Southern Indiana Now

The Art of the Carve: Darby Boofer and the Story of Rose Mandolins

🎵 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 [https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow]

Hoosier Hustle: A Visit to Miller’s Tavern

🍔 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 [https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow]

Season 2, Episode 18 - Jennings County Spotlight

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

Stones & Sparks: A Deep Dive into Jackson and Washington Counties

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

Springtime in Southern Indiana

🌸 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 [https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernIndianaNow]