Evansville, Indiana (May 26, 2009) – Habitat for Humanity of Evansville buried a time capsule filled with mementoes from several 2005 tornado survivors during today’s dedication of the Billy T. Nicholson park at the New Haven subdivision, corner of Green River and Fickas roads. The time capsule, expected to be unearthed in 50 years, contains newspaper clippings and a VHS video of coverage of the tornado, toys, shoes, pictures and other items from the families. After it was buried, families placed carnations on the site.

“Looking at this park today, we are refreshed in the renewal of our faith and in the generosity of mankind,” said Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel. “The many donors who contributed to this neighborhood have shown us what can happen when good people come together to tackle a problem. The volunteers who built these homes worked countless hours to help families become homeowners. And the families, many of whom still carry the pain from that November, worked diligently to put in their sweat equity.”

Habitat built the New Haven neighborhood in response to the tornado and will have completed all 55 homes this summer. About 40 of the families who live there were affected by the tornado. The rest are traditional Habitat families.

In addition to burying the time capsule, several people who have contributed to Habitat for Humanity of Evansville were honored during the event. Billy T. Nicholson, for whom the park is named, owned a surveying company and surveyed free of charge every Habitat for Humanity house built in this community. At the time of his death, he was heavily engaged in the design and surveying work for the New Haven property. Habitat also dedicated a tree in his honor.

Another tree was dedicated to Jerry Melchiors, a devoted member of the concrete crew who poured the foundations of many Habitat homes.
Tom Emge, a member of Habitat’s regular core group of volunteers, was honored as well. He designed and constructed the Pergola in the New Haven park.

“As we honor those who diligently worked to serve those in need, let us commit ourselves to continue our journey of building God’s kingdom while instilling hope in others,” said Bishop Gerald Gettelfinger. With participants' hands raised toward the park, Gettelfinger blessed the park.

"Almighty and everlasting God, grant to this park the grace of your presence, that you may be known to all who gather here. Keep safe those who seek your comfort. And guide us as we continue on our personal spiritual journeys. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen."

About Habitat for Humanity of Evansville
Founded in 1984, Habitat for Humanity of Evansville is a nonprofit Christian ministry whose mission is to build and sell simple, decent houses to hardworking families in Vanderburgh and Posey counties. We partner with individuals, churches, businesses and civic organizations who share our vision to make adequate, affordable housing for all a matter of conscience and action.

To be eligible, families must have incomes at or below 60 percent of the area median income. They must have a need for housing, be willing to contribute 300 hours in sweat equity and have the ability to pay their mortgage based on a 25-year, no-interest loan.

For more information, go to www.evansvillehabitat.org or call (812) 423-5623.