SWIN Chamber November 2020 Newsletter

SWIN NOVEMBER 2020

NEWSLETTER PRESIDENT & CEO LETTER
NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS
NEWSMAKERS & MILESTONES

#TogetherWeThrive

AWARD
WINNERS

ALFONSO VIDAL: SILVER LININGS:

Harvesting The Impact Of ELLIOTT LIFE
Hispanic Contributions COACHING

Pictured: Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana November New Member Profiles:

greater evansville THE PIT

www.swinchamber.com BARBELL CLUB
1 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

greater evansville

President & CEO Letter

Greater Evansville designated as a 21st Century Talent Region
– Good jobs key to region's growth

Last week Greater Evansville was officially designated as a 21st In my book, these institutions are key A message from
Century Talent Region. The State of Indiana recognized us for to setting us up for success. We’ve got
our commitment to working as a region to build and implement a more career opportunities than most TARA BARNEY
system to increase educational attainment, raise household income and places in the Midwest. We have good
grow population. Never has this been a more urgent initiative than today, jobs, and lots of them. The Chamber President & CEO
eight months into a worldwide event that has changed all of our lives. and our partner organizations —
COVID-19 or not, we still have families to support, careers to build and the EDC, GAGE and others — are
employers who are scrambling to operate while their workforce must be committed to adding more. Talent
remote, all while sorting out childcare and reacting to massive changes 2025 is our map to delivering on
in customer demand. How we ensure that our folks have access to the this vision. Harnessing the expertise
education and training that supports these changes is our community’s of our education and training
most important work. People want a good job, and they want their institutions alongside our business
children to have the opportunity for a good job too. and civic organizations to achieve
But it is complicated. Our unemployment rate skyrocketed from 3% some goals — population growth,
to 15%. Unemployment claims were massive. Some federal programs, more great jobs, progress in bringing
primarily PPP, are helping, but thousands of our fellow citizens find families out of poverty and improving
themselves unemployed or underemployed through no fault of their community health outcomes — all
own. Unemployment is back down to around 6% today. Dare we call this will matter, but the work of developing
an opportunity? Can we do better? If we can turn some key trends from out 21st Century Talent is our silver
negative to positive, Greater Evansville will have a brighter and more bullet. Congratulations to all of the
prosperous future for us all. Not just for business — and for those who organizations that were key to this
have called this region home for generations — but also for our newer regional designation.
residents, those whose talents and cultures are critical to enriching our
lives and our region. Now let’s get to work to take full advantage of all we have at our disposal.
What’s our greatest asset and the path to our future success? Our
schools and universities. They punch above their weight in both quality #TogetherWeThrive #MaskUpHoosiers
and value. They are the fabric of our community. Beyond educating our Tara Barney
talent, these institutions provide the cultural amenities, vigor and services President and CEO, Southwest Indiana Chamber
that enrich our region. Hats off to the leaders of our academic institutions [email protected]
for their strategic leadership, expertise and sheer tenacity as they guide
the development of our most important asset, our people. @SWINChamber

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER MEMBER BUSINESS DIRECTORY

COVID-19 #KeepItLocal

BTORINTHGEINTGABPLEEOPLE
THE NEW DEACONESS CLINIC
AVAILABLE NOW!
DOWNTOWN
The 2020 Keep It Local! Member Directory digital version
COWORK is available all year online at www.swinchamber.com.
EVANSVILLE Or, stop by the chamber office anytime to pick up a copy.

#5 NEW THIS YEAR -
A MULTICULTURAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY!
IN NATION FOR
ATTRACTING THANK YOU TO OUR TOP SPONSORS FOR SUPPORTING LOCAL:
JOBS

greater evansville COVID-19

REGIONAL greater evansville SLIILNVINERGS
CITIES greater evansville
UPDATE
THE POST
HOUSE
MULTI-CBUULTSUINREASLS LTINOUTCRONAOILNPGBPUAOSDRINTVEUESRNSSIETITSYYNEW!
DIRECTORYPAGE 30
Southwest LOCAL EATS, DRINKS, COUPONS & MORE!
in Evansville,
2 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBERPInicdtiaunreadC: hGaumebstesraStitgennadtiunrgetehvee2n0t2a0t OLuldncNhatWiointhaltEhveeGnotsvePlranzoarIN.

SigCnairtculree
The Signature Investors are the voice of business in the Greater Evansville area.
This select group of Chamber Stakeholders guides the Chamber’s mission and priorities,
its affiliates and its lines of work. It drives the region’s greatest opportunities for progress

and addresses significant community challenges.

Above all, this leadership investment affords the Chamber the capacity to employ and retain a high-quality
staff to execute the work of the organization and to ensure that it has sufficient resources
to provide leadership for the region’s greatest opportunities.

3 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER Thyaonuk!

VISIONARY PARTNER Evansville Regional
Airport Named
“Indiana Airport
of the Year”

Award recognizes EVV for world-class service,
operational excellence and community involvement

Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) has been named “2020 Indiana and vital aviation advocate in Indiana, said Bart Giesler, Aviation Indiana
Airport of the Year” by Aviation Indiana, a statewide industry Executive Director. “EVV richly deserves to be recognized as the 2020
organization and advocate for aviation interests for nearly 40 years. Indiana Airport of the Year.”
The esteemed honor recognizes EVV’s innovation in providing a world-
class customer experience, safety, sustainability leadership, effective and As part of EVV’s recognition, The Koch Family Children’s Museum of
efficient operations and community collaboration to further develop the Evansville (cMoe) will receive a $1,000 donation from Aviation Indiana
economic impact of air travel in the Evansville region. on behalf of the airport.
“It’s an honor for EVV to be recognized as Indiana Airport of the Year,
and it’s a credit to all of our employees airport-wide, who continually “Strong community partnerships are a large part of this award’s criteria,
go above and beyond to move EVV Forward,” said Nate Hahn, EVV and as such, the winning airport is asked to select a community
Executive Director. “We continually strive to take care of our customers, organization to receive the monetary donation should their airport take
address the needs of our partners and stakeholders and engage with top honors," said Giesler. “EVV and the children’s museum continually
our surrounding communities, and it’s nice to be recognized at the state collaborate through a host of impressive and impactful partnerships from
level for our efforts that are truly transforming air travel and delivering a the museum’s play area at the airport to their aviation-themed summer
world-class experience in Indiana.” camp.”
Initiated in 2004, Aviation Indiana’s Airport of the Year award
highlights excellence in airport operations, which includes economic Hahn accepted the accolade on behalf of EVV and CMOE during AI’s
development, aviation education, community outreach and marketing, annual conference award ceremony held virtually on Thursday, Oct. 15,
safety and security, environmental improvements, aesthetics and airport 2020.
management. The selection process also includes at least one site visit to __________________________________________________________
the nominated airports. Evansville Regional Airport Press Release October 15, 2020
“First and foremost, our committee was impressed with the overall
quality of EVV’s application, which beautifully reflected the airport’s
facility improvements, airport operations and EVV’s extensive
community involvement and regional commitment,” said Karen Arland,
Aviation Indiana Awards Committee Chairperson. “While at the airport,
our visiting committee members were impressed with EVV’s high
quality of cleanliness, maintenance and esthetics, as well as the staff ’s
friendliness.”
The committee also applauded the airport’s advocacy for aviation
interests, highlighting Hahn and his staff ’s involvement in industry
organizations at both the state and national level.
“Evansville Regional Airport truly stood out on all fronts, from their
investment in infrastructure and technology to improve its facilities,
efficiencies and sustainability to positioning the airport as a community
partner, all while continuing its operations as an integral regional hub

4 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

EVV First Indiana Airport to Achieve
Global Health Accreditation

Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) is the first airport in the state requirements evolve.
of Indiana, and only the sixth in the U.S., to receive an industry- “North American airports continually take unprecedented steps to ensure
approved global Health Accreditation – a third-party validation the health and safety of passengers and airport employees,” said Kevin
and assessment that ratifies the airport is maintaining safe and hygienic M. Burke, ACI-NA President and CEO. “We are proud to recognize
facilities. The accreditation reaffirms that EVV continues going above Evansville Regional Airport as the first airport in Indiana to achieve their
and beyond to ensure the health, safety and overall peace of mind of the Airport Health Accreditation. This endorsement further demonstrates
traveling public. the airport’s commitment to promoting health and safety as air travel
“The safety of our passengers and employees is and always has been our continues to recover.”
top priority at EVV, and this important accreditation is another testament Aviation is a critical driver of the global economic recovery from the
to our unwavering commitment,” said Nate Hahn, EVV Executive impacts of COVID19, and accreditations like this are an important
Director. “Our EVV team, comprised of airport, airline and tenant staff, role in promoting an airport’s health and safety measures to promote
continue working diligently to deliver a world-class experience, and confidence and overall peace of mind in air travel.
we are pleased to receive this important validation of our collaborative “EVV’s accreditation through ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation
efforts.” program is a critical step in helping to rebuild passenger confidence in
The Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Health Accreditation air travel,” said Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI World Director General. “I
(AHA) program assesses an airport’s compliance with new health am grateful to EVV for taking a leadership role in prioritizing passenger
measures and procedures, resulting from COVID19 and in accordance health through the introduction of new measures that are aligned with
with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Aviation global standards and protocols.”
Recovery Task Force recommendations. The areas of assessment To learn more about EVV’s commitment to world-class health and safety
include cleaning and disinfection, physical distancing (where _b_es_t_p_r_a_c_ti_c_e_s,_v_i_si_t_w_w__w_.f_ly_e_v_v_.c_o_m__/_p_as_s_e_n_g_e_r-_s_e_rv_i_c_e_s/_e_v_v_a_n_ta_g_e_._____
feasible and practical), staff protection, physical layout, passenger Evansville Regional Airport Press Release September 28, 2020
communications and passenger facilities. As part of the accreditation,
EVV will complete an ongoing self-assessment and quality assurance
to ensure a cycle of continuous improvement, as situations and

5 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

Harvesting The Impact Of
Hispanic Contributions

Nearly 25 years ago my wife and I arrived in Evansville and almost of time, an established Latino
immediately this region embraced us and made us feel welcomed. leader in Evansville and a force to
We were two immigrants looking for a place to call home for be reconned with.
our new family. At the time, Evansville was full of opportunities for two Really cool barbershops in
Venezuelan bilingual engineers with master degrees ready to tackle life. town are the three locations of
A quarter-century later Evansville is even more welcoming and presents CHINNOS. Alexis Rivera (better
itself with more opportunities for all and especially for the Hispanic known as Chino) first moved to
community. Evansville from Puerto Rico in
Evansville has offered Hispanics many opportunities and many, like 2002 to pursue a better future, he
us, took on the challenge and ran with it. This land of conservative family attended Roger’s Academy of hair
values with fertile farming soil and solid manufacturing traditions was where he achieved his cosmetology
primed to accept the seeds of a new crowd of peoples with similar values license. While he was working
ready to engage the opportunities offered by this land. for OneMain Financial, Alexis
You may have read in the past the stories about some of the restaurants noticed the need for a Spanish-
in this area, and I am sure you have your favorites. It could be some of speaking stylist and started cutting
the more established ones like Los Bravos or Acapulco or Los Portales, his friends’ hair for free but soon
or maybe some of the newer ones like Los Alfaro’s or Gollita Peruvian he had a growing list of people
Cuisine. It could be the flavors or the owners or simply the location that wanting a Chino haircut. In 2015,
makes it your favorite. We also know about the contributions of working Written by Alfonso Vidal,
Hispanics in our factories, construction sites or in the fields picking our Chino and his wife Maytes decided President of Vidal Plastics, LLC
food. However, this time I would like to shine a light on a few examples to start a Latino salon that mainly
that show the diversity within the Hispanic community, the many catered to men but quickly shifted a plastic custom compounder
professionals and business owners who complete the picture of how
Hispanics have taken advantage of the many opportunities available and from a place where Latinos could located on the West Side of
in turn have made tremendous contributions to our region.
I might be biased, well yes, but I think that one of the best examples go and listen to Spanish music and Evansville.
of successful women in Evansville is my wife Daniela Vidal. She is the
chancellor at Ivy Tech Community College in Evansville. Her previous have a conversation to a place that
roles as Chemical Engineer working at Procter & Gamble, Mead Johnson, welcomed everyone. It is very common for their customers to enjoy the
and GE Plastics, combined with her academia work at USI and her work Hispanic culture while getting a haircut and practice Spanish. Alexis is
in the community with HOLA (Hospitality and Outreach for Latin now also the Creative Director at Roger’s Academy of Hair, and Maytes
Americans) and other non-for-profits made her a prime candidate for the has been one of the key players in starting the HOLA Latino Festival at
position when it was vacated by Jonathan Weinzapfel. Bosse Field and continues to be very involved with the community. They
Another long-time Latino resident of Evansville who identified the both also pursued and completed degrees in Accounting.
opportunities presented to him many years ago is Manuel Ramirez. USI has new leadership and under its new President Ron Rochon this
Ramirez, a Puerto Rican from birth, has built a very successful State institution is enjoying a renewal. I have always believed that immigration
Farm agency. He was the first Latino insurance agent in this region. He is key to the revitalization of a particular region. Helping to bring talent
also identified a growing demand when he started Ramirez MA, Inc. to Evansville from other places in the world is Gina Schmitz. Originally
This company supplies primarily the auto and hospitality industries with from Nicaragua, she graduated from the University of Mobile in 2009
products and services as an MBE certified organization. Just like Daniela, and achieved her MBA at USI in 2020. With her current role as an
Manuel was president of the Board at HOLA giving time and talents for International Admissions Coordinator, she has been instrumental in
the community. the growth of USI’s international partnerships and the recruitment of
Brant Flores owns PMG Tree & Landscape Co. I am sure many have students from across the globe and enhanced the multicultural diversity
gotten to know PMG as a reliable and creative landscape contractor.You in the region.
might have even seen PMG trucks driving around, but did you know When I think of the saying, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,”
that Brant also owns Triad Demolition and Dismantling? Originally I think of the Barreras, a very close-knit family originally from El
from Chicago, Brant and his family live now in Newburgh and is deeply Salvador. Several siblings decided to come here and invest all their
invested in our community. As the fourth President of HOLA and a savings establishing a Hispanic market in Huntingburg, IN in 2002. The
board member at the SWIN Chamber of Commerce, he considers store thrived and led to the opening of additional stores in Evansville
Evansville, as well as his employees, most of them Hispanic, a vital reason and the region, including Owensboro, KY, and Clarksville, IN. The
for his success. Brant has also certified PMG as MBE/DBE/ACDBE Americas (Evansville) and Hispanoamerica (other locations) have been
contractor opening many opportunities in commercial, state and federal very successful and supported this family since 2002. Angelina Barrera,
work. Triad Demolition and Dismantling has a primary focus on steel- now established in Evansville, brought her children to this country to
related demolition projects. Brant has become, in a relatively short period study. They have now graduated and opened their own businesses as
6 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER well. Jonathan Barrera is a graphic designer with many projects ranging
from book designs, magazines, posters, flyers, logo design and exclusive
branding. Brenda Barrera graduated as an esthetician, also starting her
own business. Gerber Barrera owns a paint and body shop.

Harvesting impact, con't on page 13

SILVER Elliott Life Coaching
LININGS
Turning Adversity into Opportunity:

Indiana SBDC client demonstrates resilience
during a worldwide pandemic

Small businesses everywhere have been forced to adapt to overcome the
challenges presented by the pandemic. Chuck and Ashley Elliott, owners
of Elliott Life Coaching, showcased their creativity to keep working their
full-time jobs and manage their new coaching business while helping their
children complete 2nd and 4th grades and chasing a toddler.

In hopes of keeping some normalcy in their routines, the Elliotts created
make-shift offices in their garage and bedroom. They pack lunches to
take to “work” only a few steps from the kitchen. Naptime or late at night
have become the best work times. Taking a neighborhood walk is now the
go-to stress reliever for the entire family. Despite the challenges during the
lockdown, the Elliotts have remained dedicated to helping others through
grief and relationship coaching, filmed a new video series and facilitated
numerous Zoom sessions. A worldwide pandemic and stay-at-home order
a_r_e_n_o_t__en_o_u__gh__t_o_d_i_st_r_a_ct__th_e__E_ll_io_t_ts__fr_o_m__t_h_e_ir_l_if_e_c_o_a_c_h_in_g__m__is_s_io_n_.__
Written by Raelynn Grossman, Southwest Indiana SBDC Intern

1800 Lincoln Avenue THE AUDACITY TO DREAM.
Evansville, Indiana 47722 THE STRENGTH TO LEAD.
1-833-BeAnAce
Are you an aspiring leader looking to acquire skills
7 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER in ethical, innovative leadership? Grow your capabili-
ties with the University of Evansville’s 16-month
online Master of Science in Leadership program.

In this program, you will learn:
l C utting-edge strategies in innovation,
design thinking, and change management
l E ffective communication skills for building
high functioning teams
l E thical decision-making approaches when
faced with complicated challenges

Become an innovative and visionary leader and
empower your team to take your organization to
the next level!

Learn more at evansville.edu/MSL.

VISIONARY PARTNER

Hafer receives AIA Indiana Honor Award
for Arts Council project

The Hafer team recently received the AIA Indiana Honor Award for “Extraordinary project accomplishes what every great civic
design excellence for the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana interior should by thoroughly linking interior activity to street and
project. Hafer, a local architecture, engineering and interior design neighborhood. Confidently restrained, monastic design permits
firm, was recognized at the annual joint AIA Indiana and AIA Kentucky maximum spatial flexibility for occupants. Linkages to urban context
convention which took place this year in Louisville, KY. An Honor extend from the street through the visually permeable storefront through
Award is the highest award given for a nominated project, followed by a to a narrow, deep interior and then segues vertically to the rooftop, which
Merit Award and then a Citation Award. returns occupants back to the street life via sight lines.”
The Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana project included a renovation “Restrained, thoughtful expression that will have a huge impact on its
of a historic building on Main Street in Evansville that once housed community.”
Weingarten Furs. The building was transformed into an eclectic art “Sensitive and artful intervention. Restrained elegance. Contemporary
gallery with a unique roof terrace. The roof terrace provides space space but the historic elements contribute to the experience.”
overlooking downtown where outdoor arts exhibits can take place as well “With minimal integration of a few new elements, this place offers a
as other events. v_i_b_r_a_n_t _v_en_u__e_fo_r__co_m__m__u_n_it_y_e_n_g_a_g_e_m_e_n_t_.”________________________
The jury was comprised of architects from AIA Baltimore in Maryland. Hafer Press Releases October 1 & 9, 2020
Comments from the jury included:

8 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

New Member Profile

Let's welcome Burgess & Niple as
a new member of the Southwest
Indiana Chamber. Burgess & Niple
can be reached by calling (812) 777-
4265 or by visiting them online at
www.burgessniple.com. Read on as
Brenton Hasenour, project manager,
tells us about Burgess & Niple.

Tell us about Burgess &

Niple and the services you

offer.
Burgess & Niple (B&N) is a

nationally recognized engineering Brenton Hasenour, project manager, Burgess & Niple
and architecture design firm.

Our success is driven by a passion for developing practical infrastructure solutions

with exceptional concern for quality of life, safety and sustainability. At B&N, every

project starts with a team of creative, highly skilled people who are eager to learn and

committed to solving our clients’ challenges. Our expertise includes transportation,

utility infrastructure, architecture, environmental sciences and more. Together, we

design award-winning solutions that make a positive impact on the cities, towns and

villages where we live and work every day.

What inspired you to invest your time and resources in this business?
I enjoy seeing the impact my work has on the community, and I am very passionate
about making a difference. I like working as part of a team and getting to meet new
people. The professionals at Burgess & Niple share my passion for what we do. At B&N
we get to work with different communities in different areas of the country to create
unique solutions for our clients. The projects in this industry have unique problems that
require innovative solutions, which provides me with new challenges every day.

Hafer receives two What career advice would you give the younger generation interested

national marketing awards in this type of work?
Make sure you are passionate about the career you pursue. Always be genuine and take
The Society for Marketing Professional the opportunity to make friends along the way. Throughout your career you will be
Services (SMPS), the premier A/E/C surprised at how often you will cross paths with old friends. Lastly, you will find that your
marketing and business development biggest accomplishments will start outside of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to put
association, announced the recipients of its yourself out there.
2020 Marketing Communications Awards
(MCA). This annual competition is the In your opinion, what are three ingredients for success?
longest-standing, most prestigious awards • Motivation
program recognizing excellence in marketing • Passion
and communications by professional services • Goals
firms in the design and building industries.
The MCAs, including Best of Show and Why is the Evansville region a great place to operate a business?
People’s Choice, were recognized during I have lived in southern Indiana my entire life and went to college at the University of
Build Business, the SMPS annual conference, Evansville. There is a lot of opportunity in Evansville and good people who work hard for
on Thursday, October 8. Hafer was awarded their community. The City leadership has always been supportive of local businesses and
an Award of Excellence (first place) in the growth within the community. There are also organizations such as the Small Business
holiday – digital category. They also received Development Center and the SWIN Chamber that help businesses start and grow.
one Merit Award for their work in the
external video category. Hafer’s marketing What do you like most about the community in which you live?
team is comprised of Jill Rawley, Director The Evansville area has the best of everything. The downtown area has a big-city feel
of Marketing, and Ali Niemeier, Marketing with diners, coffee shops, large buildings and nice areas to hang out and walk such as
Coordinator. Main Street and the Riverwalk. At Wesselman Park and areas surrounding Evansville
we have rural settings for leisure time such as hiking and fishing. There is plenty to do,
9 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER regardless of what you are in the mood for.

Is there anything else you would like to share?
As a firm, B&N is excited about becoming a permanent part of the Evansville area and
working to make our community better.

NEW MEMBERS • Clem, Dassel & Co. • Mills Body Shop
• Crescent Plastics • Mister B’s
SEPTEMBER 2020 • David Matthews Associates • Morley
BLAYLOCK ENGINEERING • Dean Bosler's Furniture • N.M. Bunge, Inc.
Paul Blaylock 812-269-1070; [email protected] Showroom • New Horizons Financial
www.blaylockllc.com • Dyna-Mech's Truck Service Consultants
FARMERS INSURANCE • Eastland Mall • Old National Bank
605 State Rd Ste. C, Newburgh, IN 47630 • EI Sports & Apparel Headquarters
Chris Kelly 812-430-7685; [email protected] • eLuxurySupply • Orangetheory Fitness
https://agents.farmers.com/in/newburgh/christopher-kelly • Empire Contractors, Inc. • Orthopaedic Associates, Inc.
HAMMELMAN AGENCY/ • Encompass Health Deaconess • PAR Consulting
SYMMETRY FINANCIAL GROUP Rehabilitation Hospital • Parkinson's Awareness
Mark Hammelman 812-480-8267; [email protected] • ERA First Advantage Realty Support Assoc of the Tri-State
www.sfglife.com • Evansville African American (PASATS)
LEISURE LIVING COMMUNITIES Museum • Paul's Pharmacy
2518 Leisure Lane, Evansville, IN 47720 • Evansville Convention & • Piece of Cake
Gabby Lawrence 812-425-5550; [email protected] Visitors Bureau • Port of Indiana - Mt. Vernon
www.leisure-living.info • Evansville Courier & Press • ProMark
LEISURE LIVING LAKESIDE APARTMENTS • Evansville Regional Business • Purdue Extension
1214 Lavender Ct., Evansville, IN 47712 Committee Vanderburgh County
Gabby Lawrence 812-425-5550; [email protected] • Evansville Sheet Metal Works • Raben Tire Company, Inc.
www.leisure-living.info • Evansville Vanderburgh • Red Spot Paint & Varnish Co.
RESOURCE MFG/PROLOGISTIX County Bldg Authority • Reis Tire Sales, Inc.
4325 Vogel Rd., Evansville, IN 47715 • Evansville Vanderburgh Public • Riney Hancock CPAs PSC
Marcella Heroy 812-774-4795; [email protected] Library • Sebree Consulting, LLC
www.resourcemfg.com • Fielding Court Apartments • Serendipity Designs & Decor
SPECTRUM REACH • Fine & Hatfield, A Professional • Shoe Carnival, Inc.
7516 Eagle Crest Blvd. Ste. E, Evansville, IN 47715 Corp. • Slade Print
Chuck Pfohl 812-909-8246; [email protected] • First Federal Savings Bank • Solarbron Pointe, Inc.
www.spectrumreach.com • Gatti Town • Southwestern Healthcare, Inc.
SUNSHINE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY • Gilda's Club Evansville • Stephen Libs Finer
701 N. Weinbach Ave., Ste. 910, Evansville, IN 47711 • Gray Loon Marketing Group Chocolates
812-477-2836; [email protected] • Hardee's (Sandy's Associates) • Summit Environmental
www.sunshineofevansville.com • Harding, Shymanski & Services, LLC
US ARMY RECRUITERS (EVV) Company, P.S.C. • SVN | The Martin Group
1470 A N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN 47715 • Hasgoe Cleaning Systems, Inc. • The Arc of Evansville
Sergeant Alex Slusher 812-473-1145; [email protected] • Hi-Tech Sheet Metal, Inc. • The Bauerhaus/Bauerhaus
www.facebook.com/ArmyRecruiting47715/?ref=br_rs • Hoosier Accounts Service Catering
• Imperial Fastener & Industrial • TownePlace Suites by Marriott
MEMBER RENEWALS Supply Co., A Division of • Tri-State Bearing Company
Haggard & Stocking Asoc • Tri-State Better Business
SEPTEMBER 2020 • Indiana Tube Corp. Bureau
• Industrial Contractors • Tri-State Trophies
• 14 WFIE • Barbara Price Skanska, Inc. • Turoni's Pizzery & Brewery
• Acclaim Graphics, Inc. • Barnett & Associates, Inc. • J. Trockman & Sons, Inc. • Umbach & Associates, LLP
• ACROS Gymnastics • Biagi, Chance, Cummins, • J.E. Shekell, Inc. • United Way of SW Indiana, Inc.
• Alliance Coal London, Titzer, Inc. • Jani-Clean • US Army Evansville Recruiting
• Ambassador Travel & Cruises • Big Brothers Big Sisters of • Junior League of Evansville • Valero Renewables
• AmeriQual Group, LLC Southwestern Indiana • Just Rennie's, LLC • Vanderburgh Co. Republican
• Anchor Industries, Inc. • BKD, LLP • Kahn, Dees, Donovan & Kahn Party
• Arc Construction Company, Inc. • Brandeis Machinery & Supply • Keller Schroeder & Associates • Vectren - A Centerpoint
• Ascension St. Vincent Evansville • Carousel Restaurant • Kemper 1st Choice Payroll Energy Company
• AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals • CGB Diversified Services • Kemper CPA Group, LLP • Wayback Burger
• Atlas World Group, Inc. • Clark Security/Ira E. Clark • Kempf's Donut Bank Bakeries, • Wayne's Appliance
• Automated Office Solutions, Inc. Detective Agency, Inc. Inc. Diamond • WB Koester Construction LLC
• Leadership Everyone Inc. • Within Sight, LLC
• Lensing Wholesale, Inc. • WNIN Tri-State Public Media
• Lieberman Technologies • Wolfe's Evansville Auto
• Lochmueller Group Auction, Inc.
• Manpower • Woodward Commercial
• Maple Hill Engineering, LLC Realty, Inc.
• Merrill Lynch • Ziemer Funeral Homes
• Midwest Telecom • Ziemer, Stayman, Weitzel &
Communications, Inc. Shoulders

10 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

MILESTONES

ASTRAZENECA PHARMACEUTICALS LP OAKLAND CITY UNIVERSITY
AstraZeneca celebrated a 5-year anniversary at 4601 Oakland City University celebrated a new non-traditional
Hwy 62 E. in Mount Vernon, IN with a ribbon-cutting. programs at Welborn Plaza in Downtown Evansville
AstraZeneca manufactures and packages life-saving with a ribbon-cutting. The non-traditional programs are
medicines to patients around the world. Contact them at designed to meet the needs of busy adults. OCU is offering
(812) 838-4675 or online at www.astrazeneca.com. undergraduate and graduate degrees in business with
multiple options for concentrations. Contact them at
(812) 749-1324 or online at www.nontraditional.oak.edu.

LEIGH PERRY, INDEPENDENT LEGALSHIELD THE RETREAT AT LEISURE LIVING
ASSOCIATE The Retreat at Leisure Living celebrated a ground-
Leigh Perry, an Independent LegalShield Associate, breaking at 2830 Allens Lane in Evansville with a ribbon-
celebrated a 5-year anniversary in Evansville with a ribbon- cutting. Leisure Living is thrilled to add another beautiful
cutting. LegalShield is a trailblazer in affordable access to community in Evansville, which will provide comfortable
legal protection. Contact them at (270) 752-0236 or online and convenient homes to active seniors aged 55 and over.
at www.perrybeale.com. Contact them at (314) 441-5414 or online at
www.leisure-living.info.

EVANSVILLE REGIONAL AIRPORT (EVV) EASTERSEALS REHABILITATION CENTER
Evansville Regional Airport celebrated new solar covered Easterseals Rehabilitation Center celebrated a ground-
parking canopies at 7801 Bussing Ave. in Evansville. The breaking with a ribbon-cutting at 409 Millner Industrial
largest-sized solar parking canopy installation in the Drive in Evansville. Easterseals received an early Christmas
U.S., EVV’s new solar covered parking canopies provide gift – a new Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights Display Storage Facility.
an innovative customer amenity with the environment Contact them at (812) 479-1411 or online at
in mind – the solar array will supply half of the terminal www.eastersealsrehabcenter.com.
building's power. Contact them at (812) 629-8375 or online
at www.flyevv.com/evvforward.
11 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

THE

LIFESTYLE
HEALTH
CHAMBER
ASSOCIATION The Southwest Indiana Chamber is pleased to introduce Lifestyle
PROGRAM Health Plans as a unique health benefits program designed for Chamber
members to address the underlying causes of the rise in healthcare
costs - employee health behaviors. This program is made available
through a partnership with NFP.

WHAT MAKES LIFESTYLE HEALTH DIFFERENT?
• Level-funded major medical plan designs
• Underwritten by “A” rated carriers
• Member savings averaging 5-15% in most cases
• Integrated wellness incentives and cash-rewards
• Up to a $500 deductible credit available to all wellness participants
• Integrated concierge telemedicine, outpatient lab and diabetic
supply benefits

WHAT IS LEVEL FUNDED?
Level-funded plans are essentially pre-packaged self-insured health plans, with
low attachment stop-loss coverage. For many groups,
level-funded plans reduce healthcare spend significantly versus a fully
insured ACA small group plan. And because of their structure, level-funded plans
do not have the volatility in monthly cash flows, associated with self-insured
plans, that can cripple a small business.

HERE’S HOW A LEVEL-FUNDED PLAN WORKS:
Level-funded plans are underwritten, health applications are required. For
larger groups applications can be avoided if two years of claims history can be
provided.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

JESSICA ELLIOTT
812.422.4000
[email protected]

*Any broker that sells Medova
Lifestyles Insurance and wishes
to get the Chamber rates may
forward the quote request to
Jessica Elliott with NFP who
will be acting as the
General Agent on behalf
of the Chamber.

Helping our
members thrive!

#TogetherWeThrive

12 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

Harvest impact, con't from page 6 New Member Profile

We can find many Hispanic professionals working at local Let's welcome The Pit Barbell Club & Fitness Center as a new member
corporations adding their talents to the diversity pool. Worth of the Southwest Indiana Chamber. The Pit Barbell Club & Fitness
mentioning is Jonas Cueche, a young bright Venezuelan who came to Center can be reached by calling (812) 422-0617 or by visiting them
play baseball at Oakland City University. After he finished his degree, online at www.thepitbarbellclub.com. Read on as Michael & Lanea
he started working at Old National Bank and has been a leader in Stagg, owners, tells us about The Pit Barbell Club & Fitness Center.
helping this corporation with its Latino market initiatives.
Hispanic professionals have also contributed in many areas Tell us about The Pit
including the defense of our nation. Roland Rosario graduated from
the Air Force Academy and made us all proud by serving for 9 years Barbell Club & Fitness
in air-weapon exploitation, test, design and production in various
stations including one tour in Iraq. He then came back to Evansville to Center and the services
work for Vectren in a variety of projects. Most notably he led Vectren’s
collaboration on the Post House project downtown with cutting-edge you offer.
technology solutions to conduct research in the Post House on grid- The Pit Barbell Club was
interactive building technology.
In my view, one of the ideas of bringing diversity into a region is founded in 1970 by an
to rejuvenate the existing businesses’ status quo. A prime example
is the very successful business relationship created by a well- Evansville Police Department
known Evansville staple, Pet Food Center, and SAS Imports, Inc. a
Hispanic-owned business. The Fritsche family produces and exports officer, Dick Conner. Dick’s
high-quality natural dog treats in Venezuela. In 2017 they decided
to reopen SAS Imports, Inc., a family-owned business distributing gym was small, but he built Michael & Lanea Stagg
natural dog treats nationwide. In addition, in 2019 they launched the a community of serious
e-commerce arm of the company called Nero’s Treats. Venezuelan
native and relative to the Fritsches, Kay Parra, moved to Evansville powerlifters, bodybuilders, athletes and other fitness buffs.
to manage operations and the relationship with Pet Food Center and
other customers. As an engineer, Kay has also recently become an Today, the gym continues the legacy that Conner built, and is
adjunct instructor for Ivy Tech.
¿Qué pasa Midwest? is a bilingual podcast that tells the stories now over 10,000 sq. ft. on Evansville’s East side and offers over
of Hispanics in the Midwest and is currently in its fourth season.
It means, what’s up Midwest? The show’s creator, Paola Marizán, 175 machines, personal training, 24-hour key access and fitness
brought the concept to local PBS station WNIN FM. Recently, ¿Qué
pasa Midwest?, won the Edward R. Murrow National Award for classes.
Excellence in Innovation. The award recognized ¿Qué Pasa, Midwest?
for Season Four of the podcast, which explored the Hispanic What inspired you to invest your time and resources
community’s relationship with politics, voting and the electorate.
Lastly, Vidal Plastics, my own company, is a custom compounder in this business?
of plastic raw materials focusing in the injection molding sector. We The purchase of the gym was not something that was in our
are ISO 9001:2015 and also MBE certified, allowing us to produce plan. In May, the owners of the gym announced that due to the
materials for many industries, including the automotive industry. constraints imposed on the gym by Covid-19, they would be
I have always been very thankful for the many opportunities that closing the doors of the facility forever. It was not a stretch for
I have been blessed with, and for this reason I have always worked Mike, who had been a member of The Pit Barbell Club since 1982,
hard to give back to the community that we call home. When we to want to purchase the gym. Mike always felt like The Pit was
founded HOLA, I became its first President of the Board, and through a second home. After a quick 30 days of activity, The Pit Barbell
the years this gave me the chance to develop invaluable knowledge Club & Fitness Center was purchased by Mike and Lanea. Mike has
while serving in many organizations across Indiana, including three been a powerlifter since he was 12, (training with Conner, who
different appointments to state commissions. has inspired countless athletes), holds numerous records in the
These are just a few examples of the variety of Latinos who have sport, and also serves as the President of the American Drug-Free
woven themselves into the fabric of this community, adding color Powerlifting Federation (since 2010). It was a logical move for the
and enriching the cultural tapestry. Hopefully, you have noticed the Staggs to purchase the business and continue the legacy of the
diversity that exists among the many people of Hispanic descent. iconic gym.
Not only the different countries –Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua,
Venezuela, Colombia, etc. – but also the diversity in backgrounds, What career advice would you give the younger
education, family history, occupations, immigration status and generation interested in this type of work?
migrant generations. The most important factor in making a small business successful
It is difficult to quantify all the contributions of the Hispanic
Community to this country, state and region. However, these few New Member Profile, con't on pag1e 119
stories should provide a sense of the importance of diversity in our
region. These people, like the many others not mentioned, have come
to this country and established themselves in Evansville. We chose
Evansville to call home, Evansville has embraced us and together we
are successfully moving the region forward. The harvest is now and
it will continue to bear the fruits of the hard work of this new, young
_im__m_i_g_r_at_i_o_n_t_h_a_t _h_a_s_p_la_n_t_e_d_i_ts__se_e_d_s_h_e_r_e_i_n_s_o_u_t_h_e_rn__I_n_d_ia_n_a_._____

Article first appeared in the October 19, 2020 edition of the City-County Observer.

13 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

RONALD ROCHON F.C. TUCKER EMGE REALTORS®
Ronald S. Rochon, University of Southern Indiana Jill Goldman, Sara Pillow, Katie Ritter, Danny & Kristi Boardman and Joan
President, was appointed to the Governor’s Workforce Noblitt are new REALTORS® with F.C. Tucker Emge REALTORS® and have
Cabinet (GWC) by Indiana Governor Eric J. completed the company’s Fast Track training program. 
Holcomb. Rochon will serve a two-year term through
Sept. 30, 2022 subject to reappointment. The GWC JILL SARA KATIE
was formed in 2018 with the mission of addressing GOLDMAN PILLOW RITTER
current and future education and employment
needs for individuals and employers, strengthening DANNY & KRISTI JOAN
Indiana’s economy by integrating and aligning state BOARDMAN NOBLITT
and federal resources, and ensuring a talent-driven
education and workforce system. The membership of the GWC includes the Jill Goldman is a former dental hygienist and an instructor at the USI Dental
business community, K-12 representatives, postsecondary institutions, Indiana Hygiene Clinic. She is working out of the Eagle Crest office. 
lawmakers, and leaders from Indiana state agencies.
Sara Pillow graduated from USI with a bachelor’s degree in communications
ASTRAZENECA emphasizing on advertising and marketing. She was previously an account
AstraZeneca made two key hires at its Mount Vernon, IN, facility. executive at WFIE and a title clerk at Wolfe’s Auto Auction. She is working out
of the Eagle Crest office. 
SCOTT JEFFERS
Scott Jeffers joined AstraZeneca as a Sr. Serialization Katie Ritter is a USI graduate with a bachelor’s degree in health services and
Manager. He previously was with the Barry Wehmiller has been a yoga and pilates instructor for 13 years.  She joins her husband,
Design Group where he was  a Senior Software Will, and the Ellis-Schafer Team at the Eagle Crest office. 
Engineer. In the past 20-plus years he worked in roles
such as Project Manager, Project Engineer, Software The Boardmans are a husband and wife team at the Eagle Crest office. Danny
and Controls Engineer, Business Development is an Evansville firefighter and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Manager and Serialization SME. He holds an Kristi is a registered nurse with an ophthamology surgery center and attended
undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering USI and Indiana Wesleyan University.
Technology from Indiana State.
LACY SMITH Joan Noblitt is a teacher at Jasper High School and taught special education
Lacy Smith is the new Packing Maintenance for 23 years. She has joined the Steve Lukemeyer Realty team at the Jasper
Manager. Smith has been in maintenance and office.
reliability for more than 30 years with experience in
the manufacturing and chemical industries. Since
obtaining his degree in Electrical Engineering, he
has held positions in maintenance management
and reliability engineering with BASF and Sabic. He
comes to AstraZeneca from Messer LLC where he was
the Midwest Region Instrumentation and Electrical
Leader covering sites in six states.  

ANNA RABEN
Anna Raben joined George Koch Sons as Marketing
and Sales Coordinator. Raben is a recent graduate of
Purdue University with a degree in Public Relations
and Strategic Communication. She previously
worked for Purdue’s Public Relations agency, Boiler
Communication, and served as a Marketing Intern for
14 News.

JACK FABER
Hafer Principal Jack Faber, AIA, received the
American Institute of Architects Indiana Julie Peddle
Award. The award, named for Indiana architect
Juliet Peddle, recognizes an individual architect
for possessing a strong willingness to pioneer,
being successful in breaking new ground, strong
devotion and commitment to architecture, display of
professionalism and perseverance, and having a kind
spirit. Faber serves as a mentor to young designers
both in and outside the firm and gives back to his
community through many philanthropic efforts. He has given much back to
the profession through service to AIA, lectures, presentations to students and
communities, and charity projects.

14 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

EVANSVILLE DAY SCHOOL EASTERSEALS REHABILITATION CENTER
Evansville Day School hired four new faculty members.
AYANNA AMELIA
CARENA JOHNSON PEAKE CHASE-WISE
Carena Johnson is a Pre-Kindergarten co-lead teacher.
She previously worked at USI Children’s Learning
Center while completing her course work. She
attended the University of Louisville before returning
to Evansville to earn a bachelor’s degree in Early
Childhood Development at USI. 

BROOKE MCCORD
Brooke McCord is a Jr. Pre-Kindergarten assistant. 
McCord earned a bachelor’s degree in Early
Childhood Education and a minor in Special
Education from the University of Southern Indiana.
She worked at the Deaconess Children’s Enrichment
Center for six years prior to joining the EDS faculty. 

CLINT OMOHUNDRO DR. BROOK DR. LASHEKA
Evansville native Clint Omohundro is an Upper FRAZER ALLEN
School English teacher. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree
and Master of Arts Degree in English from the The Easterseals Rehabilitation Center has expanded its Department of
University of Southern Indiana. He previously taught Psychology & Wellness. An internship program’s inaugural class of Predoctoral
at Central High School for eight years and he also Clinical Psychology Interns graduated in the summer of 2020. This year’s
served as a long-term substitute teacher at two local Interns, Ayanna Peake and Amelia Chase-Wise, began their training on July
middle schools. 1. During its first year, the Internship program significantly increased the
number of families receiving services, reduced wait times for appointments,
KRISTEN POST and earned accreditation from the American Psychological Association.
Kristen Post is the Middle School Spanish teacher. Easterseals also recently introduced its new Clinical & Developmental
She earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish Language Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship. Fellows have previously earned a
and Literature with a minor in International Business doctorate in psychology and are pursuing an additional year of advanced
from the University of Cincinnati. She is licensed training. Dr. Brooke Frazer and Dr. Lasheka Allen, the first individuals
to teach P-12 Spanish, and most recently taught at selected as Fellows, will enable Easterseals to change lives for even more
Norwood High School in Cincinnati. She also gained children and families. In another enhancement to the program, four second-
experience teaching in a private school in Denver, CO. year psychiatry residents from IU School of Medicine will participate
in rotations at the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center. The Department of
SOUTHWESTERN BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE INC. Psychology & Wellness is located at the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center’s
Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare Inc. announced that two directors were primary service site, 3701 Bellemeade Avenue in Evansville. Easterseals
appointed to the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission by Governor Eric Psychology & Wellness offers a wide range of services, including thorough
Holcomb. Katy Adams, President and CEO of Southwestern Behavioral evaluation, comprehensive and compassionate assessment, and research-
Healthcare, Inc. (Southwestern), and Dr. Donna Culley, Director of Child supported therapy. A physician referral is required. For more information, call
and Family Services with Southwestern, will serve on this commission until the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center at 812-479-1411.
Dec. 31, 2022. The Indiana Behavioral Health Commission addresses issues
such as suicide prevention and lack of access and resources to mental health COLIN WARGEL
services. Members on this board will make recommendations and evaluations Collin Wargel joined Hafer as a Mechanical Engineer.
to provide funding of mental health programs and services. He received his Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics
with an emphasis in Mechanical Engineering from the
SHANTEL SINGLETON University of Southern Indiana. He previously worked
Senior Helpers of Evansville hired Shantel Singleton as at HMC Gears in Princeton, Indiana, as an Estimating
its new Community Relations Coordinator. Singleton Engineer. He resides in Evansville, IN and he is
joined Senior Helpers after having worked much of working toward earning his license as a professional
her career in Human Resources. Accompanying her engineer.
degree in Human Resources from the University of
Southern Indiana is a marketing minor. Singleton’s PARKER FRANKLIN
goal is to keep lines of communication open with The Office of Marketing and Communications at the
various partners in the community to ensure the best University of Evansville hired Parker Franklin as a
quality of care for seniors in the area. copy editor. Franklin previously was in Murray, KY,
CHRISTIN CARLSON where he was a communications specialist.
Christin Carlson was promoted to Manager of Inpatient Rehabilitation at
Ascension St. Vincent Evansville. Carlson started her journey at Ascension
St. Vincent seven years ago as a patient care tech and student nurse intern on
6 West. Upon graduation from Ivy Tech Community College, she accepted
a weekend option, RN position on the Inpatient Rehab Unit. She went on to
earn her BSN from the University of Evansville as well as acquire her national
rehabilitation nursing certification (CRRN). For the past year, she has served
as the Inpatient Rehabilitation Clinical Supervisor.
15 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT CORRINE HURT
Express Employment is under new ownership and made several staffing Corrine Hurt is the Business Development Manager
changes. for Express Employment Professionals in Evansville.
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Corinne moved
DEAN ROLLER to Evansville in 2013 when she married her college
Dean Roller is the co-owner of Express Employment sweetheart. She graduated from the University of
Professionals in Bloomington and Evansville. He Southern Indiana with an M.B.A. in Data Analytics
received his M.B.A at Louisiana Tech University and a bachelor’s degree in Professional Studies. She is
in Ruston. After a 20-year career serving in the active in several nonprofits in Evansville.
United States Air Force, he spent 18 years as a
Church Administrator. His community involvement UNITED WAY OF SOUTHWESTERN INDIANA
in Bloomington includes Commander of Civil Air The United Way of Southwestern Indiana added new members to its staff.
Patrol and Building Committee Chair of First United
Methodist Church. HELEN ZIMMERMAN
TIM TUCKER Helen Zimmerman is the new Resource Development
Timber Tucker is the co-owner of Express Director. She spent 15 years working in the media
Employment Professionals in Bloomington and in Indianapolis, served as the Executive Director of
Evansville. Originally from Evansville, he earned a Historic Newburgh, Inc., and most recently was the
master’s degree in Recreation Administration from Director of Development at The Children’s Museum
Indiana University, Bloomington. He spent 21 years of Evansville. She is a graduate of DePauw University
serving in Youth and Recreation Ministry. Tucker’s and holds a dual M.A. in Marketing and Media
community involvement in Bloomington includes Communication from Webster University. Helen
Ambassador Committee Chair for the Bloomington serves on the Warrick County Community
Chamber of Commerce, Alumni Board President Foundation Advisory Board and the Newburgh
for the Indiana University School of Public Health, Neighbor Grant Committee.
Dean’s Alliance for the Indiana University School of ZAC PARSONS
Public Health, Board Member of the South-Central Indiana Human Resource Zac Parsons is the new Poverty Collective Project
Association, and Life Member of the Indiana University Alumni Association. Manager, in partnership with the Talent 2025
MARIA DOUGLAS Initiative. He earned his master's degree in
Maria Douglas is the Operations Manager for Express Organizational Psychology from Grand Canyon
Employment Professionals in Bloomington and University in 2011 and has been working on
Evansville. The Indiana University graduate’s career various projects for the University of Evansville,
has included operations, marketing and personal the University of Southern Indiana and Habitat for
training. Her community involvement in Bloomington Humanity of Evansville. He and his wife Jessica co-
includes Communications Committee Chair for founded the Honey Moon Coffee Co. in 2016.
Tri Kappa, Membership Team of Business Network JESSICA HUHNKE
International (BNI), and Ambassador for the Greater Jessica Huhnke joined United Way as a Data Analyst. Previously, she worked
Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. as a freelance data analyst and as a laboratory manager at the University of
LISA HOUSEHOLDER Rochester. She holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Trine University
Lisa Householder is the Front Office Coordinator for and the University of Rochester. Jessica is a Newburgh native and a graduate of
Express Employment Professionals in Evansville. As Castle High School.
a Front Office Coordinator, Householder maintains
office flow with accuracy, discretion and efficiency.
Her previous work includes restaurant management
and business development.

HEATHER DUNLAP JOIN US FOR VIRTUAL NETWORKING
Heather Dunlap is a Recruiter for Express FRIDAY MORNINGS!
Employment Professionals in Evansville. She has
worked in the recruitment industry for seven years, WWW.SWINCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS
gaining experience in B2B sales, talent marketing,
human resources practices, sourcing and recruiting at
a variety of levels. Dunlap volunteers at local animal
shelters and food banks.

RETISHA DOWDY WorkOne helps people find a new or better job,
Retisha Dowdy is a Recruiter for Express Employment choose a career, find a good employee, access
Professionals in Evansville. She moved to Evansville in training, or get the information needed to succeed
2001 to earn her B.A. focused in Sociology, Criminal
Justice from University of Southern Indiana. She is in today's ever-evolving workplace.
an experienced professional recruiter with a history
of work in the human resources department, and has www.workonesouthwest.com
been an Express team member since 2006.

To feature your new hires or promotions in the next digital newsletter, email a
short description and photo to: [email protected].

16 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

November’s Community Foundation Week

Celebrates Nearly 30 Years of Local Philanthropy

Kristi Rhule, Director of Communications, foundations in Indiana through their Giving Funds for Tomorrow
Community Foundation Alliance (GIFT) initiatives and programs. The Community Foundation Alliance
The Community Foundation Alliance and its nine southwest Indiana is currently participating in the GIFT VII program which has multiple
county affiliates join more than 795 community foundations across components. County affiliates were recipients of planning grants totaling
America celebrating Community Foundation Week from November $525,000 and implementation grants totaling $1.05 million. Through
12 - 18. This week will raise awareness about the increasingly important these grants, our regional staff was able to convene local stakeholders
role of community foundations in fostering local collaboration and to identify, prioritize and assess opportunities and challenges in each
innovative partnerships to address persistent county, and provide grants to implement those key strategies and
civic and economic challenges. activities identified during the planning period.
In addition, Community Foundation Alliance affiliates are gifted
But what exactly is a community foundation? with the responsibility of locally administering the Lilly Endowment
Community foundations create efficient and effective ways for Community Scholarship Program (LECSP) that awarded 12 scholarships
corporations and individuals to leave a charitable legacy. Donations to high school students with an estimated award amount of $1.6 million
create endowment funds managed through pooled investments that in fiscal year 2020.
create annual available-to-grant dollars. Through stewardship, those In celebrating nearly 30 years of philanthropic work, the Community
philanthropic resources continually generate grants to local nonprofits Foundation Alliance and its affiliates continue to support our
that address their most pressing needs and scholarships to students that communities and positively impact the future of our southwest Indiana
pursue higher education. Uniquely situated to improve the lives of local counties.
residents, they foster powerful partnerships with local nonprofits and To learn more about turning your passion into purposeful giving
schools. through the Community Foundation Alliance, please contact Jill
Carpenter, President and CEO, or visit communityfoundationalliance.org.
Interesting facts about the Community Foundation
Alliance (FY20):
• The Community Foundation Alliance has nine affiliate community
foundations located in Daviess, Knox, Gibson, Perry, Pike, Posey,
Spencer, Vanderburgh and Warrick counties whose work is conducted by
regional staff and supported by centralized staff. The Alliance stewards
more than 900 endowment funds valued at approximately $110 million.
• The Community Foundation Alliance authorized grants to
local nonprofits throughout southwest Indiana of more than $3.68
million. Generous donors also provided over $335,000 in community
scholarships to southwest Indiana students.
• In addition, the City of Evansville Endowment Fund, which was
established as a supporting organization through $5 million of gaming
boat revenue designated by the Evansville City Council to create an
endowment fund supporting local nonprofits, granted over $448,000 to
24 organizations through their annual grants program.
• At the beginning of the pandemic, The Community Foundation
Alliance immediately made available up to $1 million in rapid response
grants. Grants were issued to support the ongoing efforts of local
nonprofits providing basic needs for our community members. Of these
grants, $250,000 was given to support the efforts of the COVID-19 Crisis
Response Fund of the Greater Evansville Region.
Lilly Endowment Inc. provides a unique opportunity for community

Micro-internships have arrived
on IndianaINTERN.net!

This year, higher education schedules have incorporated a longer Micro-internships provide a short-term option to test out interns for
winter break, making 2020 an excellent time to consider a micro- either a potential long-term internship or a full-time hire.
internship. Do you have a micro-internship?
What are micro-internships? Post your micro-internship on IndianaINTERN.net for FREE! Indiana
Micro-internships are short-term, project-based experiences that allow INTERNnet has made improvements to its website to simplify posting
employers to hire students specifically for the purpose of completing a and recruiting for micro-internships. If you have any questions
singular project. They typically last from 10 to 80 hours of work with about developing a micro-internship program, email: INTERNnet@
most projects being due within a week to a month after assignment. indianachamber.com

17 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

Southwest Indiana economic
and community development
organizations discussing plan
to amplify, strengthen services

In an effort to more fully harness their expertise, energy and resources, “Many of the essential services required to drive growth and
three area organizations focused on the growth and prosperity of the opportunity throughout our region are currently housed within these
region are actively exploring a merger. The organizations involved three organizations,” noted Southwest Indiana Chamber President
in this discussion are the Economic Development Coalition (EDC) of & CEO Tara Barney. “That’s why this merger concept makes so much
Southwest Indiana, the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville (GAGE), sense for the entire community.”
and the Southwest Indiana Chamber.
GAGE Board Chair Brad Ellsworth noted the high degree of
Board members for all three organizations have been briefed on the collaboration among the three organizations. “We have a long history
merger concept, and there is agreement among all three boards to of working side-by-side, and many times arm-in-arm, to drive the
continue actively exploring the opportunity. If a merger occurs it growth and prosperity of our region,” Ellsworth said.
would be anticipated by mid-year 2021.
Assuming the merger plan comes to fruition, plans are for the new
“The overarching goal is regional alignment and collaboration that organization to be housed in Downtown Evansville. No decisions have
extends well beyond the three organizations involved in the merger,” yet been made about the new organizational structure or specific
said Greg Wathen, president and CEO of the EDC. “If the merger occurs, roles and responsibilities within that structure.
it will enable us to more effectively and efficiently utilize taxpayer ________________________________________________________
resources to provide high impact services.”
Southwest Indiana Chamber Press Release October 22, 2020.

18 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

New Member Profile, con't from page 13

is putting in the time and balancing the “old school” processes with Why is the Evansville region a great place to operate a
today’s latest technological advances. business?
Mike was born and raised in Evansville, and the couple raised their
In your opinion, what are three ingredients for success? children here. It is a city full of opportunity and people are loyal. Every
Organize your plan – things will not always go as planned, think sector of the community has informed people who are willing to work
through the small operation moves, as well as the large. It is always hard and provide good service. In short, we love Evansville. It is our
easier to manage a detour when you have a map that shows your home.
destination.
Put in the time and sweat – be an example to your employees by What do you like most about the community in which
taking this seriously. If you are not seen working hard and making you live?
sacrifices, others will not take it seriously either. A successful business Evansville has so many unique opportunities for a city of this size.
always has a hard-working, engaged owner. We have multiple universities with a variety of degree options. The
Treat your customers as #1. You would not have a business without sporting community within the schools and universities is terrific and
them. Listen to them and take their concerns seriously. Always consistently produces outstanding student athletes.
thank your customers for their business and let them know that you
appreciate them. Is there anything else you would like to share?
As mentioned before, Mike began training at The Pit when he was
What has been one of your toughest challenges? 12 years old. Dick Conner and members of The Pit Powerlifting Team
Covid-19. The circumstances from the virus has made it difficult for had tremendous influence on him through his formative years.
members/customers to feel comfortable in a gym. Our staff follows Consistently talking about the importance of hard work, staying out of
a strict prevention detail to keep our members/customers safe and trouble and, especially, avoiding drugs of any type. Mike is mindful of
we also ask our gym members to follow the guidelines as well. The how the experience shaped him as a person and tries to emulate the
members have as much pride in the facility as we do, and they are example he learned from Dick Conner to create the same experience
pitching in to keep our gym safe. for young members of the gym.

2020 Q4 #tsmaleadership
STATE OF MANUFACTURING
15
NOVEMBER 17

2:30 - 3:30 PM | VIA ZOOM

AMERICAN
MANUFACTURING

POLICY

OUTLOOK

FOR 2021

Featuring: Scott Paul

President of Alliance for American Manufacturing

REGISTER ONLINE @SWINCHAMBER.COM

19 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

A SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER SIGNATURE EVENT

NOVEMBER 12, 2020

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM | OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA

JOIN US!

IN-PERSON OR LIVE STREAM
OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Each year a carefully-selected panel shares economic
trends and looks ahead to the anticipated business
climate for the coming year. With a focus on local,
regional, state, and national economies, topics covered

range from the cost of energy and real estate to
the labor market.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

FOR MORE EVENT INFORMATION, SPONSORSHIPS & RESERVATIONS, CONTACT:
Tina Fuhrer: 812-598-8505 | [email protected]

greater evansville

EVANSVILLE POSEY COUNTY OFFICE greater evansville
318 Main Street, Suite 401 231-A Main Street • PO Box 633 greater evansville

Evansville, IN 47708 Mt. Vernon, IN 47620
812-425-8147 812-838-3639

www.swinchamber.com

@SWINChamber

20 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER