EVANSVILLE FLAG GROUP
Your Voice Matters
"Stand Together to Honor Our Past, Support Our Local Communities, and Build a Brighter Future!"
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"Ask not what your city can do for you but what you can do for your city"
About
Mission Statement of the Evansville Flag Group
The Evansville Flag Group embodies a spirit of community engagement and pride through volunteerism, the promotion of our city flag, and support for local businesses, all while working diligently to clean up our neighborhoods and parks. By encouraging residents to participate in community service initiatives, especially on our city's birthday, we not only foster a sense of belonging but also enhance the beauty of our shared spaces. Celebrating 812 Day encourages citizens to rally behind local enterprises, creating a vibrant economic landscape that benefits everyone. Together, through acts of kindness and collaboration, we can uplift our community, ensuring that Evansville remains a place we are all proud to call home, with a clean environment and a strong support network for our local businesses.The Evansville Flag Group warmly invites everyone to become part of our mission focused on serving the city through meaningful volunteer efforts. By promoting Evansville's rich heritage and supporting local businesses, we inspire individuals to actively engage with our community. Getting involved in local initiatives not only strengthens our connections but also enhances the overall well-being of Evansville. Your participation can truly make a significant impact, and we wholeheartedly welcome your passion and dedication to our shared goals!
CORE VALUES
At the heart of the Evansville Flag Group are three guiding stars: Serve, Promote, and Support. These core values illuminate our path toward fostering community engagement and participation, with two of them inviting the public to join us in our journey.
SERVE
External Participation: Each year, on March 27th, we honor the spirit of service, aligning our efforts with the city's birthday. This day transforms into a vibrant celebration of volunteerism, where citizens unite to uplift their community. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's call to action, we encourage every individual to step forward, embodying the spirit of “Ask not what your city can do for you, but what you can do for your city.” Through acts of kindness and service, we create lasting legacies that echo throughout Evansville, fostering an environment where support and compassion thrive.
PROMOTE
Internal Leadership: The value of promotion shines brightly within our group, as we take pride in showcasing the rich tapestry of Evansville's history and culture. By sharing the inspiring stories and accomplishments of our residents, we cultivate a deep-rooted pride and connection to our city's identity. Our goal is to illuminate the vibrant spirit of Evansville, reminding us all of the unique threads that weave our community together, and encouraging kindness in every interaction.
SUPPORT
External Participation: On August 12th, we come together to celebrate the value of support, in honor of our beloved area code. This day serves as a rallying call to boost local businesses and community organizations, inviting everyone to actively participate in strengthening our economic and social fabric. Echoing the words of former mayor Benjamin Bosse, “When everybody boosts, everybody wins,” we embrace the spirit of collaboration and upliftment, continuing the cherished 812 Day tradition. Through kindness and mutual support, we can create a thriving environment for all.
The Evansville Flag Group welcomes all who share our passion for serving, promoting, and supporting the City of Evansville. Through our collective efforts, we aspire to cultivate a shared vision of progress, pride, and a brighter future for our community. Together, we can ignite a movement that celebrates the heart and soul of Evansville, grounded in kindness and the spirit of support for one another.
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FLAG CREATOR BIO
A Renaissance Man of Modern Times
Darren Wharton, a dedicated member of the Evansville community, has consistently strived to improve and innovate within his surroundings. A proud alumnus of Castle High School, Darren graduated with the Class of 1983. His passion for design and technology led him to pursue further education at IVY Tech, where he completed a degree in Design Technologies in 2012. During his time there, Darren's exceptional contributions to the program did not go unnoticed, earning him recognition and respect from both peers and faculty.Wharton played a key role in unveiling a new city flag that captures the essence of Evansville. This collaborative effort showcased teamwork and included contributions from Jordan Baer and several students. Darren is deeply thankful for the support of Mayor Terry and the City Council, whose guidance was invaluable throughout the process.He commends the creative ideas from project leader Jordan Baer and students Atley, Amelia, Colin, and Alivia, as well as the artistic direction of lead artist Evan Watson and Community Ambassadors like Lorie Van Hook, who were essential in drafting the flag ordinance.Beyond the city flag, Darren has also collaborated on a walking tribute bridge in Audubon National Park, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering community ties.Darren is a renaissance man by nature, with a passion for the arts, architectural design, history, and science. His dedication to community engagement shines through various design initiatives, including a bus shelter project at IVY Tech. Darren aims to inspire collaboration and creativity, playing a vital role in the continued development of Evansville.
(NEW) EVANSVILLE CITY FLAG
EVANSVILLE FOUR FREEDOMS MONUMENT
IVY TECH BUS SHELTER
AUDUBON NATIONAL PARK WALKING TRIBUTE BRIDGE
EVANSVILLE FLAG SYMBOLOGY
Symbolism Behind the Evansville City Flag
The new city flag of Evansville is a masterpiece of symbolism and thoughtful design, dedicated to honoring the city’s rich heritage and its people. Each color and element of the flag carries a special meaning, reflecting the unique characteristics and history of this vibrant community.
Colors and Their Meaning
Gold: This color is dedicated to Atley, symbolizing the unity between the city and state, and representing the people who have bridged the gap between Hugh McGary, Jr. and General Robert Morgan Evans. The gold band encapsulates the spirit of collaboration that brought the flag into being.
Light Blue: Dedicated to Colin, the light blue band represents Hugh McGary, Jr. and the river city. This color is synonymous with local institutions such as Atlas Van Lines, LICS, The Otters, and the water department, highlighting the city's connection to its waterways and community landmarks.
Dark Blue: This color is dedicated to Amelia and serves to honor General Robert Morgan Evans, the city's namesake. The dark blue band signifies the state and the historical significance of Evansville within Indiana.
White: Dedicated to Alivia, the three white horizontal lines symbolize the "Heart of the Tri-state" and are inspired by the base of the Four Freedoms Monument, reflecting the core values of freedom and unity.
The Heart of the Flag
Three Blue Lines: Positioned at the heart of the flag, these lines represent the bodies of water surrounding Evansville, including Pigeon Creek, the Wabash Erie Canal, and the Ohio River. These waterways are integral to the city's identity and heritage, serving as lifelines that have shaped its development.
Inspiration and Vision
The original vision for the flag design emerged from a photograph taken during a summer evening walk along the riverfront. This serene moment inspired a flag that honors Evansville’s heritage, spiritualism, and its people. The design evolved to encapsulate the spirit of the city, creating a symbol that resonates with pride and unity across the community.
Through this thoughtful design, the Evansville city flag stands as a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and a beacon for the future, inviting all citizens to unite under its vibrant colors and shared heritage.
***UP COMING EVENTS ***
#PROMOTE YOUR CITY
#SERVE YOUR CITY
#SUPPORT YOUR CITY
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EVANSVILLE FLAG & SEAL DAY
Flag & Seal Day: Celebrating Evansville's Legacy of Service
A Historical Journey
On March 27th, 1812, Hugh McGary Jr. made a pivotal journey to the Federal Land Office in Vincennes to purchase the original acres of land that would eventually become Evansville. Since then, the city and its residents have faced numerous challenges, both locally and internationally. Over twenty-one decades, one thing has become clear: Evansville and its people have consistently risen to meet these challenges, exemplifying a spirit of service and community support.
Legacy of Service
Every century of Evansville's history has been marked by residents from diverse backgrounds committing to lives of service.Notable figures include:• Williard Carpenter:
Known as Evansville's "pioneer of public charity," he established the Christian Home for homeless women in 1865 and a library that still serves the community today.• Albion Fellows Bacon:
A dedicated volunteer and organizer, she helped form the Flower Mission group, an Anti-Tuberculosis League, and a Working Girls’ Association around the early 1900s.• Dr. Perry Woods:
Founded the Lions Club in 1916, contributing to community development.• James Bethel Gresham:
The first American to die in WWI, representing the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
• WWII Contributions: The Red Cross Canteen served over 1.6 million troops, supported by local organizations. Sallie Wyatt Stewart organized the Colored Women’s Work Committee to promote war bonds and stamps and became a founding member of the local NAACP chapter.• Shirley James: Led the creation of the Pigeon Creek Greenway and founded the Westside Improvement Association, which continues to enhance community life.
In celebration of this legacy, the Evansville Flag Group is launching Flag & Seal Day as a day of volunteering and community engagement. This day is dedicated to volunteerism, where people engage in acts of kindness. Inspired by John F. Kennedy’s call to service, citizens find fulfillment in giving back and creating a sense of belonging.We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of Evansville's legacy! Whether you choose to volunteer your time, support local organizations, or participate in community projects, your involvement can make a significant difference. To find volunteering opportunities and learn more about how you can contribute, visit EvansvilleFlagGroup.com or FlagandSealDay.com. Together, let’s continue the invaluable tradition of service and work towards making Evansville an even better place to live for generations to come.
"Ask not what your city can do for you but what you can do for your city"
VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP LINKS COMING SOON...
EVANSVILLE FLAG & SEAL DAY
VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP LINKS
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EVANSVILLE 812 DAY
Key Moments in Evansville's History
Evansville has a rich history that reflects the dedication of its residents and leaders. Each moment in time tells a story of unity and community, with two important dates standing out in its narrative.Significant Dates
March 27, 1812: This date marks the founding of Evansville, initiated by Hugh McGary Jr. It is celebrated as #ServeUrCity Day, reminding us of our shared responsibility to support one another and foster a spirit of service within the community.1947: The introduction of the 812 area code became a symbol of our connections. It highlights the relationships we maintain and the stories we share, reminding us that we are part of a larger community.
River City Coffee & Goods
Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry
HAPPY...Young Lad with new Flag
Zeto's Employees on Riverside Drive
August 12, 2023: The first 812 Day emerged from the Evansville Flag Competition, encouraging support for local businesses and organizations that contribute to the community's vitality.Embracing Community Spirit
On these important days, the spirit of Evansville is evident as residents come together to strengthen their community:August 12 - #SupportUrCity: This day emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses, encouraging us to uplift each other, particularly in tough times, reinforcing our community ties.These initiatives reflect the core values of the Evansville Flag Group: Serve, Promote, and Support. By embracing these values, we honor our history and work towards a hopeful future together. In Evansville, the essence of community is a promise we strive to keep."Ask not what your city can do for you, but what you can do for your city." This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of engagement and responsibility that defines Evansville, urging all residents to take an active role in enhancing the community we share.
Nicholson's Old Fashioned
THE PITS - AUTO REPAIR
Excited young boy with Nanny
812 Deals Coming in August...
EVANSVILLE 812 DAY
812 DEALS LINKS
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COORSPONDING LINK ABOVE FOR 812 DEALS AVAILABLE
TEN STARS OF EVANSVILLE
"E" FOR EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Evansville Hall of Fame: E for Excellence Awards
The Evansville Flag Group is proud to announce the formation of the Evansville Hall of Fame, featuring the prestigious 10 E for Excellence Awards. This initiative is designed to honor individuals and organizations that have provided extraordinary service to the city, embodying the core values of service, promotion, and support that are central to our mission.
The Legacy of Excellence
The 10 E for Excellence Awards are a tribute to the city's rich history and the remarkable achievements of its people. Each award corresponds to one of the letters in "Evansville," symbolizing the unity and spirit of our community. This tradition has its roots in the city's past, celebrating the E for Excellence Awards bestowed upon local companies by the military during World War II. These awards recognized outstanding contributions to the war effort, and their legacy lives on as part of our city's identity.
A Living Memorial
The awards are more than just symbols of past achievements; they are integrated into the city's flag, making them an active memorial. This incorporation serves as a constant reminder of the dedication and excellence that define Evansville and its citizens. The flag, with its representation of the awards, waves proudly over our city, inspiring current and future generations to strive for greatness.
Honoring Our Heroes
The Evansville Hall of Fame seeks to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in their service to the community. Whether it's through innovation, leadership, or acts of kindness, these individuals and organizations exemplify the spirit of excellence that the awards celebrate. The Hall of Fame will induct new members annually, ensuring that the legacy of excellence continues to grow and inspire.
Through the Evansville Hall of Fame and the 10 E for Excellence Awards, the Flag Group aims to foster a sense of pride and community spirit. By acknowledging the extraordinary contributions of our citizens, we hope to encourage ongoing excellence and commitment to our beloved city. Join us in celebrating the heart and soul of Evansville as we honor those who have made a lasting impact on our community.
E for Excellence "Flag Chairman"
Marvin Gray
E for Excellence in Athletics
Arad McCutchan
E for Excellence in Freedom
James Bethel Gresham
E for Excellence in Community Service
Shirley James
E for Excellence in Equality
Charlie Wiggins
E for Excellence in Education
FJ Reitz
E for Excellence in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Ruth Siems
E for Excellence in Philanthropy
Willard Carpenter
E for Excellence in Leadership
Benjamin Bosse
E for Excellence in Prosperity
Colonel Hugh McGary Jr.
E for Excellence in Courage
General Robert Morgan Evans
Evansville: Named in Honor of General Robert Morgan Evans
Evansville, a city rich in history and culture, honors General Robert Morgan Evans, a key figure whose legacy inspires its residents. Born in 1783, General Evans was a distinguished officer in the War of 1812, known for his leadership and service. He significantly contributed to the region's early development, leading to the city's naming in 1817.Evansville embodies General Evans's spirit of resilience and progress, values central to its community. Today, citizens uphold his ideals through various initiatives, ensuring his contributions are celebrated for generations
PROMOTE YOUR CITY
Evansville Otters' Flag Day Tribute Game
Honoring Marvin Gray
On Flag Day, June 14th, the Evansville Otters will pay a special tribute to Marvin Gray, the esteemed Chairman of the Frontier League. In his honor, the team will wear jerseys featuring the colors of the Evansville City flag. These colors were chosen not only for their connection to the city but also for their historical significance with both the Otters and the Triplets, symbolizing a rich legacy in Evansville's baseball history.
Join us for an unforgettable Flag Day celebration and help commemorate a remarkable figure in the community of baseball!
Fundraising for a Memorial Monument
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The Evansville Flag Group is collaborating with a GoFundMe campaign to gather funds for a memorial monument dedicated to Marvin Gray. This monument is planned to be erected outside of the iconic Bosse Field, serving as a lasting tribute to Marvin's contributions to the league and the community.
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Join the Celebration
Fans are encouraged to come out and support the Otters as they take on the Windy City team. This event is not only a chance to enjoy a thrilling game but also an opportunity to honor Marvin Gray's legacy. After the game, attendees will have the chance to bid on the special jerseys worn by the players, with proceeds supporting the memorial monument fund.
