This week, I want to take a moment to thank the individuals, organizations, and businesses that are stepping up to support their neighbors during this SNAP benefit crisis. Your generosity and compassion are what make Evansville such a special place. When our community faces challenges, we show up for one another and that’s something to be proud of.

As we move into November, I’ve found myself reflecting on what a full and fulfilling year it’s been. From neighborhood cleanups to budget hearings, ribbon cuttings to community celebrations, Evansville continues to move forward in ways that make our community stronger, safer, and more connected. I’m proud of what we’ve done … and I’m excited for what’s still to come.

This week, we wrapped up our final Traveling City Hall of the year, holding a successful Utility Resource Fair at Eastland Mall. Thank you to everyone who came out, and to the many community partners who joined us to connect residents with programs that can help lower monthly utility costs. I’m hopeful that those who attended walked away with new information, and with a little peace of mind heading into the winter months.

On Wednesday, we cut the ribbon on the new Garvin Park Activity Zone. It was a beautiful afternoon filled with laughter, kids climbing the new playground, and families shooting hoops on the basketball court. At one point, a seventh grader named Lucien from Jacobsville challenged me to a one-on-one basketball game. I love these moments—a confident young scholar, full of energy, who wasn’t afraid to trash talk a little and let me dish it right back. It’s those small, joyful interactions that remind me why investing in our parks and neighborhoods matters so much. With new restrooms, a modern playground, and an upgraded court, Garvin Park is ready for a new generation of memories.

Then on last night, I had the tremendous honor of being inducted into the EVSC Hall of Fame. I’m extremely grateful to the EVSC Foundation for this recognition; I’m even more grateful for the teachers, coaches, and community members who have poured into me and so many others over the years. This award truly belongs to the people of Evansville, whose hard work and heart inspire everything I do.

Behind the scenes, my team and I met with three new developers interested in helping us reach our goal of 2,000 new housing units by the end of 2027. New housing means new jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and more opportunities for families to thrive. The level of interest in Evansville right now shows that our city’s future is full of potential.

This weekend, as we look ahead to Veterans Day, I will celebrate all of the men and women from Evansville who have served our country in the military. It starts with the Four Freedoms Veterans Parade, taking place tomorrow, November 8, at 2:00 p.m. on West Franklin Street. I encourage everyone to come out early, find a great spot, and show your appreciation for our veterans.

Then, Saturday night, I’ll close the day at the Marine Corps Ball, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps.

And to top it all off, I am excited to host more than 400 members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for the Illinois/Indiana Cluster Meeting this weekend. As mayor, I’m so proud to welcome my sorority sisters to our city; I know they will enjoy everything Evansville has to offer.

In all, it’s going to be a weekend full of pride, community, and celebration … the perfect reflection of who we are as a city.

Have a wonderful weekend,
– Stephanie

P.S. World Kindness Day is November 13th. Join me in extending random acts of kindness, such as buying someone a coffee or leaving an encouraging note and sharing positive messages on social media. Every act of kindness makes a difference. #WorldKindessDayEVV