SWIN Chamber March 2021 Newsletter

1 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

President & CEO Letter

Stronger together!

Two weeks ago three organizations, the Southwest Indiana and global relevance by building on
Chamber, the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest the trusted relationships and legacy of
Indiana and the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville — all all three predecessor organizations.
of which work to advance the prosperity of the Evansville region — The new organization will launch
made a progressive decision to merge. Through a shared vision and April 1 with a board of directors
coordinated effort, the new unified organization will advance the who represent the interests of our
interests of businesses and fuel economic and community growth in entire region. Together we will carry
the region. Some might call this a 20-year overnight success in the forward areas of impact, including
making. In fact, when regional community leaders came together to business attraction, retention
form the Economic Development Coalition 16 years ago, they took and expansion, pro-economy
the first important steps in positioning us to work together for the public policy work, community
benefit of the entire region. development, entrepreneurship,
All three organizations have a proud tradition of accomplishment. talent attraction, quality-of-place
The Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce has been leading enhancement and regional growth A message from
business and this community for more than a century, and we strategy. In a word, every opportunity
look forward to continuing to be a strong part of the association of for businesses to grow, for our TARA BARNEY
business and civic partners who align our efforts, our resources and residents to find fulfilling jobs and
our influence on behalf of the Evansville region. We are committed President & CEO
to building prosperity and equitable opportunity for all who call this
region home. careers, and for the Evansville
Both the Coalition and the Chamber are effective advocates for region to stand out and prosper will
regional success, business growth and advancing the priorities that continue at a higher level under the exciting new partnership.
matter most for our residents. Together with GAGE, Vanderburgh We are and will continue to be, stronger together.
County’s economic development organization, we have built a strong
partnership over the years; particularly this past year as we aligned #LoveLocal #TogetherWeThrive #EveryActionCounts
our resources to support businesses and the entire community facing Tara Barney
COVID-19 impacts. We came together around the opportunity President and CEO, Southwest Indiana Chamber
that the Regional Cities Initiative could advance quality-of-place [email protected]
opportunities for the region and that together we will build on the
capacity of our three organizations to advance regional prosperity @SWINChamber

BUSINESS | POLICY | COMMUNITY | TALENT | STRATEGY

LEARN MORE AT: EVANSVILLEREGION.COM

2 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

SigCniractulere
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.

Thyaonuk!

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 3

CHAMBER NEWS

Southwest Indiana Chamber announces
merger with economic and community

development groups

Unified organization will align the interests of business, community institutions
and residents to drive regional prosperity and community growth

Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, Growth great location to operate a business, to live and to thrive.”
Alliance for Greater Evansville and Southwest Indiana Chamber The group completed significant due diligence around finances, strategic
have announced actions by their respective Boards to merge the integration of various programs, public policies and technology along
three organizations, to become effective April 1, 2021. Through a shared with a commitment to ensure that the new organization will address
vision and coordinated efforts, the new organization will advance the diversity, small business development and the unique value that the
interests of businesses and fuel economic and community growth in the public and private sectors bring in delivering success throughout the
Evansville region. Evansville region.
“All three organizations have a proud tradition of accomplishment,” “We are very pleased that after months of document review, discussion
said Greg Wathen, President and CEO of the Economic Development and best-practice research – including study of similar regions seeking
Coalition of Southwest Indiana. “By pooling and unifying essential increased velocity – we have clear direction and authorization from
economic development functions into a single structure, we have an our collective Boards to aggregate the work, the assets, the staffs and
opportunity to better serve the region with a bolder vision for the the expertise of three very sound organizations into one,” stated Lynell
future.” Walton, Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville Board Chair.
The unified organization will work to advance regional prosperity The new partnership will operate within Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh
and global relevance by building on the trusted relationships and and Warrick Counties while continuing strategic partnerships with
legacy of its predecessor organizations. Together they will carry the entire MSA (some of which is in Kentucky), the Southwest Indiana
forward areas of impact, including business attraction, retention and SBDC, area local Chambers, WorkOne and other entities that strengthen
expansion, pro-economy public policy work, community development, the region’s opportunity to prosper.
entrepreneurship, talent attraction, quality of place enhancement and “Warrick County has been a strong regional voice and as one of the
regional growth strategy. original partners in creation of the Coalition, we’re excited to take this
“The process to craft a new organization was very deliberate by design next step in the formation of a new vision for Southwest Indiana,” said
to give each community their respective voice,” said Ben Shoulders, Dan Saylor, Warrick County Commissioner.
Vanderburgh County Commissioner President. “I’m confident that the “The new organization gives Posey County an even stronger voice than
organization will meet the future needs of Vanderburgh County as well we have had in the past,” said Jenna Richardt, Executive Director of the
as the other counties that make up Southwest Indiana, and it is equally Posey County Economic Partnership. “That collective voice along with
important that the new organization will focus on being diverse and the ability to invest in larger regional development strategies will add
inclusive.” more value to Posey County businesses and residents.”
A merger committee composed of appointees from all three organizations Though the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana,
has been meeting since early October to build on the work the three Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville and Southwest Indiana Chamber
organizations have been doing cooperatively since the onset of will combine business operations during the coming year, details of a
COVID-19 impacts. Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke praised the new brand and name will be released by early April 2021. During the
action of the boards: “These organizations have worked as one over the transition, the executives of the Coalition and the Southwest Indiana
past year facilitating and serving the needs of Evansville and the region. Chamber, Greg Wathen and Tara Barney have agreed to serve as co-
The Reopen Evansville Task Force depended on this partnership to CEOs. An early order of business for the new group will be the selection
effectively serve our citizens.” of executive leadership as well as the appointment of the new entity’s first
“While many pursue a merger or organizational realignment in response Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
to challenges, we did so in recognition of, and in pursuit of, heightened Learn more at evansvilleregion.com.
opportunity,” said Tara Barney, President and CEO of the Chamber. __________________________________________________________
“The new partnership is a proactive alignment of complementary efforts Southwest Indiana Chamber Press Release Feb. 19, 2021
to unify as one voice to deliver economic development services for the
region and to market our strengths to businesses and talent looking for a

4 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

New Member Profile with the continuously increasing demand for clean air during the
pandemic. The importance of clean air and filtration has never been
Let's welcome DF Filter Pro as a new member of the Southwest Indiana more top-of-mind for the consumer, which has caused demand
Chamber. DF Filter Pro is located at 6050 Wedeking Ave., Ste. 4, in to soar. Simultaneously, getting access to the right products and
Evansville and can be reached by calling 812-471-4020. Visit them materials has become more difficult with our global supply chains
online at www.dffilterpro.com. Read on as Luke McHugh, regional under intense strain, also due to the global pandemic.
manager and Paul Black, filtration consultant, tell us about DF Filter Pro.
Why is the Evansville region a great place to operate a
Tell us about DF Filter Pro and the services you offer.
Luke McHugh - DF FilterPro is a manufacturer and distributor of business? 
quality filtration products and a provider of Paul Black - There are exceptional logistical infrastructures in place,
exceptional customer service. We provide meaning that you can reach every part of the continental United
custom clean air solutions to meet all of our States in two days or less via truck, both inbound and outbound. 
customers’ needs. We manufacture all of The cost of living is very reasonable, so attracting and keeping
our AirX-brand filters in Indiana and stock talented employees is much easier.  The area is booming with new
them locally at our Evansville location. In automobile and pharmaceutical opportunities.  The Universities in
addition to providing high-quality filters
at competitive prices, we provide our
customers with minimal lead times and
customized box-truck delivery. We also offer
customized cut filters with very minimal
turnaround times. Outside of air filters, we
also offer our Indiana-manufactured water
filters, COVID-19 filter treatment products,
HVAC maintenance products, as well as
many other products and services to fit your
filtration needs!

What inspired you to invest your

time and resources in this business?
Luke McHugh - When your business is

providing clean air solutions, it is easy to be

inspired and motivated every day during a

global pandemic. Even though it may feel Luke McHugh, regional manager and Paul Black, filtration consultant
like it sometimes, the COVID-19 pandemic

will not be around forever, but clean air will

remain a priority. Consistently maintaining

clean air helps minimize disease transmission and allergies, and the region are second to none.  Not to mention, it’s one of the few

even helps to improve employee productivity. Being able to offer places in the U.S. where you can experience all four seasons each

solutions that help improve people’s overall health and wellness is year!

what gets me out of bed every morning!

What career advice would you give the younger What do you like most about the community in which
generation interested in this type of work? 
Luke McHugh -There are thousands of applications for filtration, you live?
so it is nearly impossible to be an expert in every one of them. Try Paul Black - I live in a condo in downtown Evansville. I chose to live
learning the basics of why different types of filters are needed here because I like being able to walk to 30+ restaurants, bars and
for various applications and then research online or through shops, without having to get into my car.  I also enjoy living within
industry experts to find specific best practices for those various a few blocks of the river.  It makes it nice to get out and enjoy walks
applications. Get experience wherever you can. As in any industry, with my favorite four-legged friend.
the best ability is availability! Show up every day with the right
mindset and try to learn as much as you can! Is there anything else you would like to share? 
Paul Black - I was born and raised in Evansville, IN and it was a
In your opinion, what are three ingredients for success?    fantastic place to grow up. Upon graduating from the University of
Patience, Persistence and Preparation.  Evansville, I took off for a while, spending the majority of my time
away in San Francisco. Although I miss my friends dearly in the
What has been one of your toughest challenges?  other cities that I have lived, my family is here, and this will always
Luke McHugh - One of our toughest challenges has been keeping up be home. And it’s nice to be able to afford my own home and not
having 3 of us crammed into a small apartment that we can barely
afford!!

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 5

SIGNATURE PARTNER

Deaconess named Level 9 ‘Most Wired’
for Health Informatics Advancements

Deaconess has been named a Level 9 "Most Wired" health care • MyChart, the Deaconess patient portal, grew from 130,000 users
organization for the first time, after being on the "Most Wired" list to more than 208,000 users last year, allowing patients to utilize
for nine consecutive years. expanded service such as e-Check-in, online bill pay and Find Care
Only 71 hospitals nationwide received this level of recognition from the Now.
College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME), as
part of the organization’s 2020 Healthcare’s Most Wired program. Multiple technology and process advancements provided much-
CHIME’s Most Wired list recognizes health care organizations that have needed information to help better inform clinical decision support and
adopted and deployed IT to improve patient safety and health outcomes operational efficiency, as well as providing metrics to monitor progress
across the industry. In 2020, many organizations reported IT innovations on a variety of initiatives, such as:
related to pandemic response support, but many other advancements • Real-time dashboards and analytics tools were deployed in the
were related to overall clinical decision support, operations and quality.
areas of clinical quality measures, population health and patient
engagement

At Deaconess, the Informatics & Technology Services and Clinical • Four predictive analysis tools were deployed, leading to the
Informatics & Data Analytics teams collaborated with many departments utilization of AI to help identify patients at risk of complications or
to complete initiatives that contributed to this Level 9 designation. worsening disease.

A key focus in 2020 was on enhancing the patient experience, All of this was accomplished while also successfully transitioning more
introducing and expanding many tools to engage patients and their than 800 Deaconess employees to a long-term, flexible remote work
families online and through mobile apps. Examples include: environment.

• Remote Patient Monitoring, in which Deaconess provided patients The mission of the CHIME “Digital Health Most Wired” program is
with smart devices in their homes, allowing a coordinated team to to elevate the health and care of communities around the world by
monitor their condition and progress. encouraging the optimal use of information technology. The program
conducts an annual survey to identify, recognize and certify the adoption,
• Exponential growth of telehealth services, from the initial implementation and use of information technology by health care
implementation of Deaconess Clinic LIVE, to expanding services provider organizations. The results are intended to improve patient safety
throughout the health system; in 2020, Deaconess providers and outcomes by driving change in the health care IT industry. Details
completed more than 65,000 telehealth visits. about the certification levels and results of the survey and study can be
found on the CHIME website at https://chimecentral.org/chime-most-
• Drive-through COVID-19 testing sites, with all new online process wired-2/
for scheduling and processing results, were developed in a very
short timeframe; since the beginning of the pandemic, these sites _________________________________________________________
have conducted more than 170,000 tests. Deaconess Press Release Feb. 9, 2021

6 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

SILVER T.R.U. Event Rentals
LININGS
Turning Adversity Into Opportunity:
T.R.U. Event Rental tent providing outdoor seating at Acropolis
Restaurant in Evansville. Indiana SBDC client demonstrates resilience
during a worldwide pandemic

Karen LeMond, co-owner of T.R.U. Event Rental Inc., expected the worst when
the pandemic cancelled all large events her business depends on. T.R.U. Event
Rental provides everything for celebrations from tents to tablecloths; it is a
one-stop-shop for event supplies. When fundraisers, galas and weddings were
cancelled, Karen was forced to reevaluate how to run her business during these
trying times.
The challenges initially presented by the pandemic brought T.R U. back to its
roots. Karen and her husband began their business in 1988 predominately
renting tents for special occasions. While there were no gatherings during the
quarantine, Karen pivoted her business and provided tents for hospitals, such as
St. Vincent, for drive-thru COVID-19 testing. In addition to the pop-up medical
facilities, restaurants showed a great need for adding capacity by creating
outdoor seating. As a result, T.R.U. has provided outdoor seating canopies
for numerous local restaurants. Karen has proven that when one opportunity
_va_n_i_s_h_e_s,_a_n_o_t_h_e_r_o_n_e_“_p_o_p_s_u_p_”_!_____________________________________
Written by Raelynn Grossman, Southwest Indiana SBDC Intern

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Are you an aspiring leader looking to acquire skills
in ethical, innovative leadership? Grow your capabili-
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In this program, you will learn:
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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.

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 7

PIVOTAL PARTNER

SABIC Becomes the 2nd Most Valuable
Brand in the Chemicals Industry

SABIC has become the world’s second most valuable brand in the delivering our Chemistry that Matters™.”
chemicals industry for the first time, and it has also cemented
its place among the top 500 most valuable global brands. The This year the Chemicals 25 report confirmed SABIC’s brand value to be
rankings were confirmed in the 2021 Chemicals 25 and Global 500 $4.017 billion, which represents a marginal softening versus 2020. The
reports published by Brand Finance, a world-leading independent brand overall chemicals industry saw an 8 % decline in total brand value from
valuation consultancy. the previous year, primarily due to the downturn in the global economy.
Yousef Al-Benyan, SABIC Vice Chairman and CEO, said: “We are In 2020, SABIC entered the second phase of its global brand campaign,
proud of our improved ranking. It is a significant step in our mission to further building on its successful launch in 2019. The campaign aligns
become the preferred world leader in chemicals and reflects the ever- with the company’s 2025 strategy and connects global audiences with the
growing positive perception of SABIC among our customers and other SABIC collaborations that enable sustainable solutions to some of the
stakeholders. It is a clear confirmation of the strategy we have defined to world’s most pressing challenges.
position SABIC as a leading global chemical brand."
Al-Benyan added: “Building a strong global brand is integral to our core Brand Finance utilizes a bespoke methodology to determine the brand
objectives and aligns with our growth ambitions. It enables our business value of a company. Factors considered include stakeholder familiarity
strategy and enhances our resilience. Our brand is important to us and satisfaction along with forecast business performance.
and our customers and stakeholders, and we will remain dedicated to _____________________________________________________
SABIC Press Release Feb. 4, 2021

8 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

PIVOTAL PARTNER

BKD Recognized by Training Magazine
for Eighth Straight Year

For the eighth consecutive year, Training magazine has named BKD as evidenced by our mission statement,” said BKD Chief Marketing
CPAs & Advisors to its list of the world’s most successful learning Officer Greg Cole. “By providing programs that enhance our team’s
and development (L&D) departments. BKD is ranked 24 on the technical expertise and professional development, we can strive to
Top 100 list (formerly Top 125), which grades organizations by the achieve our mission. This honor reflects our Learning & Development
effectiveness of their employee development programs. BKD’s ranking of team’s passion for the continual pursuit of excellence — in service to our
24 shatters its previous record-high ranking of 52. people and our clients.”
“Part of BKD’s commitment to providing Unmatched Client Service®
is our focus on strategic training and development. BKD’s L&D team BKD’s L&D programs include BKD University (BKDU) — an online
is fully focused on making sure each BKD Trusted Advisor™ has the learning portal — and live and virtual training sessions. BKD live
training and resources they need to provide cutting-edge solutions to and virtual sessions, along with the materials in BKDU, focus on
clients,” said BKD CEO Ted Dickman. enhancing technical knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as continual
To be considered for inclusion in the Training Top 100, companies improvement as it relates to leadership, ethics, client service and
complete a detailed application. Companies are scored on qualitative technology.
and quantitative factors, including training programs and scope, training
infrastructure and delivery and training budget, among other items. For more information on Training magazine or to see the Top 100 list,
“BKD aspires to create rewarding career opportunities for its employees, go to https://trainingmag.com/top100/.

__________________________________________________________
BKD CPA's & Advisors Press Release Feb. 18, 2021

We are honored to be nominated! Thank you!

SOUTHWEST INDIANA
CHAMBER

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 9

NEW MEMBERS HOLIDAY WORLD & SPLASHIN’ SAFARI
452 E. Christmas Blvd, Santa Claus, IN 47579
JANUARY 2021 Dave Hedge 812-937-5264; [email protected]
ADVISA www.holidayworld.com
210 N. Rageline Rd., Carmel, IN 46032 HOME VALET (formerly Envolve Engineering)
Patrick Howe 317-574-1550, [email protected] 421 E. Sycamore St., Evansville, IN 47713
www.advisausa.com Marissa Wallace 812-492-4585
EDWARD JONES - BRITTANY DENNIS [email protected]
2809 Lincoln Ave., Suite 120, Evansville, IN 47714 www.homevalet.co
812-473-4366; [email protected] LECHWE HOLDINGS
www.edwardjones.com 25 NW Riverside Dr., Ste. 202, Evansville, IN 47708
EDWARD JONES - ROGER NURRENBERN Andy Moskowitz 812-250-2557; [email protected]
1923 W. Franklin St., Evansville, IN 47711 www.lechweholdings.com
812-464-2788; [email protected] SLADE CONSULTING
www.edwardjones.com Jalessa Slade 812-449-6977, [email protected]
EVANSVILLE BALLOON COMPANY SMILE ON DOWN SYNDROME
Rachel King 812-550-9143 PO Box 994, Newburgh, IN 47630
[email protected] Nina Fuller 812-449-6049; [email protected]
FARMERS INSURANCE - WINGS ETC.
THE KEITH AGENCY, LLC 8833 High Point Dr., Newburgh, IN 47630
125 N. Weinbach Ave., Ste. 820A, Evansville, IN 47711 Michelle Offutt 812-490-0550; [email protected]
Doug Keith 812-909-3003, [email protected] www.wingsetc.com
GROUPS RECOVER TOGETHER ZENBUSINESS
4400 Washington Ave., Bldg. 1, Evansville, IN 47714 702 San Antonio St., Austin, TX 78701
Ashley Hall 812-221-1413, [email protected] Ross Buhrdorf 512-814-6420, [email protected]
www.joingroups.com www.zenbusiness.com/indiana-llc

MILESTONES

TACO JOHN'S
Taco John's celebrated a grand
opening with a ribbon-cutting at
604 N. St. Joseph Ave. in Evansville.
Taco John's has recently rebuilt
the facility from ground up and
reopened with a state of the art
facility. Contact them at (270) 816-
8031.

10 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

MEMBER RENEWALS New Member Profile

JANUARY 2021 Senior Helpers ribbon-cutting, November 2020
Tell us about Senior Helpers and the services you offer.
• AIDS Resource Group of Evansville, Inc. Senior Helpers is a non-medical in-home care company. We provide bathing,
• Air Quality Services, LLC dressing, incontinence care, companionship, errands/transportation,
• Armada Optical Services, Inc. medication reminders, meal prep and light housekeeping.
• Brinker's Mfg. Jewelers, Inc. What inspired you to invest your time and resources in this
• Connections Deaf Centers business?
• Custom Staffing Services Being able to be a part of someone’s life and helping them age in place is such
• Daisy's Pet Playground a rewarding feeling.
• ELCO Ventures, LLC What career advice would you give the younger generation
(dbaHoney Baked Ham Co & Cafe) interested in this type of work?
• Environmental Management Consultants I like to remind people that although they are capable of caring for themselves
• ERS Wireless at the given moment that can quickly change. At one point the elderly
• Evansville Regional Airport clients we serve were youthful like they are. They don’t want to need help
• Evansville Surgery Center but it’s inevitable. We need to treat others with kindness, listen to them when
• Express Employment Professionals they talk and share bits from their life and treat each situation as a learning
• Fibertech, Inc. experience. The human race will never stop aging and there will always be a
• Fibrenew Evansville need for our services.
• Field & Main Bank In your opinion, what are three ingredients for success?
• Franklin Family Physicians To succeed in this field, I think it’s important to listen, educate yourself and to
• Freeman, Will & Niemeier, Inc. have compassion for others.
• Garmong Construction Services What has been one of your toughest challenges?
• Groups Recover Together The most challenging part of this field is that we meet our clients when they
• International Facility Management Association can’t help themselves. We weren’t able to know them at their best. We often
• JA Benefits, LLC learn of what amazing lives they lived when we read their obituary because
• Jason's Deli they suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s and are unable to share their life
• John Friend & Company, P.C. stories. Another challenging aspect of this field is that we become emotionally
• Kenny Kent Toyota Lexus Scion Chevrolet attached to our clients and when they pass it’s upsetting.
Collision Center Neighborhood Stores Why is the Evansville region a great place to operate a business?
• Key Benefit Administrators, Inc. Evansville welcomed Senior Helpers with open arms when we opened in 2008.
• Legence Bank Our business has continued to grow year after year.
• Mary McCarthy What do you like most about the community in which you live?
• Metro Sports Center Evansville gives off the big-city feel without being too big.
• Midwest Equipment & Supply Co., Inc.
• Mooney Copy Service, Inc. SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 11
• Nix Companies
• Northwestern Mutual
• Orr Environmental Solutions, LLC
• Pangea Kitchen
• Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity
• Profile by Sanford
• Ray's Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.
• Red Spot Paint & Varnish Co., Inc.
• Reference Services, Inc.
• River Pointe Health Campus
• Servpro West Evansville
• Smith & Butterfield
• Southwind Construction Corp.
• State Farm - Kasey Gray Insurance Agency
• Swat Pest Management
• SWIRCA & More
• The Women's Hospital
• Town & Country Pools
• VanBeck Services, Inc.
• Victoria National Golf Club
• Vineyard Financial

DEACONESS HEALTH SYSTEM MELISSA NICHOLSON
Two new faces have joined the senior administrative team at Deaconess. Edward Jones Financial Advisor Melissa Nicholson of
Newburgh received the “TNT” Client Development
JOANN WOOD Award for her outstanding service efforts in 2020.
JoAnn Wood, MD, MSME, MHA, AAP, ACP, Only 782 financial advisors received the award. The
became Vice President, Chief Medical Officer. Dr. award derives its name from firm legends who, in the
Wood most recently served as CMO at Baptist 1950s, traveled the Midwest from Tuesday through
Memorial Hospital – DeSoto in Southaven, MS. In Thursday each week, becoming known as “TNT”
addition to her medical degrees, she holds a Master brokers. Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company
of Science in medical education, a Master of Health headquartered in St. Louis, provides financial services
Administration, and completed the Intermountain in the U.S. and, through its affiliate, in Canada. The
Advanced Training Program in Health Care Delivery firm’s 19,000-plus financial advisors serve more than 7 million clients with a
and Improvement. The Owensboro, KY, native is a total of $1.5 trillion in client assets under care.
Fellow of both the American Academy of Pediatrics CATHY EICHELE
and the American College of Physicians. Cathy Eichele celebrated 30 years with the Tri-State
JENNIFER CHIUSANO Better Business Bureau, which she serves as President
Jennifer Chiusano, MA, BSN, RN, NE-BC, began and Chief Executive Officer. She started her career at
serving as Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive. the Better Business Bureau in February of 1991, at the
Chiusano brings more than 30 years of nursing former BBB office location on Morgan Avenue. She
administrative experience to her role at Deaconess. attended the University of Evansville and graduated
She most recently served as the Chief Nursing Officer with a degree in journalism from the University of
(CNO) at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, TN. Southern Indiana. Eichele oversees a staff receiving
Previously, she also served as the CNO at Delray over 30,000 inquiries per month on local businesses,
Medical Center in Delray Beach, FL. Also a native of and has written many community articles speaking to
Owensboro, KY, Chiusano received her Bachelor of ethical business practices, professional tips and marketplace safety.
Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth CLARK DIETZ, INC.
University and her Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the
University of Phoenix. She’s a member of the American Organization of Nurse CHARLES WESLEY MUSTAFA
Executives, and is a Certified Nurse Executive with ANCC. CRADDOCK CHRISTMAS EMIR
JOHN W. PERKINS
Kemper CPA Group announced that John W. Clark Dietz, Inc. elected Charles Craddock, PE,
Perkins joined the Kemper team as a certified public FACEC, as Chairman, President and CEO. John I. Boldt,
accountant in the Evansville office, where he manages PE, FACEC, previously held the title of Chairman and
a diverse client base of individuals and businesses. He retired on March 1. Jerry Payonk, PE was re-elected
has over 13 years of experience in the accounting Executive Vice President. Wesley Christmas, PE was
industry, both in public and private practice. He elected Executive Vice President. Mustafa Emir, PE,
also serves as an adjunct accounting instructor for PhD was re-elected Secretary, and Sean Widener, PE,
Oakland City’s adult education program, and in 2016 PTOE was elected Treasurer. Other members elected to
was named Evansville Business Journal’s 20 under 40 the board include Jon Howaniec, SHRM-CP, PHR (Vice
as a rising leader. President); Tonia Westphal, PE, LEED AP; Kevin
In 2017, the Indiana CPA Society named him the recipient of the Annual Hetrick, PE, and Emily Basalla, PE, CFM. Clark Dietz,
Outstanding in Community Service Award. In 2018, Perkins was selected as SEAN Inc. is a recognized leader in transportation, civil,
one of 41 CPAs across the nation for the AICPA’s Leadership Academy. He WIDENER environmental, mechanical, electrical and structural
was previously involved in the Rotary Club of Warrick from 2013- 2018 before
changes in his career put his service on a hold. Perkins holds both a master’s engineering with over 110 professional staff in regional offices in Illinois,
and bachelor’s degree in accountancy from Ball State University. During his Indiana, Kentucky and Wisconsin.
time at Ball State, John served as president of the accounting club as well as a
graduate assistant for the economics department. HALEY N. COONS
Riney Hancock CPAs PSC announced that Haley N.
12 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER Coons received her Certified Public Accountant’s
license by completing the CPA examination and
experience requirements. Coons is a Staff Accountant
in the Client Accounting Services Division at Riney
Hancock CPAs. Coons graduated summa cum laude
from Brescia University with a bachelor’s degree in
Accounting and a minor in Pre-Law. She received
the Outstanding Accounting Student Award in 2018
and 2019, the Student Leadership Award, the St.
Catherine’s Scholar Athlete Award from 2016-2019 and the High Scholastic
Achievement Award.

ROGER COHEN BILL LEE
Environmental Management Consultants (EMC), Bill Lee retired as Commissioner of the Frontier
a leading environmental consulting firm based in League on March 1. He had served as commissioner
Evansville, announced the hiring of Roger Cohen, for 27 years, since 1994, and will continue as a
LPG, as Director. He replaces Mark Phillips, who consultant. After graduating from Southern Illinois
is retiring after 16 years of service. Cohen will be University Edwardsville with a degree in Mass
responsible for leading EMC’s team of scientists and Communications, Lee played in the Atlanta Braves
engineers as an environmental service provider for organization and the independent Lone Star League.
commercial, industrial, municipal and real estate He then worked for the Birmingham Barons as their
clients in the Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois tri-state Assistant General Manager and Public Relations
area. As a licensed professional geologist, Cohen Director before moving on to become the General
has a personal expertise in helping commercial real estate clients manage Manager of the Chattanooga Lookouts. While with the Lookouts, Lee was
environmental liability issues during property transactions, industrial hygiene, the Southern League’s Executive of the Year in 1989. Just before joining the
and the investigation and remediation of contaminated properties. Cohen Frontier League, he was the Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for the
also brings a fresh perspective to the region regarding funding sources for Seattle Thunderbirds Hockey Club in the Western Hockey League. Lee was
municipal and private Brownfields redevelopment projects. chosen as Marketing Executive of the Year of that League in 1991. The Frontier
EASTERSEALS REHABILITATION CENTER League has begun a search for a replacement. Evansville’s John Stanley serves
The Easterseals Rehabilitation Center in Evansville announced members of as president of the league, which includes the Bosse Field-based Evansville
its Board of Directors for 2021. The members volunteer their time, talent, Otters.
and expertise to help Easterseals achieve its mission: To make profound, JAMES ‘JT’ JARBOE
positive differences in the lives of local people with disabilities every day, and James Thomas “JT” Jarboe joined Riney Hancock
to change the way our community defines and views disability. The nonprofit CPAs PSC as a Supervisor in the Tax Services
organization serves almost 5,000 children and adults with disabilities from 30 Divisions. Prior to joining the firm, he worked for
Tri-State counties and is celebrating its 75th anniversary year in 2021. a regional accounting firm in Indianapolis. Jarboe
has experience in providing tax compliance and
2021 Board Chair: John Raisor (Fifth Third Bank) advisory services to multinational and multistate
Executive Committee members: Paul Green (Community Volunteer), companies, as well as planning and consulting for
Brian Hape (United Leasing, Inc.), Denny Hargett (Easterseals Posey County small business owners. Jarboe is a graduate of Indiana
representative), Sara Miller (Old National Bank), Bill Norman (Berry Global), University with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting
Dan Parod (St. Vincent), John Schroeder, Director Emeritus (Wabash/Crescent and Finance. He also received his Masters of Business
Plastics), Scott Schroeder (Wabash Plastics), Spencer Tanner (Jackson Kelly Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Economics from Ball State
PLLC), and Matt Theby (Lensing Building Specialties). University.
Board Members: Scott Albin (PCI Skanska, Inc.), Maurice Berendes DEREK BECK
(Community Volunteer), Rob Bingham (German American), Scott Branam With 20 years of field experience as an insulator and
(Deaconess Cross Pointe), Geoff Gentil (Field & Main Bank), Katy Gilberg foreman, Derek Beck advanced his career at Gribbins
(Community Volunteer), Michelle Graham (Harding Shymanski & Co.), Chad Insulation by moving into an office role as Estimator/
Grunow (Ritzy’s), Carol Hull (Community Volunteer), Doug Kanet (Cresline Project Manager. In this new position, he will use
Plastics), Curt Molander (ABC 25/CW 7), Dana Myers (Vectren, A Centerpoint his on-the-job knowledge to assess customer needs,
Company), Ken Smith (Breck Logistics), Anne Thrasher Boyd (Anne Thrasher prepare proposals and manage projects throughout
Boyd State Farm), and Brian Williams (Kahn Dees Donovan & Kahn). Gribbins Insulation’s footprint. Beck, of Henderson,
KY, completed the Insulator Apprenticeship Training
ROBYN TUCKER Program in 2005, graduating with an Associate
Robyn Tucker joined German American Bank as a Degree in Construction Technologies from ITT
Mortgage Loan Originator serving Vanderburgh and Technical Institute. Founded in 1985, Gribbins Insulation is a commercial and
Warrick Counties in Indiana. Tucker has been in the industrial mechanical insulation contractor serving the Midwestern United
financial services industry since 2004 and has over 10 States. Headquartered in Evansville, the company has five branch offices in
years of experience in helping customers through the Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky, and employs about 250 people throughout its
lending process. footprint.
R0GER NURRENBERN MEGAN PARISH
Roger Nurrenbern, who has been an Edward Jones financial advisor in Megan Parish joined Habitat for Humanity of
Evansville since 2001, qualified for the Edward Jones Managing Partner’s Evansville as Communications Manager. She will help
Conference, which honors the top 400 of the firm’s more than 19,000 financial explain Habitat’s mission in the community.
advisors. The achievement recognizes and celebrates Edward Jones’ most
successful financial advisors and provides them with the opportunity to DANIEL SCHWEIKHART
hear from keynote speakers inside and outside of the firm and to share best Daniel Schweikhart joined Edward Jones as a
practices for delivering exceptional client service. Financial Advisor. Schweikhart, an Evansville native,
attended F.J. Reitz High School and joined the IBEW
Local 16 electrical union doing both industrial and
commercial projects. After serving in the United
States Marine Corps, advancing to sergeant while
serving in both Operation Enduring Freedom and
with the U.S Pacific Command Response team, he
attended the University of Southern Indiana and
earned a degree in Business Administration at the
Romain College School of Business. He then worked with German American
Bank as a commercial loan officer and in credit underwriting and retail
banking before joining Edward Jones.

Newsmakers, con't next page

SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 13

F.C. TUCKER EMGE REALTORS SCHUTZ PERIGO GROUP
F.C. Tucker Emge REALTORS® has welcomed new agents. Schutz Perigo Group of RW Baird made new hires and promotions:

LORINDA MELISSA ASHLEY TAYLOR WADDELL
MULL ALLDREDGE VIGNOLO Taylor Waddell was hired as a Client Assistant. She
works with all clients to service their investments and
accounts. Waddell graduated from the University of
Southern Indiana in 2018 with a degree in economics
and a minor in business administration. She has
worked at Hornet’s Nest as a server and most recently
at a local bank in the mortgage department.

JOHN SCHUTZ
John Schutz was named a Managing Director. The
title of Managing Director is reserved for the most
successful Financial Advisors who consistently
demonstrate the highest standards with regard to
production, compliance, Baird citizenship, leadership
and overall contribution to the firm and community.

TYRA GABE AMANDA FELICIA HOSTETTLER
FOREST ROHLEDER WHITNEY Felicia Hostettler is now Assistant Vice
President. Over the years she has provided excellent
Lorinda Mull, Melissa Alldredge and client service, shown leadership in the branch and the
Ashley Vignolo are new in the Eagle Crest across the firm, and actively pursues understanding of
office. Mull graduated with a bachelor’s degree Baird and its culture to implement the best practices
in religious studies with a Christian education and strategies for the most positive outcomes for our
minor. She has been involved in youth clients.
leadership, public speaking and community MICHELLE VANOVER
outreach. Alldredge has been a legal secretary for the Michelle Vanover was named a Senior Client
last 30 years. Vignolo graduated from the University Specialist. She is responsible for client service and
of Southern Indiana and previously worked in direct business development support of the Schutz Perigo
sales and elementary education.  Group of Baird. Vanover is proficient in all of Baird’s
technology platforms and has strong organization
ARLENE Tyra Forest joins Missy Mosby in the Newburgh skills. She also manages client events and works on
KLUESNER office. Forest holds an associate’s degree in accounting marketing for the team.
VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY
and business administration and a bachelor’s degree in applied management The Vanderburgh Humane Society has promoted 3 employees. These new
and was a production control specialist with Toyota for 11 years.   roles will help the organization provide more efficient support and services to
more community members than ever before.
Gabe Rohleder is a new agent with The Andy Rudolph Team in the downtown
office. Rohleder attended Mater Dei High School, Hanover College, and
the University of Evansville where he was on the golf team. He has been
a deliberate training, strength and conditioning specialist, the Mater Dei boys
and girls golf coach, and the assistant golf professional at Evansville Country
Club.  

Amanda Whitney and Arlene Kluesner are new agents in the
Jasper office. Whitney is a native of New York and is currently also licensed
in real estate in Arizona, North Carolina and Kentucky. Kluesner graduated
from the University of Southern Indiana with a bachelor’s degree in business
administration.

BEN SCHMITT VANESSA KALEA HELENA
EPIC Insurance Midwest, a retail property, casualty
insurance brokerage, and employee benefits BROWN BAIZE BRENDEL-NILES
consultant, announced that Ben Schmitt returned
to the firm as Region Practice Leader and Senior Vanessa Brown has been promoted to Foster Care Coordinator thanks to a
Employee Benefits Advisor in Evansville. Schmitt Rachael Ray Save Them All Grant from Best Friends Animal Society.
brings nearly 20 years of insurance and financial
services experience to his role. He focuses on Kalea Baize has been promoted to Adoptions Supervisor.
developing customized health care strategies for
each of his clients to help them manage both their Helena Brendel-Niles has been promoted to Intakes Supervisor.
short-term cost control challenges as well as the
long-term issues of health program management, compliance, employee NIKI PURCELL
engagement, accountability, health and well-being. Most recently, Schmitt held Niki Purcell, Collections Department Supervisor
the position of Senior Employee Benefits Consultant with a regional agency, at Cash-Pro, Inc., earned the American Collectors
and prior to this role, he served as an Employee Benefits Advisor with EPIC Association's Professional Collection Manager
Insurance Midwest (formerly ONI Risk Partners). Schmitt has the designation certification. Purcell has been with Cash-Pro for
of Certified Self-Funding Professional through NAHU. He earned a Bachelor almost 10 years and at her current position for
of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and four. Cash-Pro, Inc. is a full-service Receivables
Marketing at the University of Southern Indiana. Schmitt has held leadership Management company serving clients throughout the
positions on several community councils such as USI, Leadership Everyone Midwest.
and Warrick Trails.
14 SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER

FARMER SCOTT OZETE ROBINSON BBB® BUSINESS TIP
& SCHMITT LLP
Four attorneys from Farmer Scott Ozete Robinson 10 social media
& Schmitt LLP, located in the 21 Southeast Third content ideas
Street Building in Evansville, were selected as 2021
Indiana Super Lawyers and Rising Stars. Only any business should try
5 percent of attorneys in Indiana receive Super
Lawyers distinction. Only 2.5% of attorneys in By BBB of Southern Piedmont and Western N.C.
Indiana receive Rising Star Distinction.
As a small business owner, you want to engage with your customers and participate in
TERRY FARMER local conversations. Social media allows you to do this quickly and easily. After all,
Terry Farmer was according to Sprout Social, 3.6 billion people use social media globally, and 57% of
selected as a Super consumers follow businesses because they want to learn about new products or services.
Lawyer in the area of It’s essential to keep your social media content fresh and engaging — 45% of consumers will
Business Litigation. unfollow a brand on social media if their content is irrelevant.
With more than 30 Looking for some new ideas? Try these 10 social media content ideas to keep your
years of law firm followers engaged.
management experience 1. Video
and as general counsel 54% of consumers want to see more video content from a brand they support, according to
to clients in banking, Hubspot. Record some videos for your followers or start a live video to engage with your
telecommunications, customers in real-time.
manufacturing, construction and theme park 2. Employee feature
industries, his time is split about equally between Post about the people behind your company. Featuring your employees will display your
the courtroom and negotiating table. business’s personal touch and show appreciation to your employees.
3. Behind the scenes
ANDREW OZETE Give your followers a look behind the curtain and show them how your business operates,
Andrew Ozete was whether through videos or pictures.
named a Super Lawyer in 4. Contests and giveaways
the Business Bankruptcy One of the best ways to engage your audience is to hold a contest or giveaway. Offer a free
area. Ozete has product or service and encourage your followers to tag their friends to gain more entries.
represented businesses, 5. Tips and tricks
financial institutions, If you sell a product, post some tips and tricks for how to use it properly. For services, share
trade creditors and some helpful insights that make you stand out from the competition.
debtors in transactions, 6. Polls and surveys
leases, litigation, Social media makes it easy to poll your followers. Your audience will love giving their opinion,
business workouts, loan whether it’s about what products or services you should offer or if it’s something playful like
restructurings, and Chapter 11 cases. He advises their favorite song.
institutional clients and small business owners. 7. Inspirational quotes
Show your brand’s values by sharing quotes that have a special meaning to you. What inspires
BETH BURGER you will likely resonate with your audience.
Beth Burger was selected 8. Memes and GIFs
as a Super Lawyer in the Keep it fun by including some fun memes or GIFs on your page. Showing your sense of
area of Estate Planning humor can give your business a relatable touch.
and Probate. She has 9. Infographics
more than 25 years If you have some helpful tips or information, consider sharing them in the form of an
of concentration on infographic. Infographics make the information easily digestible and are visually engaging.
assisting clients in estate 10. User-generated content
planning, elder law, tax When customers tag your business on social media, feel free to reshare this user-generated
reduction planning, asset content on your business page. Doing so can help your followers feel connected to your brand
protection planning, and encourage others to tag your business as well.
special needs planning for disabled or elderly
individuals, and charitable giving. Download the infographic (PDF) - https://www.bbb.org/globalassets/local-bbbs/council-113/
media/smallbusiness/10_social_media_content_ideas.pdf
LINDSAY For more information or to review this article and hyperlink references in full, visit: https://www.
SCHMITT bbb.org/article/business/23793-bbb-business-tip-10-social-media-ideas-any-business-should-try
Lindsay Schmitt was See more business tips at BBB.org/SmallBusiness.
selected as a Super Visit BBB.org/get-accredited today to learn more about BBB Accreditation and how it can help your
Lawyer Rising Star in the business.
area of Estate Planning
and Probate. Schmitt SOUTHWEST INDIANA CHAMBER 15
works one-on-one with
individuals and families
on Wills, Trusts, Durable
General Powers of
Attorney, and Advanced Healthcare Directives for
long-term care expense. She also assists farmers
with business formation, succession planning,
purchase agreements, real estate and mineral
leasing, and planning for asset protection.

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

APRIL 16, 2021

11:30 AM - 1 PM
TROPICANA EVANSVILLE/LIVE STREAM

 ADVOCACY  LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
 NETWORKING  COMPANY RECOGNITION

Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch has built
her extensive career in state and local
government as a state representative for
Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties,
a Vanderburgh County commissioner
and as Vanderburgh County auditor.

Local community leaders with an interest
in agriculture, community, defense and
tourism development will be in attendance.
A sponsorship at this event offers businesses
an opportunity for exposure to engaged
community leaders and information about
relevant legislative updates.

REGISTER NOW @SWINCHAMBER.COM››

*Due to COVID-19 restrictions, in-person availability is subject to change.

For more information on sponsoring this event, contact:

Tina Fuhrer, Acquisition Accounts Executive,

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

w w w. s w i n c h a m b e r. c o m

@SWINChamber