

If you took Charlie Brown’s lack of peer respect and mixed it with Schroeder’s piano chops then you might end up with someone like Billy Joel. Chuck Klosterman’s “Low Culture Manifesto” Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs makes the claim that while Billy Joel is great, he is not cool. “Joel is the only rock star I have ever loved who I never wanted to be” says Klosterman, who goes on to compare Joel’s songs on loneliness to “the way it feels when you are being hugged by someone and it somehow makes you feel sadder.”

Klosterman is not alone in his inexplicable love of the Piano Man. In his punk rock glory days my green-haired, dog-collar clad husband would drive around the sleepy Alabama town where he lived with the windows down, playing “Uptown Girl” full blast. Perhaps it is his lack of cool that provides Billy Joel with his nearly universal appeal. Regardless of the kind of music you listen to, 90% of the population is uncool (yes, I made up that statistic.) So, all you ninety percenters have another theater opportunity, because someone named Twyla Tharp took twenty Billy Joel songs and turned them into, of all things, a rock ballet. And it’s coming to The Centre on Tuesday, May 8, at 7:30. Go, unless you have something cooler to do.

Five Finger Death Punch

Ashley West-Albin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:43:15 GMT

If you’re gonna rock, rock hard! Rock hard with 5 Finger Death Punch at Woody’s May 13^th at 11:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 and tickets are $15. Visit www.103gbfrocks.com for tickets. Wanna know more about the band? The drummer, Jeremy Spencer, is from Boonville, IN… Wanna know more? N4U talked to the band about their upcoming tour with Disturbed. Check it out~

N4U: When did 5FDP first begin playing music as a band?

5FDP: I heard some of Zoltan’s demos back in '05. I really liked them and he and I agreed to get together and work on them. Within a couple of months we were tracking the record before we were even a band.

Is there a song or two that you think are just perfect and why?

I think “The Way of the Fist” pretty much represents our sound and what we wanted to accomplish with our music, which is come out of the gate swinging!

How have your ideas changed musically and stylistically over the years?

Sure. We write whatever we feel at the time. Sometimes there will be a batch of songs that sound similar and then there will be a different one that pops out. You never really know what's going to come.

What’s your proudest moment as a band?

Finding out “The Bleeding” went Top Ten!

What are some of your favorite albums and why?

A Very Snoopy Christmas! I don't even know why! I just like it! Or, Obituary Cause of Death!

You’re flying on the Autobahn at 150 miles per hour-what's playing on the deck?

See answer to question 5

What’s coming up in your future with 5FDP?

We're touring with Disturbed starting April 27^th which lasts for six weeks or so, then we are on the Rockstar Energy Mayhem Tour with Slipknot among many other killer bands. I’d like to mention that the new single “Never Enough” is available right now exclusively to fans who have already bought or buy The Way of the Fist. By going to www.fivefingerdeathpunch.com/bonus people can put their CD in the computer and can download the song for free! We'll also be re-releasing The Way of the Fist on May 13th with new unreleased material on it! We have a busy year ahead of us. Basically, we'll be touring for the rest of the year! Thanks to all you Knuckleheads out there!!

Kentucky Round-Up

Dan Latini — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:42:36 GMT

May is already upon us, so hurry and finish taking down the Christmas lights to enjoy the last vestiges of spring before that famous River City humidity settles in for the summer. Music, motors, and much more are all coming this month, so be sure to get out and take advantage of what Henderson has to offer, even if it only means a stroll alongside the river. Here are a few unique things to do in this month as well as a few to look forward to once June rolls around:

Farmers Markets Opening Now

Feeling flustered with frozen foods lately? Canned goods becoming cumbersome? You’re in luck, because a plethora of area farmers’ markets are opening for the summer season. Come for the fruits, come for the ambiance or even come just to get away from television reruns but whatever you do, make sure you don’t let this seasonal opportunity pass you by.

The Dixie Farmers Market – no word on whether any similarly named country musicians will present – will begin running from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. beginning April 24 and continue every Thursday in Erlanger Baptist Church of Erlanger, KY. Get in touch with Rebecca Volpe at (859) 727-2525 to learn more.

For those in the Independence, KY, area, the Simon Kenton Farmers Market begins April 26. The market will run from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. every Saturday at Simon Kenton High School, allowing plenty of time for an afternoon siesta. Larry Butler at (859) 960-0218 is the man to call if you want more details.

Finally, Kenton County residents can also enjoy the Northern Kentucky Regional Farmers Market in Covington, KY. With the exception of May 17, the market will be open from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on every Saturday beginning May 10. Again, no worries about your afternoon nap. Call Mary Lyons at (859) 486-0058 or email her at mlyons@covingtonky.gov for more information.

International Bar-B-Q Festival

Anyone so bold as to want to participate in a 5K run/walk and then eat as much mutton as possible in the same weekend needs to attend Owensboro’s International Bar-B-Q Festival. Those interested in multiple stages of music, a golf tournament, carnival rides, pageantry, and enough hickory-smoked goodness to make a grown man cry are also welcome to the event, which runs during second weekend of May. A complete schedule of events and much more information can be found online at www.bbqfest.com or by phone at (270) 926-6938.

Homegrown Bluegrass and Creative Arts Festival

Forget those reruns of Reba – music with real twang is going to be in Audubon State Park May 16-17. Local bluegrass acts will perform, and open microphone opportunities will be available for those interested. Several booths of arts and crafts will also be featured. Bring your picks, your knits, or whatever else comes to mind or call (270) 826-2247 for more details.

Fundraiser at Big Daddy’s Boathouse

Come enjoy good food, good music, and good times for a great cause along the Ohio River at Big Daddy’s on May 16 and 17. Always-entertaining bands Casper and the Huckleberrys will be performing in the charity event for River View School, which specializes in education for students with down syndrome. Join the party at the open air venue and help support River View School by attending or calling (270) 826-2443 for more information.

Ohio Valley Cruisers 22^nd Annual Downtown Car Show

Henderson’s favorite car show returns to the downtown between 3^rd and 1^st on Main May 17-18. The parade and cruise-in takes place on May 17, while the competition occurs on the May 18. Registration runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the day of the competition, so be sure to finish clean up your favorite classic, import, or custom and cruise Main Street with the other enthusiasts. More information can be found by phone at either (270) 826-5831 or (270) 869-4699.

City of Henderson Atkinson Park Pool Opens

Whether the calendar agrees or not, come and celebrate the beginning of summer at Atkinson Park Pool’s seasonal opening. Friends and family of all ages are welcome. Enjoy the L-shape main pool, wading pool, and mushroom waterfall seven days a week starting 11 a.m. on May 24. Those interested should call (270) 831-1230 for more information.

Reitz Museum and An Evening by the River

Ashley West-Albin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:39:51 GMT

Remember how much fun it was to be invited to birthday parties as a kid? You’d receive the Scooby Doo invitation at school, fly home to ask permission and then pick out a gift that you knew your friend would love? Well, you are invited to two Evansville parties in May. The only gift requirement is a monetary donation to aid the non profit organizations that make our city not only beautiful but also preserve our history. Check them out!

WHAT: Second Annual Reitz Home Museum’s Wine Dive

WHEN: Friday, May 9th @ 5:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE: At the “Beach” of the Reitz Home Museum Carriage House on Chestnut between 1^st and 2^nd Streets.

DRESS: Key West Casual

COST: $35/person

RSVP: (812) 426-1871

Join the RHM for a premier wine tasting event and enjoy the sounds of Jimmy Buffett (aka Keith Vincent), burgers on the grill, a bouquet of fine wines Turoni’s brews and a silent auction.

WHAT: An Evening on the River to benefit the Evansville Parks Department/Keep Evansville Beautiful Fundraiser

WHEN: May 30^th from 6:30-10:00 p.m.

WHERE: Evansville Riverfront from Casino Aztar to Evansville Museum

DRESS: Casual

COST: $50/person

RSVP: (812) 435-6141

Join the EPD for a delicious, progressive dinner down the Riverfront. Make your bid at the Pagoda's silent auction, then enjoy a carriage ride, all while enjoying food from several area eateries and live music.

WIN TICKETS FOR THE REITZ MUSEUM WINE DIVE AT www.news4uonline.com

Evansville Otters

Brandon Kaelin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:38:16 GMT

You won’t find a much better combination than baseball and Bosse Field. Like peanut butter and jelly, ice cream and cones, roads and construction, the two are a comfortable and proper fit. Being the third oldest ballpark used for professional baseball in operation today (behind only Fenway Park and Wrigley Field), Bosse’s historic bricks seep memories and tradition like Warren Spahn. One of the Frontier League’s most popular clubs, the Otters will soon light up the field with a flurry of excitement in their opening charge May 21st. Facing the Windy City Thunderbolts, new names and old hats will put their skills on display in effort to launch the start of their thirteenth season successfully and bid for a second league championship.

Like the tectonic plates that are constantly shifting and resettling the Earth as we recognize it (recently, no doubt), baseball lineups and rosters follow the same principle. The Otters are no exception; acquiring many talented players from across the map, the team’s dynamic is always evolving. One of those talented players (whom I’ve had the great pleasure of working a daily 9-5 grind with) is local-bred success, Adam Rogers. Recently signing to pitch in the starting rotation, 24-year-old Adam is no stranger to hard work and the reward it brings. He helped propel Harrison High School to state during his sophomore year, won a championship his senior year at the University of Evansville and went on to be drafted in 2006 in the 31st round by the Toronto Blue Jays.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Adam about his experiences in baseball and his plans for the future.

BK: You had a successful baseball career at UE. Where exactly did you go after that?

AR: After graduating and finishing my career at UE, I was drafted in the 31st round by the Toronto Blue Jays and went to Pulaski, Virginia, to play in the Appalachian League. The following season [last year] was spent in numerous locals. I spent most of last season in short season but also had stints in Low A [Lansing], High A [Dunedin] and Double A [New Hampshire].

Clearly, baseball has been very good to you and vice versa. What would you consider your greatest accomplishment so far?

Baseball has been very good to me, but I think everyone who has had opportunities like I’ve had should understand that baseball owes you nothing and that you owe everything to the game. I’ve seen so many places and met so many people because of the game. I would have to say my greatest accomplishment would be going to state my sophomore year in high school and helping my team win a championship my senior year at UE.

Those are wonderful achievements, indeed. Another amazing experience must have been pitching in the Hall of Fame Game as a Blue Jay against the Baltimore Orioles at Doubleday Field in Cooperstown for a sellout crowd. What was that like?

The Hall of Fame Game was an amazing experience. I was able to rub elbows with players like Frank Thomas, Alex Rios, Roy Halladay and the rest of the team. And getting to face Jay Gibbons and Corey Patterson was a thrill as well.

Frank Thomas, wow. He’s been such an amazing presence throughout his many years in baseball. At 6”5, 275 he’s no small fry. Did he live up to his reputation of “Big Hurt?”

He did live up to his reputation as a massive individual--probably the biggest player I’ve ever been around. He was actually really laid back and quiet.

It was recently decided that baseball will end the tradition of playing the Hall of Fame Game after this June’s meeting between the Cubs and Padres. Any comments on that?

It’s too bad professional players today can’t sacrifice one day off for this game. It means so much to the community of Cooperstown and was such a special experience for myself; it should be a special experience for the big leaguers as well.

Speaking of big leaguers, one of the best in the game today, Alex Rodriquez has a monster contract with the Yankees for $230 million ($28 million per season). That’s more than the combined Florida Marlins team payroll. That’s fair right?

I feel AROD’s salary is fair. Most people don’t understand the strain and hard work that ball players must put into their craft. People also forget the millions AROD brings in to the Yankees through TV, endorsements, ticket sales, etc. If anyone in their job brought in that type of money for their company, they would want to be reimbursed for their efforts.

Yankees or Red Sox? I’m Yankees, for sure. You?

Not a Yanks or Sox fan, but if I had to choose I’d say Yankees because I’d like AROD to get a championship.

You’ll be pitching for the Otters this season. How does it feel coming back home to play baseball?

I felt like signing with the Otters would be a good way for family and friends to watch me pitch me again. The Otters are also going to let me start, which is what I did throughout college. My ultimate goal is to get picked back up by an affiliate, but while I’m with the Otters I’ll give it my best to help the team win ball games.

So it’s safe to assume you are looking to move back up.

I won’t play independent ball very long. I would love to play for as long as I can, but at the highest level.

I wish you all the best and look forward to your success this year. Any parting advice for players looking to work through the ranks like you?

For any aspiring players, don’t take the game too seriously. Work hard, but let it go after the game is over. For a stretch in my career, I let the game consume me and it wasn’t a good time. You’ll play worse and won’t have fun. Also, enjoy the game when you’re young, because as you get older the game turns into more of a job.

Be sure to come out and support Adam and the rest of the Evansville Otters this season. Tickets start at only $5!