🎒 Hoosier Heart: Jackson County United Way – Rock'n Ready School Supply Drive
This week’s episode is all about a massive community effort that hits right at the heart of Jackson County. We are diving into the Jackson County United Way’s Annual Rock'n Ready Free School Supplies Initiative. Originally launched in 2009 as "Stuff the Bus," this incredible program now equips over 1,500 local students from Kindergarten through 12th grade across all four county school districts with backpacks full of essential learning tools.

We sit down with Emily to discuss how this drive saves local families an estimated $25–$30 per child, providing vital financial relief just as the new school year approaches. Discover how you can get involved—whether by dropping off composition notebooks and crayons at local business collection hubs, ordering directly from their Amazon and Walmart wish lists, or signing up to help sort and stuff backpacks. It’s a beautiful reminder of what happens when Southern Indiana unites to ensure every single child walks into their classroom ready to learn.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

🌿 Hoosier Homestead: Lydia Grove Estate – A Historic Return and New Beginnings

We are heading out to the rolling farmlands of Seymour to visit Lydia Grove Estate (formerly Chateau de Pique winery). Settled on 80 picturesque acres, this stunning historic property has recently returned to the Mellencamp family and is now owned and operated by Chad and Sarah “Sadie” (Mellencamp) Hubbard.  We sit down with the family to discuss the inspiration behind the name "Lydia Grove"—honoring the last family member to steward the land generations ago—and their massive efforts to breathe new life into the historic 19th-century tasting room barn. 

Discover their incredible setup for open-air pavilion weddings at The Lydia, their seasonal agritourism plans, and get an exclusive sneak peek into their growing estate winery and brewery program slated for later this year. It's a beautiful story of family roots, preservation, and creating a space to slow down and gather.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

Sky High in Seymour – The 2026 Airplane Ride Day! ✈️

Southern Indiana Now Podcast – Episode Summary

Ever wanted to see Seymour from the clouds and spot your own house from above? On this week’s episode of the Southern Indiana Now Podcast, we’re previewing one of Jackson County’s most exciting annual events: the Freeman Army Airfield Museum Annual Airplane Ride Day 2026!

Whether you're a local history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or just looking for a fun family weekend, we break down all the details so you can plan your perfect outing right here in town.

📅 Event Details

• When: Saturday, June 20th, 2026 | 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Where: Freeman Municipal Airport (1035 "A" Ave, Seymour). Note: Head to the big white tent across the street from the museum for the rides!
• Cost: $30 per person (Tax-deductible donation). All proceeds directly benefit the museum.

🛩️ What to Expect

• Take Flight: Enjoy scenic airplane rides over Seymour. No reservations are necessary—just show up!
• On the Ground: Check out airplanes, a glider, and military vehicles on display. It's a fantastic photo opportunity for the kids.
• Explore Local History: Tour the two-building Freeman Army Airfield Museum absolutely free.
• Grab a Bite: Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site.
• For the Thrill Seekers: Looking for an extra rush? Robinson Aerobatics will be offering rides in a massive 500hp biplane for an additional fee.

⚠️ Important Guidelines

Before you head to the tarmac, please keep these rules and logistics in mind:

• Flights are strictly contingent on good weather (no high winds or hard rain).
• A signed waiver of liability is required for all riders.
• Restrictions: No children under 5 years old, and a strict maximum weight limit of 250 lbs per person applies.

Want to know more? For more information, you can reach out directly to Larry at 812-521-7400. Grab the family and let’s get ready to fly, Southern Indiana!

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

Hoosier Happenings: 
Chrome, Chords, and Community 

Rev your engines and find your rhythm! On this segment of Hoosier Happenings, we are previewing the highly anticipated Cars and Guitars Car Show and Concert taking over downtown Seymour on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Come out to see an incredible display of all vehicle makes and models, grab a bite from local food trucks, and rock out to a live evening performance by 80s tribute band Bad Medicine. Best of all? All proceeds from the event go toward purchasing inclusive, special needs playground equipment for Seymour parks. Vehicle registration is $25, and spectator admission is free!

Where: Downtown Seymour, Indiana

When: Saturday, June 27 | 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Vehicle Registration: Seymour Parks & Rec RecDesk

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

🧘 Hoosier Hustle: Inside Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art True community wellness isn’t about fitness trends or high price tags—it’s about creating a safe, accessible space for healing. This week, we are taking a deep dive into Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art, a remarkable non-profit organization located right in the heart of Vernon, Indiana.

Operating out of a beautifully restored, 180-year-old historic building at 139 East Hwy 3, this unique organization is on a mission to bring self-care and wholeness to underserved populations across Jennings County. 

Whether you are a seasoned yogi or someone looking for a welcoming, judgment-free space to start your wellness journey, this segment shines a light on a local treasure that is truly the heartbeat of holistic health in Southern Indiana.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

🎵 Hoosier Hustle: Rose Mandolins – The Art and Soul of a Master Luthier
This week, we are stepping into the mind of Seymour native Darby Boofer, the mastermind behind Rose Mandolins. For a quarter of a century, Darby has been handcrafting some of the finest bluegrass instruments in the country, carving each one to absolute perfection.

We dive into the fascinating history of his craft, which began under the guidance of legendary builder Buddy Davis. Darby shares the touching story behind the brand's name— named after his daughter you see the iconic pearl-cut "Rose" logo on the headstocks today.

We also pull back the curtain on the incredible grit, patience, and meticulous detail required to turn raw wood into a powerful, balanced "bluegrass machine." From the financial realities of spending months on a single instrument to the overwhelming pride of seeing major artists like Stephen Wilson Jr. play a custom Rose Mandolin on stage, this is a deep dive into what it truly means to be a modern master of a historic trade right here in Southern Indiana.

It takes a special kind of dedication to build an instrument that carries a community's sound across the country. Darby Boofer reminds us that true artistry is alive and well in Southern Indiana Now.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

🍔 Hoosier Hustle: Miller’s Tavern – North Vernon’s Neighborhood Hub
Every great town needs a "third place"—that spot between home and work where everyone knows your name. This week, we’re visiting Miller’s Tavern in North Vernon.  From their famous food specials to the stories told across the bar top, discover how Miller’s has cemented itself as a cornerstone of the Jennings County social scene. We’ll discuss the importance of local support, the secret to their welcoming atmosphere, and why places like Miller’s are the heartbeat of small-town Indiana.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

In This Episode:
🏛️ Hoosier Homestead: Jennings County Historical Society – Preserving the Path
We step back in time with the Jennings County Historical Society. Based in the historic North Vernon Tinner’s Shop, this group does much more than archive old photos. We discuss their work preserving the "Sligo" site, their incredible museum exhibits, and how they keep local heritage alive through events like the Sassafras Tea Festival & Civil War Living History. Learn why understanding our local roots is the key to building a stronger future.

🧘 Hoosier Hustle: Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art – A Holistic Hustle
Running a small business is about more than just a bottom line—it's about community wellness. We sit down with the team at Perceptions Yoga, Mindfulness & Art. We explore how they’ve created a sanctuary in Vernon that blends physical movement with creative expression. From beginner yoga to community art workshops, discover how this "hustle" is helping Southern Indiana residents find their inner peace.

🏙️ Hoosier Happenings: North Vernon Main Street – The Heart of Downtown
What makes a downtown thrive? We’re talking with North Vernon Main Street about the exciting revitalization projects transforming the city’s core. We get the scoop on upcoming events, concerts, and the strategic vision for making North Vernon a destination for shopping, dining, and gathering. If you haven't been downtown lately, you’ll want to hear what’s happening.

🎭 Hoosier Heart: Park Theatre Civic Centre – The Show Goes On
We wrap up at the iconic Park Theatre Civic Centre. This historic venue is the true "heart" of the North Vernon arts scene. We discuss the volunteer-driven effort that keeps this 1916 gem running, from classic film screenings and live concerts to community theater productions. Find out how this non-profit landmark continues to bring people together through the magic of performance.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

In This Episode:

🗺️ Hoosier Homestead: Jackson County Visitor Center – Your 2026 Roadmap There is so much to see in our own backyard, and the Jackson County Visitor Center just made it easier to find. We sit down with the team to discuss the release of the New 2026 Visitor & Information Guide.  We also touch on their collaboration with the Chamber to ensure our small towns are ready for the spotlight.

🪦 Hoosier Hustle: Marshall Monuments – Crafting Eternal Stories We travel to Salem to visit a business that has been a pillar of the community since 1946. Marshall Monuments isn't just about stone; it’s about storytelling. We talk with the artisans behind the granite about the precision of hand-etching, the evolution of custom memorial design, and what it means to help Southern Indiana families honor their loved ones with craftsmanship that stands the test of time.  

🏢 Hoosier Happenings: The Day Company – Decades of Washington County Real EstateStaying in Salem, we’re catching up with The Day Company Realtors & Auctioneers. With over 40 years of history and a combined 150 years of experience on staff, they have a unique pulse on the Southern Indiana housing market. 

⚡ Hoosier Heart: SPARK Jackson County – Igniting Local Business We wrap up with a look at the Jackson County Chamber’s SPARK Workshop. Designed to make Jackson County the best place in rural Indiana to start a business, the SPARK program is all about mentorship and momentum. It’s a segment full of hope and the true "heart" of our local entrepreneurial spirit.

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow

🌸 Hoosier Homestead: Stuckwish Farm Market – Spring Has Sprung
The wait is over! Stuckwish Farm Market is officially open for the season. We talk with Ryan about what’s hitting the shelves early and get all the beautiful details on their upcoming Mother’s Day Event. From hanging baskets to locally grown produce, find out how they are helping you celebrate the women in your life with a true "farm-to-table" touch.

🏗️ Hoosier Hustle: The Day Company – Real Estate, Appraisals, Consulting, and More
Locally owned and operated, The Day Company Realtors have been serving the real estate needs of Washington County, Indiana and surrounding counties throughout Southern Indiana since 1980. The Day Company Realtors is a full-service real estate organization with professional, knowledgeable, courteous and experienced staff to assist customers and clients with their varying real estate requirements. 

💧 Hoosier Happenings: Seymour DPW – Stormwater & Waste Water 101
It’s Stormwater Awareness Month, and we’re going "behind the drain" with the Seymour Department of Public Works. Ever wonder what happens after you flush or where the rain goes when it hits the street? We break down how our local waste is treated and share vital tips on how residents can help protect our local waterways from runoff and pollution.

🦴 Hoosier Heart: Mosier Family Chiropractic – A New Chapter for Wellness
We wrap up with a visit to Mosier Family Chiropractic. Dr. Mosier shares the journey of expanding their practice and dives into the importance of Spinal Health. 

Thank you to Prosser Career Education Center for their support!

https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow