This is because they will likely have references to reliable and trustworthy contractors and investor-friendly.

Any recommendations on trustworthy people?  

I am an out of state investor that has a number of properties in the Evansville area and I am looking for a trustworthy long term PM relationship. 

You need a team of:General contractor, property inspector, trustworthy lender (they will have appraisers, and title company), property manager (make sure is large enough that if the person that manages it gets sick someone else will cover), insurance agent, and a real estate attorney in case you need a consultation, and most importantly an accountant with a lot of real estate  experience (this will be a major ally as you grow your business)Line up your team even before you look for the property.Go to networking events.

I am looking to connect with seasoned investors who can offer advice and possibly recommend trustworthy contractors and inspectors.

I would recommend getting some trustworthy eyeballs on the property to verify that the issues coming up are valid and the costs are in line.

The old saying "Focus on the business and don't be in the business".Find a trustworthy PM (Easier said than done) and let them manage for you."

If you are in an expensive market and looking to leverage better markets, increase revenue and trustworthy property management with additional benefits (regular house cleaner, counselor to manage relationships among tenants, etc) then this is a great option for you.

Or I may get a trust worthy property manager, but that cost almost would lower the long term returns to below the S&P 500 indexes. 

In my opinion, working with a trustworthy, valuable realtor can make you way more money than trying to sell on your own.