The Buzz Around the West Side Nut Club's Big Announcement

The West Side Nut Club announced they would have a press conference to make a very special announcement – one that would “have the whole community buzzing.” What in the world could this be about? A new project to benefit the community? Some new additions to the 2026 Fall Festival? Or perhaps, would it have something to do with this year’s Fall Festival Half Pot?

Record-Breaking 2025 Fall Festival Half Pot Total

By now, I’m sure you’re aware that the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival Half Pot hit a record high in 2025. Just over $2.6 million was collected, with much of that money coming from online ticket sales – a first for the West Side Nut Club. And ever since the winning ticket number was announced, we’ve all been wondering if the owner of that ticket would come forward.

The Fall Festival Half Pot Winner Finally Steps Forward

The answer is YES, the winner did come forward, kinda, sorta. During the Facebook live video, we learned the winner’s name, and we heard a prepared statement from him. You can see that Facebook live video here, but let me sum up the important parts – the half pot winner’s name is John, and he IS from Evansville, the west side, in fact. How ‘bout that?!

There is no doubt that John’s half ($1.3 million) will be a life-changing blessing, and there is absolutely no doubt that the West Side Nut Club will use their half (the other $1.3 million) to change hundreds, if not thousands of lives in our community.

How the West Side Nut Club Will Share the Record Funds

One reporter at the conference asked how the Nut Club will use that money, and the simple answer is we don’t know, and even the Nut Club doesn’t know yet. We do know that non-profits, schools, churches, and other organizations can request to receive a portion of that money. Once those decisions are made, the money will “officially” be dispersed during the Nut Club’s Founder’s Day Banquet next year.

My WJLT 105.3 logo
Get our free mobile app

And just to give you an idea of the kind of dollars we're talking about – a comparison - at the 2025 Founder’s Day Banquet, the West Side Nut Club gave out over $675,000 to Evansville organizations. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

2025 Fall Fun Guide: Pumpkin Patches, Orchards, Hayrides, Corn Mazes + More

Your list of all things fall in and around the Ohio Valley in Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. From pumpkin patches and hayrides to orchards and corn mazes, here's a list of the best places to take the family or go on an adult's adult-only adventure.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

Protect Your Pets: Toxic Fall Plants to Watch Out For

As the seasons change, so do the plants in and around our homes, and some popular fall favorites can be dangerous for pets. This gallery highlights six common autumn plants that are toxic to cats and dogs. Knowing what to watch out for can help you keep your furry friends safe while still enjoying the beauty of fall. Scroll through to learn which plants to avoid and what symptoms to look for if your pet gets curious.

More From My WJLT 105.3