Evansville Business December 2022/January 2023

Alan Newman

Tess Grimm

Lu Porter

John David Lutz

Lucy Himstedt

SUCCESS IS CRAFTED

When you work with Field & Main, we match your commitment with our passion for providing you with meaningful solutions and services.

Designed for your everyday needs, planning for the next chapters, & protecting what is important. Here everything matters in the pursuit of the success you deserve. That’s MODERN CRAFT BANKING

Start your journey today.

PUBLISHER

Todd A. Tucker EDITORIAL

A Publication of Tucker Publishing Group

Tucker Publishing Group

25 N.W. Riverside Drive, Ste. 200 Evansville, IN 47708 812-426-2115

evansvillebusiness.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscriptions are $18 for one year; $24 for two years; or $30 for three years. To start a new subscription, renew an existing subscription, or change your address, visit evansvilleliving.com/ subscribe; call 812-641-5919 or 818286-3122 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST Monday through Friday, or send an email to elbcs@magserv.com.

IN THE NEWS

Evansville Business welcomes submissions for our business social page and corporate news. Please mail or email these items eight weeks in advance of the magazine cover date to the address above or events@ evansvilleliving.com.

LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER

Letters to the publisher may be sent to the address above or to ttucker@ evansvilleliving.com.

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Take advantage of Evansville Business’ prime advertising space. Please call us at 812-426-2115 or visit evansvilleliving.com.

Evansville Business is published bimonthly by Tucker Publishing Group, 25 N.W. Riverside Drive, Ste. 200, Evansville, IN 47708, and printed at LSC Communications, Lebanon Junction, KY. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article, or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Evansville Business.

Copyright © 2022 Tucker Publishing Group. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from Tucker Publishing Group.

The ‘Big Man’ and a ‘Beast’

s I write this, it’s two days before Thanks giving, and whom ever coined the phrase “the calm before the storm” must have had some insight into the Tucker household prior to the holiday weekend. We evolve from very quiet, empty-nest er living into a whirlwind of chaos and mess-making with our sons, Maxwell and Jackson, and also this year a frat bro of Jackson’s from Virginia named Parker. Throw in girlfriends visiting along with an assortment of high school friends, and you start to form the picture: Take-out food, beer cans, and snacks, along with articles of clothing “just dropped and frozen in time.” I don’t need a Ph.D. in forensics to determine what has gone on while I was out. The evidence will be overwhelming. And, can you really watch too many ballgames over the long weekend? I will let you know.

Please take the time to read “In Memoriam” on page 20. This article about the late Howard Nevins was written by Meghan Stratton, who remarked to me how impressed she was with the stories people shared with her regarding Howard. I’d met Howard only a few times — he didn’t strike me as a man wanting to be called Mr. Nevins often, or ever — but based on the conversa tions with those who knew him best, I wish it had been more. Passion and sheer force of will can combine to do great things for neighbors and the community. What a life resume.

Ahardcore, tough-as-nails competitor — meaning, you do all the work required, and then some. Jordan just competed in her second Ironman World Cham pionship in Kona, Hawaii, in two years. She finished in the 18-24 age group in 13 hours, two minutes, and nine seconds on a very difficult course during a long day. Jordan first qualified in 2021 for the World Championship in her first Ironman event in Chattanooga, a difficult task at best. I knew who Jordan was coming up in the ranks in local club swimming and then competing for F.J. Reitz High School. I even cycled 115 miles with her on a training ride in 2021, just prior to her qualifying for the World Championship. (I remember that ride too well.) Congratulations, Jordan … you are indeed a beast.

University of Southern Indi ana junior and swimmer Jor dan Ambrose is a “beast.” The 20-year-old knows that in the triathlon world she inhabits, that term is an extreme compliment for a

I will try — ahem — to be as polite as possible here. Mr. Frank W. Patton Jr. knows, well, almost everyone in the commu nity. Frank is retiring from his business, Frank Jr.’s Catering, at the end of the year. If Frank is your friend, then you have a truly great friend. Frank has been terrific to our family and our office staff since we started Tucker Publishing Group. We have “enjoyed” many of Frank Jr.’s barbecue din ners, and I find his ribs and (award-winning, he tells me) mac ‘n cheese (three trophies, he says) to be fairly tolerable. Both of his sons have interned for us, and after spending time with them, we definitely know Frank’s wife Roxane must be really wise. A long-suffering Miami Dolphins fan, you would think Frank Jr. played on the 50th anniversary undefeated Dolphins team. Enjoy your retirement, Frank. Now we can go to some basketball games, and I can further explain the game to you. We all wish you well, Big Man.

As always, I look forward to hearing from most of you.

Todd A. Tucker, President

Introducing FORVIS, forward vision from the merger of BKD and DHG. FORVIS has the enhanced capabilities of an expanded national platform and deepened industry intelligence. With greater resources and robust advisory services, FORVIS is prepared to help you better navigate the current and future dynamic organizational landscape.

We are FORVIS. Forward vision drives our Unmatched Client Experiences ™

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

UNION PROUD

We could not be more thrilled with the article and photography (“State of the Union,” Octo ber/November 2022). I am very grateful for the work you and your team did on this. On behalf of all of us, thank you!

Brent Joyce, senior vice president, Liberty Federal Credit Union

SWEET MEMORIAL

Very thankful and appreciative of Tucker Pub lishing Group for the memorial for Brando in the latest issue of Evansville Business tions from the Shallow End,” October/Novem ber 2022). They have always had a soft spot for animals and have supported my various undertakings and fundraisers over the years. I have always appreciated the thoughtfulness, generosity, and willingness to help.

Brian Buxton via Facebook

SEW THANKFUL

Thank you very much to Riley Guerzini and ville Business this article (“Do Stitch,” October/November 2022). It has been an abso lute pleasure to work with so many amazing brides. We look forward to helping many more brides and bridal parties to come in the future!

Katelyn’s Alterations & Design via Facebook

ALWAYS GIFTING

I just want to thank everyone who contrib uted to the wonderful article on our shop in the latest issue of Evansville Business zine (“Birds of a Feather,” October/November 2022). We have had so many positive com ments from our customers and friends.

Michael Gray, Rare Bird uncommon gifts

CELEBRATING WOMEN

Our very own Jenna Richardt (VP of Economic Development) is featured as a Leading Woman in Business by Evansville Business tember 2022)! This issue celebrates the women that shape Evansville’s business community.

Evansville Regional Economic Partnership via Facebook

INSPIRING LEADERS

Who runs the world? Girls! Super proud to be in a group of inspiring women leaders at AmeriQual Group, LLC. Thanks to Business magazine for recognizing us in its Leading Women in Business section (August/ September 2022).

Mirsada Sasic via LinkedIn

CORRECTION

The photo of Venue 812 owners Doros and Ellada Hadjisavva (“A Dream Come True,” October/November 2022) was taken by Christine Beyer.

How

In financial circles, the word “trust” is significant. It implies complete confidence in one’s ability and integrity. If you don’t have complete trust in your financial advisor, you’re working with the wrong person.

As an independent, fee-only financial services firm, our highly trained professionals have earned the trust of hundreds of families by proving comprehensive, unbiased financial council. Learn why we’re trusted at www.pettinga.com

Racing Ahead

Austin Nolan’s success on the track leads to a career at USI

BY MAGGIE VALENTI

As chronicled in the story “Family Strides” in the October/November 2021 issue of Evansville Business, running — especially at the University of Southern Indiana — is in the Nolan family’s blood. Austin, the third of USI Hall of Famer Jim and Tammy Nolan’s six sons, calls USI “my second home,” and the university clearly feels the same way: In September, USI’s cross country and track and field programs announced Nolan would join their coaching staff as an assistant.

“Austin is a great addition to the USI coaching family as we continue to grow the program to meet the challenges ahead,” Head Coach Mike Hillyard said in a press release announcing Nolan’s hiring.

As an athlete, Nolan worked continu ously to improve his running style and

times. The results made him a Second Team AllAmerican in track, twotime Great Lakes Valley Conference Runner of the Year in cross country, and a combined eight-time GLVC champion in both sports while competing at USI.

Still, Nolan initially didn’t think he would end up coaching. While he earned a master’s degree in sport man agement in May 2022, watching Hillyard convinced Nolan that coaching was the post-graduate path he wanted to take.

He says the most fu lfilling part of assistant coaching is watching the ath letes’ progress, especially as the Scream ing Eagles compete in their first season of NCAA Division I athletics. Many of the

runners he is coaching also were once his teammates, and his younger brother Alex is a freshman on the team this season.

“I’m a very competitive person. I’m proud of the accomplishments so far,” Nolan says. “I 100% believe that USI cross country and track and field could be a top contender in Division I.”

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA

Austin Nolan raced in the footsteps of his parents, who were both prolific track and cross-country runners and coaches at USI. Nolan is channeling that success into his post-graduation career as an assistant coach for the Screaming Eagles.

THE AUDACITY TO DREAM. THE STRENGTH TO LEAD.

Are you an emerging leader looking to acquire skills in ethical, innovative leadership? Grow your capabilities with the University of Evansville’s 16-month online Master of Science in Leadership program.

In this program, you will learn:

l Cutting-edge strategies in innovation, design thinking, and change management

l Effective communication skills for building high-functioning teams

l Ethical decision-making approaches when faced with complicated challenges

l Concentrations in Innovation, Health Care Leadership, Non-Profit Leadership, Public Health, and Higher Education Leadership Become an

An Artist with a Bulldozer

Joe Titzer shapes his business one golf course at a time

BY MAGGIE VALENTI

Joe Titzer is thrilled to be back in the River City. It is his first time work ing in Evansville since his days at the former Clearcrest Pines Golf Course. Since then, the Mater Dei High School grad uate has been all over the world shaping renowned golf courses.

Titzer says he is not a golf course designer, architect, or landscaper, but rather an “artist with a bulldozer.” He carves out the angles, creating those slight indents or slopes that keep the game of golf interesting.

“I have to take what [the designers] give me and turn it into 3D,” he says.

Although his family is into golf, Titzer doesn’t play. Starting in maintenance at Clearcrest Pines, he eventually rose in the ranks to assistant superintendent. In 1997, he got a call from famed golf course designer Tom Fazio about materials needed to build the course at Victoria National Golf Club in Newburgh, Indiana. That connection led Titzer to work for North Carolina-based Course Doctors before starting his own com pany, Titzer Golf Course Shaping, in 2011.

Today, Titzer — now a Charleston, South Carolina resident — is highly regarded enough to work closely with developer Beau Welling and TGR Design, PGA golfer Tiger Woods’ course-building company. After traveling all over to con struct acclaimed courses, Titzer says he is glad to be in Evansville so loved ones can see his work firsthand.

“It’s kind of great. Nobody around here knows what I do. They’ve never seen it, ‘cause I’m always somewhere else,” he says.

Since August, Titzer and his colleagues have been renovating Evansville Country Club’s golf course at 3810 Stringtown Road, which is slated for completion next spring. The $6.5 million in improvements will take it from a 6,215-yard, par-71 course to 6,101 yards and par-70.

“His knowledge of golf course design and construction has made my life a lot easier and fun,” says Jeff Sexton, ECC’s certified golf course superintendent. “He’s bought into the project because he’s always wanted to do something for his commu

nity, where he grew up. That’s resulted in a top-notch end result.”

Construction involves relocating the green complex, building a new short game practice area and halfway house, laying new tennis and pickleball courts, rearranging golf cart paths, and re-grassing areas. The improvements will modernize the course and make maintenance easier.

“[It] gives the superintendent better growing conditions and playing condi tions,” he says.

Joe Titzer’s golf course shaping business has taken him all over the world, from working in the swamps of Louisiana to scaling mountains with a bulldozer in South Korea. Now, he is happy to be back in his hometown overhauling the course at Evansville Country Club.

SEE MORE OF JOE TITZER’S WORK ON YOUTUBE @TITZERSHAPING

JOE TITZER

Second Act

Don Lanier’s successful roofing franchise expands

BY JODI KEEN

Don Lanier planned to retire after a long career in construction, moving with his wife, Deborah, from California to Indiana in 2017. Instead of relaxing, a year later he opened the first franchise of Honest Abe Roofing, which was founded in 2007 in Terre Haute, Indiana.

In those four years, Honest Abe launched nearly two dozen franchises in seven states, with the Evansville location being the first franchise to reach $9 million in sales. In August, Honest Abe opened its first location in Kentucky, which the Laniers also own.

“We opened the Louisville store, and we're making it. We hit some milestones,” Lanier says.

Evansville Business: How did you find your way to Evansville from California?

Don Lanier: I wanted to get out of Cali fornia, and a buddy of mine moved to Indiana, just outside Terre Haute, four years prior, so I bought 18 acres with a five-acre fishing lake. My plan was to just get a part-time job and fish a lot. Six months came, and I got bored. I walked into Honest Abe Roofing, got an interview, and they said, “You're qualified, but we think we have something more suitable for you. We're looking for our very first franchisee, and we haven't found that guy, and we think you're the one.” I came back to our travel trailer on the lake and told Deborah. To my surprise, she was open to it. We met with them, agreed on some terms, hired an attorney, turned around, (and) went to Evansville. The rest is history.

EB: What you've accomplished in four short years is impressive. That doesn’t happen by accident.

DL: It’s a combination of everything. It was just a good fit. It took us a while to break into Evansville. We made

our money in Kentucky on the outskirt towns; they're underserved. We then worked our way into Evansville. I don’t want to say we took over, but we're in the top three to five. It’s a big team effort, hiring the right people.

EB: What are some of the core tenets of your business philosophy that have driven your success?

DL: I think it is having a servant mindset. We're there to serve the homeowner, whether they don't have any money or credit. We show up anyway and treat them like a buyer. Treat them with respect and dignity, and they'll become a buyer maybe down the road.

EB: How is the transition into the Louisville market?

DL: We're just hitting the ground right now. My son Jeffrey was my sales manager here. He stepped up and moved to New Albany, and he's running the Kentucky location. I feel blessed that I'm able to provide him a solid, good career and experience.

BY THE NUMBERS

A Place to Call Home

After a years-long hot streak, Vanderburgh County’s housing market is showing subtle signs of cooling. But that doesn’t spell bad news: Inventory is growing, and the median home sales price is still ticking up.

BY JODI KEEN

2,581 New listings from January to October 2022 3.5

Percent decrease in new listings since October 2021 $175,000

Median sales price per home in 2022, a 6.1 percent increase from October 2021 306

Inventory of homes for sale in October 2022 34.8

Percent increase in inventory of homes for sale since October 2021

Don Lanier has owned and operated Evansville’s Honest Abe Roofing franchise since 2018. The location’s continued success has broadened his business to Louisville, Kentucky, where this year Honest Abe Roofing opened its first franchise in the state.

On the Rise

Barton Malow is making its mark on the Tri-State

When the former Old National Bank Tower was imploded on Nov. 21, 2021, a cheer went up from the crew of contractors watching from the 400 block of Vine Street in Down town Evansville. They weren’t celebrating the icon’s demise; rather, they were show ing gratitude for a dangerous job done well.

Quietly overseeing this monumental task were employees of Barton Malow, a 98-year-old firm based in Michigan. As a Construction Manager for major health care, higher education, and sports and entertain ment projects across the U.S., the company spotted growth potential in the Tri-State and moved into the market in early 2016. It has set up shop at 117 S.E. Fourth St. since 2018.

In less than a decade, the company has made large footprints around Evansville. A frequent collaborator with Deaconess Health System, Barton Malow oversaw the construction of the Deaconess Orthopedic and Neuroscience Hospital and Downtown clinic, as well as renovations at Deaconess Midtown Hospital and The Women’s Hos pital. Barton Malow also served as general

BY JODI KEEN

contractor for the construction of the Diges tive Care Center on Epworth Road and the demolition of the Old National Bank Tower and adjacent Sycamore Building.

The Fifth and Main project has experi enced tumult in the year since the iconic building’s implosion. Domo Development Company pulled out after the project stalled this spring. Barton Malow’s role ended when Carmel, Indiana-based firm CRG Residential took over as developer in July. Despite that chapter closing for Barton Malow, the tower’s implosion remains a significant project.

“Everyone — from the city engineer’s office, utilities, and sewer, to police, fire, and emergency personnel — had some rela tionship with that building,” Senior Project Manager Joe Scheberle says. “When you take down a building, you’re taking away a memory, so we make painstaking efforts to get everything right.”

Although the company’s local pres ence still feels a bit new, Barton Malow’s 30 regional employees overwhelmingly hail from the Tri-State.

“It’s not some big company coming in from out of town. We’re local. Our kids are born and raised here, go to school here, we go to church here. We are a part of the Tri-State community,” Scheberle says.

Aiding local connections is Barton Malow’s company-wide emphasis on engaging with communities. Through an annual volunteer week, employees nation-wide donate their working hours to local agencies. In Evansville, Barton Malow completes a honey-do list of improvements for the Boys & Girls Club.

"They are the best people to work with. They’re so helpful, so kind. You know you’re going to get quality out of them, and that’s peace of mind,” says Amy Hahn, director of programs at the Boys & Girls Club of Evansville.

“Evansville shares Barton Malow’s val ues, and the biggest is integrity,” Scheberle says. “Our team loves a good challenge. We love dissecting a problem and figuring it out and making something great out of it.”

Since 2016, Michigan-based Construction Manager Barton Malow has quietly built a presence in the Tri-State by coordinating significant projects such as the Deaconess Gateway Orthopedic and Neuroscience Hospital and the 2021 implosion of the Old National Bank Tower. The Barton Malow team rooted in Evansville includes Senior Project Coordinator Chris Foust, Senior Project Manager Joe Scheberle, and Project Engineer Austin Davis.

Heart and Sole

Blake Jeffress builds wearable, custom works of art

BY RILEY GUERZINI

New sneaker releases don’t excite Blake Jeffress quite like they used to. The Castle Highschool graduate says it was increasingly difficult to find the right pair to add to his own collection of more than 100 sneakers. So, he decided to make his own.

“Going through high school, it was a good way to express myself through shoes,” he says. “I ended up collecting so many different pairs of sneakers that new releases all just either looked like something I had or I just wasn’t interested in.”

Jeffress journeyed out to Los Angeles, California, to take a professional course in cobblery. With this new knowledge of pattern making and lasting (the process of stretching the upper shoe over the outsole and permanently attaching), he began making shoes for himself. Eventually, he started crafting and selling custom designs through his shop, TrueSole Customs.

Focusing mostly on athletic shoes, Jeffress will source shoes upon customers’ request, detach the soles, and build a custom-designed shoe using everything from imported Japanese fabrics to Italian leathers. The result is a one-of-a-kind Nike or Jordan, but still a complete recreation of the original shoe.

“Everything that I’m doing is going to be essentially a one-to-one recreation of the original,” he says. “That’s how I’m able to do this legally. I’m not creating something new; I’m just customizing their already-made product.”

He has sold products, which range in price from $300 to $750 or more, plus the price of the sole, to buyers across the country and Europe. Jeffress, who works fulltime as a property manager in Evansville, says the turnaround time for a typical job is about 4-6 weeks.

PHOTOS BY ZACH STRAW

“It’s kind of just a mixed bag of what ever someone’s wanting. I’m willing to take it on and kind of make it a reality,” he says. “I like to make things that inspire me or take things I see in my everyday life and translate them into a shoe, which is kind of a fun challenge for myself.”

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Banking on the Future

Teamsters Local 215 labor union invests in education

The Teamsters Local 215 labor union has invested in the community by way of post-secondary education scholar ships for 25 years, awarding more than 2,100 scholarships for nearly $4 million to the children of union members.

Chuck Whobrey, president and business manager of Local 215, helped establish the scholarship fund in 1997 and currently maintains it. Local 215 negotiates employer contributions to the scholarship fund in its collectively bargained contracts.

“These scholarships give people an opportunity to attend any post-secondary education accredited institution,” he says. “Helping these families raises the standards in our community, and any education they can get makes for a better community.”

When students apply for scholarships during their senior year of high school, Whobrey passes on their applications to the volunteer-based scholarship committee. Sherrianne Standley, vice president emerita for advancement at the Uni versity of Southern Indiana, has chaired the committee since the beginning.

The committee considers several criteria, including stu dents’ grades, leadership experiences, community involvement, and an essay. The scholarships are awarded for one year and are renewable annually for their first five years out of high

BY MEGHAN STRATTON

school. Standley says students have attended several colleges, medi cal and trade programs, and even horseshoeing school.

“I see a change in the aspirations of the applicants, and I think it’s a result of students who have learned that the scholarship is available,” she says. “It helps them know that a new door could open to an education.”

Greg Greathouse’s two children received education schol arships toward college from the Teamsters union. The Van derburgh County Highway Department employee says the scholarships help ease financial stress on students and families.

“I think the scholarships help create work ethic,” he says, “and it’s always great when kids are put in a position to help other people and do good in their community. It helps create good citizens.”

“While the scholarships directly help the students receive education, it also helps the union members uplift their fami lies,” Whobrey says.

FOLLOW TRUESOLE CUSTOMS ON INSTAGRAM @TRUE.SOLE

MEET GUTWEIN LAW:

Evansville’s Rapidly-Growing Law Firm is Strictly Business

While Gutwein Law may have entered the market in 2020, the team’s Evansville roots run deep. We caught up with Ross Yates, Tyler Droste, and Spencer Tanner – the three attorneys spearheading Gutwein Law’s new frontier – to talk the firm’s mission, what it brings to the market, and what’s next in their growth plan.

First off, tell us about Gutwein Law. What makes you different?

Ross: “Since the firm was founded 10 years ago, it’s been our mission to help the most forward-thinking, innovative companies grow through high-level legal counsel. We routinely handle a variety of complex business legal matters including entity forma tion and capital raising, employment, patents and trademarks, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, and estate and succession planning. Many of our team members are entrepreneurs themselves, so that means we can provide real-world busi ness perspective and advice to our clients. We believe our approach to client relationships, combined with our team’s first-hand business knowledge, truly makes our firm unique.”

Why Evansville?

Tyler: “I’ve loved my time at Gutwein Law since joining the firm in 2014, so when we discussed the possibility to grow into the Evansville market in early 2020, I jumped at the opportunity to be involved. Having been born and raised in Evansville, I was excited to have the chance to help in supporting the thriving middle market business climate and budding startup community here.”

So, you’ve had a presence in Evansville since 2020. What’s changed since you arrived?

Tyler: “When I first made the move back down to Evansville, I worked out of the Cowork Evansville space. Being in that location allowed me to meet new people, get reacquainted with past colleagues, and build a foundation for our firm’s presence in the market. Soon after, Ross joined the firm and our continued growth led us to a permanent office space in the 5/3 Center building. We also recently added Spencer in July of this year.”

Ross and Spencer, you both came from other firms in Evansville. What attracted you to Gutwein Law?

Ross: “We commit a significant amount of time and effort in developing a team that is comprised of highly sophisticated lawyers that are also great individuals in their respective communities. Our clients deserve, and expect us to be, not only the very best at what we do, but also a true partner in their enterprise and goals. The legal services industry is rapidly changing, and clients expect more from their counsel now more than ever. We often work across the table from the largest firms in the country and across multiple geographic markets. Our clients appreciate our ability to bring a practical knowledge of the market and deliver on our promise of legal strategies with business perspective.”

Spencer: “I see our Evansville office somewhat as a blank canvas with the Gutwein model providing the frame work and really empowering us to use our skills to create something new for clients in this area. In a post-COVID world, the traditional law firm model might as well be dead. You can’t just put a fresh face on the rigidity of the structure and decision-making of the old regime. From its inception, Gutwein has been intentional about being clientfocused while providing flexibility to its attorneys and staff to, regardless of physical location, seamlessly collabo rate in solving client issues. I am excited to see where this mindset can take us.”

You each have deep experience and skillsets in different areas. Tell us about that.

Ross: “My practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, private equity, cor

porate finance, including senior debt, mezzanine debt and growth equity, and corporate governance. I routinely advise mature businesses and their principals, private equity and other fund sponsors, family offices and investors in complex transactions across a multitude of industries including manufacturing, transportation, construction, sports and entertainment, financial services, coal and other natural resources, renewable energy, and healthcare. I am fortunate that my practice allows me to work with exceptional clients on transformational deals both within our footprint and across the country.”

Spencer: “I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to litigate a variety of high-level commercial cases, both at the trial court level and on appeal. I can handle any general commercial dispute but have specialized knowledge in creditor’s rights, foreclosures, repossessions, and bankruptcy work, commercial landlord-tenant issues, business/corporate control and governance disputes, and supply chain and sales of goods disputes to name a few. I have recently litigated a number of will, trust, and estate contests so am intimately familiar with those rules and procedures. In addition, in combination with our Indianapolis office, we are developing a deep labor and employment litigation bench. Really anything a local business would need.”

Tyler: “My practice primarily focuses on intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and other business-related activities including licensing, contract review, and early stage startup business formation and corporate governance. I have assisted many clients with implementation of an IP strategy plan and continue to aid them to ensure that their intellectual property is properly protected.

I routinely work with both single member entities as well as large multi-national companies with IP portfolio management, and look forward to having the opportunity to continue to assist more local clients in the Evansville area in this area of law.”

What’s the future look like for Gutwein Law in Evansville?

Ross: “First and foremost, we want to continue delivering high-quality legal ad vice and exceptional service to our clients. We believe if we do this, the execution of our strategic growth plan will naturally fall into place along with our ability to recruit top talent. We are optimistic and excited about the future.”

Left to right: Spencer Tanner, Tyler Droste, and Ross Yates

A Warrior for Warrick County

Howard Nevins leaves of legacy of compassion, collaboration, and community

BY MEGHAN STRATTON

Through a lifetime of service, How ard Nevins has left his mark on places and people who changed the landscape of our community. From service projects to the creation of Warrick Trails, he was – quite literally – a trailblazer.

Many Evansville and Newburgh, Indiana, residents remember Nevins as an innovative entrepreneur, passionate leader, and dedicated philanthropist. More than that, he was a friend and family mem ber. He passed away from COVID-19 in September 2021.

Nevins was honored on the anniversary of his death with a memorial in Friedman Park that instills one of his core principles: “Leave everything better than you found it.”

“It fills my heart,” his wife Cindy Nevins says about the memorial. “It’s a wonderful legacy to leave his children, and his grandchildren can come see his memorial and say, ‘Papa did great things.’”

A FAMILY MAN

Nevins was born Feb. 1, 1956, in Alpena, Michigan. He was the only son of five children born to Glen Nevins and Darlene Yarch. His father passed when Nevins was still a boy, so he turned

“Leave

to the local Boys & Girls Club, an organiza tion that would remain a constant presence throughout his life.

He also had a clear entrepreneurial spirit fro m a young age, buying doughnuts and selling them for a profit at school. He played hockey and football while attending Alpena High School and was inducted into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.

Howard and Cindy Nevins grew up together in Alpena. They married in 1977 while he attended Western Michigan University on a full-ride football scholarship. They were wed for 44 years and together for 50.

“He was an amazing person,” Cindy Nevins says. “I had the best kind of life I could have imagined with him.”

Nevins also was captain of WMU’s football team and an All-Mid-American linebacker; lettered three years; and received the President’s Award for Leadership his senior season. Cindy Nevins fondly remembers living on campus with him and feed ing “all kinds of football players.”

He graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in geology and in 2010 received the WMU Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences Alumni Achievement Award. After

Longtime Newburgh, Indiana, resident Howard Nevins had a passion for the outdoors and was instrumental in the establishment of the Warrick Trails initiative. Earlier this year, the group erected a memorial to Nevins, which shares one of his mottos:

everything better than you found it.”

college, he was employed by Ashland Coal and went to work in then-Ashland Oil’s office in Evansville.

The couple planted their roots in New burgh and had two children, daughters Breann Ellis and Courtney Tenbarge, 27 months apart.

“Something he’d always say was that his family was his support and his drive,” Tenbarge says. “He was always there, no matter how busy he was. There was nothing he wasn’t a part of.”

BUILDING THE WARRICK TRAILS INITIATIVE

Alpena has several trails and a paved bypath, which inspired Nevins to create a trail sys tem in Warrick County. A local small busi ness owner, Nevins saw a need for outdoor lifestyle amenities and created the idea for Warrick Trails on the back of a napkin.

The goal of creating Warrick Trails was to improve the health, wellness, and quality of life for Warrick County residents and visitors. As a business owner, Nevins also viewed the trails as a way to draw and retain people to the area.

When Steve Roelle was invited to be on an early version of the Warrick Trails board of directors, he had no idea what he was walking into, as evidenced by his impression after his first trails meeting.

“I walked away with a whole to-do list that I’d better get done before the next meeting!” says Roelle, now the executive director of Success Warrick County.

Creating and funding the trails project was no easy task. It took communication and collaboration from corporations, state and county government divisions, the War rick County School Corporation, the Eco nomic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, and the volunteer-based Warrick Trails board. The project received funding from private donations, the Indiana Region al Cities Initiative, and a Transportation Alternatives Program grant.

“We’ve been asked by the surrounding counties, ‘How did you get this done, put miles of trails in, and get everyone to work together?’” Roelle says. “The short version answer is Howard Nevins. He worked and willed this collaboration and got everyone believing. Something that’s this good for our health, quality of place, and community doesn’t happen without that collaboration.”

The 30 miles of trails were completed in 2019, and the project has seen multiple upgrades and extensions since. Nevins’ daughter Courtney now serves as the presi dent of Warrick Trails.

“He always wanted to leave things better than he found them,” she says, “because if you saw him, he was always picking up trash. You wouldn’t know he was the one who created these trails.”

A REGIONAL THINKER

Warrick County Commissioner Dan Saylor got to know Nevins through the development process of the trails.

“He was a warrior for Warrick County, and he was interested in what impact the

trails would have for our region,” Saylor says. “His dream was to make trails to connect everybody, not just for us, but also for Southern Indiana and beyond.”

Audrie Burkett, senior vice president of the Evansville Regional Economic Part nership, worked with Nevins from a busi ness and community-building perspective from 2015 through 2021.

“Howard was not only Mr. Warrick County but also a true regional thinker,” she says. “He always had Warrick County

in his heart. He pushed the envelope to make sure we were thinking in a regional manner.”

Nevins devoted much of his time to local organizations and served on the board of directors for the Boys & Girls Club, Redevelopment Commission, Eco nomic Development for Southwest Indi ana, Golf Gives Back, and Warrick Trails.

Ron Ryan, executive director of the Evansville Boys & Girls Club, says Nev ins supported the organization with both

SPONSORED CONTENT

Investment Management

Pettinga Financial professionals are focused on creating client-centered, personal investment portfolios that are as unique as the individuals we serve. Our experienced advisors know that successful investing is based on the science of capital markets and decades of research, not speculation, and recommend only investment risks worth taking.

We’ll evaluate your unique circumstances, objectives, risk tolerance, and future aspirations. Then, we’ll customize an investment plan that includes the elements needed to meet your long-term goals, with ongoing portfolio monitoring and re-balancing as the market or your situation changes.

Financial Planning

Financial planning is about more than assets, investments, and net worth. It’s about what you want to do with your money and why. It’s about identifying your concerns, expectations, and goals - it’s about how you feel and what you want.

Many of life’s milestones - buying a home, starting a family, sending kids to college, and entering retirement - are rooted in financial planning. We take a holistic approach when we help you plan and prepare for the future.

Retirement Plans

Whether you’re a small business or large institution, Pettinga manages your retirement plan with the same exceptional service we provide our individual clients. We know that just as every company is unique, so is every retirement plan.

Our knowledgeable advisors will work with you to design a plan with diversified investment strategies and broad flexibility that empowers your employees to fund their nest egg and manage financial decisions on their own terms.

Howard Nevins was front and center at the ribbon cutting for the 2018 Upgrade Trailhead opening at Warrick Trails. “Howard believed in the importance of quality of place, quality of leadership, guidance, and giving,” says Audrie Burkett, senior vice president of the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership. “Warrick Trails wouldn’t have happened without him.”

PHOTOS

Courtney TenBarge and her father Howard Nivens

PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

POWERED BY TECHNOLOGY

his time and treasures, helping behind the scenes and involving his friends and family in the club’s events.

“You could count on Howard to ask the tough questions, which makes me a better executive director,” Ryan says. “He would always challenge you to be better in the things you do.”

LEAVING A LEGACY

Nevins’ legacy can be seen in many physi cal ways, but also in the way he impacted people’s lives.

“I was lucky to have him as a role model, and he had a tremendous impact on me,” Roelle says. “I believe what we did through Warrick Trails makes our community better, and that’s why I show up every morning.”

“Howard believed in the importance of quality of place, quality of leadership, guid ance, and giving,” Burkett says. “Warrick Trails wouldn’t have happened without him.”

Nevins’ life lessons and teachings will also live on. Sharing blessings and leav ing things better than they were found are embedded in the creation of Warrick Trails and its board of directors.

INFRASTRUCTURE

“He created a mentality that will make a road path for the next round of visionar ies,” Roelle says. “Big picture, Howard is missed both personally and professionally on a daily basis. I’ve seen Howard’s spirit, mentality, and drive ripple through indi viduals in all of the sectors. His legacy will live on for years and decades to come.”

“You lose someone, and it leaves a huge hole,” Tenbarge says. “We will never fill his shoes or the void, but we’ll keep trying to continue what he wanted. He wanted everyone to create their own passion in their own way; he started the phenomenal vision for the community, and we want to keep making it better for today’s world.”

Cindy and Howard Nivens

PHOTO PROVIDED BY COURTNEY TENBARGE

Taking It to the Court

Evansville continues to be the Main Street of DII March Madness

BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

The Evansville community is a force for continuity in college athletics. It is home to a pair of storied college basketball pro grams. The University of Evansville Pur ple Aces were the best College Division (later Division II) basketball program in the country between the late 1950s and early 1970s, winning five national cham pionships before transitioning into a Divi sion I program in the late ‘70s. The Aces have more than made muster at the DI level, earning five NCAA Tournament bids and seven additional post-season appearances. Since starting its men’s bas ketball program in 1970, the University

of Southern Indiana established itself as a DII power, earning 23 NCAA Tourna ment bids, twice finishing as national runner-up, and winning a national title in 1995. With the 2022-23 season, USI bas ketball will compete at the DI level in the Ohio Valley Conference.

More than just home to a pair of high ly successful programs, Evansville was among the main streets of March Madness for more than 65 years. From 1957 until 1976 (and once again in 2002), the city hosted the Division II Men’s Basketball Champi

onship (long referred to as the “College Division Championship”) at the esteemed Roberts Municipal Stadium, then the home of Evansville Aces basketball. The Aces had the pleasure of winning five national titles on their home court. Future Basket ball Hall of Famers including Evansville’s Jerry Sloan and Winston-Salem State’s Earl Monroe earned Tournament MVP honors at Roberts Stadium.

In more recent years, the city of Evansville has hosted the OVC Basketball Tournament. The OVC grants the first

Evansville has been among the main streets of NCAA March Madness for more than 65 years. More recently, the city has hosted the Division I OVC Basketball Tournament, which grants the first automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament every March at the Ford Center, as well as the Division II Men’s Basketball Elite Eight.

automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament every March at Evansville’s state-of-theart Ford Center, the 11,000-seat multipurpose, a municipally owned venue that opened in 2011. Thanks to the Ford Center, Evansville once again became the nation’s top destination for DII basketball.

Evansville’s impact on DII basketball does not stop there. The nonprofit Evans ville Sports Corporation and USI host the eight-team NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Championship, the culmina tion of a 64-team national tournament, at the Ford Center. The venue staged Division II’s Elite Eight in 2014 and 2015 before securing a long-term commitment from the NCAA to put on the champion ship from 2019 through 2025. The opening of the 241-room Double Tree by Hilton hotel, connected by skywalk to the arena, no doubt helped Evansville secure this long-term deal.

Estimates of the event’s economic con tribution to the region peg it at close to $1 million annually. The size of the economic boon to Evansville is in part dependent on which schools make it to the tournament. The recurring presence in Evansville of Northwest Missouri State, the champi ons of the last three DII tournaments (2019, 2021-2022), is beneficial  to the local economy. More than 1,000 Bearcats fans followed the team to Evansville in 2022, requiring the college’s supporters to pur chase a tremendous number of rooms and meals from local establishments during the team’s multi-day run in the River City.

“We have been proud to partner with the ESC to bring this great event to Evans ville. We know it drives economic impact to the community, shows off Hoosier Hos pitality, and improves the quality of life in our region,” USI Athletic Director Jon Mark Hall says.

NCAA officials, competing teams, and fans from across the country comment every year on their fantastic experience in Evansville. Many residents and cor porate partners volunteer their time and expertise to make visitors feel welcomed.

“Every year, the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Committee conducts a ‘walk-through’ of the facility [Ford Center] the day before teams arrive for practices. New committee members are always

JASON STEPHENS MARK AITON

‘wowed’ by the arena and the convenience of the con nected headquarter hotel,” says ESC President Eric Mar vin, who also cites the afford ability of Evansville and its central location as key to the event’s continued success.

Every year, fans and observers remark on the games in Evansville for their competitiveness and high quality of play. In the era of “one-and-done’s” (players who compete for just one year at the college level before turn ing professional), many of the top teams in the DI tournament feature athletes who are still getting familiar with playing one another. Not so in DII.

“Division II teams tend to play together longer because not as many players leave early to play professionally. As a result, there is great team basketball because the play ers have played together for a few years in many cases. They know each other and their opponents extremely well, which creates an extremely unique championship envi ronment,” Marvin explains.

The presence of USI in the 2019 Division II Elite Eight significantly added to the live contests’ energy. USI made it to the semifinals of that year’s Division II Elite Eight Basket ball Tournament. In the quarterfinals, the Screaming Eagles knocked off West Texas A&M 94-84 before falling in gut-wrenching fashion to Point Loma Nazarene in the semi finals. Playing before an exuberant home town crowd was a remarkable experience for USI’s players, staff, and supporters.

“The electricity in the Ford Center for the two games we participated in was indescribable, and we were so appreciative that the Evansville community supported the tournament in such a strong manner,” Hall says.

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the can cellation of the 2020 NCAA Tournament. The Elite Eight returned to Evansville in 2021 in an albeit modified form, with daily test ing regimens, social distancing, and highly limited attendance. In 2022, the Ford Center

again thundered with vibrant crowds for the Division II championship.

“No other city gets this opportunity, and our local community has embraced this unique privilege,” Marvin says. “Our state was made for basketball, and this community proves it.”

There also is significant change afoot in the landscape of college athletics. In July 2021, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) allowed student-ath letes to accept sponsorships based on their “Name, Image, and Likeness” (NIL). This new revenue source presents important

Estimates of the DII Men’s Basketball Elite Eight’s regional economic contribution peg it at close to $1 million annually. The recurring presence of repeat-champion Northwest Missouri State brought more than 1,000 Bearcats fans this March to Evansville, where they purchased a tremendous number of rooms and meals from local establishments during the team’s multi-day run in the River City.

challenges and opportunities for athletes and athletics departments, particularly in high-profile sports like college basketball. Basketball players at the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana could secure sponsorships almost immediately from local businesses. So far, the local impact of NILs is not earth-shat tering, but time will tell the effect of this new policy on college athletics.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Division II Men’s Basketball Elite Eight Tournament March 22-25, 2023

Ford Center, 1 S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Clayton Trutor teaches history at Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont. He is the author of “Loserville: How Professional Sports Remade Atlanta — and How Atlanta Remade Professional Sports” (2022) and the forthcoming “Boston Ball: Jim Calhoun, Rick Pitino, Gary Williams, and College Basketball’s Forgotten Cradle of Coaches” (2023). He’d love to hear from you on Twitter @ClaytonTrutor.

“The electricity in the Ford Center for the two games we participated in was indescribable, and we were so appreciative that the Evansville community supported the tournament in such a strong manner.”

— USI Athletic Director Jon Mark Hall

TOMORROW’S Building

Andrew E. Goebel

Andrew J. Cosgrove

Azzip Pizza

Dean Alan Bosler

David K. Robinson

Dennis Patrick Lamey

Fifth Third Bank

Happe & Dubord Construction, LLC

Lensing Building Specialists

South Central Inc

All in the Family Dental

Daniel Hoefling

Dr. Philip Behrens

Hahn Kiefer Real Estate

Mater Dei and Reitz Memorial High Schools WORK

SHAREHOLDER

FORCE

PRINCIPAL

PARTNER

Evansville Regional Business Committee, Inc

Acropolis

Banterra Bank

Berry Global Bill and Sarah Vieth

Bussing - Koch Foundation, Inc.

Christopher Wolking

Donut Bank Bakeries, Inc.

Dunn Hospitality Group

Edward Jones: Jim Back

Father David H. Nunning

First Bank

Greg Riedford

Happe & Sons Construction, Inc.

Henderson Chevrolet/ Ronald Faupel

Ivy Tech Community College Evansville

JW Associates School Equipment Specialists, Inc.

INVESTOR ASSOCIATE MEMBER

Jane Perkins

Jim & Karen Will

Manion Stigger, LLP

Mark Daily

Michael W. Reffett

Midwest Mechanical Services, Inc.

Niehaus Lumber

Norb & Madonna Niemeier

Pioneer Plastics Promark

Jim Keller

Jeff Anderson

Keller Schroeder

Lang Company

Lochmueller Group

Matthew Brockman

MelKay

Metal Freeman, Will & Niemeier, Inc.

Midwest Roofing-Sheet

NFP

Orthopaedic Associates, Inc.

Pierre Funeral Home

Schultheis Insurance Agency, Inc.

Sharon & Tim Bray

The Hollander Group at Baird

University of Southern Indiana

Ziemer Funeral Home, Inc.

Southwestern Healthcare, Inc.

Robert F. Mehringer

Ronald W. Angermeier

Shetler Moving & Storage, Inc.

Stephen Thomas

Sterling United Federal Credit Union Thyme in the Kitchen

Wayne F. Henning

William F. Wooten

Leaders for LIFE

After prolific careers, five local leaders reflect on what retirement looks like

For many people, retirement is a time to simply relax after a long career, and while these five Evansville-area residents enjoy having more command of their free time, they’re not exactly resting on their laurels. They have branched off from successful careers in finance, humanities, news, and the arts and are making an impression in new ways. Alan Newman enjoys playing racquetball when he’s not using his business acumen to address community needs. Lucy Himstedt regularly plays tennis and has picked up cooking as a hobby. Tess Grimm travels and channels her artistic energy into a cause close to her heart. John David Lutz frequently can be seen in the crowd at University of Evansville theater performances. Lu Porter continues to connect community organizations with needed resources. These five leaders have embraced retirement by serving their communities, expanding their horizons, and pursuing passions beyond their careers. They may enjoy more down time since retiring, but as you’ll read here, their success stories are far from finished.

BY ZACH STRAW

PHOTOS

‘THIRD TIME’S A CHARM’

Lucy Himstedt finally is ready to retire for good By Maggie Valenti

From Arkansas to Alabama to Indiana, Lucy Himstedt has had quite a career in and outside of the River City. Now, the former vice president and general manager of WFIE-TV promises this third try at retirement will stick.

“Third time’s a charm. This is it,” she says.

Himstedt first attempted to retire in 2007. At that time, she left WFIE-TV Channel

14 after a 28-year career in local television news. She started at a local CBS station while she was studying at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas, in the late 1970s and early ‘80s.

“I was really ready to retire (in 2007),” she says.

S he lasted only about six months before going to work in the University of Evansville’s marketing and communica tions department. There, she was the edi tor of the university’s alumnae magazine, her first time in print publications since she worked for her high school newspa per. She left UE in 2014 as its assistant vice president for marketing and com munications.

“I had accepted another job, but when it didn’t work out as expected, I told my husband I was going to retire for real,” Himstedt says.

Within a year, the position of chief operating officer for the Girl Scouts of Southwest Indiana opened up. Himstedt had been involved with the organization throughout her girlhood and found it hard to say no to another gig.

Himstedt served as the Girl Scouts’ regional COO for two years before retir ing — for real this time — in 2016. Now, she has more time to try her hand at cook ing, baking, and playing tennis.

“When I finally (retired), my stress level became non-existent,” Himstedt says. “I used to have terrible migraines. I could never play a sport. Now, I work out almost every day playing tennis.”

She also has more time to spend with her two stepdaughters, four grandchil dren, and her husband, Don Richard, who himself retired last year. Himstedt describes herself as “happily retired.”

“I want to be available for any oppor tunity to spend time with them,” she says.

Himstedt stays involved with the com munity by sitting on the boards of ECHO Housing Corp. and UE’s Theatre Society. She frequently takes students under her wing, looking out for them if they live far from home. Himstedt often thinks fondly about the connections she made at work and keeps in touch with many former col leagues.

“I’m still attached to the places I’ve worked emotionally,” she says.

“I’m still attached to the places I’ve worked emotionally.”

MS. EVANSVILLE

Her peers have dubbed Lu Porter “Ms. Evansville” because of her impact on the community, particularly in her six years as executive director of the Evansville African American Museum.

Retiring in 2017 has not slowed her down.

“I’m hoping that with me involved in retirement, I can be an example,” she says. “I hope I can be an example to individuals who want to connect with our  great and amazing community.”

Porter started her career in manufacturing and then went into banking, working at Integra Bank for 18 years — including as assistant vice president and community devel

opment officer — before it merged with Old National Bank. Even while working full-time, Porter was plugged into the community, and two years after Integra eliminated Porter’s position in 2009, she became the executive director of the Evansville African American Museum.

“I stayed home for two years. I was on the African American Museum board, and they were looking for an executive director. I was asked to fill that role,” she says.

Her “always say yes” attitude served her well over the years, and still does, connecting nonprofits to the funding they need. Porter has represented Evans ville’s interests on the local and state levels and served on 25 nonprofit boards and state commissions, including the Indiana Housing and Community Devel opment Authority, ECHO Community Healthcare, Leadership Everyone, Black Women’s Task Force, Women’s Fund of Evansville, and the Deaconess Women’s Hospital advisory board.

“I like to connect the dots ... by being at the table or at an event or helping nonprofits that don’t have resources,” she says. “I have everybody’s number in my phone, so I can connect them to the proper person they need to talk to. I carried that over from being at the bank.”

Although she has scaled back her volunteerism, Porter continues to work hard. She says there is still a lot more work to do with the community, particu larly with getting the youth involved. Porter balances her philanthropy in retirement by relaxing and spending time with her husband of 49 years, Jake, and their three children and four grandchildren.

“I can sit back and relax. I still get plugged into different things. ‘Come to this event. Come to that event. Could you help me with this event?’ And I still do all that because that’s important. Everybody needs money. So, I don’t mind putting myself out there for that. I’ve cut back on a lot because when I was working, I was just doing everything,” Porter says. “My next steps are to con tinue to be involved in the community, with the youth and seeing things through their eyes.”

Lu Porter’s service to her community continues in her retirement

By Maggie Valenti

“I hope I can be an example to individuals who want to connect with our great and amazing community.”

LEAVING A LEGACY

Alan Newman shifts his focus to community endeavors

By Jodi Keen

Autumn 2019 was a period of significant transition for Evansville’s Hilliard Lyons office. Just as the company was joining international wealth management firm Baird, Alan Newman closed the book on 39 years as a financial adviser. After careers in retail and finance, he was ready to try on retirement.

In the time since, he says his priorities of family, travel, skiing, and golf “didn’t change a bit,” but his plans did. Newman retired on Dec. 31, 2019, just as COVID-19 became a full-blown pandemic. His first few months of retirement were spent close to home instead of globe-trotting, like on a long-planned trip to Australia and New Zealand that didn’t pan out.

“It was a big change in life without the freedom and ease to do the things you set out to do,” he says.

So, Newman relished time with his wife Sandy and their son, daughter, four grandchildren, and extended family in St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Joseph, Michigan. He also is finding his groove as a Baird client instead of an adviser, but he relishes the experience from “the other side of the desk.”

“I haven’t yet quite adjusted to the care and atten tion I get for being a client,” he says. Now, having all the choices in the world, “I can’t imagine working with anybody other than the Baird folks and the Baird Trust Company. That’s been a joy.”

Other than being with family, Newman says phil anthropic work has been the most rewarding. After years of sitting on boards of directors and strategiz ing about fundraisers, he wanted to funnel what he’d learned into a new outlet. One such project is finding great organizations that operate in silos and identifying potential synergies. Newman is attempting to foster such a relationship between Ivy Tech Community Col lege and Habitat for Humanity.

“One of the biggest problems in Evansville is hous ing,” he says. “There appears to be terrific opportunity to marry education with the need for housing. There are 21 trade programs at Ivy Tech. If there were more skilled help, it would allow Habitat to build more housing while giving students on-the-job training. If we can get this off the ground, there are other organizations that can play in, and I believe the synergies of each of those organizations can help address poverty and education.”

After years of seeing “the disparity between the haves and the have-nots,” Newman says he feels for tunate to contribute to pressing issues that need to be addressed.

“As long as there’s a breath in me, I won’t have accomplished everything I’d like to,” he says, “but how terrific is it to reach a certain age and feel that you might be able to leave a legacy — beyond amazing children — that will matter?”

“As long as there’s a breath in me, I won’t have accomplished everything I’d like to.”

ARTFUL LIVING

Tess Grimm’s new role combines family, friends, and humanities

By Meghan Stratton, with Maggie Valenti

Those who know Tess Grimm see her as a whirlwind of activity, so they may find it hard to envision her in retirement. Indeed, she intended to work as the director of the Reitz Home Museum until she turned 80 years old because she loved the work so much.

Grimm retired in 2011 after serving as director for more than 22 years when her now-late husband, Ronald, became ill. She took pride in seeing the community get involved with historic preservation and learning about the Reitz Home Museum.

The house was built in 1871, so it requires a steady amount of upkeep. Grimm orga nized large annual events to engage the community and fundraise for the museum.

“There were a lot of people and a lot of committees that helped with the function of these events,” she says. “We worked with

numerous people in the community from all walks of life, and that was wonderful.”

Since retiring, Grimm spends more time with her family, including three children, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, traveling, and vol unteering at The Hope Gallery. Grimm’s daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Andy Parker opened the gallery as a space for “team members” with autism and other developmental disabilities to create art work and provide opportunities for job skills development, vocational training, and meaningful community development as part of their therapy. The gallery also employs team members, who create art work to be shown and sold in the gallery, and features pieces from artists with dis abilities across the country. The original Bargersville, Indiana, store opened in 2014,

and expanded to Newburgh, Indiana, in 2021.

The gallery is named in honor of the Parkers’ daughter, Hope Naomi, who was born with a congenital heart defect. She endured 17 surgeries, with the Grimms present for all of them. Hope passed away unexpectedly in 2020 at age 13.

“She’s like her mother. She had so much personality,” Grimm says about Hope. “She smiled at everybody, and she loved to play tricks on people.”

The family keeps Hope’s legacy alive by continuing the mission of The Hope Gallery: to provide a safe outlet for voca tional training.

Grimm also chairs the building and grounds committee at St. Paul’s Episco pal Church in Evansville, visits a differ ent country every year, plays bridge, and attends weekly Pilates classes.

“We couldn’t do a whole lot of traveling while I was working and while my hus band was working. We sort of sacrificed there and said, ‘We’ll do it later,’” Grimm says. “I’ve gotten to do a lot since I’ve been retired, which is nice.”

“We worked with numerous people in the community from all walks of life, and that was wonderful.”

NOT TO BE UPSTAGED

John David Lutz’s legacy provides a benchmark for the University of Evansville’s Theatre Department

By Jodi Keen

After John David Lutz graduated in 1964 with a theater degree from then-Evans ville College, he immediately dove into teaching at his alma mater, culminating in one of the school’s most illustrious careers.

Lutz taught at the University of Evansville’s Theater Department for the next 53 years. In that time, he refined the program’s recruiting stan dards, elevated the program to national acclaim, and coached UE students and future prolific actors such as Ron Glass and Rami Malek.

The experience he gained in directing and set and costume design while a student served him well as an instructor, giving Lutz an under standing of all the pieces that create an impactful production.

Lutz retired from UE in 2018 at age 78. He and his wife Kathy spent the first two years traveling and seeing plays in New York City before John contracted COVID-19 in 2020. They still go on adventures, visit family, attend UE performances, and, since 2015, they enjoy a commanding view of the Ohio River from their sixth-floor condo on Riverside Drive.

The couple’s home displays their deep appre ciation for the arts. It is decorated with pieces by Kentucky and Indiana artists — including a wood sculpture by the late University of Southern Indiana professor John McNaughton — as well as their son’s work. Theater-related artwork depicts August 1999 set sketches of two scenes from the stage production of J.L. Carr’s novel “A Month in the Country” and a 1977 Paul Davis subway poster of Anton Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard.”

Another of Lutz’s favorite retirement activities is relaxing in his plush Stressless recliner in front of a west-facing wall of windows and watching river traffic steam by. After more than five decades of long hours in theater, Lutz’s retirement is one of leisure.

“I thought I would miss directing plays, but I don’t really,” he says, although he enjoys an ongo ing friendship with many former students and coworkers of the tight-knit theater department.

Despite his program being invited to perform at the Kennedy Center several times and winning the center’s American College Theatre Fest award for outstanding career achievement in directing in 2012, Lutz remains modest about his legacy.

“The relationships in the department have to be close because you work together so closely,” he says. “I feel honored to be remembered.”

“The relationships in the department have to be close because you work together so closely.”

All-Weather Products

All-Weather Products Inc. came into operation in 1979 and was started by the husband-and-wife team Mr. and Mrs. Schwarderer. At the time, they and many of their kids worked for the company. In 1981, my father, Roger Feightner, came to work as the general manager and in 1997 purchased the company from the Schwarderers.

— Jason Feightner

What is a piece of business advice that your father passed along to you?

My father told me two very important things when I was young in the business and first taking over. The first bit of advice was simple and I think borrowed from the famous popcorn guy; stick to what we do and continue to do it better than anyone else.  The second piece of advice was straightforward and thought-provoking and really empowering. He said: “Jason, it’s ok to make mistakes. It’s not ok not to fix them.” This bit of advice provided me with room to make mistakes and to learn from them by also being responsible for them and making things correct in the process.

What does your business specialize in?

We specialize in patio covers, also re ferred to as awnings, as well as room en closures; which include both the screen and the glass room style of enclosure.

What is something that customers should keep in mind when working with a family-owned business?

When you work with a family-owned business, you’re working with a group of people who are more accountable to each other and to the product they are putting forth. We spend a great deal of our time at work and the people we work with become an extension of our family. Whether you work for Amazon, All-Weather Products, or Toyota we all

really work for only one entity and that is our family or loved ones. When we all have that shared sense of respon sibility to each other and we are each relying on the output of the products and the company to carry us to where we want to get we all push harder for each other, our loved ones, our prod uct, our company, and our customers. And in that word “our” you find the magic of working with a family-owned business. Everyone feels that sense of ownership and pride in what they do and who they are doing it for.

How does your team go above and beyond for customers?

Communication! Communication is a two-way street and the only way to ensure that we are going above and beyond for our customers is to first listen to them. After all of the listen ing is done then it’s time to talk, and when we talk we try to provide a clear understanding of what to expect from us. Finally, it’s simple, you go above and beyond by just doing exactly what it is that you have said you’re going to do.

What does the future look like?

The future looks bright for us here at All-Weather Products. We have seen roughly 15% growth year over year since I have taken the reins in 2019 and our supply chain is functioning with space on capacity. We utilize a domestic-

based extruder for our product lines and have never had to experience supply chain upset as a result of not being able to bring things in from overseas. As a small regional manufacturer, it was important to us to support U.S.-based manufacturing and therefore we always kept our supply chain within the U.S. Even as larger national competitors moved their supply chain overseas, drove up their profits, and slashed their prices, we stayed the course and maintained our market share by maximizing our gains by providing direct manufacturing support and service. When COVID hit and all the big national competitors had troubles we just kept right on keeping on. It was rather uplifting to be in the position of abundance during the COVID supply chain disaster and that’s the advantage of sourcing materials within the U.S.

Rob and Sarah Thomas

No

AquaVida Pools

started

More Problems Pool Service

in 2006 with nothing but knowledge and the desire to build a business that provided the highest quality service and products. Having been in the pool industry for many years prior with another company, Rob knew that the needs of homeowners in the area weren’t being met to his standards, and with Sarah’s background in business, they knew that together they could build a strong and sustainable company to serve the Evansville market.

They purchased one service van and the basic tools necessary and hit the ground running with a grassroots effort to build a strong customer base. Working out of their garage for the first year, they realized in 2007 that the hard work was paying off. Renting a space on Highway 41 near Darmstadt for the next 10 years allowed them to build their retail presence and expand their service efforts. In 2017 they were able to build their current location on Highway 57 near the airport, allowing the company the space needed.

After years of continued growth, they were ready to take the next step and partnered with Jake and Dakota Thacker to form the construction division of the company in 2019. Jake’s background in excavation, concrete, and construction was the perfect fit for the company to expand. Now, operating as AquaVida Pools, the company is able to serve both clients with an existing pool and those who seek to up grade the quality of their life and value of their home with a custom inground pool.

How does your company go above and beyond for its customers?

Our customers mean everything to us. To build a strong customer base, a company needs to provide outstand ing products, make their shoppers feel valued, and offer excellent customer service. We are committed to our clients and developing long-term relationships with them. We see our customers as part of our family. A family atmosphere puts people first and fosters good morale and

loyalty within the workplace. This al lows us to form tight relationships with vendors, suppliers, and customers for years of repeat business.

What qualities set your company apart

from the competition?

Our employees together make an incred ible team, and we have the resources and experience that you don’t find with our competitors. Being a family-owned business holds us accountable to each other, and the result of that is a better experience for our clients. We special ize in swimming pools, from the design through construction, retail, and future service. We are very forward-thinking, and much of how we operate and what we are able to do for our clients is a direct result of that. Swimming pools are made for fun, and that is the main goal in the experience all clients have with us.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business or services?

We are a Certified Legacy Edition Pool Builder, reserved for qualified swimming pool professionals that share a commitment to excellence. We are also a certified Totally Hayward dealer and

warranty center, the exclusive Poolife pool care product dealer in the area, and our employees all receive industry training continuously throughout each year to stay at the forefront of this ever-changing field. For our customers, this means that, in working with us, you can be assured of the highest level of quality and service available in the swimming pool industry.

What does the future look like?

The demand for good, quality pool construction and service is constant and it keeps us motivated and excited for the future. We are committed to serving Evansville and surrounding areas for many years to come.

The Thomas and Thacker Families

SVN | The Martin Group

Father and son duo John and Steve Martin began The Martin Group in January 1977 and have been involved in a variety of projects including various responsibilities for more than 12,500 apartment units in 20 states. They currently manage the development of The Promenade, a mixed-use development on Evansville’s East Side. They also own Indiana and Kentucky offices of a national commercial real estate brokerage firm, SVN | The Martin Group.

My father retired during COVID at age 89 but still is involved on a limited basis at age 91 - he loves the family business. My sons, Alex and Andy, have both chosen to join as well. My wife, Anne, heads up our accounting and my brother, David, was with us for 18 years before moving on to Medical Office Development on a nationwide basis.

throughout the United States for various corporate clients.

We also have development, acquisi tion, and property management on a wide variety of property types via The Martin Group. The Martin Group currently manages over 3,000,000 SF of commercial property for our clients.

What does the future of the company look like?

My father always shared with me that being successful isn’t about being the smartest because there will always be someone smarter, or being the most talented, because there are always more talented people at what you are doing. Success is about perseverance - about always moving forward and having the grit and determi nation to be the last person standing. I have found this to be true many times in my career and throughout life. I have tried to share this with all 4 of my children and am sharing it with my 12 grandchildren as well.

There is a bright future ahead. As we move closer to our 5th decade in busi ness we see tremendous opportunity in investment real estate. We are entering a tough economy but we believe there will be opportunities for those that do their homework and are prepared. We are able to service clients’ needs across the country no matter the size of the transaction with local expertise.

What have you le arned from running your business?

It is very difficult and complicated but at the end of the day, it is all about people and a willingness to work hard and long hours. It is not uncommon for me to put in over 100 hours a week.

I know my sons are prepared for the sacrifices that ownership requires.

brokerage, development, and owner ship in a wide variety of property types including office buildings, retail, multi-family housing for seniors and families, land, mixed-use, and all types of investments.

What is something clients should keep in mind when working with a family-owned business?

SVN | The Martin Group is a closeknit group of people. We treat each other like family and we are person ally concerned with the well-being of everyone. Our family and business are built upon the power of collabora tion, transparency, and a mindset of getting things done. We all want to prosper together.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business?

Commercial Brokerage through SVN | The Martin Group providing sales, leasing, and consulting services for industrial, office, medical office, multi-family, self-storage, retail, land, and all types of investment properties in Indiana, Kentucky, and

How has the company expanded since the early days?

We started out exclusively in devel opment and management of multifamily assets. We have expanded into

Without a doubt, we place ethics and integrity above profits or winning the deal or assignment. In Southwest Indiana, we are the only brokerage firm exclusively focusing on commercial real estate with a national brand. This provides us the opportunity to put our client’s listings in front of the widest possible audience while maintaining local expertise.

What sets your company apart from the competition? Our people, culture, and technology.

What is a piece of business advice that your father passed along to you and that you have passed on to your sons?

What are SVN | The Martin Group’s core services?

Andy, Steve, and Alex Martin

Bodyworks Massage Therapy & Institute

2809

Owning a small business is challenging. Sustaining a small business for 25 years shows a level of commitment and dedication that only a visionary can endure. Founder Cecile Martin carries a work ethic that stems from her upbringing on a family dairy farm and knows how to thrive in everchanging circumstances.

Family, work, and commitment are words familiar to Cecile Martin, Leah Martin, and Emily Sandullo, owners of Bodyworks. Since 1998, Cecile has laid the groundwork for providing massage therapy services and training massage therapists, now blending Leah and Emily’s manage ment styles into the business.

The mother/daughter team of Cecile and Leah know each other’s thoughts be fore they can think them. Emily, though not

family by blood, has become an element of the Bodyworks family that intuitively knows the next step to take.

“Being part-owner of a family-owned business that shares my intention of help ing people feels like home to me. With each passing year my commitment to this business, as well as my relationship with Cecile and Leah, has deepened. The fact that they are mother/daughter makes this partnership even sweeter,” says Emily.

Leah adds, “I feel proud to be a part of a business my mother worked hard to build. So much of her life, heart, and energy has gone into Bodyworks, and we are what we are today because of her love of massage therapy. Emily and I joke that she is our 'fearless leader' and we hope to follow her footsteps and share our love of massage therapy and massage training.”

Strong, trusting, family-like relation ships with clients, therapists, students, and graduates of our massage training program is what always, and will continue to, keep Bodyworks moving forward.

Bosse Title Company

Bosse Title Company is a familyowned business that serves as a reliable real estate title company for the Tri-State. Offering real estate closing services throughout Indiana and Kentucky, we make sure your property is truly yours and work to protect you from any ownership issues. Contact us today, and you’ll see why we’re an excellent choice for real estate agencies throughout the area.

How did your company come to be?

An Evansville native, Jeffrey A. Bosse started practicing law in Evansville in the mid-1970s. From there, his practice evolved into solely doing real estate and title work, including real estate closings. The name has changed a few times over the years, but the core group

of employees has remained the same. Jeff A. Bosse’s son Jeff H. started in the family business in 2003 after earning his MBA at Butler University and currently serves as president, while his father serves as chairman of the board.

How has your company changed since its beginning?

When we first started, there was no fax machine, internet, or email. Running a business today without any of these basic business tools would be impossi ble. As technology advanced, so did we.

How has the business expanded over the years?

BTC has needed to move a few times over the past several decades as our in creased business has necessitated more staff and space. Over the years, BTC had acquired some smaller title companies, but in 2011, we acquired Evansville Titles Corporation, which dramati cally increased business. In 2018, we

acquired a title company in Tell City, Indiana, and opened our second location. The biggest recent change is that BTC just moved from downtown Evansville to 4799 Rosebud Lane in Newburgh, IN. It’s a new look and feel, but we’re still pro viding the same great service that we’ve maintained for more than 30 years.

Bosse Title Company is a family-owned & operated title company that’s served the greater Evansville, IN area for the last three generations.

We’re committed to staying versatile & flexible to meet your needs at any stage of homeownership.

We know that convenience is all about making life easier for you. That’s why you can get started on your title without ever leaving your home by placing an order directly from our website.

Isn’t it time you got to know Evansville’s premier, all-inclusive title company?

Jeff H. Bosse

Capital Electric, Inc.

2400 N. HEIDELBACH AVE. • 812-422-3397 • CAPITALELECTRICINC.COM

Has Capital Electric received any awards recently?

CEI was honored to receive the “Outstand ing Trade Partner Award” from Turner Construction Company. The nominations for this award come from the job site and office staff and are based upon overall job performance. CEI was also honored with a safety milestone award on an electrical upgrade job completed with 172,000 hours with zero safety incidents.

CEI would like to thank our employees for their dedication and customers for their trust in us to complete their projects over the last 20 years. We look forward to working with all of them in the future.

What has contributed to your business’s success?

One reason CEI is successful is due to our dedicated employees and great customers. Safety is also a huge contributing factor to CEI’s success. Safety is always a top priority and the primary focus at every job site. Our employees are held to the highest standard when it comes to safety.

CEI is committed to strong customer service and staying within the customer’s budget on each job. CEI also works hard to stay on the customers’ schedule rather than their own.

How does your company give back to the community?

CEI values our relationship and presence in the community. Our employees volunteered many hours at Mickey’s Kingdom where they completed all the electrical work for the playground. They have also given back to the Ronald McDonald House, Holly’s House, United Way Day of Caring, and many more charities in the community. In addition, CEI prides itself in being an advocate for not-forprofits by also donating to many local schools and organizations in the Tri-State area.

20 YEARS!

Coates Hauling & Dirt Works

Coates Hauling & Dirt Works is a family owned and operated excavation business located in Evansville that specializes in excavation, drainage, concrete, compaction, land clearing, gradework, and material hauling. Kyle and Magen started out with a dream and tractor, and now are equipped to serve all your excavation needs.

What have you learned from running your business?

You need to keep moving forward. Some days that is harder than others and forward progress won’t be as far some days as it is others. The goal is to keep developing and improving each day.

How has the company expanded from the early days?

More word of mouth. More opportuni ties. More equipment. More services.

What should clients keep in mind when working with a family-owned business?

A family-owned business is just that, a family. That makes the stakes higher for us because we want our clients to know they are in good hands because we are setting the standard for our children to aspire to and grow into.

What are your core services and values?

Excavation, drainage, grading, concrete, hardscaping, and hauling. We use our gifts and talents to serve others. We are honest and fair with our pricing be cause we think about our own personal experiences with contractors. We are out to earn your dollar, not take it.

What does the future of the company look like?

Hopefully new opportunities to serve our community through more charita ble work and commercial opportunities.

Continuing our standard of excellent customer service and improving person ally, professionally, and spiritually.

What business achievement are you most proud of?

Our reputation as a result of customer service and quality work. We are not finished with a job until we are proud of it. Even then, we try to take note of how we can improve for the next one.

Colonial Classics, Inc.

3633 EPWORTH ROAD, NEWBURGH, IN • 812-853-6622 •

Colonial Classics is the locally trusted expert with a 60-plus year tradition of horticultural excellence to care for all your outdoor needs. We have the largest and most diverse retail garden center in the Tri-State and offer a full complement of landscape services from design, installation, lighting, and outdoor living.

How did your family start Colonial Classics?

Colonial Classics has been locally owned and operated in Evansville and New burgh, Indiana, since 1958. The McCarty family has been involved in the horti cultural industry for three generations, starting with the J.A. McCarty Seed Com pany in the 1930s. In 1958, Jim McCarty

Sr. ventured into the relatively new field of retail garden centers and opened Colonial Classics Landscape & Nursery, Inc.

Does your business give back to their community?

At Colonial, we believe each of us has a re sponsibility to use our opportunities for the good of others, and we’re proud to collabo rate with a number of local organizations as they support our community. Although this has been a year like no other, adversity can challenge us to be more and do more. We, especially, want to thank our customers who made our giving possible this year with nearly $75,000 in donations. Through a vari ety of initiatives, we are honored to highlight a couple of these incredible organizations and spread the word about their missions.

Methodist Youth, Evansville — Help ing at-risk youth become responsible and productive members of the community.

Lampion Center, Evansville — Provides affordable counseling services to help chil dren, adults, and families.

Warrick Trails (Friedman

Newburgh — The Warrick Parks Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing and main taining our community’s beautiful parks, trails, and public spaces for the enjoyment of residents and visitors for generations to come.

Others we have been proud to sup port this year: Habitat for Humanity, Keep Evansville Beautiful, HCAD, Dream Center, Youth First Inc., and St. Vincent Evansville Foundation.

Park),

Comfort Keepers

Comfort Keepers is a family-owned and operated franchise serving Evansville and the surrounding areas since 2019. The family’s first location opened in 2017, after experiencing first-hand the need for in-home services for their loved one. This defining moment sparked their desire to provide the same peace of mind and services to families who are overwhelmed and in need of care for their loved ones.

tic approach that cares for mind, body, spirit, and well-being. Instead of just doing tasks for your loved ones, we use every moment to do those daily activities with them. By focusing on Interactive Caregiving, we can elevate the spirits of clients and their families.

What are your core services and values?

The goal of Comfort Keepers is to enrich the lives of our clients while maintaining their safety, well-being, and comfort. We value relationships, preserving one’s dignity, and setting a standard for care in our community. Core services include:

What sets your company apart from the competition?

We implement an approach to caregiving that’s unique to Comfort Keepers called Interactive Caregiving. Caring for the whole person is at the center of our Inter active Caregiving philosophy. It’s a holis

• Personal Care to maintain activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming

• Safety Care, including personal emergency response systems and medication safety

• Respite care to provide temporary relief for family and other primary caregivers

• Companion Care to preserve men tal health and social well-being

• Senior Transportation to safely provide rides for seniors to and from appointments or activities

• Specialized care services, including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, 24hour care, and post-hospital care

What does the future of the company look like?

By, 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 years of age and older. The demand for in-home health services is going to continue to rise as the desire to “age at home” becomes the norm.

What is an interesting fact about your business?

As a family run business, 4 out of 8 of our family’s children are actively involved in the operations, marketing, and management of our business locations. We employ over 150 caregivers, 10 full-time administrators, and serve over 350 clients.

Evansville Garage Doors

Evansville Garage Doors understands the garage is no longer just a place to park your car. A garage is now a place to host birthday parties, a she shed, or a Christmas wonderland. Evansville Garage Doors is here to provide the best installation and service available to any customer who walks through our doors.

How does being a family-owned business benefit customers?

Family is the foundation on which Evansville Garage Doors built its business. We are a fourth-generation family business. We take pride that when a customer calls a Rothschild is there answering the phone. If their showroom is open, there will be a Rothschild onsite. With over 100

years of experience and knowledge spanning four generations of Rothschilds, the Evansville Garage Doors team treats every customer like they treat each other: as family.

What services does your company offer?

Evansville Garage Doors is the market leader in garage doors, openers, and parts. We pride ourselves in educat ing the customer on all things garage doors, from installation to repairs. Our goal is for the people of Evans ville to make the right garage door choice, the first time. We understand the importance of a garage door. When it doesn’t work properly, this can lead to security issues, as well as affect a customer’s ability to enter and leave the home. We often can offer same-day service to our custom ers, and emergency service and repair 24 hours a day.

Jeff Rothschild, President

Evansville Hearing Aid Center

How would your customers describe you?

Evansville Hearing Aid Center is known for its outstanding customer service. Many of our reviews state phrases such as “went above and beyond,” “goes out of their way,” “they are about helping people not money,” “rewarding and successful experience,” “honest,” “extremely helpful,” “explains options,” “very knowledgeable,” “great listeners,” and “great service.”

Starkey Hearing Technologies’ new Evolv AI is a complete line of hearing aids, from the smallest to the most powerful. With artificial intelligence, it can make up to 55 million adjustments an hour that deliver genuine sound quality in every listening environment without doing anything extra. Along with remarkable sound quality, Evolv AI introduces effortless connection with smartphones and features healthable technology to help track your health and wellness.

aid offices?

At Evansville Hearing Aid Center, we work with all major hearing aid manufactur ers. This allows us to repair almost all makes and models of hearing aids. We can also offer many different options when

selecting a new pair of hearing aids as they are not “one size fits all,” allowing us to fit customers experiencing a very mild hear ing loss up to a very profound hearing loss.

We also offer many other custom products such as a full line of hearing protection for hunters and industrial workers, sleep earplugs, swim earplugs, musician stage monitors, newscaster molds, and racecar receivers.

Hearing Wellness Starts

Do you have any new products and what are the latest advancements in hearing health?

What is a service offered that you would not typically find at other hearing

Evansville Hearing Aid Center provides personalized attention along with the diagnostics, education, customized products, and rehabilitation necessary to make sure your hearing health care needs are met both short and long term.

1000 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS

How did your family start Flowers & More?

Flowers & More

How has the business changed over the years?

How does your team go above and beyond for customers?

Flowers & More was started by Bob Jacobs (Heidi Griese’s father) over 35 years ago. Bob started out with another business owner, a few plants, and a small store front. After a few years, he became the sole owner and bought the building where we currently conduct business today. We have expanded the space to include the front atrium, the warehouse, and an upstairs storage space.

What makes Flowers & More unique?

Our locally owned, second generation company strives to find distinctive gifts and curate floral pieces with flair and unmatched, experienced designs.

What does your business specialize in?

Flowers & More is known for creating elegant fresh flower wedding designs, unique celebration of life flowers, a showroom filled with exclusive boutique gifts, and an efficient, reputable delivery service.

When Heidi Griese purchased the company in 2012 from her father, Bob Jacobs, she was excited to acquire new boutique vendors. Those include impeccable candle companies,  distinct apparel, exquisite home goods, and gracious sympathy gifts.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

Our team of dedicated designers and customer relations staff listens to each customer and designs with the customers’ wishes in mind. Each arrangement that leaves the store is carefully and specifi cally created. When working with families who have lost loved ones, our designers take pride in knowing that our customers trust them with their family members end of life floral requests.

The Griese Family

Heidi and her crew are so passionate about their florals and it shows. Always finding a way to make each and every customer happy while bringing joy to their day. JUST LOVE THEM!

-JENA EICHLER, GOOGLE REVIEW

Husk Signs

When he was a junior in high school, Kip Husk started handlettering and painting cars and interior show cards for mall clients. Eventually, what started as a hobby became a vocation, and in 1979, Husk Signs was born. Today, the company works with businesses across the country and offers affordable total project management for electronic message centers, channel letters, custom signs, and more.

What does the future of the company look like? How has the company expanded since the early days?

We have a strong future with very consistent growth. Double-digit growth is normal for us. In the early days, we worked mostly with local businesses. Now, we work with companies across the country. We have

averaged more than 10% growth for decades. Initially, we doubled our sales for the first six years, which was very tough to maintain.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business?

We are a Christ-centered company. We care. Our name is our brand, and we want to honor it. At Husk Signs, we understand that signs are an extension of the brand, and everyone wants to create an amazing first impression. At tention to detail and consistency sets us apart as a brand, bringing high-quality signage across the Tri-State and the U.S. Husk Signs is dedicated to providing 100% customer satisfaction.

What business achievement are you most proud of?  Husk Signs has a tremendous amount of staff history at work for us. Our experience extends to exterior signs,

digital billboards, restaurant signs, healthcare signs, bank signs, and store signs. Our staff can adapt to any challenge, including location, prop erty restrictions, or special visibility needs. Husk Signs also has a network of partners from coast to coast to help provide high-impact, professional brand identity across the country.

J.E. Shekell

424 W. TENNESSEE ST. • 812-425-9131 • SHEKELL.COM

J.E. Shekell, Inc.’s fleet of trucks around town and the Tri-State gives evidence of the company’s reach in residential and commercial work today. Since John E. Shekell served his first customer in 1978, the company’s team has steadily grown and now is led by John’s son, president Kevin Shekell. Now in their 44th year, they’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings of one man with one van.

What has contributed to J.E. Shekell's success over the years?

The fact that J.E. Shekell is a one-stop shop makes it easy for customers to call about HVAC, electrical, and plumbing needs. This diverse product portfolio, available to both residential and com mercial customers, succinctly is summed up with the motto: “If it moves water, air, or electricity, then we can work on it.”

How does J.E. Shekell adapt and stay at the forefront of technology?

Due to the diverse and individual nature of each job, it is impera tive the company is constantly looking forward. By liaising closely with vendors, they keep up with the latest technology, and the com pany also places considerable value on its own development team.

What qualities set J.E. Shekell apart from the competition?

One of the things that sets our company apart is quality, whether it’s in the products we install, the service(s) we provide, or the experience of our 60-plus licensed and trained service technicians. With 110 vehicles on the road, the company can provide rapid service to those in need. The business continues to base its operations on John’s original cornerstones of 100-percent customer satisfaction and doing the job right the first time.

THE CO MM IT MENT CON TI NU ES

Shekell President

John Shekell founded J.E. Shekell, Inc. in 1978 a s one man wi th one v an His c ommi t men t:

is c ont inuing t he legacy of exc ellence built by his dad with a committed team of trained HVAC, plumbing and elec t rical pro f es s ional s. F or 44 y ears , t he ex per ts a t J .E. S he k ell have v alued working with commerc ial, industrial, and residential customers across the Tri-State and look forward to serving families and businesses well into the future.

John Shekell Founder

Kevin

Kevin Shekell

John Shekell

McMahon Exterminating, Inc.

McMahon Exterminating, Inc has grown from a small family business into a large family business. Just this July, we welcomed customers of The Pest Experts, Inc into the McMahon family, making this the first of what we hope are many acquisitions. We are all about family. We celebrate four father-and-son teams, along with a husband, wife, and their nephew. The family atmosphere resonates loud and clear among our team members. The culture of “Family First” is the backbone of our company.

Our full team meets every week for training. Our on-staff entomologist works with our technicians, and I work with our management team and office team members. Training is an integral part of how we continue to provide the highest level of customer service.

We now offer canine scent detection as part of our bedbug program. We recently welcomed three Labrador Retrievers to our team: Raven, Sparrow, and Indy. Our scent detection team recently gained national recognition with NESDCA (National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association) certification! Our trainer/handler Shelby, the only female in the TriState that is NESDCA accredited, has been instrumental in helping train and teach not only our canines, but also our handlers, Trevor and Jake. We now can pinpoint exactly where bed bugs are hiding. Reports show that humans are approximately 30 percent successful in

finding bedbugs. Essentially, the tech must see an actual bedbug, whereas our canine counterparts can smell bed bug scent even when that rascal is hiding inside an electrical outlet, behind a baseboard, deep inside the box spring of the bed, inside a book on the nightstand, or on the bottom side of the nightstand drawer. Canines are also 97-98 percent accurate, making them the best option for successful eradication of the dreaded bedbug.

How does your team work together to provide a high level of customer service?

Are there any new services you are offering customers?

Merle Norman Cosmetics & Boutique

It began with a dream, an idea, and a desire to make a difference. Merle Norman was a beauty pioneer in the 1930s and a true American success story. Today, our store in Evansville embraces Merle Norman’s values and vision by offering high-end products at reasonable prices and transformative experiences to find and express one’s best self.

Why Merle Norman?

We truly believe in the quality of MN cosmetic and skin care products. My daughter and I were both clients well before we bought the Evansville studio. We have numerous clients in their 70s, 80s, and older that come into the store and their skin looks amazing. They are so proud to tell us they have been life-long customers of MN.

What makes Merle Norman unique?

The MN experience is so different compared to other cosmetic stores. It’s a personal experience. We spend time with each client, getting to know them, and understanding their individual needs. Our #1 goal is finding the right products for our clients based on their unique skin needs and concerns. We work to ensure all clients are happy when they leave our studio.

Kelsey and Natalie Pence, Owners

What is something you want people to know about Merle Norman Evansville?

In addition to cosmetics and skin care products, we offer a full boutique for women including fashionable clothing, jewelry, handbags, gifts, and accessories. We also sell MN “clean beauty” products and a line of organic and natural body care products from Farmhouse Fresh®. Lastly, we offer event makeovers for a variety of special occasions such as weddings, high school dances, work events, and professional photo shoots.

Meyer Truck Equipment

Founded in 1937, Meyer Truck Equipment has been Indiana’s go-to resource for all truck equipment needs for 85 years. Originally known as the “Meyer Body Company,” Meyer continues to be a familyowned and operated business, providing our customers with the best service and products. We cater to commercial clients, as well as retail customers, offering the ability to design and customize an entire fleet or outfit one pick-up. We handle everything from concept to installation, making Meyer your one-stop shop for all transportation solutions.

How has the company expanded since the early days?

The original Meyer Truck Equipment location started with humble beginnings in 1937, operating out of a modest-sized building just north of Jasper, IN. The original location operated solely until 2007 when the second location in Evansville was acquired. As our customer base grew, a 3rd location was needed. In August 2020, we acquired our third location on the northwest side of Indianapolis.

What have you learned from running your business?

We have always taken pride in being a family business that realizes our purpose is larger than just building commercial work trucks. We have a responsibility to our customers, employees, and their families to run a sound, ethical business. When our entire team is committed to the

company and its success, the rest falls into place, and the outcome is favorable for everyone involved.

What does the future of the company look like?

As we have quickly grown, the extraor dinary team that Meyer Truck Equip ment has built over the past 15+ years gives us the confidence to continue to offer more products and services to our customers. We continue to search for new growth opportunities within our current markets and beyond.

Midwest Telecom Communications

Midwest Telecom offers a clear advantage to their customers. Over 39 years ago they recognized a need for a locally based, technology driven company. The key to their success is to go above and beyond the customer expectation, while delivering a specialized approach. These areas of expertise include communication solutions, video surveillance, sound and paging, door access controls, and networking.

What exactly can Midwest Telecom Communications do for my business?

Because of our personal approach we con sider our customers a part of our family. We truly care about the success of our custom

ers. Our focus is to listen to the customer and tailor the products we represent in order to provide the best solution.

“ We represent a fantastic product, NEC technology, which is No. 1 in world wide sales,” says owner David Shipley. “All ideas from all across the globe are put into this product, which is the key to their success.”

All organizations are challenged with staying at the forefront of technology and trends.

At Midwest Telecom we meet this chal lenge with specialized vendors that have been hand-picked over the years. These vendors' relationships enhance the support that we can offer. This year Midwest Telecom has provided solu tions for numerous healthcare facilities across the Tri-State including Women’s Health Care, P.C., Vision Care, & War rick Veterinary Clinic. The NEC solution supported a multi-site deployment with connectivity for their medical

LaCinda and David Shipley

staff to securely move between loca tions. The NEC system tied to other communications platforms offers emergency fail over solutions for continuous communications.

Moore Metal Works

Moore Metal Works is a custom metal fabrication company on Evansville’s westside. For nearly 25 years, the Moore family has focused on quality work and customer service. This, along with continuous investments in technology, has made Moore Metal Works a leader in the industry.

How has the company expanded since the early days?

How did your business get its start?

We grew up in the industry and it had always been a dream of ours to start our own shop. So, in 1998 we all quit our jobs and took the plunge. At the time, our father Charles (Steve) Moore, had 30 years in the industry. My brother Dirk and I were also well into our careers. Although it has been by far the most challenging experience of our lives, it has also been the most rewarding.

MMW originally consisted of 4 employees, Steve, Darlene, Derek, and Dirk Moore. We were focused primarily on HV AC and sheet metal fabrication. Since then, our focus has changed dramatically. Expansions to the facility along with new technology, manufacturing equipment, and an extremely talented team, have all influenced major changes. Today, we have a team of 45 and have shifted our focus to more intricate custom projects with an emphasis on stainless steel and aluminum. We serve a wide range of industries including, heavy industrial, plastics, food processing, and pharmaceuticals to name a few.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business?

Many people do not realize the versatil ity of MMW. West Metal Sales, located right next door, helps make us a one-stop

shop. We can engineer, supply materials, fabricate, machine, powder coat, and even rapid prototype all at a single location. This makes MMW extremely efficient and enables us to offer very fast turnaround times. In many cases, projects can be com pleted and delivered on the same day.

Derek Moore, Charles (Steve) Moore, Darlene Moore, and Dirk Moore

Newburgh Healthcare Center

10466 POLLACK AVE., NEWBURGH, IN • 812-853-2931 •

Newburgh Healthcare is privately owned by Bruce Baker and his family, who have served Warrick County, the Newburgh community, and the Tri-State for more than 40 years. Owning a healthcare facility was a pipe dream for Bruce, but it was a dream he was determined to achieve.

Bruce, why did you want to start a healthcare facility?

While I was working at the McCurdy Center, we admitted an individual from Welborn Hospital. When we realized she was at the wrong level of care, we sent her back to the hospital. Our general manager was angry at this decision and demanded I fire the admissions director who sent her back. When I de clined, he fired her. I gave my 30-day notice. During these 30 days, I designed my facility, and in 1978, Newburgh Healthcare Center opened its doors.

How has your facility changed since opening?

All of the changes we have made have been for the better. In August 1982, I added 43 beds in the east wing, then we added a north wing in Febru ary 1984. We leased our facility out for 15 years to a large corporation and regained it in 2003. In 2013, we began remodeling all of our resident rooms and offices. It’s been a labor of love for us.

How does being a family-owned business benefit residents?

We strive to make Newburgh Healthcare a home for our residents, family, and employees. Since the facil ity is operated by our family, we can make decisions quickly without having to appeal to higher-ups. We have more nurses and aides on staff, and our activi ties program has five full-time employees, allowing them to organize a full week of activities to keep our residents happy and entertained.

Bruce Baker, Carol Baker, Suzanne Weigel, and John Baker

Slade Print

6220 VOGEL ROAD • 812-437-5233 • SLADE.COMPANY

Slade Print was founded in 1993 by Tom and Lisa Slade. The company started with four employees and has grown to 55 team members operating out of four locations. Hunter Slade and Emily Slade Manzo, the second generation, now lead the three divisions: Print, Signs, and ProMark.

What are Slade Print’s core services and values?

Slade’s core business sectors include traditional print services, website design and development, large format signage and installation, vehicle graphics, screen print, embroidery, label production, and promotional items. If you can put your name on it, we can produce it!

How has the company expanded since the early days?

In addition to experiencing organic growth and product expansion, the company has been through several acquisitions over the years. The Slades purchased GGG Digital Graphics in 2009, ProMark in 2018, and Ad-Cetera Promotions and Midwest Graphix in 2021.

What does the future of the company look like?

The Slade team is focused on the future. The evolution of the industry requires constant upkeep with technology and innovation. The company continues to invest in team members, equipment, and services that support the growth of our customers.

One of the key developments for Slade has been the implementation of company stores, allowing team members to purchase branded apparel and promotional items without the hassle of site management and fulfillment.

What makes Slade Print unique?

Our mission is to be a one-stop shop for marketing collateral and purchasing. Because of the broad product offering, clients can consolidate spend and points of contact, saving them time and money.

What business achievement are you most proud of?

The Slade family contributes all business success to their great team and clients. They are considered extensions of the family and working alongside the team for our customers is our greatest joy!

Parrish Consulting Services, Inc.

How did your business get its start?

We recognized that the small to medium business (SMB) market needed Fortune 100 IT capability without the attached cost. We sought to fill that need.

What have you learned from running your business?

Sometimes it’s far less stressful to be the employee instead of the employer. Seriously, we’ve learned that being creative, flexible, and fiscally responsible are three pillars of successful customer engagement. Our customers know their businesses far better than we do. Listening and learning are essential if we’re going to attract and retain customers.

What business achievement are you most proud of?

Sustained growth in an industry that engages in wholesale technological change less than every two years. To stay relevant requires

constant adaptation and education. The vast majority of our customers have been with us for decades. That speaks heavily of our commitment to their business.

What is something clients should keep in mind when working with a family-owned business?

Our client base is predominantly comprised of the SMB market. As such, these companies tend to also be familyowned. There is a great mutual respect involved in understanding what is necessary to establish, maintain, and grow a small business.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business?

It’s no secret that IT expenses are seldom looked upon favorably. Worse yet is that the cost to staff an internal IT specialist is cost prohibitive. To maximize the investment, we prefer to be treated

with the same level of engagement and expectations from a business owner that they would expect from an employee.

What does the future of the company look like?

PCS is strongly poised to continue moderate but sustainable growth in the IT services sector. Within the Evansville regional market, our greatest constraint remains recruiting qualified employees.

Providing expertly managed IT solutions for over 35 years

Dan and Kelly Parrish

The Rug Merchant

When a customer visits the Rug Merchant, their initial reaction usually is one of surprise. With thousands of rugs in all shapes, sizes, colors, materials, and styles, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the selection. But beneath the surface of patterns and styles, lies a deep passion for the product we offer you.

How was the Rug Merchant started?

Before getting into the rug business, Terry Lewis founded and operated Midwest Carpet Supply. While at the Carpet Market in Chicago, Illinois, Lewis wandered over to the International Rug Market, where he immediately fell in love. Although he had been in the floor covering business for nearly 10 years, there was still so much to learn about Oriental carpets. He spent the next year learning about hand-made rugs from retailers all over the Midwest and beyond and, in 1980, he opened the Rug Merchant.

What's the advantage of shopping with the Rug Merchant?

Exceptional service is our goal for every customer we serve. Our highly trained staff are continually on the lookout for the latest styles and lasting values. We’re not only the Tri-State’s only resource for

fine, handmade, antique, and new area rugs and high fashion broadloom carpet, but we’re the only certified rug appraiser and expert rug repair. We want you to enjoy your rug for many years to come. Whether your rug needs a simple repair or expert restoration, the Rug Merchant offers handmade repair for those heirlooms that need a little extra attention to get them back to good condition.

Emily Provost, Lynne Lewis, Terry Lewis

Signarama

Signarama Evansville is proud to be a thirdgeneration, family-owned business whose roots are firmly planted in the Tri-State. The company was founded in 1957 by Arthur and Benita Valiant, grandparents of the current owner and president, Casey Valiant. Casey has successfully led the family business in growth, innovation, and community service. Signarama Evansville is recognized as a trusted resource to help businesses look their best by offering commercial

Southern Business Machines, Inc.

Southern Business Machines, Inc. opened its doors in October of 1989. We began modestly with two employees and 127 customers. Over the past 33 years we have established ourselves as a strong leader in the mailing/ document distribution industry and strive to provide great customer service to the 52 counties we cover in Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.

What is something you wish more people knew about your business?

SBM Inc. offers more than just your “traditional” office equipment. We can provide your organization with a full scope of products and solutions to ensure that your customer communications are sent in the most timely and efficient way possible. We help our customers not only in the mailroom, but in the warehouse with shipping and receiving packages, and in the back office where invoices and statements are created and generated — before they ever see the inside of an envelope. Communication efficiency has become vitally important with employees working remotely.

still is, our backbone. When you call SBM, you get a friendly voice on the phone — not an automated recording. When you need service on your equipment, you call our office, not an 800 number where you are just another number in the system. Our team is friendly and professional. We are active members of this community. We sincerely value our customers and reciprocate business locally when in need of products and services ourselves.

Relationships and great customer service. Without name recognition

What distinguishes you from other companies in your industry ?

Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe

Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe was opened by Michael Baumgart in 1983 on Franklin Street. After relocating from California, Baumgart — and now his sons Chris and Mike — built his business off high-quality meats and personal relationships.

How has your business changed since the beginning?

We’ve never been your average meat market. We’re always supplying our customers with prime cuts of meat and first-level customer service. While we mostly serve stores and retailers in the area, we cater to a variety of customers who choose us for beef steaks, roasts, grinds, burgers, pork loins, sausages, chicken breasts, seafood, and specialty seasonings, sauces, and rubs.

Since our father founded the shop, we have added fully cooked barbecue services and a deli. The Evansville loca tion has partnered with Big Green Egg to sell their grills and Eggcessories. Our Newburgh location features Outlaw Smokers as well as Pits and Spits Grills.

Does Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe give back to the community?

We are a family-owned and operated meat market that is proud to be part of the Evansville and Newburgh communi ties. Besides our tight bonds with area retailers, local restau rants, and prominent community members, we go above and beyond to give back and support those who support us.

We participate in fundraisers of all kinds in our commu nity, mostly for schools and athletics. Our money goes back to several local charities, including the Evansville Area Food Bank and the Dream Center.

Chris Baumgart and Mike Baehl

Tri-State Trophies

Tri-State Trophies is a third generation, family-owned business located in Evansville. We serve the local and tri-state area as well as national accounts by providing quality awards and promotional products in a helpful, friendly environment. Our business began in 1964 with trophies and hand engraving — we now offer laser engraving services, trophies, plaques, and promotional products nationwide.

What makes Tri-State Trophies unique?

We continually strive to provide the best awards for each and every client we serve. Our products have grown so diverse over the years that we offer literally thousands of choices to our clients. We have created many custom-built awards, cast bronze

signage and service award programs which really set us apart from other awards companies.

What are your core values and mission?

Our business was founded in 1964 with a commitment to deliver top quality awards at competitive prices, with outstanding customer service. We continue this tradition today. We know an award is merely a symbol; it represents many hours of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Our mission is to make sure our award is worthy of those elements that went into achieving it. Community involvement and support is another core value vitally important to our entire staff. Many of our clients are non-profit businesses whom we have come to know well. We take pride in supporting our non-profit partners and many of our staff are volunteers, board members and active participants in their causes. We believe that each

person can make our community stronger and in turn strengthen Tri-State Trophies and other small businesses who make up the cornerstones of our community.

What does the future look like?

We are excited about the future of TriState Trophies. We have an exceptional combination of experienced staff who bring years of product knowledge to the table along with high energy, creative, newer staff who bring innovative ideas and technology into our mix. They are reflections of our owners, experience and innovation combined. Our future is bright!

Paige and Lisa Tanner

VIVID Landscape & Lighting

VIVID is a small family-owned and operated custom landscape company specializing in the complete backyard getaway. We design and customize specific plans for each of our clients, making sure to personalize each element to fit their style and showcase the beauty of their property. We are fully licensed and insured, so you can rest easy when we are on your property to perform any of our services.

How did the business get its start?

Our family business really started in 2001 as LMN Landscape owned by our father, Steve Luckett. While growing up in the landscape industry, working and learning from our father, in 2015 my brother and I took ownership and rebranded to VIVID. We wanted to focus our services on things we loved and what set us apart.

Why hire us?

What makes us different and more unique is simple, we take pride and passion in every project we’re on. We treat every client as if their landscape is our landscape. We believe in cus tomer service by being honest with our work and our price while work ing closely with clients to provide a top-notch 5-star experience. Simply put, doing business with us should be an easy choice.

What is something you wish more people knew about your company?

Even though we offer the complete backyard package from stone patios, water features, lighting, landscape, and pools, that doesn't mean we only want to do large projects all the time. We do what's best for the customer, large or small, landscape renovation or a custom fire pit. All services are

treated with equal importance to ensure we build trust with our clients as we set the founda tion of a long-term working relationship.

What makes us unique?

What really sets us apart from other landscape companies is our ability to install custom inground beach pools that blend into our land scapes. As a Biodesign pool builder, we seek to create the ultimate backyard getaway with our beach pools and landscapes.

Walther's Golf & Fun

2301 N. FIRST AVE. • 812-464-4472 • GOLFNFUN.COM

In 1977,

What activities do you offer?

What is the focus of your business?

Since the beginning, our mission has been to provide wholesome, excit ing, and uplifting experiences where families create lasting memories. We pride ourselves on the safe and friendly environment that we have built. Here - the customer always comes first. And with loads of activities to choose from, Walther’s Golf & Fun has something for the whole family.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

We are, and always have been, a family-owned business. While expanding and growing over the past decades, we have worked to maintain a personal touch that can sometimes be lost in bigger establishments. Family is extremely important to us, and that is apparent in almost every aspect of our business. Some of our current staff have relatives or even parents that were formerly employed by us. Customers often come in with their kids and fondly mention memories of visiting as a child with their parents. That emphasis on family tradition is undoubtedly what sets us apart.

Attractions include indoor and outdoor miniature golf courses, mini-bowling, action-packed Lazer Tag, an expansive arcade with virtual reality, and made-to-order food from Coconut Cafe. Our specialty is stress-free birthday parties - all you have to do is show up and enjoy the celebration! And just next door, you can visit the premier golf practice range that started it all. Come experience 45 years’ worth of service, and let our family bring joy to yours!

Bob Walther opened the doors of Walther's Golf Range, a pro shop and arcade inspired by the rustic architecture of Barkley Lodge. Nineteen years later, his next Evansville tradition was born: Walther's Golf & Fun!

Wellmeier Electric

Wellmeier Electric is a local family-owned business established in 2022 by Sam and Sarah Wellmeier. While our business is new, our level of experience is not. We are a father/son team with a combined 27+ years of experience in the Evansville area and beyond. We are a full-service electrical contractor. We pride ourselves on the reputation we have built and the client relationships we have made.

What qualities set your company apart from the competition?

Our company delivers high-quality prompt services, with keen attention to detail, and offers a wide variety of services carried out correctly the first time. Our top priority is keeping our customers up and running and mak ing sure they are satisfied with their care. These qualities give a win/win situation for all involved.

What does being a family-owned business mean to you?

From being out in the field to our very own office we ensure that you are dealing with a Wellmeier from start to finish. We take pride in the fact that you will not be dismissed or lost in our company because we care and value each and every one of our customers.

What has contributed to your company's success?

From the start of Wellmeier Electric, our customers have come to understand that we offer a high stan dard of integrity, and loyalty to our customers’ needs, budgets, and time, as well as having an extensive determination to provide quick solutions. Having a family-owned business allows us to know that our customers are getting exceptional knowledge and out standing service from each and every Wellmeier.

The Wellmeier Family

DÉJÀ VU SKIN & HEALTH CENTER’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Sept. 14, Déjà Vu Skin & Health Center Front row: Emily Cunningham, Danielle, Stephenie, Kelly, Paula, Michaela, Leida Manley, Dr. Clovis E. Manley, Natalie T., Ireland, Sherry, Suzanne, Cassidy, and Emily Kiefer. Back row: Jacinda, Julie, April, Jennifer, Lauren, Shannon, Natalie Z., Krissie, Shea, and Ashlee

BARTON MALOW OPEN HOUSE

Sept. 27, Barton Malow 1. Preston King, Tyler Almon, and Dale Wright 2. James Morrison, Shanna Groeninger, Craig Eckert, and Matthew Nix

EVANSVILLE RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 60TH ANNIVERSARY Oct. 13, Embrace Church Front row: Diane Meier, Walt Lewis, Mike Madriaga, Jack Weatherholt, Jerry Noland, Earl Pfettscher, Bob Suhrheinrich, and Steve Fritz. Back row: Darlene Olberding, Janet Leistner, Brenda Weber, Pat Eager, Gene VanStone, Sylvia Blice, Terry Becker, and Andy Guarino

TICKLED PINK VINTAGE PREVIEW PARTY Sept. 15, Tickled Pink Vintage 1. Kathryn Nix and Ann Tornatta

2. Bert Wheat, Elizabeth Woosley, Robert Woosley, Angie Schaffstein, and Penny Goshert

WEST SIDE NUT CLUB FALL FESTIVAL MEDIA NIGHT Sept. 26, City View at Sterling Square Phil Coudret, Diane Tabor, Brian Woods, Emily Cunningham, and Alex Wahl

PHOTO BY JODI KEEN

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ERTA

PHOTOS BY JODI KEEN

PHOTO PROVIDED BY DÉJÀ VU SKIN & HEALTH CENTER

PROVIDED BY ANN TORNATTA

NEW HIRES/PROMOTIONS

The University of Southern Indiana has named Michael Dixon as Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. The newly created school aims to meet the needs of recent graduates. Before he was appointed director of graduate studies, Dixon served as director of classical studies at the USI College of Liberal Arts.

Donaldson Capital Management has announced its board of directors appointed Sarah Moore, CFP, as president and Ciavon Hartman, FPQP, as chief operations officer. As part of this transition, Mike Hull will take on the role of executive chairman of the board while remaining part of the Donaldson Capital Management executive leadership team.

The University of Southern Indiana has announced that Shelly Blunt, the associate provost for academic affairs and profes sor of chemistry, will become the interim dean of the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. She previously served as Pott College’s associate dean and succeeds Zane Mitchell.

Oakland City University has announced an expansion of its leadership team. Brian Baker, vice president of advance ment and admis sions, will now focus strictly on admissions.

Jennifer Lantrip has been promoted from associate director of recruitment to direc tor of undergraduate admissions, focusing on OCU’s admissions program at its main campus in Oakland City, Indiana. B. Todd Mosby has been promoted from senior director of develop ment to associate vice

president of development, marketing, and communications. Mosby will also oversee donor relations and OCU alumni affairs.

OVG360 has promoted two team members. Shelby Christensen will serve as an event manager at the Owensboro Convention Center. Daniel Jones has been promoted to operations and events manager of the Owensboro Sportscenter.

Evansville Electrical and Mechanical Services Company has hired a new chief oper ating officer. Matthew Conville brings more than 15 years of ex perience in the electro-mechanical industry, and the USI graduate will help EEMSCO’s plans for growth and sustainability using his extensive experience in rolling mills, pulp, and paper, injection molding, and more.

Oakland City University has broken ground on a new tennis center on campus in honor of lifelong donors Donald and Mary Ann

B BUSINESS SUCCESS

Top Tech

Berry Global Group, Inc. has earned a Technology Excel lence Award in Food/Beverage from the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. The recogni tion was bestowed to Berry’s Proxima tethered closure with a tamper-evident band, whose bottle-securing technol ogy improves its recyclability.

“To help our customers meet the growing sustainability demands of today and tomorrow, we develop new products and materials that are designed to advance a pathway to circularity,” says Jean-Marc Galvez, president of Berry Global’s consumer packaging international division. “As we push the limits of innovation with creative, sustainable packaging solu tions, it is an honor to be recognized by our peers and other packaging experts.”

Berry Global received the award from attendees and packaging expert

Wilder. The university also broke ground on a new stadium on the Brooks Pinnick Baseball Field site. It will be named in honor of Matthew and Lindsey Konkler.

Community One has hired Jessica Welcher as its new executive director, replacing outgoing director Eric Cummings. The Evansville native and USI graduate will lead the nonprofit organization in its com munity development, communication, and sustainability.

Visit Evansville has announced the ad dition of three new team members. Kathy Glaser will serve as director of finance and administration. In her new role, Glaser will oversee the financial and administrative operations of Visit Evansville, with a focus on

BY MAGGIE VALENTI

panelists in late October at the PACK EXPO International in Chicago, Illinois. Read more about Berry Global’s sustain ability efforts in the feature story “Pre vailing Plastics” in the June/July 2022 issue of Evansville Business magazine.

PHOTO BY ZACH STRAW

MICHAEL DIXON

BRIAN BAKER

SHELLY BLUNT

JENNIFER LANTRIP

B. TODD MOSBY

MATTHEW CONVILLE

JESSICA WELCHER

KATHY GLASER

updating and streamlin ing processes across the five organizations that the tourism bureau serves. L’Oreal Mitchell has been hired as as sistant director of sales. Mitchell’s sales focus will be targeted toward the sports, agriculture, and faith-based meeting markets, along with rep resenting Visit Evansville through industry events and professional orga nizations to increase the visibility of the Southwest Indiana region. Dawson Sinclair joins Visit Evansville as operations manager of the Evansville Sports Complex. Sinclair will oversee the day-to-day activities at Deaconess Sports Park and Goebel Soccer Complex.

The University of Southern Indiana has hired Jacob Shelton to be the first director of athletic marketing and fan engagement.

Shelton is a 2019 USI graduate and will be responsible for athletic marketing strategies, branding initiatives, marketing communications, community ac tivities, and game experience. Most recently, Shelton served as the assistant athletic direc tor of marketing and fan engagement and director of ticketing and gamer operations at the University of Evansville.

L’OREAL MITCHELL

DAWSON SINCLAIR

JACOB SHELTON

Manufacturing’s Best

BY MAGGIE VALENTI

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce singled out CrossPoint Polymer Tech nologies, LLC as one of the best places to work in manufacturing in Indiana. Fourteen companies rang ing in size from 39 to 7,600 employ ees made the chamber’s top-places list based on employer reports and comprehensive employee surveys. Other Southern Indiana companies named to the list are Nix Compa nies in Poseyville and Oliver Win ery in Bloomington.

“The original Best Places to Work program has been so success ful through the years, we wanted to give manufacturers a chance to stand out within their own indus try,” Indiana Chamber of Com merce President and CEO Kevin Brinegar said in a statement.

“Considering Indiana’s robust manufacturing history and prow ess, this just makes sense. And now we’re excited to present this inaugural list of companies that are going the extra mile for their employees and creating not just products that impact daily life for businesses and individuals, but an outstanding workplace environ ment as well,” he says.

The companies’ official rank ings will be announced at the 2022 Best IN Manufacturing awards lun cheon Dec. 14 in Indianapolis. The winner of the “Coolest Thing Made in Indiana” competition also will be named.

Donaldson Capital Management has been named to CNBC’s Financial Advisor 100 List. Donaldson was selected from more than 39,800 registered investment advi sory firms using a method developed by CNBC in partnership with data provider AccuPoint Solutions.

D-Patrick Honda has donated $1,500 to The Foundry Center for The Arts as part of its “Honda Helping Kids” program. Foster Care in the U.S. was October’s $1,500 donation recipient.

Tech Foundation named William “Bill” Shinn its Benefactor of the Year at the foundation’s Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony in September. Shinn was one of 19 honorees.

The Indiana Department of Education has named 2007 USI graduate Tara Cocanower the 2023 Indiana Teacher of the Year for her work at Bluffton High School. Cocanower also earned the Teacher of the Year award for her school district in 2021.

Deaconess HeartSaver has presented its largest donation of automated external defi brillators to date. The organization presented 150 AEDs to 40 Tri-State organizations in cluding fire departments, schools, nonprofits, and churches. The organization also provided training on how to use the AEDs.

Oakland City University has received a $750,000 Lilly Endowment grant to establish and run three technology-based summer camps for high school students in the south western Indiana region. The grant will enable OCU to offer summer camps in beginner coding and advanced game design, as well as a two-week intensive college-level com puter science course in which students can receive college credit.

Junior Achievement of Southwestern Indiana has received a $10,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation. The grant will support JA Pathways programs for more than 7,500 students in Duke’s nine-county service area.

Ivy Tech Community College has honored alumnus Malachi Greb as one of 18 individuals across the state selected to receive the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award. Greb, an associate of applied science graduate in advanced automation and robot ics and industrial technology, launched his own company, Elite Automation, in 2020, specializing in the design, programming, and installation of industrial automation systems. In a separate recognition, the Ivy

Evansville Day School has honored graduate Stuart Comer with the Founders Achievement Award. Comers is the chief curator of media and performance for the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and leads the museum’s Marie-Josée and Henry Kravis Studio.

The Men’s Fund of Vanderburgh County has awarded $40,000 in Impact grants to three local organizations. Sleep in Heavenly Peace’s Nobody Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town program was awarded $30,000. Ozanam Family Shelter and Tri-State Food Bank each were awarded $5,000. This is the seventh year of Impact grants.

The University of Indiana’s mathematical science department have received part of a five-year $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation for a collab orative project with North Carolina State University, Eastern Michigan University, and the Concord Consortium. The department will receive $175,000 from the project to enhance the state of undergraduate teacher preparedness for data science and statistics.

MALACHI GREB

DEACONESS HEARTSAVER

D-PATRICK HONDA

Researchers at Indiana University’s School of Medicine have been granted $100,000 in pilot funding to research how to best provide can cer survivorship health care to young people in Southwestern Indiana. About a dozen medi cal students at IU’s medical school campus in Evansville will work on the project in 2023.

GROWTH/DEVELOPMENT

Lyles Station Historic School and Museum has announced its Adopt-A-Plot Program to help beautify and maintain the Gibson County historic site. The program offers individuals or groups the option to plant and maintain selected garden areas on the museum grounds.

United Fidelity Bank has acquired Community Banks of Shelby County. With the comple tion of the transaction in September, United Fidelity, which is headquartered in Evansville, gained CBSC’s three bank ing centers in the Illinois communities of Cowden, Herrick, and Shelbyville.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced a $1.1 million investment in American Rescue Plan Funds for water infrastructure upgrades to support tourism in Santa Claus, Indiana. The grant will cre ate improved water service and expanded capacity to support tourism and job creation in Spencer County and is expected to create 50 jobs, retain 202 jobs, and generate $45.1 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

Regional officials have broken ground on two projects in Princeton, Indiana, totaling $42 million in community investment. The $21 million, 56,000-square-foot Toyota Indiana YMCA is slated to open in summer 2024 and offer first-class health and fitness amenities. The District is a $21 million, 144-unit workforce apartment complex offering affordable housing in a location that will support employer needs and employee preferences. Construction on The District is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

Avangard Innovative plans to build a 500,00-square-foot, state-of-the-art recycling plant in Mount Vernon, Indiana. The operation will cost $100 million, and Avangard estimates the plant will bring 200 jobs to the area by 2024.

TECHNOLOGY FOR THOSE WHO MEAN BUSINESS

We build & manage technology for organizations who mean business. Like cybersecurity tools that protect your team & data from outside threats without getting in your way. Let’s get to work.

Diamond Valley Federal Credit Union has opened a new location at 691 Diamond Ave. Opened on Oct. 20, also known as International Credit Union Day 2022, every Diamond Valley branch in the region marked the occasion with a small celebration, includ ing snacks and activities and speaking with visitors about the benefits of credit unions.

Banterra Bank has opened a new loan production office in Downtown Evansville at the historic City National Bank building at the corner of Third and Main Streets. The newly remodeled office is on the second floor and houses 13 of Banterra’s local lending team members.

Advantage Realty

Since 1996, Reeder has negotiated more than 3,000 real estate transactions. Rhodes has worked the real estate industry for 23 years and part of the Mike Reeder Team for 19 years.

Deaconess Hospital has opened a new urgent care center at 2007 W. Franklin St. Open seven days a week, the Deaconess Clinic Urgent Care West can treat minor injuries and illnesses, perform physicals, and provide vaccines. It also includes an on-site lab and X-ray service.

Mike Reeder and Kristina Rhodes have joined ERA First

BANTERRA BANK

MIKE REEDER

KRISTINA RHODES

BANTERRA BANK PHOTO BY JENNIFER RHOADES

BUSINESSES CLOSING

Crescent Plastics has announced it will perma nently close this year after being in business since 1949. The extruded plastic parts supplier cited increased foreign competition as the reason it is shutting its doors. The closure does not affect Crescent’s affiliated companies Wabash Plastics and Cresline Plastic Pipe Co.

Gamut Gallery has closed up shop permanent ly. The fine art gallery at 1651 Lincoln Ave. closed its doors for the last time Nov. 26.

Company ...................................... #

All-Weather Products, Inc................40, 41

AquaVida Pools 42, 43

Astound ................................................................. 38

Banterra Bank 21

Bodyworks Massage Therapy.............46

Bosse Title Company 47

Capital Electric, Inc........................................48

CenterPoint Energy Service Company, LLC 25

Coates Hauling & Dirt Works 49

Colonial Classics, Inc. 50

Comfort Keepers............................................ 51

D-Patrick Motoplex 7

Dentons Bingham Greenebaum LLP 3

Dyna-Kleen 77

Evansville Garage Doors 52

Evansville Hearing Aid Center 53 Field & Main Bank 1

Flowers and More..........................................54

FORVIS 8

Frank’s Catering 79

German American Bank BC1 Gutwein Law 18, 19 Husk Signs 55

ADVERTISER INDEX

J.E. Shekell, Inc. 56

Keller Schroeder 24

Landscapes By Dallas Foster, Inc 17

Liberty Federal Credit Union BC2

Lieberman Technologies 77 McMahon Exterminating, Inc. .............. 57 Melmar Properties 75 Merle Norman 58

Meyer Truck Equipment 59

Midwest Telecom Communications 60 Moore Metal Works 61

N.M. Bunge, Inc. 4

Newburgh Healthcare Center 62

Office Furniture Liquidators by Corporate Design 21

Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe 68

PAR IT Consulting 10

Parrish Consulting Services, Inc..................................................64

Pettinga Financial Advisors 9, 23 Popham Construction 11 RE/MAX/Richardson, Mike C2 Rug Merchant, The 65

Shepherd Insurance, LLC 22

Signarama 66

Slade Print 63

Southern Business Machines, Inc. 67

Straub Mower Service, LLC.................... 79

Summit Real Estate Services 8

SVN The Martin Group 10, 44, 45

T.A. Dickel Group 28

Three I Design 27

Tomorrow’s Work Force 30, 31

Tri-State Trophies 69 Tucker Publishing Group 78 Ultimate Fit 39

United Way of Southwestern Indiana 28

University of Evansville: Center for Advancement of Learning 12

VIVID Landscape & Lighting 70

Vowells & Schaaf, LLP 27

Walther’s Golf & Fun Center 71

Wellmeier Electric.......................................... 72

Woodward Commercial Realty, Inc...........................................................2 Zuki 75

Best-One Tire and Service employees are giving back to the community with a $30,885 donation to Habitat for Humanity affiliates.

Tim Bollmann

EDUCATION: Courses while in the U.S. Army serving in South Korea, Texas, Washington, and Iowa

RESUME: Slot technician, Hollywood Casino, Aurora, Illinois; slot director and senior director of operations, Isle of Capri Casino, Reno, Nevada; general manager, Wild Rose Casino and Resort, Clinton, Iowa; director of operations, Casino KC, Kansas City, Missouri; senior vice president and general manager, Bally’s Evansville, August 2021-present

HOMETOWN: Davenport, Iowa

FAMILY: Wife Rhonda; daughter Brianna, 22; and son Connor, 20

Tim Bollmann considers himself something of a casino nomad. The Bally’s Evansville senior vice president and general manager has called the River City home since October 2021, and he comes with a wealth of experience from three decades working at casinos across the Midwest.

Employed at several levels in the industry, Bollmann intimately knows how casinos run, and those skills made him a natural fit to lead Evansville’s casino as it transitioned from Tropicana to Bally’s.

“It’s all a team, and how you treat people, how you deal with people — they want that experience. That’s why they’re here,” Bollmann says.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE CASINO INDUSTRY?

The economy was in pretty rough shape at the end of the 1980s and early 1990s. I’m out of the military, where I learned how to work on electronics and compo nents. I moved back home and then the casino started up. They had a slot tech nician position, and (I was) like, “Well, maybe I’ll be interested in that.” I took a job rebuilding old slot machines to put on the first riverboat casino in the Midwest. I was right out of the Army, so I didn’t know what I was getting into. And it was like, “Hey, I’m earning pretty good money, and I can put gas in my car. I can buy my girlfriend dinner. This is a cool summer.” And here I am, 32 years later.

HOW DO YOUR THREE DECADES OF WORKING IN THE CASINO INDUSTRY HELP YOU IN YOUR POSITION AS GENERAL MANAGER?

You understand the challenges of each position and how it impacts your over all operation. Knowing that there are

certain challenges that are not unique to this business. A casino is like a small city. We have a security force, a bank, housekeeping, food and beverage, main tenance, finance, marketing, and human resources to name a few areas. I’m not just somebody that came in and doesn’t understand how those operate. I can kind of empathize with those employees, know what they need, and kind of know how to prioritize assets.

TELL US ABOUT OVERSEEING THE EVANSVILLE CASINO’S TRANSITION FROM TROPICANA TO BALLY’S.

There’s been a lot of ownership changes in every industry. The casinos aren’t immune from that, either. I think people know the Bally’s brand, it’s got long ownership and history in gaming, and it’s getting bigger every day from the social media, sports wagering, and online presence. We’re part of a larger family that continues to grow. Here, it’s been great because the team is really supportive, wanting to get behind

the ownership change. People can really see the difference from where we were to where we’re at today.

HOW HAS THE INDUSTRY CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED IN 1990?

There is an emphasis on slot machines. The technology’s changed, of course. When I first started, table games were the major focus of a casino because that’s where the money was made and that’s where people had the best time. Slots machines overtook that, but I think people want the interaction and there is a heightened interest in table games.

Frankly, I can go on my phone right now and probably play almost any casino game. But people don’t come to a gam ing entertainment establishment just to play the games. It’s about that human interaction, the atmosphere, the social experience. Especially since COVID-19. It’s also cool because we’re all part of the same community. It’s like family when they come in the door.

Family-owned businesses are vital to the growth of a community, and at the same time, help generations of people to live well and build family wealth. Our team creates tailored financial plans that combine top-rated, customer-facing technology with a talented, customer-focused team to deliver service excellence:

• build or expand your business

• increase your cash flow

• manage money efficiently

• reduce processing costs

• conveniently access financial information to make critical business decisions

Let's talk about your financial focus.

John Lamb Lindsay Botsch Kelvin Canaday Brandon Briddell

Chris Wampler Doug Bell Eric Teppen Rachel Dierlam Chris Collins