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VOLUME 20 / NUMBER 6
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Contents
Featured
26
POWERED UP
Once a small, regional telecommunications business, MetroNet has quietly grown to become the nation’s largest independently owned fiber optic company. Headquartered in Evansville, the company has enjoyed a growing demand for its services, leading to an increase in local hiring and property acquisitions. Now, MetroNet is expanding outside the Midwest and planting deeper roots in the River City.
22
BUILDING EVANSVILLE
Screaming Eagle Complex adds another gem to the University of Southern Indiana’s crown. Now, the addition positions the university to possibly move to a higher echelon of collegiate athletics.
DECEMBER 2021/ JA N U A RY 2 0 2 2
19 Regulars
16 BY THE NUMBERS
6 PUBLISHER’S LETTER
71 BUSINESS LIFE
Reppin’ Your Teams
9 SECOND GLANCE Indiana Landmarks transfers ownership of Evansville’s old Greyhound station to Cunningham Restaurant Group
16 IN A WORD
73 IN THE NEWS 80 BACK TALK Historic New Harmony’s Leslie Townsend talks preservation and community engagement
10 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Department
11 OFFICE SPACE
19 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Welborn Baptist Foundation’s offices and community spaces offer a birds-eye view of Downtown
13 NICHE BUSINESS “Smart Box” technology is delivered to your doorstep with HomeValet
15 ASK EVANSVILLE BUSINESS Catch up on several Downtown developments
Warrick Parks Department boasts an impressive portfolio and eyes more expansion on the horizon
Special Advertising Sections 33 FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES Local family-owned and -operated businesses give a glimpse inside their history and success
ON THE COVER MetroNet Contract Administrator Jake Spencer, Recruiter Nicole Blaine, President and CEO John Cinelli, IP Engineering Manager Eric Plikuhn, Director of Project Controls Suzanne Johnson, OSP Contract Administrator Julie Weber, and ISP Facilities & Install Manager Christopher Crofts. Photo by Zach Straw. EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 5
PUBLISHER’S PAGE
Reppin’ Your Teams
O
ne of the more fun things in life for sports fans is following “your teams.” I am of the opinion that real sports fans don’t ever waiver from their teams and alliances. True fans stick with their teams through the thick and sometimes thin; the good, bad, and often ugly years. On the collegiate level, I have been a University of Evansville fan since I was very young (so a long time), attending many games with my grandparents, and now as a proud UE alum. I might not have gone to Indiana University, but many members of my family have, and if you grow up in Indiana, you likely are either an IU fan, a Notre Dame supporter, or maybe even root for the school in West Lafayette … P-something. So it has been an unexpected bonus to expand my own personal team fan base and biases to become an ardent (like that, Lumpy?) supporter of my sons’ schools, Butler University and the University of Louisville. After all, I do feel as if I have some “investment” here. As both boys fortunately truly love their respective schools and are big sports fans, it has naturally rubbed off on the old man. I have more university logo gear of every type than should be permissible. I enjoy tuning in or going to as many games as I can or, as I did recently, sitting with my wife midweek repping UL gear and watching the Cardinals beat up on
6 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
Duke in football, just the two of us in our family room. On a recent Saturday night, I was with my son Max in the shrine called Hinkle Fieldhouse while earlier in the day, Kristen was at the mothers’ Thanksgiving fraternity tailgate and football game at Cardinal Stadium. The boys talk serious smack about each other’s schools and teams, and a picture of me wearing Cardinal or Dawg gear texted any time to my sons is sure to elicit a response from one or the other. It has been easier recently to let Old Glory wave at our house than constantly switching UE, UL, and Butler flags. Even our dog Jed Mr. Jed looking regal in Cardinal red, while Kristen reps the Dawgs gets involved. on a Friday morning in the office. In the picture at right, he is seen wearing his UL collar. What that tells me is that my son Jackson was home last and he put the “appropriate” collar on Jed. There are lots of football and basketball games in the coming weeks. So, if you see me soon wearing different university swag, know that I am not any more confused than usual. As always, I look forward to hearing from most of you.
Todd A. Tucker Publisher
TO D D A N D K R I S T E N P O R T R A I T S BY L AU R A M AT H I S . J E D P H OTO BY K R I S T E N T U C K E R .
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 7
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JUST NORTH OF INDY
SECOND GLANCE
Passing the Torch BY JODI KEEN
In September 2021, Indiana Landmarks transferred ownership of the old Greyhound bus terminal to Indianapolis-based Cunningham Restaurant Group, the culmination of a project started in 2014 to restore the well-known structure and bring new business to Downtown Evansville. “The building was really quite loved in the community, and the expectation from the city was that Landmarks would repurpose the building,” says Indiana Landmarks president Marsh Davis. With extensive interior and exterior restoration work completed in 2015, a committee of local business and
community leaders reviewing business options for the facility chose a restaurant to bring an important economic element to Downtown. “We thought, what does Evansville need Downtown? It would be great to put it back on the tax rolls and be a benefit to Downtown,” Davis says. “Ultimately, the match with CRG turned out to be a wonderful occurrence.” When CRG’s BRU Burger Bar opened in the Greyhound building in November 2017, Indiana Landmarks kept ownership of the building and leased it to CRG, with the intent that CRG would eventually purchase the property. In the meantime, both parties shared a joint stewardship of the facility, Davis says. “We worked with them through the process to outfit the building,” Davis says. “We retained a great interest in the property and didn’t just walk away from it.”
BRU Burger Bar in the old Greyhound bus terminal
While CRG now owns the building, Indiana Landmarks retains a protective covenant agreement preserving the exterior of the building and must approve any plans to change or improve the “envelope of the building,” Davis says, such as walls, windows, roofing, or demolitions. Should CRG sell the property, any subsequent owners must also abide by the covenant. With ownership now transferred to another entity, Davis says Indiana Landmarks is looking for its next preservation project in Evansville. “We are hoping to find another project,” Davis says. “We’re heading in the right direction.” INDIANALANDMARKS.ORG
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P H OTO BY Z AC H S T R AW
Greyhound bus terminal ownership passes from Indiana Landmarks to CRG
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FUNDRAISING SHOUT OUT
Thanks Evansville Living for the shout out in (the June/July issue of) Evansville Business about our fundraising awards and opportunities. Sunset Skatepark via Facebook LEADING LADY
Thank you so much for thinking of me to be on the cover (of the August/September 2021 issue of Evansville Business). Such a positive experience. Lynn Miller Pease, Evansville REMEMBERING FRIENDS
Thanks for the excellent remembrance of David Brugger in (the Publisher’s Letter in the August/ September) issue of Evansville Business. I’ve known David since high school, and we remained friends and frustrated Minnesota Vikings fans ever since. He was a good friend, caregiver, cook, and bartender. He will be missed. Jon Townsend, Evansville THANKFUL TOAST
Thank you for your editorial in the (October/November 2021) issue of Evansville Business. The Petroleum Club, on the 17th and 18th floor of the Old National Bank Building, was a place of fine dining and truly made special by the maître d’, Tommie Wilson. Tommie greeted everyone with his cordial manner and was known also for his great culinary skills by preparing tableside Caesar salad, steak diane, cherries jubilee, and bananas foster. My husband, whom Tommie referred to as Dr. Sureck, and I were privileged to celebrate the evening of our wedding in 1981 with special dining with our wedding party and immediate families. Certainly “A Toast to the End of an Era.” Karen Sureck, Evansville
10 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
FOOD TECH
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BUSINESS FRONT O F F I C E S PA C E
High-Rise Hospitality Welborn Baptist Foundation gives back with community spaces BY RILEY GUERZINI
A
s a controlled implosion brought the 18-story Fifth and Main Building to the ground Nov. 21, Welborn Baptist Foundation had an up-close view, watching from two blocks away in its new office atop Fifth Third Center. The foundation, which supports local nonprofits with financing and resources, moved into its new home designed by LA+ D on the 15th floor at 20 N.W. Third St. in late September 2020 after 20 years in German American Bank’s building two blocks south on Third Street. Guests taking the elevator to Evansville’s highest vantage point are greeted by a sign displaying Welborn’s logo — “Cultivating Communities that Flourish” — hung on live greenery. Nearby, 10 offices and three meeting spaces are plugged into 5,500 square feet. An additional 1,600 square feet lies within the Welborn Community Room and Collaboration Hub. The Community Room is adaptable for training events, in-person meetings, and is equipped with Wi-Fi, HD projection systems, electricity-powered tables, and ceiling microphones and speakers. Available at no charge to nonprofit groups, it includes a catering-ready kitchen with warming racks, commercial refrigerator, and ice machine for events. “We call this our ‘gift to the community,’ because we want this to be an amenity that particularly nonprofits can make use
WELBORNFDN.ORG The Welborn Baptist Foundation offices and community spaces on the 15th floor of the Fifth Third Center feature state-of-the-art technology, including web conferencing capabilities and electricity-powered tables. The space overlooks miles of Downtown and Evansville’s lush greenery.
of,” says Welborn Communications Officer Jeff Seymore. “Some nonprofits don’t have any space period, and we could see there was a need for more meeting space.” The adjacent Collaboration Hub is a casual workspace equipped with the same web conferencing technology, a hospitality kitchenette, and two private rooms each with a smart TV and whiteboard. This space does not require reservations and is open to anyone. A partition separating the Community Room and Collaboration Hub can be removed to allow for larger events. “The collaboration hub is really a place for anyone to come and quietly retreat and work,” says Seymore. “It’s a great alternative to the coffee shop.” P H OTO S BY Z AC H S T R AW
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 11
Building
TOMORROW’S WORK FORCE Mater Dei and Reitz Memorial High Schools
The Tomorrow’s Workforce Program is an outreach to business and community leaders to support the Evansville Catholic High Schools and their mission to educate students academically, socially and spiritually. Mater Dei and Reitz Memorial High Schools work hard to provide quality graduates who will become our future employees and commerce leaders of the Evansville community and beyond. SHAREHOLDER
PARTNER
PRINCIPAL
Evansville Regional Business Committee, Inc • Hermann Family Foundation
INVESTOR
ASSOCIATE
Azzip Pizza
Banterra Bank
Dunn Hospitality Group
Dean and Karen Bosler
Bill and Sarah Vieth
First Bank
Andy and Darlene Goebel
Breck Logistics
Happe & Dubord Construction, LLC
Matt and Deborah Brockman
Freeman, Will & Niemeier, Inc.
Harding, Shymanski & Co., P.S.C. Kahn, Dees, Donovan & Kahn, LLP
Keller Schroeder Dennis and Catherine Lamey Lochmueller Group
Schultheis Insurance Agency, Inc. Sign Crafters, Inc.
Gene and Roberta “Bert” Schmidt
Midwest Roofing-Sheet Metal
Catholic Diocese of Evansville
Greg Riedford Happe & Sons Construction, Inc.
NFP
Dave and Darlene Robinson
Donut Bank Bakeries, Inc.
J W Associates School Equipment Specialists, Inc.
South Central Inc
Dr. Philip Behrens
Jim and Marilyn Keller
Robert Lamey
MelKay
Bussing - Koch Foundation, Inc.
Andy and Jackie Cosgrove
Pierre Funeral Home
Norb & Madonna Niemeier Rev. David H. Nunning Orthopaedic Associates, Inc.
The Hollander Group at Baird Stephen and Wendy Thomas Thyme in the Kitchen Christopher and Gail Wolking
MEMBER Altstadt-Hoffman
Butch and Linda Feulner
Daniel and Laura Hoefling
Pioneer Plastics
Michael and Michele Reffett
Ron and Margaret Angermeier
Hahn Kiefer Real Estate
Jeff and Amy Gorman
Robert Mehringer
Shetler Moving & Storage, Inc.
Hasgoe Cleaning Systems
Jim and Karen Will, Jr.
Midwest Mechanical Services, Inc.
Southwestern Healthcare, Inc.
Mike Blake Capital Electric, Inc.
Henderson Chevrolet/ Faupel, Ronald
Manion Stigger, LLP
Niehaus Lumber
Sterling United Federal Credit Union
Diehl Consulting
Wayne and Jewell Henning
Mark Daily
Jon and Jane Perkins
Jennifer and Ross Vaughn
BUSINESS FRONT
NICHE BUSINESS
Porch Product
Evansville-engineered ‘smart boxes’ are changing home delivery BY RILEY GUERZINI
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has transformed many aspects of our lives, but home delivery stands above the rest as perhaps the most accelerated change. One Evansvilleengineered product is looking to make it safer, easier, and more efficient. HomeValet is a subscription-based app that allows couriers to deliver consumer-purchased products to a secure container placed outside the home called a Smart Box. Founded by father-son duo John and Jack Simms of Tysons, Virginia, the two came up with the idea of an internet-connected system in the late 1990s and received patents for the Smart Box technology in 2005. “We saw an opportunity to address the growing need for grocery delivery by solving the ‘last yard’ of home delivery with a connected technology solution that would be primed for the market once the industry and consumer needs had caught up with technology,” says Jack. The Smart Boxes are regulated by customers and delivery drivers through the HomeValet app and have three temperaturecontrolled compartments for a variety of items, from traditional packages to groceries to prescriptions. Smart Boxes’ control is through a contactless method that has 24/7 capabilities. Jack calls it the “modern-day mailbox.” He adds grocery delivery is expected to be the first major adopter of the technology, with the cold-chain compliant comPHOTOS PROVIDED BY HOMEVALET
HomeValet Smart Boxes have three temperature-controlled compartments enabling storage for a variety of items, including cold and frozen goods. The boxes are controlled through HomeValet’s app, which gives users the ability to lock and unlock them and control the temperatures of each compartment.
partments preventing spoilage and security protecting against theft and weather damage. In September 2020, HomeValet acquired Evansville-based Envolve Engineering, an engineering consulting company founded by former Whirlpool employees. The Envolve team had worked closely with HomeValet for more than two years prior on the development of the Smart Box technology, and the engineering team continues to operate out of Evansville, utilizing the onsite lab for testing, evaluation, and product development. “As the various phases of the HomeValet work grew, HomeValet became a larger and larger percentage of the contract work for Envolve Engineering,” says Mike Stagg, HomeValet’s director of engineering and co-founder of Envolve. “At some point, it was a logical step for Envolve to become part of HomeValet and focus on what will become a new category of home appliance.” Though the Smart Boxes are not yet on the market, officials say HomeValet will be available soon for pre-order online. HOMEVALET.COM
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 13
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Downtown Development Our readers are curious. We consistently are asked about local projects, businesses, leaders, and more, so we answered! BY DALLAS CARTER
The Bitterman Building on Main Street
WHAT IS BEING BUILT AT 217-219 MAIN ST. BETWEEN ROGERS ACADEMY OF HAIR DESIGN AND SHING-LEE CHINESE RESTAURANT? Construction by Evansville-based Empire Contractors began on the empty lot in January 2021 under the direction of the building’s owner, John Campbell. Campbell is the co-founder and executive vice president of Campbell Energy in Carmi, Illinois, and a recent transplant to Downtown Evansville. When completed in early 2022, the building will serve as his personal office and residence.
IS THE LOFT ON 6TH BEING RENOVATED? The Loft on 6th is a short-term rental living space on the second floor of the L.E. Long building at 18-20 N.W. Sixth St. Dating to 1903, the building is getting an exterior facelift and being renovated for a ground floor commercial space that Market Retail Partners managing partner Kevin Fulton says will be filled by a new restaurant.
IS CALLE BAJA STREET FARE STILL OPENING IN THE BITTERMAN BUILDING ON MAIN STREET? Announced in March 2021, Calle Baja Street Fare is still planned to open at 200 Main St. Josh Tudela, owner of the Bitterman Building and the restaurant — which will serve Mexican street food — says there is no set timeline on the restaurant’s opening. Also home to Parlor Doughnuts’ headquarters on the third floor, the main floor of the building was rumored to be the site of the next local Parlor storefront, but Tudela says these plans have changed. Tudela, who also owns COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket, announced another new dining venture farther down Main Street in the former Arazu restaurant at 415 Main St. Again, there is no set timeline for the yet-to-benamed steak and seafood concept, but Tudela hopes to add to the building’s character with new lighting and paint, wallpaper, and a balcony on the side of the building approved by the city. P H OTO S BY J O D I K E E N
217-219 Main St.
The L.E. Long building at 18-20 N.W. Sixth St
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 15
BUSINESS FRONT
IN A WORD
Resolutions P H OTO BY L AU R A M AT H I S
We asked two community advocates to share their thoughts on one word E D I T E D BY DA L L AS CA RT E R
MIKE CHAPMAN While we normally associate resolutions with New Year’s Day, a resolution can be made at any time. Whenever we make decisions to do or not do something, that is a resolution. The catalyst for most resolutions is usually an extremely positive or negative result. When a student or athlete experiences a negative result, they will often resolve to change their behavior in the classroom or pool to make the result better. Likewise, they will often resolve to do even better when they get a positive result. When a resolution is made, that’s when the real work begins. I love to see someone make a decision and then follow the necessary steps to make it happen. In those situations, it is the process that has a bigger effect on the person than the outcome. — Chapman is a special education teacher and boys’ swimming and diving head coach at Boonville High School and the head coach of the Boonville Dolphins swim team.
Holiday Edition BY J O D I K E E N
41
Number of Downtown businesses that participated in the Holiday Open House in November
6.3
Miles traveled by the 30-foot Norway spruce from New Harmony Road to Downtown Evansville to become the city’s 2021 Christmas tree
12
Height, in feet, of the giant nutcrackers flanking the Main Street arch
KRISTA LOCKYEAR I believe resolutions are symbolic of both winning and losing, and how an individual deals with both. I picture Sisyphus pushing the boulder uphill again and again. Resolutions are challengers, something internally important to an individual, that we are driven to achieve. Resolutions help us stretch, expand, and grow. Some resolutions may fail, and the boulder rolls back down the hill. But resolutions give us goals and purpose. As long as the fear of failure doesn’t get in the way, resolutions bring out the best in people. Resolutions are dreams based in reality, and which we should never stop trying to achieve. — Lockyear is an attorney specializing in real estate and corporate and estate work at the Evansville location of law firm Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC.
16 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
BY THE NUMBERS
P H OTO S P R OV I D E D
13,390
Number of lights on the Tunnel of Light installation on the lawn of Old National Bank
500
Estimated number of letters to Santa anticipated in this year’s letterbox on Main Street
262
Number of families who brought their pets to be photographed with Santa during Vanderburgh Humane Society’s holiday fundraiser
WHAT OUR ADVERTISERS SAY Bodyworks Massage Therapy and Institute has worked with Tucker Publishing Group for almost 10 years, first advertising in Evansville Living, and more recently in Evansville Business. The team at TPG is creative and innovative, and each issue is beautiful, informative, and speaks well for our community. As massage therapy continues to grow in becoming a significant component of health care, we find that there is great interest in our massage therapy services and training institute. We are very happy with our partnership with TPG to promote our business in their publications. CECILE MARTIN, President/Owner Bodyworks Massage Therapy & Institute
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SUSTAINABILITY. BECOME A GREEN ALLY. The Green Allies Initiative teaches participants pragmatic ways of becoming a more sustainable and eco-centric household or business. We encourage participants to be informed and responsible citizens, consumers, and investors who promote sustainable operations at their households and businesses.
Beginning January 2022, this 7-week course will introduce you to the science, concepts, and strategies that can be used to make businesses, organizations, and individuals’ lifestyles greener.
Learn more & sign up for courses at:
wesselmanwoods.org/greenallies The Green Allies Initiative is funded in part by Alcoa Foundation and Centerpoint Energy, and developed by the team at Wesselman Woods © 2021
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 17
YvonneWoodburn
years 30+ in
real-estate commercial • residential
Direct Office: 812-204-1147 Mobile: 812-204-1147 Work: 812-422-4096 eywoodburn@gmail.com
18 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
KELLER WILLIAMS CAPITAL REALTY 4424 Vogel Rd Suite 300 EVANSVILLE, IN 47715
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT E WA R R I C K C O U N T Y PA R K S
Green Space Gains
Warrick County Parks’ growth sparks area development BY RILEY GUERZINI • PHOTOS BY ZACH STRAW
I
f you build it, they will come. That phrase largely has rang true in Warrick County, where the revitalization of its three main parks has led an increase in the area’s population and a boost to economic development. Two of Warrick County’s parks — Friedman Park and Scales Lake Park — have undergone significant renovations in recent years, and the third — Vann Road Park — will see new amenities in the coming years. The revitalization of the county parks, says Parks Board President Daniel Roach, was an effort to increase economic development of the area and improve quality of life — efforts he says have succeeded. “I think (Friedman Park) was a catalyst
for a lot of the development down here,” says Roach. “Who doesn’t want to live next to a park?” The county’s newest green space, Friedman Park has seen the largest transformation. Starting as just a small trailhead across from Victoria National Golf Course, the former owners of the course, Victoria Partners Team, approached the Warrick County Department of Parks and Recreation with the idea of turning the land, which was once coal-mined ground, into a park, realizing the benefit a nearby public park would bring to the area. Friedman Park, named after the developer and original owner of Victoria National Terry Friedman, was opened to the public in May 2017. The 180-acre, multi-
Warrick County’s parks department — including Parks Board President Daniel Roach, Friedman Park Manager Joe Schitter, and Friedman Park Events Center Director Emily Ruebl — has been steadily building a portfolio of attractive quality-of-life properties, including Scales Lake near Boonville, Indiana, and Friedman Park in nearby Newburgh, Indiana.
million-dollar park includes two open pavilions, a playground, amphitheater, large open areas, and more than five miles of paved walking and biking trails. In an effort to save one of Warrick County’s historical bridges and add to the aesthetic value of the park, the Myers Road Bridge, which crosses over Caney Creek in the eastern part of the county, will be brought in to extend the nature trails on the east end of the park, which is currently inaccessible because of water. In 2020, construction was completed EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 19
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on a 16,000-square-foot, $4.7 million event center located on the east side of the park. $2 million of funding for the event center came from state funding through Indiana’s Regional Cities Initiative, which works to help communities across Indiana come together to transform their regions into nationally-recognized destinations. The Friedman Park Event Center is host to weddings, conferences, conventions, board retreats, and community events and will also serve as an annex office for the Warrick County Sheriff’s Department. “After COVID hit and all the restrictions released in April, we booked wedding for three weeks in a row,” says Emily Ruebl, director of the Friedman Park Events Center. “We are almost completely booked up for 2022.” The park is also home to various wildlife such as deer, an osprey, quail, and bobcats. “I first saw signs of (bobcats) in 2017, so we’ve known for a while,” says Joe Schitter, manager at Friedman Park. “She comes out and people see her. It’s great, but she keeps her distance.” Past the park’s west shelter is Pippero Pup Park, a fenced-in dog park that was scheduled to officially open at the end of November as of press time Nov. 17. The one-acre park includes areas for large and small dogs along with a wash station and pet drinking fountain. Schitter says a dog park has been the number one request by area residents and visitors since Friedman Park was built. In the more than four years since the park was completed, the area has also seen hundreds of single-family residences built by Jagoe Homes in the adjacent Berkshire neighborhood, with plans for another neighborhood to be developed in the future. Roach says about 900 homes are either built, under construction, or planned for the area. Warrick County itself saw a population increase of about 6.5 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to the latest census data. “This whole area is exploding in terms of population,” says Roach. “Someone said to me that it’s like they took the town of Chandler and plopped it down right here, and we just so happen to have a park built right before all that was going in.” “As a matter of fact, almost everyone I’ve talked to that lives around here say they moved here because of the park,” adds Schitter. Roach says the Parks Department partnered with Warrick County Economic
Development when constructing the park, with the goal of improving the quality of life in a growing area of southern Indiana. “You want the biggest names in medicine and you want the best corporate executives, so you’ve got to have a good place for them to live,” says Roach. “That’s the whole name of the game out here is quality of life.” Outside Boonville, Indiana — itself less than 10 miles from Friedman Park — is Scales Lake, a park with 400 acres of woods and a 66-acre lake. The park’s amenities offer an array of outdoor activities, including camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and swimming. Also onsite is a petting zoo with pigs, goats, and various types of ducks. Known for its acres of tent camping, the camping sites and four rental cabins were upgraded in 2019 with the installation of electrical and sewer services. Beginner, intermediate, and difficult mountain bike trails were constructed on the edge of the park in the early 1990s, attracting bike clubs and thrill-seekers alike to the park. “We’ve had some mountain bikers tell us it is the best place to mountain bike in Southern Indiana,” Roach says. “We’ve got a couple of groups of volunteers that actually put in trails and learner’s courses and all kinds of bridges and neat staff, and they work on the trails and they’re just passionate about it.” Warrick County’s third park, Vann Road Park, is home to the Newburgh Junior Baseball and Newburgh Girls Softball leagues and features six fields for both sports. Located a mile south of Friedman Park, it’s also home to a shelter, picnic area, bike racks, fishing in a nearby pond, and a paved trail surrounding the five-acre pond. After being approached by a group called Rivertown Pickleball, the Warrick Parks Department is also looking to add pickleball courts to Vann Road Park and increase space for what is becoming a fast-growing sport in the U.S. “They were eyeballing Vann Road Park and there’s a section up on top that’s available to develop,” Roach says. “We’re now working with them to get some pickleball courts installed. We’re going to work with them, and they’re going to have leagues and tournaments and all kinds of stuff.” WARRICKCOUNTYPARKS.COM
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BUILDING EVANSVILLE E U S I S C R E A M I N G E A G L E S C O M P L E X
A New Nest
Screaming Eagles Complex is an all-inclusive home for USI athletics BY DALLAS CARTER
L
oud and proud, fans cheer for the University of Southern Indiana’s volleyball and basketball teams from the 4,800 seats in the 90,000-square-foot Screaming Eagles Arena that opened April 4, 2019. On the third floor of the attached building, sprawling toward the edge of campus behind the arena, athletic director Jon Mark Hall reviews game schedules in his office. On the second floor, kinesiology and sport students run a hands-on trial in the 3,800-square-foot human performance lab, while the softball team trains in the weight room on the first floor. This level of simultaneous activity was not possible a mere five years ago when USI filled in its old pool to build the arena and started planning for the Screaming Eagles Complex, which officially opened Sept. 16, 2021. “If we had a game in this building, it pretty much shut everything down because of the noise and the volume of people,” says Hall. “But now, you can have a game or an event in the arena and you can still have a class, still have intramurals going on over here.” A total of 110,000 square feet, the Screaming Eagles Complex is a threestory multi-functional facility, including the attached Screaming Eagles Arena. Made up of renovated spaces inside the previously existing Physical Activity Center, and 35,000 square feet of new construction, the $38.5-million project was state funded and includes the adjacent aquatics center. Home to the athletics and kinesiology and sport departments, Hall says the complex was a long-awaited project that took the collaboration of primary contractor Empire Contractors of Evansville, architects from St. Louis-based CannonDesign, engineers from Hafer
22 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
of Evansville, 25 subcontractors, and oncampus influences. “Our director of the physical plant Jim Wolf, who oversees all of our building construction, came to the room and he said, ‘We’re going to start with this — what would you dream of? Let’s go ahead and start all the way at the top, and then we’ll work our way down.’ So, that’s what we did,” says Hall. The project started on the renovation of the old basketball and volleyball courts on the first floor of the PAC. An additional training area for basketball and volleyball
University of Southern Indiana officials dedicated the Screaming Eagles Complex and specially commissioned sculpture in September when the new facility was officially opened.
— and now the softball and baseball teams, after batting nets were added to drop from the ceiling — the courts retained their original floors, but the bleachers were removed and cosmetics improved. Connected to the courts through a shared wall, the 6,000-sqaure-foot weight room was inspired by the athletics department’s visits to training facilities at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana; Indiana State University
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The Screaming Eagles Complex includes the now complete, state-of-the-art aquatics center for use by University of Southern Indiana students and the swimming and diving programs to debut next season. The complex’s weight room also received an overhaul, with new machines and an enlarged turf training area.
in Terre Haute, Indiana; and Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, during planning. The weight room includes cardio machines, a 90-foot-long and 14-foot-wide turf training area, and dumbbell racks with more than 7,000 pounds of weight plates. Eight Base Camp Uber Racks by South Carolina-based Sorinex include EliteForm Power Trackers with two fixed sets of cameras and a mounted tablet for video playback of each set and data on peak bar velocity, average bar velocity, and power output. Outside, a digital schedule shows the weight room’s availability. While the athletics department has spaces across USI’s campus such as the soccer field, baseball and softball fields, and tennis courts, Hall says the complex is the department’s home base. “We preach that it’s not about winning all the time; we want to do it the right way. One of the reasons (our student athletes) come here is they want to perform at the highest level they possibly can perform at,” he says. “I think (the complex) helps their overall wellness, it helps their overall ability to perform at the levels they want to perform at, and I think it’s a definite
24 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
sense of pride for what they do. It also makes our student athletes feel really important. It makes them feel like they’re an integral part of the university and the student life.” Before construction, only basketball and volleyball had locker rooms in the building. Now, their lockers are in the arena, and soccer, crosscountry and track, baseball, and softball each have fingerprint-accessible locker rooms inside the student athlete lounge across from the old courts. The lounge also gives access to the arena and a private study/break space. Next door, the athletic training room, at least three times larger than the previous space, holds 12 training
tables, treadmills, automated cold and hot tubs, and new rehab equipment. Upstairs, the second floor is purely academic space for the kinesiology and sport department with classrooms, study and social spaces, computer labs, the instructional performance center for handson labs involving teaching strength training exercises, and the state-of-the-art human performance laboratory for research and community testing. Hall and his colleagues are in the athletics department offices on the third floor, with the kinesiology and sport offices across the hall. Both departments share the floor with conference rooms, break rooms, a walkway overlooking the court and the human performance lab, and the Athletic Team Room equipped with 40 theatre-style seats for press conferences, team meetings, and more. “For us in athletics, the space is just transformative,” says Hall. “And for our kinesiology and sport faculty and staff … for them to recruit prospective students that want to be (those) majors now they have a home and one they’re really proud of.” The focus on multi-functional spaces combined with appealing design details that drove the project continues outside the main facility.
On the north side of the building, The Screaming Eagle Sculpture designed by emeritus faculty John McNaughton and Joan Kempf deJong stands at 12.5 feet tall and weighs 42.5 tons. On the opposite side of the building, the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center is adjoined to the 25,000-sqaurefoot Aquatic Center. Opened in October 2021 and overseen by the athletics department, the pool is made up of eight competitive lanes, three warm-up lanes, and bleacher seats with a 285-person capacity. Two diving boards and a diving platform perch on the end of the pool near the main video board and hot tub. “One of the key things … is the pool was built for students, faculty, and staff,” says Hall. “The swimming and diving program that’s going to start next year is just kind of a byproduct.” USI hired Cameron Kainer, previously head coach at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, as the swimming and diving head coach on Aug. 16, and he has since been recruiting athletes so that the programs can kick off next season. Both teams will operate in the NCAA Great Lakes Valley Conference Division II with USI’s
“USI has a tradition of being a daring athletic competitor and now is the time to consider where we go from here.” — USI President Ronald S. Rochon
other sports, but among the added comfort and accessibility the new complex has brought to its residents, the project may be a key step in expanding athletics itself. On Sept. 27, 11 days after the complex’s open house, USI President Ronald S. Rochon (who was inaugurated as USI’s fourth president only one day after the arena officially opened in April 2019) sent an internal press release to USI students, faculty, staff, retirees, and alumni announcing an exploratory review into the feasibility of a move to Division I sports. Aligning with Rochon’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan: Accelerating Impact, the review does not consider the possibility of adding a football team, but examines the fiscal and facility requirements, among other factors, of changing divisions.
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“USI has a tradition of being a daring athletic competitor and now is the time to consider where we go from here,” says Rochon. The exploratory committee updated the USI Board of Trustees with their findings at their Nov. 4, 2021, meeting, but no further announcements will be made until the spring semester after the committee finalizes reports for Board level review. Yet every night the gleaming Screaming Eagle sculpture reflects the bright lights from inside the complex across campus, a symbol that the university’s athletics now have the tools and facilities they need to face whatever progress lies ahead. GOUSIEAGLES.COM
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Staying connected
Through top service and a strong company culture, MetroNet has become a leader in fiber networks By Jodi Keen • Photos By Zach Straw
When a MetroNet business
sign was installed on the Courier & Press newspaper building at 300 E. Walnut St. last year, some River City residents were left scratching their heads. Who was MetroNet? Where did it come from? What service did it provide? The telecommunications company’s air of mystery is more about humility than intrigue. Grounded in Evansville since 2000, MetroNet provides 100 percent fiber-optic networks for internet, phones, and television services. It has built fiber networks in more than 120 communities in more than a dozen states and quietly became the largest independently owned fiberto-home company in the nation. As more residential and commercial customers have begun
26 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
to rely on fiber-provided services — MetroNet can produce symmetrical speeds up to 10 gigabits, with its most popular private options involving broadband speeds of at least 500 Megabytes per second — MetroNet has spread its wings, expanding its networks across the U.S., adding more employees to its ranks, and earning accolades from Glass Door (one of its “Best Places to Work” in 2020) and CenterPoint Energy (Vectren’s “Safe Digging Partner Award” in 2020). As it turns out, the green business sign now perched on East Walnut Street was just the most visible local symbol of a company that has been quietly rooted in Evansville and growing into a fiber powerhouse for the last 20 years.
Booting Up
MetroNet’s origins were founded in family. John Cinelli, MetroNet’s president and CEO, started his career in the banking industry, first at Bank of Boston in Massachusetts and Washington, D.C., and then at Security Pacific National Bank, requiring a relocation to Los Angeles. At the same time, Cinelli’s father, Al, was a corporate attorney in Overland Park, Kansas. Wanting to move away from practicing law, Al chose telecommunications as his next business venture and purchased a small company that became Kentucky Data Link, which provided long-distance telephone service. Identifying a need for more telecommunications options for residents in rural Kentucky, KDL begin offering its services in the Bluegrass State. Cinelli left banking in 1990 and joined his father at KDL. “We got involved in different aspects of the business,” he says. “We sold longdistance services. We got involved in the calling card business. We got involved in the payphone business. We had 15 people in the company and less than a million dollars in revenue.” Eventually, KDL expanded into the burgeoning internet market. Considered the “long-haul” arm of the industry, internet fiber was being laid between cities, and KDL hopped on board. Owensboro and Madisonville, Kentucky, were its first two cities connected by fiber, considered a small route because of the 45-mile distance. Using that initial long-haul fiber as a base, the Cinellis grew KDL’s service region to 26 states and 30,000 miles of underground fiber routes, and with business partners founded parent company Q-Comm Corporation, of which KDL was a subsidiary. As the internet industry entered the 21st Century, the Cinellis noticed the increasing consumer interest in ditching dial-up and securing internet fiber directly to homes. The idea for MetroNet was born: The Cinellis sold Q-Comm — and with it, KDL — to telecommunications company Windstream in 2010 and channeled their energy in fiber-optic internet to underserved areas of the U.S. “At first we tried to get the communities to raise bonds to pay for the infra-
MetroNet President and CEO, John Cinelli
Lead Contract Administrator Katie Albini and Contract Administrator Jake Spencer
MetroNet has quietly become the largest independently owned fiber-to-the-home company in the U.S. Founded by Al and John Cinelli — the latter of whom serves as president and CEO — the company has expanded its service networks into 14 states and more than 120 communities, and over two decades has added more than 600 jobs to Evansville’s economy, with another 250 planned in the coming years.
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 27
MetroNet President and CEO John Cinelli, OSP Fiber Engineer I Marly Traore, OSP Fiber Engineer I Ian Graves, OSP Fiber Engineer I Amanda Adoursey, and OSP Fiber Engineer II Dennis Martin
MetroNet Network Operations Technician Ryan Favre
28 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
From their headquarters in Evansville, MetroNet’s associates map out city-wide fiber networks, track construction projects and service disruptions, and engineer broadband speeds up to 10 gigabits for their customers. To MetroNet, company culture is as cruicial as service reliability, and a recent company-wide effort identified three pillars of service — to the customer, to each other, and to the company — that exemplify MetroNet’s core values.
structure build, because we thought, ‘This is brand new infrastructure. It’d be great for your communities. It’s good for economic development and all those things.’ But they really didn’t have the political desire to do that at that time,” Cinelli says. After running into local government roadblocks, MetroNet turned to an unlikely partner: the U.S. Department of Agriculture. “There was a program through the USDA. They said, ‘We have funds. We want to make sure that rural markets have high-speed internet, just like we did with rural electrification (and) just like we did rural telephone services.’ So, we applied, and we were granted the largest (amount) at the time — $106 million — to build 10 (fiber) towns in the state of Indiana,” Cinelli says. “We put in some of our own money also because we had to support it with equity.” Because of the company’s concentration in the Midwest and Kentucky, Cinelli and MetroNet’s headquarters moved to Evansville in 2000, setting up shop in a small house near the University of Evansville and quickly purchasing Evansville Online from the Courier & Press. Requiring software stored on a floppy disk that then engaged with a modem and a home telephone line, EOL was one of the Tri-State’s first introductions to the World Wide Web and provided crucial infrastructure as MetroNet got off the ground. Five years later, MetroNet’s first community-wide fiber network was built in Greencastle, a town of about 10,000 people in west-central Indiana. MetroNet concentrated its initial efforts on smaller Indiana cities, rolling out 100 percent fiber networks in another nine communities including Madison, North Vernon, and Connersville, Indiana.
“After building 10 towns, we learned a lot during that time because it was a brand-new industry,” Cinelli says. “We learned that we had a business plan. Then we took our own capital and we started to expand. We went to Franklin, Indiana, and Lebanon, and then we took on a really big town for us at the time, which was West Lafayette.”
Expanding Its Network
As each of its early fiber networks was implemented, the company evolved its business plan to offer strong customer service, build partnerships with city governments and fiber contractors, and identify new markets. An industry executive once described MetroNet to Cablefax Magazine as the “Goldilocks of Overbuilding,” capable of selecting cities that were just right for fiber competition. Along the way, the company acquired Light Speed Fiber Communications as it expanded into Michigan. MetroNet operates brick-and-mortar shops within its service locations for customers to receive in-person help and employs a range of telecommunications specialties, from inventory specialists and materials buyers to fiber engineers, permitting specialists, safety trainers, and market analysts. To fund its expansion, MetroNet partnered with New York-based private equity firm Oak Hill Capital to supply investment capital. In 2021, MetroNet launched recapitalization efforts and added a second New York private equity firm, KKR & Co., to its financial partnership. “MetroNet has set itself apart as the leading independent FTTP provider in the U.S., well known for its high-quality technology, exceptional customer service and local operations,” Waldemar Szlezak, a senior infrastructure investment leader at KKR, said in an April 2021 statement. “We are thrilled to be supporting MetroNet, alongside Oak Hill, on its mission to deliver much-needed broadband access across the U.S.” “We can grow at a certain rate with our own money,” Cinelli says. “But we would like to have a smaller piece of a larger pie because that smaller piece is going to be bigger than the biggest piece of a smaller pie.” Since private equity’s initial investment, MetroNet’s core focus has remained consistent — providing highspeed fiber internet in smaller markets with fewer options and offering subscribers top customer service. By channeling its energy into solidly cornering small markets in a vast industry, the company has shaped a reputation across 14 states as a quality communications provider to areas such as Bryan, Texas, and Des Moines, Iowa. “This tremendous investment by MetroNet will make unprecedented capabilities available to everyone who lives, works and visits our city, giving Bryan the infrastructure and competitive edge needed to attract and grow business and high‐wage jobs,” Bryan, Texas, Mayor Andrew Nelson said in May 2021. “We’re extremely pleased that a solid Midwestern company such as MetroNet is going to provide 100 per-
cent fiber optic highspeed services to our residents,” Mayor Frank Cownie said in May 2021 of the company’s $70 million investment in Des Moines. Throughout its widening fiber network extending across the U.S., MetroNet has maintained its base of operations in Evansville and is deepening its roots in the River City. The company employs more than 600 people between a customer service call center, its East Side headquarters off Lynch Road, and its warehouse in the Courier & Press building near Downtown Evansville. Notably, each individual fiber providing service to MetroNet’s customers is tethered to a server in Evansville, meaning each line can be traced from the Tri-State to clients as far away as Florida, North Carolina, Michigan, and Texas. “When we made some acquisitions of companies in western Kentucky, Evansville became part of our marketing territory, and we looked in that footprint. There are some nice places in Kentucky, but Evansville was the largest and sort of the hub,” Cinelli says. “I’ve lived in Evansville for 21 years. I’ve lived in Evansville longer than I’ve lived anywhere else.”
Connecting Within the Company
As MetroNet has grown — with plans to add another 1,000 employees, more than 250 of them in Evansville — its leadership initiated the crafting of specific goals for each associate, as the company calls them, to share. But for a cultural definition to have staying power, it must take root at the deepest levels. “Last summer, I said to a group of mid-level managers, ‘We’re getting large, and we’re going to have to be purposeful about teaching people about our culture. What do you think it is? I’m not going to be involved; I want you to write it down,’” Cinelli says. After managers spoke with their associates, “they came up with three promises: We’ll take care of the customer, we’ll take of each other, and we’ll take care of the company.” Those three promises have become the pillars — SimpliFi, SatisFi, and PersoniFi — of EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 29
“The reason that I think we’re successful is because of our culture. We take care of each other. We have over the last year really codified this idea that your culture is not something you can make up. It is what it is.” — John Cinelli, MetroNet’s president and CEO
MetroNet’s mission, supporting its goal of providing a quality, crucial service to customers and a positive place for its people to work. “As a result, the entire organization speaks a consistent language that expresses our values. It’s how we hold each other accountable and it’s how we celebrate ‘Pillar’ behavior,” says Keith Leonhardt, MetroNet’s vice president of communications and customer experience, who formerly served as president of Evansville marketing firm Fire & Rain. “The reason that I think we’re successful is because of our culture. We take care of each other,” Cinelli says. “We have over the last year really codified this idea that your culture is not something you can make up. It is what it is.” Cinelli says much of the idea’s foun-
dation came from his father. “The greatest value my dad ever added was helping us with this culture. He’s had this belief for the last 30 years — which I also share — that the people who we work with are our associates. They’re our partners. We say ‘associates,’ and it’s on purpose. It’s an intent. We believe that we all have important jobs to do. We all have important opinions. And we want to go forward together and share the benefits of the organization.” At its annual meeting in October, MetroNet’s leadership presented its inaugural Pillar Awards to associates who embody the company’s culture. More than 180 nominations were received from throughout the company. MetroNet also produces in-house “It’s Time to Shine” notifications highlighting associates who
exemplify the company’s promises and pillars. “It’s a rare day that we don’t see multiple ‘It’s Time to Shine’ emails,” Leonhardt says. “It’s a nice feeling to have fellow team members see how we’re living our culture, even in the smallest ways.” “For every private equity firm that Italk to, for every bank that I talk to, I always talk about culture because I really do believe that this is our single most important, sustainable, competitive advantage,” Cinelli says. “Technology equalizes. Everything equalizes. But if you have people who have the right mindset and work hard, and who are going in the same direction, you can be really successful.” METRONETINC.COM
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 33
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
ALL-WEATHER PRODUCTS, INC. 8346 BAUMGART ROAD | 812-867-6403 | ALLWEATHERPRODUCTSINC.COM
All-Weather Products Inc. came into operation in 1979 and was started by 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.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING? Roger began an aggressive program to supplant the existing suppliers of the materials that All-Weather Products was wholesaling by going into the direct manufacturing of them, thus cutting costs and increasing consistency of the products.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY? Our commitment to our teammates and their families allows us to impact the community more directly by providing them with the work-life balance that promotes health and happy families.
WHAT IS SOMETHING CUSTOMERS SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHEN WORKING WITH A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS? When working with a family-owned business, it’s important to keep in mind that family members inside the business are all working toward a common goal and are held accountable more so to one another. This in turn provides a greater sense of accountability inside the company that translates directly into greater performance for the customer.
WHAT DOES YOUR COMPANY DO AND WHAT MAKES YOU UNIQUE? All-Weather Products Inc. is a custom manufacturer of a variety of exterior home remodeling products, such as screen and glass room enclosures, patio covers and carports, windows, and doors, and awnings, storm windows, and storm doors. We source nearly ALL of our material domestically, so you know when you shop with us, you truly are buying American-made products.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? The greatest asset we have as a company is our people. Our plant manager has been with the company since 1979, our installation manager has been with the company 19 years, and our lead factory employee has been with the company since 1996. A wealth of knowledge like that cannot be underestimated.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICES? In today’s climate of supply chain upset, it is incredibly important that everyone understand how committed we are to sourcing our raw materials from domestic extruders and suppliers. Even though this drives our costs up compared to our regional and national competition, we are committed to keeping our costs competitive and functioning within our means as a business. Additionally, sourcing things domestically has left us less vulnerable to the supply chain disaster we are currently witnessing at our ports of call.
WHAT QUALITIES SET YOUR COMPANY APART FROM THE COMPETITION? Knowledgeable, consistent, communicative, and caring teammates set us apart from our competition.
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 35
Jeff Hoffman Andy Hoffman
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Chip Altstadt
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INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL 812.425.9389 altstadtplumbing.com
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ALTSTADT HOFFMAN PLUMBING 1401 BUCHANAN ROAD | 812-425-9389 | ALTSTADTPLUMBING.COM
Altstadt Hoffman Plumbing, based in Evansville, is a blend of two family-owned businesses that merged in 2019. The business is spearheaded by Chip and Dave Altstadt and brothers Jeff and Andy Hoffman.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? Dave and Chip Altstadt Dave Altstadt began working in plumbing in the fall of 1976. He worked for a number of different plumbing companies before finally going into business on his own in 1984. After starting Altstadt Plumbing, Dave worked on his own for a short time and then began to gradually grow the business until the time his son Chip graduated from school and joined the company. Together, they continued to progress and grow, including relocating their office from Dave’s home to the facility they are in today located on Buchanan Road. Andy and Jeff Hoffman Hoffman Plumbing was started in 1971 by Jeff and Andy’s father, Jim Hoffman. The Hoffman brothers began working in the business at an early age and continued through college. When their father was diagnosed with cancer in the late 1990s, the brothers stepped up to pilot their family business.
HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR ITS CUSTOMERS? We offer 24-hour emergency service. We take care of our customers as quickly as possible and make sure we are accessible to those customers needing service.
HOW HAS IT EXPANDED OVER THE YEARS? We’ve grown in response to what we’ve been asked to do. All of the
diversity of the services we offer is a result of our response to opportunities to do what we do best. We are equipped to do everything from a quick service call, large multifamily project, hospital work, or anywhere in between. We offer services for all residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing needs.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? We truly believe in hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction. We have all been hands-on and have worked in the field, which gives us the knowledge to know what it takes to get the job done.
HOW DO YOU LIKE WORKING WITH FAMILY? We love it. We all take a lot of pride in what we do. Being in business with family allows you to have someone that you can depend on for good, honest, straightforward advice when you need it.
Altstadt Hoffman Plumbing Service Areas
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE LOOK LIKE? We’re still expanding and pushing forward each and every day. The necessity for plumbers isn’t going away, and the demand for good, quality plumbing service is what keeps us motivated. We are committed to serving the Tri-State for many years to come.
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 37
OFFERING DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FOR
CUSTOM INGROUND POOLS
With over 20 years of experience in the pool industry, we provide an exceptional experience to our clients in the greater Evansville area. We are committed to provide honest answers, construct and supply quality products, and ensure superior service to all of our customers.
POOL LIFE SIMPLIFIED. 812-867-2541 • 2954 Beaumont Drive • evansvillepoolsupply.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
AQUAVIDA POOLS 2954 BEAUMONT DRIVE | 812-867-2541 | EVANSVILLEPOOLSUPPLY.COM
At AquaVida Pools, customer service is our top priority. The entire reason for starting this company was that Tri-State pool clients were not being provided with the level of service that we expect and they deserve. We do not cut corners; we only offer quality products and operate on honesty above all else.
HOW DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE? In 2005 Rob had been working for another local pool company and realized he had more to offer for customers in the area. He and Sarah began discussing the possibilities of a better customer experience, and the idea was born to start the business. After a year of planning and hard work, the company was officially started in early 2006. After partnering with Jake and Dakota Thacker in 2018, we have expanded the business for construction of custom, in-ground swimming pools.
WHAT’S THE ADVANTAGE OF SHOPPING WITH YOUR COMPANY? The advantage to shopping with AquaVida Pools is that we are all knowledgeable, and when you call in, you either get the answers you are looking for or we figure out a way to get you the answer. We also strive to have the best customer service and products in this area.
WHAT SERVICES DOES YOUR COMPANY OFFER? We offer pool openings, closings, maintenance services, and repairs
on in-ground pools. In-store, we offer free water testing in which our knowledgeable staff recommends the correct chemicals to balance pool water, take preventative care of pools, and problem solve current issues. We are a full-service company, from building a custom in-ground pool, to caring for and servicing the pool for its entire lifetime.
WHAT SHOULD CUSTOMERS KEEP IN MIND WHEN WORKING WITH A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS?
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS UNIQUE? What makes us unique is our commitment 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, allowing us to form tight relationships with vendors, suppliers, and customers for years of repeat business.
Our customers mean everything to us. To build a strong customer base, a company needs to provide outstanding products, make their shoppers feel valued, and offer excellent customer service. If there is an issue, the owners are in house to solve that problem. It’s local, so money stays within the community.
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 39
Thank you to all of our valued clients for a successful 20 years!
5344 S. VANN ROAD, NEWBURGH, IN
visit our on-line gallery www.customsign.bz
812-382-5280
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
CUSTOM SIGN & ENGINEERING, INC. 5344 S. VANN ROAD, NEWBURGH, IN | 812-382-5280 | CUSTOMSIGN.BZ
HOW DID YOUR COMPANY GET ITS START? Scott Elpers had worked for a couple of sign companies locally since he was a 16-year-old. At the age of 27, Scott and his friend Aaron Farr decided they were ready to open their own sign company. Soon after starting the business, Scott and Allison Elpers married. Allison purchased Aaron’s share of the business.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE THE BEGINNING? In May of 2021, Custom Sign & Engineering, Inc. started out with just two people in a rented facility with 5,680 square feet and one bucket truck. Today the company employs 48 people in a 52,000 square foot building that gives them ample space for manufacturing signs, parking 7 cranes, 7 bucket trucks, and company trucks. Custom Sign services businesses’ signs on a regular basis in 7 states. They manufacture and ship signs all over the country. The business does more work in two days now than they did in their first ear of business. Custom Sign has the largest service and install fl et with the most experienced staff available.
HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR ITS CUSTOMERS? We provide our customers with a one stop shop. We design, manufacture, install, and maintain our customers’ signs. Our capabilities extend to taking care of customers smaller electrical and lighting needs. We also offer vehicle graphics.
DOES YOUR BUSINESS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY? Custom Sign gives back to our community in a big way. We support more than 40 local organizations annually with monetary and material donations. We’ve helped police departments, fi e departments, schools, medical facilities, and countless others.
WHAT IS SOMETHING CUSTOMERS SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHEN WORKING WITH A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS? Family-owned businesses depend on the local community. They support the local economy and in turn need their local businesses supported. Online ordering is not good for local business or the local economy. Customers benefit from a personal touch by working with people that live in the same community as they do.
WHAT IS CUSTOM SIGN’S MAIN PRIORITY? We want to offer the safest workplace for our employees while making the best quality of signs for our customers.
looking forward to having an even better year next year. Our hope is for this growth to continue so that one day our children can run and maintain the business we have built.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS? Running a business is a 7 days a week job. It requires hiring the most dependable people with a can-do spirit and attitude. Our employees can take care of anything a customer might throw at them. Custom Sign’s strong work ethic has rewarded them with business. The team enjoys seeing their product on every street they travel in our community.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? We treat our employees like family. That is why we call our business a family business – we are all Custom Sign family. In return, the family first culture we have established has given us the best and most dedicated employees around.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE LOOK LIKE FOR THE COMPANY? Custom Sign has had the best backto-back years in our history. We are
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 41
You’ve invested time and money into your wardrobe, and Don’s Claytons Dry Cleaning in Evansville, Indiana, understands you place immeasurable value on your garments. For more than 60 years, we’ve treated customers’ items with the same care we give our own. This also applies to our coin laundry services—bright, clean facilities, featuring state-of-the-art equipment, and staffed with pleasant, knowledgeable customer service professionals. Don’s Claytons DCI™ Fine Dry Cleaning provides ongoing training to ensure our expert staff knows how to successfully treat the newest fabrics, as well as classics, including wool, linen, silk, cashmere, and cotton. Although we continuously keep our team up-to-date on advances, and use only the highest quality cleaning solutions, we are committed to offering our services at competitive prices. We offer a full range of laundry services, free pickup and delivery, and we have multiple locations. THREE GENERATIONS OF DRY CLEANING SERVICE! (Clockwise from left) Bryan Schmitt, Steve Schmitt, Don Schmitt
FULL RANGE OF SERVICES To our customers, “full range of services” means we can take care of everything – from the bulkiest household fabrics to delicate party wear to a treasured wedding gown. And every piece is handled with the utmost in care. To learn about all of Don’s Claytons professional services, call us or visit our website at donsclaytons.com.
8 Convenient Locations!
donsclaytons.com
812.424.9979
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
DON’S CLAYTONS FINE DRY CLEANING 225 W. MORGAN AVE. | 812-424-9979 | DONSCLAYTONS.COM
Don Schmitt started the company as a wash, dry, and fold laundry delivery service around 1956. He quickly expanded his services to include laundered and starched shirts as well as dry cleaning. At that time, he subcontracted the finished work until he was able to purchase his own building, dry cleaning equipment, and shirt press to truly be Don’s Cleaners.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING? It has grown and expanded services over the years and been on the cutting edge of our industry, taking advantage of every innovation. Staying at the forefront has allowed us to survive multiple recessions in challenging environments when other dry cleaners did not survive.
WHAT IS SOMETHING CUSTOMERS SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHEN WORKING WITH A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS? When doing business with a familyowned business, you’re supporting local families. Revenue is mostly distributed back into the local community through wages. Much of a family-owned business’ services, supplies, and equipment are provided by other local family-owned businesses. Evansville is a great area to easily fi d locally owned businesses.
HOW HAS THE BUSINESS EXPANDED OVER THE YEARS? We’ve added locations and pick-up/ delivery service. When we moved to our current location in the Garvin Industrial Park, we expanded our central cleaning plant to more than 20,000 square feet of production and
warehouse space. The largest expansion occurred when we purchased Clayton’s Cleaners and merged the companies in 2004, giving us a total of 17 locations. At our peak, we processed more than 4,000 garments a day at our central plant. We have consolidated to eight locations to meet the changing demand for dry cleaning in key locations.
WHAT DOES YOUR COMPANY DO AND WHAT MAKES YOU UNIQUE? We offer dry cleaning and laundry services for the Tri-State. We are the only cleaner who still has an operating plant in Evansville. All other cleaners send their work out of the area or out of state.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? We can recognize changing trends in our market and adapt our business to these changes. We strive to stay relevant and fi d new markets in which we are ideally suited to perform.
DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW OFFERINGS/PRODUCTS/ SERVICES AT YOUR BUSINESS? We have been getting more involved in cleaning and maintaining PPE and safety wear for companies in a
variety of industries. Flame-resistant fabrics have become an OSHA requirement for a variety of industries, and these fabrics often require specialized care. Soils and especially greases and oils will negate the protective quality of the fabric and must be addressed to maintain safety standards. Since many of these fabrics can be dry cleaned, we clean them without using strong, caustic laundry chemicals. This in turn preserves the fabric and extends the service life of the protective garment, reducing replacement costs. EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 43
100 N. Saint Joseph Avenue • (812) 476-3180 • hrsolutions-inc.com
HIRING NOW! • Staffing (Contract and Temp-to-Hire) • Executive Recruiting • Corporate Outplacement • Executive Coaching
Vicki Hubiak
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
HR SOLUTIONS, INC. 100 N. SAINT JOSEPH AVE. | 812-476-3180 | HRSOLUTIONS-INC.COM
Meet Vicki Hubiak, President and Owner of HR Solutions, Inc. Vicki Successfully grew this business to one of the largest recruiting and staffing companies in the Tri-State. Celebrating 27 years in the Tri-State, HR Solutions, Inc. continues to provide the highest quality resources to businesses to help them grow and find employees for their workforce. HR Solutions provides an array of services that include staffi g, executive recruiting, corporate outplacement and executive coaching for corporations, companies of any size, and individuals.
HOW DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE? In 1994, after 16 years at Peabody Energy, Vicki Hubiak set up a desktop computer in the basement of her home and went to work as a human resources consultant and certified resume writer.
HOW DID THE FAMILY BECOME INVOLVED? Vicki Hubiak’s sons began their careers in other fie ds before bringing their talents full time to HR Solutions. After Scott Hubiak graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in music business, he was employed by SS&C as a senior associate of investor services, by Bristol-Myers Squibb as an associate manager of packaging, and by Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville (GAGE) as a facilities operations manager. Scott has served as HR Solutions’ chief fina cial offi er and vice president of operations since 2015. Nicholas Hubiak finali ed his bachelor’s degree in graphic arts at the University of Southern Indiana and worked previously for Shoe Carnival, Inc., serving as visual coordinator before taking on the role of recruiting and staffi g manager.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS? One of the most rewarding aspects of their business is the development of candidates through their qualifying process. Many of these candidates tell them they have never been through such an in-depth process and that it has a lifelong benefit o them. This thorough process allows HR Solutions to provide clients with a highly qualifi d talent pool that is an excellent match in both job skills and culture. “Our greatest reward is making a difference with people,” Vicki says. “We’ve helped people who simply don’t understand why they cannot get a job. By listening and coaching them, giving feedback, and helping them improve their computer skills, we can guide them.”
Nicholas Hubiak, Scott Hubiak, Vicki Hubiak, and Peppa the cat
WHAT IS THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS?
As president and owner of HR Solutions, Vicki remains committed to what she believes is the key to their success. “One thing I learned early on is that when you go above and beyond, and exceed expectations, you connect with people. These connections turn into partnerships that result in successful teams for our clients.”
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 45
Since 1972, Brinker’s Jewelers' goal has been to provide quality jewelry and personalized service to their customers. For more than 49 years, Brinker’s Jewelers' reputation has been built on honesty, quality, and value. They carry the world’s most sought after fashion jewelry brands, luxury timepieces, and they are the only official Rolex Jeweler in the Tri-State. Every diamond is hand-selected by an owner of the company, which means it meets a Brinker’s standard on beauty and value. That’s why “the little green box” from Brinker’s Jewelers is a trusted favorite of their customers all around the world when it comes to celebrating all of life’s special occasions.
BRINKER’S JEWELERS
www.brinkersjewelers.com
111 South Green River Road • Evansville, IN 47715 • 812-476-0651 18701 North Silverleaf Drive • Scottsdale, AZ 85255 • 480-515-3200 Ext. 252
Building on their illustrious past, Brinker’s Jewelers embarked on their next exciting chapter in the jewelery industry. In 2021, Brinker’s Jewelers opened their second location at The Silverleaf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, providing members and guests of The Silverleaf Community with a new amenity, their own private boutique jewelry store! Brinker’s Jewelers at The Silverleaf Club features an on-site jeweler and watchmaker. Services include cleaning, inspections, repairs, sizing, battery replacement, watch straps, custom jewelry design, appraisal services of estate jewelry, gold and diamond buying, and much more. The showroom features preeminent jewelry brands from all over the world. All pieces are the embodiment of elegance and luxury along with the refined detail The Silverleaf Community expects from The Silverleaf Club. “This is a unique concept that Kyle Brinker and I have worked on for some time. What makes this partnership so exciting for us, is that it’s never been done before in the golf or jewelry industry. We are confident this full-service jewelry store will be a valuable amenity and provide a convenient service to our members and guests.” – Ben Herman, The Silverleaf Club Owner
BRINKER’S JEWELERS
at The Silverleaf Club
18701 North Silverleaf Drive • Scottsdale, AZ 85255 • 480-515-3200 Ext. 252
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
ACCLAIM GRAPHICS 908 N. GARVIN ST. | 812-424-5035 | ACCLAIMGRAPHICS.COM HOW DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE? Acclaim Graphics was started when John and Thelma Birkhead, along with Joseph Birkhead, purchased Fuquay Printing on March 1, 1985, and moved the business to its current location. By 1989, the name was changed to Acclaim Graphics, Inc.
WHAT DOES YOUR COMPANY DO, AND WHAT MAKES YOU UNIQUE? We are a full-service printing company. By that, we provide service from beginning to end of any printed product, including in-house consultation and design, printing, bindery, mailing, and local free delivery.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING? The biggest change since 1985 has been technology. What started with offset presses and some old letterpress equipment has evolved to all-
digital presses with the old letterpresses still on the floor for custom die cutting.
health. If we can help them be more productive, it will benefit all i volved.
WHAT DO YOUR CUSTOMERS EXPERIENCE AT YOUR BUSINESS?
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? We believe our customers trust that we will provide exactly what they need when they need it. With our oldest customers, we often anticipate their needs and make sure to contact them when it’s time to place an order or when we feel there might be an issue with an order they have placed. We have even helped guide new employees of our customers in their order history to make sure orders are processed correctly.
Friendship. We truly enjoy the relationships we have developed and maintained over the last 36 years.
WHAT QUALITIES SET YOUR COMPANY APART FROM THE COMPETITION? Our care and concern for our customers’ well-being and their business’
Joe and Kelly Birkhead
Family Owned since 1985. What can we print for you?
908 N. Garvin St. Evansville, IN 47711
48 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
812.424.5035
info@acclaimgraphics.com www.acclaimgraphics.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
AWARD WORLD TROPHIES & GIFTS 700 N. WEINBACH AVE., STE. 103 | 812-425-4571 | AWARDWORLDTROPHIES.COM
Open since 1990, Award World Trophies & Gifts is Evansville’s premiere location for engraving gifts, trophies, awards, and so much more. From medals and ribbons for an award night to custom promotional items for business, we can assist the TriState with a diverse range of project or gift needs.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? We are so much more than a trophy shop. With an incredible range of products and services, we can add personality and customization to any project. Our most frequently asked question is
“do you engrave?” We engrave items beyond your imagination from frames, food, flu es, and fi earms to compasses, charms, coasters, and whiskey bottles — making any unique gift become a special one-of-a-kind item. We love to think outside the box, transforming the “Happy Couple” image onto wood or metal art, Grandma’s handwritten recipe onto a cutting board, or designing the perfect annual family cornhole trophy for bragging rights. Our work is detail oriented. Any product can be enhanced by our creative department, making the award as impressive as the accomplishment itself.
HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS? Our turnaround is unmatched and continues to amaze customers. We are able to spend time with the customer and get to know them on a personal
level. Friendships develop and it makes adding a personal touch to these projects even better, allowing us to improve year after year. With our large range of gifts and awards, along with our creative consultants and industry leading turnaround times, we can help you take your gifts and awards to the next level!
Explore Award World for fun items and personalized gifts which will be treasured for years to come. 9 9 9 9
More than 40 years of experience in the field. Modern styled awards and full customization. Low prices, friendly and reliable service. Excellent reviews and many return customers.
Engraving | Personalized Gifts | Signage | Trophies 700 N. Weinbach Ave., Ste. 103 | 812.425.4571 | awardworldtrophies.com
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 49
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
BODYWORKS MASSAGE THERAPY & INSTITUTE 2809 LINCOLN AVE STE. 110 | 812-490-9009 | BWMASSAGE.COM
In the fall of 1993, Cecile Martin’s father was nearing the end of his life. Witnessing the continual care he received and how he responded to compassionate touch, she became deeply aware of the power of touch and started seeking out ways to provide healing modalities to others.
Shortly after her father’s passing, Cecile enrolled in the Health Enrichment Center’s 1000-hour massage training program in Indianapolis to begin, what was to be, a lifelong journey of helping and training others in providing therapeutic touch to those in need. In July of 1998, Cecile partnered with another massage therapist to open Bodyworks, Massage Therapy with Heart. In 2000, Cecile’s daughter
50 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
Leah Martin joined her at Bodyworks as administrative assistant, then massage therapist and partner, to grow the business to who we are today - a team of 10 massage therapists and a training program that has graduated more than 400 massage therapists over 24 years. The mother-daughter team of Cecile Martin and Leah Martin has enjoyed working together as massage therapists and business partners for many years. As a family-owned business, they feel that clients and students of Bodyworks appreciate the deeper personal relationships that form when they, the clients and students, are considered part of an extended family that has a focus on health and well being. In 2017, Emily Sandullo came aboard to partner with Cecile and Leah in the business. Together they continue to build relationships in their community, offering services such as therapeutic massage, deep muscle therapy, myofascial release, oncology massage, chair massage and massage education classes.
The future looks bright for Bodyworks as third-generation family member Ayla Martin, age 9, plans to take over the reins. She sees her mother Leah and grandmother Cecile happy and thriving in their chosen profession, and feels that the Bodyworks name should go on indefini ely. And she will help it do so.
Ayla Martin
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
BOSSE TITLE COMPANY TWO LOCATIONS, 812-421-4000 (NEWBURGH) AND 812-772-2078 (TELL CITY) | BOSSETITLE.COM
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.
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 DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE?
HOW HAS THE BUSINESS EXPANDED OVER THE YEARS?
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
BTC has needed to move a few times over the past several decades as our increased business has necessitated more staff and space. Over the years, BTC had acquired some smaller title
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 impossible. As technology advanced, so did we.
Jeff H. Bosse
companies, but in 2011, we acquired Evansville Titles Corporation, which dramatically 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 providing the same great service that we’ve maintained for more than 30 years.
MAKE YOUR CLOSING
SMOOTH SAILING 3 REASONS TO TRUST BOSSE TITLE: • Family-Owned • Versatile • Convenient
4799 Rosebud Lane, Newburgh, IN • 812-421-4000 EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 51
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
J.E. SHEKELL 424 W. TENNESSEE ST. | 812-425-9131 | SHEKELL.COM
J.E. Shekell, Inc.’s fl et 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 43rd 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 onestop shop makes it easy for customers to call about HVAC, electrical, and
Kevin Shekell
President
52 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
plumbing needs. This diverse product portfolio, available to both residential and commercial 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 imperative the company is constantly looking forward. By liaising closely with vendors, they keep up with the latest technology, and the company 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 ti e.
THE COMMITMENT CONTINUES John Shekell founded J.E. Shekell, Inc. in 1978 as one man with one van. His commitment: Get it done right the first time and make sure the customer is satisfied. Today, Kevin Shekell is continuing the legacy of excellence built by his dad with a committed team of trained HVAC, plumbing and electrical professionals. For 43 years, the experts at J.E. Shekell have valued working with commercial, industrial, and residential customers across the Tri-State and look forward to serving families and businesses well into the future.
John Shekell Founder
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
CABINETS & COUNTERS 7387 S.R. 66, NEWBURGH, IN | 812-858-3300 | CABINETSCOUNTERS.COM
Cabinets & Counters was founded in 1988 by Jim and Jackie Johnston.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING?
HOW DID YOUR FAMILY START THE BUSINESS? Although we did not start the business, Justin began working here right out of high school. He has now been with the company for 26 years. We purchased the business from the previous owners three and a half years ago.
In the beginning cabinets and laminate tops were offered and now we no longer offer cabinetry and laminate. We deal with quartz, granite, quartzite, marble, soapstone and other natural stones.
HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY ADAPT AND STAY AT THE FOREFRONT OF TECHNOLOGY AND TRENDS?
DOES YOUR BUSINESS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?
HOW DOES BEING A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS BENEFIT CUSTOMERS?
Absolutely! We think it is very important to give back to the community. We support local schools, sport teams, and various charitable causes.
and quality control. We truly care about each and every customer and try to give them the best experience and product possible.
WHAT DOES BEING A FAMILYOWNED BUSINESS MEAN TO YOU? Being owners of a family-owned business means we really take pride in our work. We truly pour our time, energy, and hearts into our business, and hopefully that shows!
We stay up to date by keeping up with new trends, natural stone offerings, and tooling in the industry.
When you work with a family-owned business, you can be assured you will receive a high level of customer care
Granite • Quartz • Marble • Soapstone • Quartzite
We are THE place to select your slab! We template, fabricate, and install. We have a wide selection of quartz and a large slab inventory of granite. cabinetscounters.com • 812-858-3300 • 7387 S.R. 66, Newburgh, IN EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 53
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
COLONIAL CLASSICS, INC. 3633 EPWORTH ROAD, NEWBURGH, IN | 812-853-6622 | COLONIALCLASSICS.NET
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 Newburgh, Indiana, since 1958. The McCarty family has been involved in the horticultural industry for three generations, starting with the J.A. McCarty Seed Company in the 1930s.
In 1958, Jim McCarty Sr. ventured into the relatively new fie d 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 responsibility to use our opportunities for the good of others, and we’re proud to collaborate 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 variety of initiatives, we are honored to highlight a couple of these incredible organizations and spread the word about their missions. Dream Center of Evansville — Provides kids a safe place to play, learn,
and grow in after-school programs and serves families in the Jacobsville neighborhood. Lampion Center, Evansville — Provides affordable counseling services to help children, adults, and families. Rotary of Downtown Evansville — Service organization that engages in activities to create positive, lasting changes in our community. Others we have been proud to support this year: Freidman Park, Newburgh Amphitheater, Habitat for Humanity, Keep Evansville Beautiful, Southwestern Indiana Master Gardeners Association, and P47 Foundation.
NOW IS THE TIME TO PLAN YOUR OUTDOOR PROJECTS FOR SPRING 2022! Schedule a consultation today for your outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pool, or landscaping needs.
LANDSCAPE DESIGN & BUILD • LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE • LIGHTING • RETAIL GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING: FIBERGLASS, POOLS, OUTDOOR KITCHENS, & FIRE PITS • SMART PERGOLAS 3633 Epworth Road, Newburgh IN 47630 | (812) 853-6622 | colonialclassics.net
54 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
WINTER HOURS: Monday - Saturday 8AM - 5PM Sunday 10AM - 4PM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
EVANSVILLE GARAGE DOORS 808 DIVISION ST. | 812-402-3667 | EVANSVILLEGARAGEDOORS.COM
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.
same-day service to our customers, and emergency service and repair 24 hours a day.
WHAT SERVICES DOES YOUR COMPANY OFFER? Evansville Garage Doors is the market leader of garage doors, openers, and parts. We pride ourselves in educating the customer on all things garage doors, from installation to repairs. Our goal is for the people of Evansville to make the right garage door choice, the first ti e. We understand the importance of a garage door. When it doesn’t work properly, this can lead to security issues, as well as affecting a customer’s ability of entering or leaving the home. We often can offer
Jeff Rothschild, President
For over 60 years, Evansville Garage Doors has been the area’s leader in service and installation for residential and commercial garage doors.
812-402-DOOR • evansvillegaragedoors.com •
EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 55
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
E.I. SPORTS AND APPAREL 333 PLAZA E. BLVD | 812-474-1836 | EISPORTSANDAPPAREL.COM
In 2002, Dave Schaefer and his son Jeff acquired a small used sporting goods and screen printing shop called E.I. Sports and Apparel. A few months into their first ear, Dave’s daughter Michelle Davis joined the team. E.I. Sports is a family-owned business that considers all 27 employees members of our extended family. We have moved and are happy to announce our new location with a new retail space, The Varsity Shop, that specializes in spirit and letterman jackets. WHAT DO WE DO AND WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE? E.I. Sports and Apparel is a full-service team dealer that supplies local
56 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
athletic programs with a full range of products from uniforms and equipment to sideline apparel for coaches. E.I. Sports and Apparel offers all of the services screen printing shops, embroidery shops, and sporting goods stores offer in a one-stop shopping experience. And while others contract decoration out to third-party companies, we keep it in-house, which increases our overall service levels to our customers. Our full-time graphic artist will bring your ideas to life. Our staff is also highly experienced in development and managing our web stores.
WHY ARE WE THE BEST CHOICE IN THE EVANSVILLE AREA FOR YOUR TEAM NEEDS? After 19 years of servicing the local athletic scene, we have vast knowledge of uniforms and equipment. We can offer a wide selection of vendors, educate you on why you should use
certain vendors, bring your visual ideas to life, and give your program a “brand.” It’s what we do every day for our customers.
WHAT IS YOUR GOAL? Our goal at E.I. Sports and Apparel is to be a local team dealer that gives athletic programs a place to go for old-fashioned, face-to-face service. In a world of online marketplaces, we strive to be a local option for people who want to come in and pick up a basketball scorebook, football kicking tee, or coaches polo without having to order it online and wait for it to arrive.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
MCMAHON EXTERMINATING, INC. 1605 THEATER DRIVE | 812-475-1100 | MCMAHONCAN.COM
McMahon Exterminating Inc. is a family-owned company based in Evansville. Our technicians have been providing courteous service, flexible programs, and quality solutions in solving your pest problems safely and effectively since 1971. This is our 50th anniversary, and we are grateful for our amazing customers and staff who have been with us along the way!
HOW DID MCMAHON EXTERMINATING COME TO BE? Jack McMahon founded the business in 1971 and a few years later moved operations to his Columbia Street home, where he worked out of his garage with his parents living next
door. In 1981, Jack’s son Charlie joined the team. Charlie now is in his 40th year with the business and continues as the company’s second-generation owner. In 2018, McMahon welcomed Charlie’s son Luke to the business, thus beginning McMahon Exterminating’s third generation.
HOW HAS THE BUSINESS EXPANDED THIS PAST YEAR? We are happy to announce that McMahon Exterminating now has a canine department for bed bug scent detection. Shelby Buono is our canine handler, and her wonderful canine is Raven. Raven has been actively showing and competing in national-level AKC accredited dog shows/sports since 2018. When Raven isn’t working, sniffi g out bed bugs, this hard worker is training and competing in various AKC sports such as rally, obedience, dock diving, and most importantly, scent work. She is the #1 AKC labrador
retriever in the country for rally obedience. We affectionately refer to Raven as the “bed bug hunter.”
WHO CAN HELP WITH ALL YOUR PEST CONTROL NEEDS? MCMAHON CAN MEET RAVEN OUR OFFICIAL BEDBUG SNIFFING EXPERT! With McMahon’s skilled technicians and advanced training, we will get rid of bed bugs. And, Raven’s keen senses will make sure we don’t miss a single one of those nasty bugs.
MCMAHONCAN.COM | 812-475-1100 EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 57
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
FEHRENBACHER CABINETS, INC. 8944 HIGHWAY 65 | 812-963-3377 | FCI3.COM
High standards leave no room for compromise at Fehrenbacher Cabinets, Inc. Special attention down to the smallest details assures the quality of our cabinets will stand up to a lifetime of constant use. Every customer has different needs, tastes, and lifestyles. By offering a wide variety of materials and nearly unlimited cabinet options, customers are encouraged to meet their requirements of both form and function by adding their personal touches. We are committed to providing complete customer satisfaction. WHAT QUALITIES SET YOUR COMPANY APART FROM THE COMPETITION? We have state of the art equipment, use the best materials and construction methods, and are blessed with some of the most talented craftsmen you will fi d anywhere. From intricate one of a kind furniture, to kitchens, bathrooms, closets, bars, bookcases, mantels, commercial work, and more, FCI has 100 percent custom capabilities for every style, size, and finish one could want.
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We not only offer custom cabinetry, but we can supply countertops, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, and hardware for your project. This results in a one-stop shop, saving valuable time and headaches for our customers. From the preliminary designs to the fina installation, we try to create an organized and efficie t, yet enjoyable process.
HOW HAS YOUR BUSINESS EXPANDED OVER THE YEARS? FCI is in its third-generation ownership, being a family business for 65 years now. We continue to reinvest money back into the business by expanding our facility, bringing in new technology within the design software and manufacturing equipment, as well as
attracting additional talent to our amazing team! We continue to take on more projects each year greater in size and complexity, successfully completing projects all over the mid-west and beyond. We are excited to now have a dealer in the Franklin, Tennessee, area so we can service that booming area with our custom products just as we have here in the TriState since 1957.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTS 5611 E. MORGAN AVE. | 812-474-4260 | BUSINESSENVIRONMENTSEVV.COM
Business Environments focuses on solutions for today’s workplace. Our focus is providing a comfortable and efficie t solution throughout your facility that meets the demands of the constantly evolving workplace. We work to provide furniture and/or design services on projects of all sizes in varying fie ds including corporate, healthcare, education, and hospitality.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING? Business Environments started 33 years ago in a small space with six employees. In those 33 years, we’ve grown to 42 employees, acquired a competi-
tor, added residential division Lea Matthews Furniture and Interiors, and now occupy 35,000 square feet of showroom, offi e, and warehouse space. With the COVID-19 pandemic, most clients are wanting assistance in protecting their employees. Our ability to rearrange their existing furniture, add screens, or even provide cost effective home offi e ergonomic furniture is certainly a new challenge that hasn’t been experienced before.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS?
WHAT EXACTLY CAN YOUR BUSINESS DO FOR MY BUSINESS?
As the saying goes, “a company is only as good as its employees.” Our experience allows us to provide solutions that are in the best interest of the client, from both function and budget standpoints. We are second to none — integrity, commitment, honesty, and truly caring about our clients has made BE the company it is today.
Provide an ergonomic, healthy environment that leads the best available work staff to want to work for you. Generation Z workers seeking employment look for casual spaces that allow them to move freely and bring their laptop with them. Sitting still at a desk all day is not the way today’s team members prefer to work.
Your office environment, furniture, and décor can determine if your company appeals to new employees and can determine if you retain your current employees. Let BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTS create work areas that INSPIRE your staff!
businessenvironmentsevv.com • 812-474-4260 • 5611 E. Morgan Ave., Evansville EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 59
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
LAPPE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. 621 N. NINTH AVE. | 812-425-9464 | LAPPEHEATINGANDAIR.COM
Founded in 1922, Lappe Heating & Air Conditioning is celebrating 100 years of being a family-owned and -operated business in the Tri-State. We specialize in residential and commercial heating and cooling sales, service, installation, and sheet metal fabrication. HOW DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE? Lappe Heating & Air Conditioning began in 1922 in the home garage of Edward F. Lappe. In 1954, Edward and his crew installed their first Carrier system, which has led to a 70-year partnership with the Carrier brand. Edward’s sons Dan and Dave took over the business in 1964 and ran the business many years before their own sons Ed and Dan Jr. took the business over.
The business is currently in its fourthgeneration under Ed and Dan Jr.’s sons Dave and Daniel III.
HOW DOES YOUR COMPANY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR ITS CUSTOMERS? Our employees go above and beyond to make sure our customers have a positive experience with our company. Our entire staff attends training sessions multiple times a year to learn about new products and service methods to ensure we are providing the best service possible to the Tri-State. In 2020 and 2021, our company was also awarded the Carrier Presidents Award, which is Carrier’s highest nationwide award that spotlights customer service and loyalty to the Carrier brand.
DO YOU HAVE ANY NEW OFFERINGS/PRODUCTS/SERVICES AT YOUR BUSINESS? We offer free estimates on upgrading your current HVAC system. We will share any
manufacturer, utility, or federal tax credit rebates that are available to assist in the cost of your new system. We have 0 percent fina cing plans available for up to 72 months. Indoor air quality concerns continue to grow, and we have several options to help protect your family with air purifi ation products, humidifiers dehumidifiers, and air fil ers.
Edward F. Lappe as an employee at George Koch & Sons prior to starting our business in 1922
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS! “Excellent service, 100% recommended for anyone having AC issues. Their workmanship is compared to none with superb quality and affordable prices, no hidden extra fees or unnecessary extra parts.”
-MANUEL MEDINA
621 N 9TH AVE, EVANSVILLE, IN 47712 | 812-425-9464 | LAPPEHEATINGANDAIR.COM 60 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
MIDWEST TELECOM COMMUNICATIONS 1281 MAXWELL AVE. | 812-421-0111 | MIDWESTTEL.COM
Midwest Telecom offers a clear advantage to their customers. Over 38 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 consider our customers a part of our
family. We truly care about the success of our customers. 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 worldwide 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 challenge with specialized vendors that have been hand-picked over the years. These vendor relationships enhance the support that we can offer. This year Midwest Telecom provided solutions for multiple schools across the tri-state including Evansville Christian School. The NEC solution supported a multi-site
LaCinda and David Shipley
deployment with connectivity for the staff moving between locations. The NEC system tied to other communications platforms offering emergency fail over solutions for continuous communications.
UNIVERGE BLUE® CONNECT NEW ENHANCED HOSTED SOLUTION • • • • • • • •
Contact Center Video Conferencing Fax Mobile Desktop Presence Indicator Team Chat File Sync, Share & Backup
1281 MAXWELL AVE. EVANSVILLE, IN 47711
812.421.0111 MIDWESTTEL.COM
UNIVERGE BLUE® CONNECT is an easy-to-use, cloud-based communications platform that helps easily manage team communications and collaboration. One simple cloud app delivers a seamless, unified experience while reducing complexity and costs. EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 61
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
OLD FASHIONED BUTCHER SHOPPE 2130 STRINGTOWN ROAD | 812-423-2465 | EVANSVILLEBUTCHERSHOP.COM 7766 FRUITWOOD LANE, STE. D, NEWBURGH, IN | 812-490-9010 | NEWBURGHBUTCHERSHOP.COM
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.
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 location 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.
HOW HAS YOUR BUSINESS CHANGED SINCE THE BEGINNING?
DOES OLD FASHIONED BUTCHER SHOPPE GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?
We’ve never been your average meat market. We’re always supplying our customers with prime cuts of meat and first- evel 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,
We are a family-owned and operated meat market that is proud to be part of the Evansville and Newburgh communities. Besides our tight bonds with area retailers, local restaurants, and prominent community members, we go above and beyond to give back
Chris Baumgart and Mike Baehl
and support those who support us. We participate in fundraisers of all kinds in our community, mostly for schools and athletics. Our money goes back to several local charities, including the Evansville Area Food Bank and the Dream Center.
Don’t Choose Just Any
BUTCHER SHOP Shop at your local meat market and deli in Evansville and Newburgh Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe is a familyowned meat market. Our butcher shop is known throughout the area for our quality cuts and exceptional customer service. • Beef steaks, roasts, grinds, and burgers • Pork loins, bacon, chops, and sausages • Bone-in and bone-out chicken breasts and tenders • Specialty meats available like bison, lamb, and goat 62 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
2130 Stringtown Road Evansville, IN 47711
7766 Fruitwood Lane Ste. D Newburgh, IN 47711
812-423-2465
812-490-9010
evansvillebutchershop.com
newburghbutchershop.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
PREMIER ELECTRIC, INC. 1274 MAXWELL AVE. | 812-429-1122 | PREMIERELECTRICINC.NET
Premier Electric will not only get your business up and running; it also will help keep it running. With its 24/7 emergency and after-hours service, one of Premier’s 30 certified electricians can be on site within two hours to assess problems and fi d a solution. White and his team know time is money, so they do everything they can to get the business operating again. WHAT SHOULD CUSTOMERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR COMPANY? The quality of employees at Premier Electric is what sets us apart from other businesses. Even though our team is not all related, we foster a true
family environment and each staff member has a voice in the decision making process. Employees have long tenure with the company. Whether your electrical needs are big or small, you need a company that can do it all. From industrial to residential, Premier Electric has the training and experience to keep you running on all circuits. Premier Electric only hires the best for its team. All electricians are members of the IBEW Local 16. In addition to rigorous safety training, the company enforces a strict no-tolerance drug policy.
CenterPoint Energy to offer small business rebates. The rebate process has been simplifi d and Premier can take care of all of the paperwork for LED replacement and retrofit rebates. For more information about Premier Electric, call 812-429-1122 or visit premierelectricinc.net.
HOW CAN PREMIER ELECTRIC SAVE CLIENTS TIME AND MONEY? Premier Electric also helps companies save money. The Premier professionals help businesses secure lighting retrofits to capture all potential rebates for a cost-effective lighting system. We are in partnership with
QUALITY ELECTRICAL SERVICES FROM ONE LOCAL BUSINESS TO ANOTHER! 24/7 Emergency Electrical Services Available • Free Off-Site Estimates
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1274 Maxwell Avenue, Evansville
812-429-1122 | premierelectricinc.net EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 63
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
THE RUG MERCHANT 1019 LINCOLN AVE. | 812-423-2338 | THERUGMERCHANTEVANSVILLE.COM
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, Il-
linois, Lewis wandered over to the International Rug Market, where he immediately fell in love. Although he had been in the fl or 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 fi e, handmade, antique, and new area rugs and high fashion broadloom carpet, but we’re the only certifi d
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.
Celebrating
51 Years
of Interior Inspiration
812-423-2338 • 1019 Lincoln Ave. • Evansville, IN • therugmerchantevansville.com 64 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Every Man Deserves A Well-Tailored Suit Family-owned, Stephan G. Sanders has 50+ years of fine men’s clothing experience wardrobing customers with their apparel needs. Steve has been owner of SGS Clothiers since its beginning, and has enjoyed the pleasure of wardrobing thousands of individuals over his many years in the Men’s Apparel business. Joining Steve is Master Tailor Marla Beaven. Marla has more than 30 years’ experience in the tailoring of fine men’s and ladies’ apparel. Before joining SGS Clothiers, Marla was the Supervisor of Alterations for two fine clothing establishments, performing fittings and alterations as well as supervising other store tailors. Steve and Marla partner effortlessly to provide customers with a top-quality, personalized experience. Many things have changed in the clothing industry over the last 50 years, but for Steve, staying true to a high-quality standard of products and tailoring has kept his clothier business thriving. With a passion for the industry, SGS Clothiers offers clients a true personal experience unlike any other. “Our business is not about selling clothing,” Stephan told Evansville Business magazine in 2019. “Ultimately, it’s what we do, but it’s about building a relationship with our clients.” “It’s building friends,” he added. “That’s what makes it enjoyable to be in this business.”
Business Meetings • Weddings • Social Events • Or Just A Night On The Town
STEPHAN G. SANDERS
FINE MEN’S CLOTHIERS 20 N.W. 4th Street, Downtown Evansville | 812-962-3333 | steve@yoursuitman.com
YOURSUITMAN.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
SIGNARAMA 1300 N. ROYAL AVE. | 812-477-7763 | SIGNARAMA.COM
Signarama in Evansville was founded in 1957 by Arthur Valiant. Now into its third generation of family ownership, President Casey Valiant has led the business in growth, innovation, and community service. Signarama is a trusted resource to help businesses look their best by offering commercial signs, vehicle graphics, design services, and more. HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING? As the needs of our clients have changed, we have been able to stay agile to meet their needs. 2020 is a great refl ction on how important it is to adapt and change. From changing production for ADA signs and banners to sneeze guards and social distancing fl or graphics, we’ll continue to adapt. The one thing we won’t change is our level of excellent customer service.
HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY? Through our Signs of Support Grants, Signarama has awarded more than $300,000 in grants to local nonprofi
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organizations to help provide them with new signs. This community depends on many of those organizations and we have had the pleasure of being involved in helping them market their missions effectively.
WHAT HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS? Signarama has an amazing team dedicated to serving their customers. That dedication is core to Signarama’s long term success.
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
SITEX CORPORATION 1300 COMMONWEALTH DRIVE, HENDERSON, KY | 270-827-3537 | SITEX-CORP.COM
SITEX Corporation is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2021. Today SITEX is managed by Wes Sights, President and CEO, and Jon L. Sights, Executive Vice President and COO, the third generation of Sights’ to run the business. We have long been a communityminded company, and our entire team supports many local causes.
THE HIGHEST STANDARDS SITEX is the premier provider of uniform and linen services, mats, mops, custom apparel, promotional items, screen printing, embroidery, and restroom and hygiene services in Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Illinois. Choosing your uniform and linen service provider can be a big task, but SITEX will be your right
Jon Sights Executive Vice President & COO
choice every time for all of your needs. We strive to be the very best in the industry by providing product quality and customer service of the highest standards. Every order. Every time.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? Our team members, our technology, and our products and services are what make the difference. We have the best, most skilled, and most well-trained team members in the industry. Our customers are the best, and we strive to continually provide them with the best products and services possible. Our technology is the leading technology in the industry and provides you with 100 percent accuracy through our automated tracking system, SITRAX.
KEEPING THE HEART OF SITEX AT HOME Our service footprint spans about a 200-mile radius from our corporate offi e in Henderson, Kentucky. Founded
Wes Sights President & CEO
CONGRATULATIONS TO SITEX CORPORATION CELEBRATING 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS
in Henderson, the Sights family has been dedicated to keeping the heart of SITEX at home. With four branch locations in Jasper, Indiana, Louisville, Kentucky, Nashville, Tennessee, and Paducah, Kentucky, SITEX is prepared to meet your every need in a timely and complete fashion.
SITEX Corporation is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2021. Founded in 1961 by the Sights family, SITEX provides uniform rental, apparel, linen, and facility services as well as first aid programs to a wide array of businesses in Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Tennessee. Based in Henderson, SITEX also has locations in Paducah, KY; Louisville, KY; Jasper, IN; and Nashville, TN. Today SITEX is managed by Wes Sights, President and CEO, and Jon L. Sights, Executive Vice President and COO, the third generation of Sights’ to run the business. They have long been a community minded company and their entire team supports many local causes.
800-278-3537 | SITEX-CORP.COM EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 67
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FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
SOUTHERN BUSINESS MACHINES, INC. 2040 E. DIVISION ST. | 812-475-8895 | SOUTHERNBUSINESSMACHINES.COM 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.
WHAT DISTINGUISHES YOU FROM OTHER COMPANIES IN YOUR INDUSTRY? Relationships and great customer service. Without name recognition when we first started, we had to make a difference. Building relationships with our customers and providing excellent customer service was, and 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.
• Postage Meters/ Mailing Machines
• Multifunction Printers Copiers
• Hybrid Outsourcing
• Parcel Lockers
• Folder/Inserters • Mail Management Software
• Shipping/Tracking Solutions • Letter Openers
• Remote Mailing Solutions
812-475-8895 southernbusinessmachines.com 68 DECEMBER/JANUARY | 2021-2022
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS
TRI-STATE PAINTING CO., INC. 2217 ST. JOSEPH INDUSTRIAL PARK DRIVE | 812-424-6334 | TSP-USA.COM HOW DID YOUR COMPANY COME TO BE?
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY CHANGED SINCE ITS BEGINNING?
Tri-State Painting Co., Inc. was founded in February 1961. Charlie and KewBee McDonald successfully built the business from the ground up and welcomed their sons to help them continue the business growth and vision. In 1992, we lost Charlie, and KewBee stepped up as the president and majority owner of the business with her three sons Rodney, Robin, and Ken. With KewBee’s majority ownership, Tri-State Painting Co., Inc. was awarded the status of womanowned business and recognized on both a state and national level. In 2003, the third generation of the McDonald family joined the business. As of July 1, 2021, Tri-State Painting Co., Inc. made the decision to transfer the majority ownership to Penny McDonald and appoint her the new president. She has been tasked with continuing the family tradition of providing quality services for customers and a successful place of employment for employees.
Tri-State Painting Co., Inc. began as a primarily residential and commercial painting contractor. Over the years, TriState Painting Co., Inc. has gravitated away from the residential market and focused on the commercial, industrial and specialty coating business. The changes in material technologies and products we have to offer have driven the business toward staying on the cutting edge of what we can offer our customers to fulfill their ever-changing needs.
WHAT DOES BEING A FAMILYOWNED BUSINESS MEAN TO YOU? Being a family-owned business makes us have a different perspective on what it means to be business owners. We are personally invested in taking care of our customers and employees. We are able to lean on each other and know it is not just a corporate entity or co-worker who supports you; it is literally your family.
Penny A. McDonald, President
WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?
Our goals have always been to provide excellent service for our customers and a safe environment in which our employees can perform to their fullest potential.
TRI-STATE PAINTING CO., INC. “Covering the tri-state with expert painting since 1961”
Tri-State Painting Co., Inc. is a family-owned and operated commercial and industrial painting company. We have proudly served the Southern Indiana region since 1961. For three generations, we have committed ourselves to providing excellent service while supporting our local community. Painting (commercial, industrial, facility/maintenance) Floor Coatings | Polished Concrete Specialty Coatings and Services
2217 St. Joseph Industrial Park Dr., Evansville, IN | (812) 424-6334 | tsp-usa.com EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 69
Photo By Alli Wuertz
SERVING THE TRI-STATE FOR
2 GENERATIONS
6010 East Maxwell Avenue, Evansville, IN 47715 812-473-1990 | Toll Free: 800-933-8056 | Fax: 812-473-5007
STORE HOURS - Mon-Fri: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Visit our website for details and directions
HAMLINRENTAL.COM
BUSINESS LIFE
P H OTO BY J O D I K E E N
1.
P H OTO S P R OV I D E D
2. E-REP ANNUAL MEETING AND DINNER SEPT. 22, FORD CENTER 1. Steve Greenley, Greg Wathen, Beth McFadin Higgins, Christine Keck, Becky Skillman, Tara Barney, Jim Ryan, and Johnathan Pope 2. Mike Schopmeyer, Laurie Schopmeyer, and Christopher Pietruszkiewicz
EVANSVILLE-VANDERBURGH COUNTY HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION ANNUAL DINNER & MAYOR’S CELEBRATION OF DIVERSITY AWARDS NOV. 12, OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA Dan Carwile, Diane Clements-Boyd, Dr. Khalil Muhammad, Ruby McGlown, and Regina Robinson Ungar
P H OTO BY AU D R A S T R AW
P H OTO BY R I L E Y G U E R Z I N I
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OLD NATIONAL BANK DONATES $3,000 TO TEACHER LOCKER OCT. 5, TEACHER LOCKER Travis Girten, Lori Young, Jason Long, Jeffrey Berger, Amy Casavant, and Nina Schultheis
PENGUINS OF PATAGONIA RIBBON CUTTING OCT. 26, MESKER PARK ZOO Erik Beck, Mayor Lloyd Winnecke, Wayne Kinney, Andrew Burczyk, Allison Burczyk, Beth Kinney, Donna Bennett, and Margaret Koch
DEACONESS AQUATIC CENTER RIBBON CUTTING OCT. 1, DON MATTINGLY WAY Mayor Lloyd Winnecke, Lilly King, Johnathan Pope, and other local leaders and community members EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 71
BUSINESS LIFE
1. BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS GALA NOV. 4, MILESTONES 1. Heather Hicks, Grace Walker, Amanda Redenbaugh, Ciarra Tery, Tess Spindler, Khrista York, Amanda Metzger, and Andrew Backes 2. Mark Miller and Bert Wheat 3. Olivia Kent and Megan DiVenti
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HIRES/PROMOTIONS
Visit Evansville has welcomed
Kasia Koontz as destination services manager as of Oct. 4. Koontz KASIA KOONTZ previously served as the Social Sales manager at Spectra Venue Management at the Owensboro Convention Center and the catering, bar, and concessions sales manager for ASM Global at Old National Events Plaza.
Evansville Day School has announced
three changes to its staff. Amanda Bultemeier has been promoted to director of institutional advancement from director of marketing. She joined Day School in 2016 and previously received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Evansville. Ryan BixlerRigg has been hired as a development associate in the department of institutional advancement. He most recently worked for the American Cancer Society as community development manager and holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in business administration from Eastern Illinois University. Vanessa Marvin, previously vice president of marketing at Hoosier Hills Credit Union, joins Day School as a communications associate. She received a bachelor’s degree in fine and studio arts from Indiana University, Bloomington.
AMANDA BULTEMEIER, VANESSA MARVIN, AND RYAN BIXLER-RIGG
Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra has appointed three new principal musicians. Principal second violin Michael Chu, principal horn and consortium member Rebecca Salo,
B BUSINESS SUCCESS
Leadership Legacy BY DA L L AS CA RT E R
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IN THE NEWS
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vansville Regional Economic Partnership has been overseen by coCEOs Tara Barney and Greg Wathen since it formed on April 1, 2021. Barney, former president and CEO of the Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce, has now been named E-REP’s CEO, and Wathen, former president and CEO of the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, has been named president, effective Oct. 1, 2021. Barney’s Chamber and Wathen’s Coalition merged with the Growth Alliance of Greater Evansville to form E-REP. Now, the group consists of more than 1,200 members in the public and private sectors. “The transformations of this past year would not be possible without the leadership of these two extraordinary executives,” says E-REP chair
and principal bassoon Mackenzie Brauns will join EPO for its 20212022 season. Chu also plays with the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra and received a bachelor’s degree in violin performance and music education from University of Minnesota - Twin Cities and a master’s degree in violin performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Salo currently serves as a faculty member at the University of Evansville and maintains a private studio. She holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University and a master’s degree in music from Indiana University, and pursued her doctorate at the Eastman School of Music. Brauns is a fellow with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and principal bassoon of the Ohio-based Firelands Symphony, Mansfield Symphony, Youngstown Symphony, and Cincinnati Chamber orchestras, and the New World Symphony based
and Old National Bank chairman and CEO Jim Ryan. In March 2018, Barney joined the Chamber after serving seven years in a similar position at the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce based in Davenport, Iowa. She received a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Miami University and a master’s degree in public administration from Ohio State University. Before joining the Coalition in 2007, Wathen worked as executive director for the Perry County Development Corporation and received accreditation in public relations from Indiana State University.
in Florida, among others. A founding member of the Cleveland Wind Trio, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from the University of Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music.
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library has announced Heather McNabb as the new chief operating officer assistant director as of Sept. 20. Previously, McNabb served as the EVPL’s engagement and experience officer and was chosen from candidates in a nationwide search.
University of Southern Indiana has promoted
BRIAN MCGUIRE
professor of accounting Brian McGuire to interim dean of the USI Romain College of EVANSVILLE BUSINESS | 73
IN THE NEWS Business. Previously the associate dean of the college and interim dean from 2018-2019, McGuire succeeds Cathey Carey, who will continue to serve in the college as a professor of economics. Currently serving as president of the Buffalo Trace Council (Southern Indiana and Southern Illinois) of the Boy Scouts of America, he will maintain his interim position while a national hiring search takes place. Professor of economics and assistant dean of the college Timothy Schibik will be joined by associate professor of management and Master of Business Administration director Jack Smothers as an interim assistant dean.
Ivy Tech Community College has hired six new employees. Amber Becker joins the nursing faculty and AMBER BECKER holds bachelor’s degrees in nursing and finance and a master’s degree in Nurse Education from the University of Southern Indiana. NATHAN JOCHUM She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society and the Indiana League for Nursing. Nathan Jochum is the LAURA PURCELL assistant director of development operations and holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising from EVELYN RIVAS USI and master’s degree in library and information science from Drexel University in Philadelphia. Jennifer Julian has joined the medical assisting faculty and received a bachelor’s degree in individual studies from USI. Laura Purcell is the college connection coach for Perry County and graduated from USI with bachelor’s degrees in art and advertising/public relations. She is
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a Perry County Tri-Kappa member, Perry County Habitat for Humanity board member, and a Perry County CASA volunteer. Evelyn Rivas is the executive assistant to the chancellor and strategic facilitation lead. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work with minors in communication and sociology at Indiana University and serves as vice president of Association of Latino Americans in Indiana and is a member of the Latino Collaboration Table. Gina Talbert is the surgical technology program chair and holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and sports medicine from the University of Evansville.
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Evansville Thunderbolts have announced their 2021-2022 season leadership core. Austin Plevy will serve as the team’s seventh captain, while Hayden Hulton and Brandon Lubin will take on assistant captain roles. Plevy became the first player in Southern Professional Hockey League history to be named Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player simultaneously in 2019-2020. The Thunderbolts’ season opened Oct. 22 against the Quad City Storm.
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AWARDS/RECOGNITION
Evansville Day School has announced senior
Alayna Rodgers was designated a College Board National Recognition Programs Scholar. Students who score in the top 2.5 percent of the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, attend school in a rural area or small town or identify as African American, Indigenous, Hispanic American or Latinx, and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 by junior year are honored with this distinction.
E-REP has awarded business and community leaders at its first annual meeting and dinner on Sept. 22. Matthew Nix, Lindsey Nix, and Adam Nix of Nix Companies, Inc. were named Community Champion of the Year. Ron Romain was awarded the Distinguished Business Leader of the Year award, while Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana won Business of the Year.
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IN THE NEWS
$440,000 to the University of Southern Indiana Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. The grants will fund programs that recruit and train teachers in science, technology, engineering, and math, specifically the Teaching Eagles Scholarship Program ($200,00) and the New Experiences for Instructors of Dual Enrollment ($240,000).
2021 McDonald’s Outstanding Educators has honored 15 local teachers out of more than 720 nominations. The second annual awards, spearheaded by local McDonald’s owner-operators Chip and Katie Kenworthy, give each winner a $100 Visa gift card, “Best Teacher Ever” mug, and McDonald’s coupons to give to parents of outstanding students. Additional funds were gathered this year to award one outstanding educator with a $1,000 Visa gift card. Other Tri-State McDonald’s operators Michael Burrell, Ivan Carvajal, Kelsey Hamlet, Gale Hill, Ryan Kramer, Larry Lovelace, and Susan and Rick Mann joined the Kenworthys to honor Annette Elkins-Combs of Bosse High School as the $1,000 winner. $100 winners include Amber Ferguson of Evansville Day School; Courtney Ethridge of Resurrection Catholic School; Heather Dougan of Stockwell Elementary; Nathan Eckleberry of Stringtown Elementary; Russell Luecke of North High School; John Wargel of St. James Catholic School, Haubstadt, Indiana; Shawn Schaefer of Southridge High School, Huntingburg, Indiana; Jamie Clauss of Holy Trinity Catholic School and Jeremy Wolf of Jasper Middle School, Jasper, Indiana; Jill Wright of Princeton Community Primary School, Princeton, Indiana; Whitney Keown of William Tell Elementary, Tell City, Indiana; Ginger Stovall of Henderson County High School, Henderson, Kentucky; Sarah Downing of Morganfield Elementary, Morganfield, Kentucky; and Johnathan Loehr of Apollo High School, Owensboro, Kentucky.
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Investing in the Future BY DA L L AS CA RT E R
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ount Vernon, Indiana, native Philip H. Hagemann started taking piano lessons in Evansville when he was seven years old, long before the University of Southern Indiana was established as Indiana State University-Evansville in 1965. Now, the award-winning composer has committed $2 million to grow access to music in the region he still calls home. In addition to expanding courses and ensembles, music laboratories and classroom space, and scholarships for music students, the Hagemann Music Program Fund includes USI’s continued sponsorship of Posey County’s annual high school competition, the Hagemann Award for Musical Performance, held in Thrall’s Opera House in New Harmony.
Reopen Evansville Task Force has received Accelerate Indiana Municipalities’ Community Program Innovation Award. Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke’s Task Force was created shortly after Gov. Eric Holcomb issued a statewide stay-at-home order in March 2020. Winnecke, alongside Deputy Mayor Steve Schaefer, created the organization and accepted the award at the annual awards program at the 2021 Aim Ideas Summit.
Lois M. Welden has received the University of Southern Indiana’s 2021 Distinguished Nursing Alumni LOIS M. WELDEN Award for her more than 40 years of nursing, research, and leadership experience. While working as a full-time nurse aide at Deaconess Hospital in 1979, she began attending the University of
A 50-year resident of New York City, Hagemann returned to Southern Indiana in October to celebrate his leadership gift PHILIP H. HAGEMANN and attend a concert honoring his career and the work of long-time friend Murray Rosenthal at the USI Performance Center. As a thank you, the college of liberal arts’ performing arts department will be named the Philip H. Hagemann Performing Arts Department. Hagemann was awarded an honorary doctorate of humanities from USI in 2016. “This gift allows me to help USI offer more in its music curriculum moving toward the goal of a music major,” says Hagemann.
Evansville’s nursing program. Upon graduating with an associate’s degree, she remained at Deaconess, where she held titles from assistant head nurse to department director. Today, Welden is a clinical nurse specialist in the Deaconess Magnet Program and Employee Education Department. She has also served as an adjunct faculty member at USI since 2015.
Tri-State Orthopaedics has announced accreditation for its Newburgh location by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. Achieving this accreditation means Tri-State Orthopaedics met the nationally recognized organization’s rigorous standards.
University of Evansville has received a $3.6 million gift from the John B. and Lucille S. Kelly Trust. Funds will support and expand the Lucy Kelly Nursing Scholarship within the Dunigan Family School of Nursing. Scholarship applicants must be in the
P H OTO P R OV I D E D
Indiana Commission for Higher Education has awarded two grants totaling
BUILT TO MOW THE DISTANCE top 20 percent of their class and hold a B grade average. In addition, UE Department of history, politics, and social change chair, James MacLeod, has received Hubert Hawkins History Award from the 2021 Founders Day Awards by the Indiana Historical Society. The annual awards recognize recipients on local, regional, and statewide levels. Macleod serves on the boards of the Vanderburgh County Historical Society, Southwestern Indianan Historical Society, and the Evansville Museum of Art, History, and Science. He has worked at UE in the history, politics, and social change department since 1999 and was awarded the Outstanding Teacher Award in 2009. Author of “Evansville in World War Two” (2015) and “The Cartoons of Evansville’s Karl Kae Knecht” (2017), MacLeod received his master’s degree in arts from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland in 1988 and his doctorate in 1993.
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Youth First, Inc. and Hangers have each
accepted a $25,000 grant from State Farm Neighborhood Assist. Youth First and Hangers finished the program among the top 40 vote-getters nationwide out of about 2,000 cause submissions and 200 finalists for public voting. Youth First will use the funds to expand its social worker and prevention programs to 12 additional EVSC schools. Serving about 3,000 EVSC students annually with clothing and basic hygiene products, Hangers will put its grant toward coats, shoes, and uniform clothing for 250 students.
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IN THE NEWS advancements for the second consecutive year by the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives. The annual survey of more than 36,000 health care organizations identifies only 108 hospitals as a Level 9 or 10 nationwide.
D-Patrick has donated checks to two local organizations in the month of November. The School of Ballet Indiana received $2,500 from D-Patrick Ford/Lincoln as a continuation of the $10 per Test Drive campaign on Nov. 9. D-Patrick Honda presented $1,500 to Junior Achievement of Southwestern Indiana on Nov. 2 as part of the Honda Helping Kids campaign. GROWTH/DEVELOPMENT
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library has expanded its newest initiative,
the Library of Things. EVPL created the Library of Things to extend its rentable collections beyond books, movies, and music. The newest items include a variety of outdoor games, such as bocce ball, croquet, and pickleball. Existing items range from musical instruments to cultural passes. To learn more, visit evpl.org/ libraryofthings.
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as of Oct. 1, 2021. Operated by the YMCA of Southwestern Indiana, the center has two main pools, the Lilly King Competition Pool and a recreational pool and splash pad; community rooms; and private locker rooms. The competition pool is open 5 a.m.-9 a.m. MondaySaturday for public lap swim, 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday for swim team practice, and noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday for public lap swim. The rec pool and splash pad are open to the public 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Daily passes are $6 and pass packages and memberships are available for purchase.
Hilliard Lyons Trust Company has rebranded to Baird Trust Company after being subsidized by Baird in 2019. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with an office in Evansville, Baird Trust has more than $17 billion in assets and 80 associates in offices in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee.
Ivy Tech Community College has announced the start of the public phase of its first statewide campaign, Invest IN Ivy Tech Capital Campaign. On Sept. 30, the first public event to raise $12.1 million was held in-person and live streamed with all 19 campuses statewide. Shawn McCoy — chair of the Evansville region campaign, CEO of Deaconess Health System, and secretary of the Ivy Tech Board of Trustees — announced a $250,000 contribution from Deaconess to the campaign. In response to a recent Community Economic Impact Report that found Ivy Tech’s impact reaches across Indiana, the campaign hopes to raise a total of $285 million by 2023, the 60th anniversary of Ivy Tech.
Sunset Skatepark project has raised more than $800,000 to build an accessible public concrete skatepark on the Evansville Riverfront connecting Mickey’s Kingdom Playground with the new Evansville Water Sewer and Utility Pump Station. Donations have come from the local skate and bike community, fundraisers, and community partner grants from Vectren and Welborn Baptist Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting project organizer volunteer Heather Vaught at hello@skatesunset.com.
GRiT Technologies LLC has partnered with
MetaLINK Technologies Inc. of Ohio to deliver Long Range Wide Area Network connectivity to the Maumee River Water Shed region of Ohio
and parts of northeast Indiana. GRiT is a Gibson County-based internet consulting firm, and the partnership will help improve internet service in these underserved areas.
Advertiser Index Company................................................Page # Acclaim Graphics..................................................................48 All-Weather Products, Inc........................................34, 35 Altstadt Hoffman Plumbing.................................... 36, 37 American Sanitary Supply Co........................................ 75 AquaVida Pools...............................................................38, 39 Award World Trophies & Gifts.......................................49 Bodyworks Massage Therapy.......................................50 Bosse Title Company............................................................51 Brinker’s Jewelers....................................................... 46, 47 Building Blocks . ..................................................................... 72 Business Environments.....................................................59 Cabinets & Counters..........................................................53 CenterPoint Energy............................................................IBC Colonial Classics, Inc............................................................54 Corporate Design...................................................................18 Custom Sign & Engineering, Inc.............................40, 41 D-Patrick Motoplex................................................................7 Diana Schnakenburrg/F.C. Tucker..............................20 Don’s Claytons Fine Dry Cleaning ........................42, 43 Dyna-Kleen................................................................................ 79 E.I. Sports..................................................................................56
Evansville Garage Doors ..................................................55 Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union................................................. OBC Fehrenbacher Cabinets, Inc............................................58 First Bank......................................................................................1 Frank’s Catering.................................................................... 77 Hamilton County Tourism ..................................................8 Hamlin Equipment Rental.................................................. 70 HR Solutions, Inc.............................................................44, 45 Indiana Chamber of Commerce......................................2 J.E. Shekell................................................................................52 Keller Schroeder....................................................................74 Landscapes By Dallas Foster, Inc..................................14 Lappe Heating & Air Conditioning.................................60 McMahon Exterminating, Inc......................................... 57 Metronet...................................................................................23 Midwest Telecom Communications.............................61 N.M. Bunge, Inc...........................................................................4 Old Fashioned Butcher Shoppe......................................62 Popham Construction...........................................................9 Premier Electric, Inc...........................................................63 RE/MAX/Richardson, Mike............................................ IFC
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BACK TALK E
BY R I L E Y G U E R Z I N I
Leslie Townsend EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in history and sociology and master’s degree in liberal studies from the University of Southern Indiana RESUME: Admissions counselor, University of Southern Indiana, 1990-1992; coordinator of admissions, Ivy Tech Community College, 1992-1994; assistant director of admissions, University of Southern Indiana, 1994-1997; program coordinator, Historic Southern Indiana, 1997-2005; assistant director, Historic Southern Indiana, 2005-2008; director, Historic Southern Indiana, 2008-2015; director, Community Engagement, University of Southern Indiana, 2015-2019; interim director of Historic New Harmony, 2017-2019; director of USI’s Community Engagement and Historic New Harmony, 2019-present HOMETOWN: Evansville, Indiana FAMILY: Husband, Jon; sons, Ethan (25) and Christian (21)
W
ith more than 30 years at the University of Southern Indiana — as a student and employee, Leslie Townsend has spent her entire adult life in higher education. As USI’s Director of Community Engagement and Historic New Harmony, Townsend combines her passion for historic preservation and community outreach in her dual role for the university. “I think a lot of times people don’t always realize what’s in your own backyard, but New Harmony is renowned over the world and is studied by a lot of different people, from scholars of history to architecture, art, and religion,” she says.
Who are your mentors? I would have to say Ed Jones, who is the vice provost emeritus for Outreach and Engagement, and Connie Weinzapfel,
director emeritus for Historic New Harmony. Ed was over Outreach and Engagement when I began with Historic Southern Indiana and was a great leader. Connie and I worked together for years while I was with Historic Southern Indiana and she was with Historic New Harmony. As she was getting ready to retire and I was named interim director for Historic New Harmony, she really helped me by introducing me to the community.
Tell us about community partnerships. What is your favorite part about working with partnerships? Much of the work I do is outward facing with the public, organizations, and community partners. Whether it’s the Southern Indiana region with our Historic Southern Indiana program or the town of New Harmony with Historic New
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Harmony or the Gallery of Contemporary Art, we’re telling the story about what makes places special. I would say my favorite part is collaborating with these community partnerships to encourage people to visit, interact, and maybe learn something new in the process.
What was your favorite campus spot as a student, and what is your favorite spot now? This sounds really nerdy, but I loved being in the library as a student. My favorite spot was at a table by a window overlooking the boulevard. Weirdly enough, when the old library was renovated into University Center East, Outreach and Engagement moved our offices there, and my office was in the same place I sat so many times as a student. On campus, I love the view from the Griffin Center overlooking Reflection Lake. In New Harmony, my favor-
ite spot is Church Park with the beautiful Don Gummer sculpture and Door of Promise replica.
hat accomplishment or W program at Historic New Harmony are you most proud of? New Harmony is such a special place. It’s full of so many dedicated people who are passionate about the community, and it’s an honor to be part of that in my role with Historic New Harmony. Everything we do with Historic New Harmony is very much a team effort, so the thing I am most proud of goes back to the work of our staff to bring Water/Ways, a Smithsonian exhibit, to New Harmony in the fall of 2021. Being able to share with the public an exhibit of this caliber on the history and impact of water in the beautiful Atheneum Visitors Center while looking out on the Wabash River was a truly wonderful experience. P H OTO BY Z AC H S T R AW
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