1si Non-Profit: Wilson Education Service Center

by with No Comment 1si NewsNonprofit Spotlight

Wilson Education Service Center (WESC) provides cost-effective, leading-edge resources for professional development, educational resources, and cooperative purchasing. They work with a variety of members, including government entities, non-profits, and municipalities. Through their work, members can access volume purchasing and professional development to enrich student learning opportunities. Watch the video to hear how they can be of service to you and your organization.

WESC is one of nine Indiana Educational Service Centers in the state of Indiana and is authorized by state statute and operates under the State Board of Education guidelines. Education Service Centers are extended agencies of local schools. Since 1977, WESC has been dedicated to assisting teachers and administrators in educating students. Their designated region (Region 2), includes 12 counties: Clark, Dearborn, Floyd, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Ohio, Ripley, Scott, Switzerland, and Washington.

See their website for more.

Sazerac Announces Expansion in New Albany 25 new jobs to be added and $38 million to be invested 

by with 2 Comments 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

New Albany, Ind. (October 16, 2025) – Sazerac of Indiana, LLC, doing business as Northwest Ordinance Distilling, today announced plans to expand its operations in New Albany, following today’s approval of a local property tax abatement by the New Albany City Council. The project represents a capital investment of more than $38 million, including over $35 million in new equipment and over $2 million in real property improvements. 

The expansion will enable the company to increase production capacity to meet growing demand for its distilled spirits products. The project will also create 25 new full-time positions, while ensuring the continued employment of the company’s existing 357 team members in New Albany. 

“This expansion marks an exciting next step for our New Albany operation,” said Jake Wenz, CEO and President at Sazerac. “As demand for our products continues to grow, this investment will help us better serve our customers while reinforcing our commitment to the New Albany community. We’re grateful to the City of New Albany and One Southern Indiana for their ongoing partnership and support, which make growth like this possible.” 

“We’re proud of Sazerac’s continued success here in New Albany and for their confidence in our community to make these significant investments,” said Mayor Jeff Gahan. “This expansion reflects the strength of our local workforce and exemplifies the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting quality job creation.” 

Sazerac of Indiana has been operating in New Albany since 2017, when it located and revitalized the former General Mills facility on Grant Line Road. Since then, the company has achieved significant growth, made substantial capital investments, and drawn upon the strength of the local workforce while expanding its team. 

Sazerac Company, one of the nation’s oldest privately held and family-owned distillers, operates the New Albany facility—Northwest Ordinance Distilling—where it bottles a diverse range of spirits for nationwide distribution. 

“Sazerac’s continued growth in southern Indiana underscores both their confidence in this community and the region’s long-term strength as a global hub for manufacturing and logistics,” said Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana (1si). “We’re proud to support this expansion and the quality jobs it brings to southern Indiana.” 

Construction and equipment installation are expected to begin later this year. 

About Sazerac of Indiana, LLC / Northwest Ordinance Distilling 
Sazerac of Indiana, LLC, operating as Northwest Ordinance Distilling, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Sazerac Company, one of the largest distillers in the United States. The New Albany facility produces a variety of distilled spirits for distribution across the U.S. and internationally. 

About One Southern Indiana 
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org. 

SoIN Goes Upside Down October 23 – 25

by with No Comment Member News

October WAVE Country

Anna Rosales-Crone, Communications Manager, SoIN Tourism
Marisa Murphy, Marketing Specialist, SoIN Tourism

Harvest Homecoming
The longtime Southern Indiana tradition, Harvest Homecoming, is back for 2025 and is taking over downtown New Albany starting this weekend. This year’s theme is “Heart of Harvest.” Festivities kick off with a parade at 3 p.m. this Saturday, October 4.

This year’s booth days are Thursday, October 9 through Sunday, October 12. Sample all of your favorite foods, purchase crafts, enjoy live music and support local organizations. Sunday features a sensory inclusion hour from 11 a.m. – Noon, for those with aversion to crowds or with mobility limitations, to enjoy the booths in a less crowded, calmer environment. Weather permitting, this year’s festival will feature a Balloon Glow at 5 p.m. on Friday, October 10. Attendees can take a tethered ride for $20 per person. Rides begin at 5 p.m. and the balloon glow begins at 7:30 p.m. Glow and rides will take place at 500 Scribner Drive (at the former location of Riverview Towers).

This year’s Pumpkin Chunking competition is Tuesday, October 14 from 4 – 7 p.m. at Purdue Polytechnic in New Albany. Teams of high schoolers, college students and adults launch pumpkins up to 100 yards using gravity-powered trebuchets, competing for awards in accuracy, originality, and efficiency. Parking, food trucks and booths featuring kids’ activities open at 4 p.m.

Harvest Homecoming
Dates: October 4 – 14
Time: Varies by Activity
Location: Downtown New Albany, IN Cost: FREE Admission

SoIN Goes Upside Down
With the final season of Netflix’s sci-fi thriller Stranger Things dropping this fall, SoIN is going “upside down” to reveal the “stranger things” of Southern Indiana. While Hawkins, Indiana, only exists on screen, SoIN is ready for you to explore its real-life strange side.

Visitors can use the Stranger Things of SoIN digital passport to explore SoIN’s strange, quirky and sometimes scary side, all season long. Fans of the show can start at the Southern Indiana Visitor Center in downtown Jeffersonville, which has recreated scenes from the hit show. Snap a selfie outside of Castle Byers, step inside the Byers’ living room, or test your pinball skills now through the end of November.

SoIN Tourism and partners will be celebrating, “SoIN Goes Upside Down” weekend from October 23 – 25 with special events and activations.

SoIN Goes Upside Down Selfie Station
Dates: Now – November 26
Location: Southern Indiana Visitor Center, 228 Spring Street, Suite 106, Jeffersonville, IN
Website: gosoin.com/soin-goes-upside-down/

Lights on Trick-or-Treating at House of Anguish
Take a not-so-scary trip through House of Anguish! During this family-friendly event, they will keep the lights on, and visitors can trick-or-treat at candy stations throughout the haunted house. Don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume! In celebration of SoIN Goes Upside Down Weekend, come dressed as a Stranger Things™ character and you will receive a special prize.

Lights on Trick-or-Treating at House of Anguish
Date: Thursday, October 23
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Location: Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site, 914 E. Main Street, New Albany, IN Cost: Free

Stranger Things Trivia at Recbar 812
Gather your crew for Stranger Things™ trivia and all of your favorite pinball and arcade games! Order up their Demogorgonzola Sandwich or Gorgon Trail Burger, both tributes to the Netflix show.

Stranger Things Trivia Night
Date: Friday, October 24
Time: 7 – 10 p.m.
Location: Recbar 812, 336 Pearl Street, New Albany, IN Cost: Free with purchase of food & drink

The Science of Stranger Things™ with Boo 812
Step into the Upside Down of science with Boo812 at they explore the real research behind the strange and mysterious. In celebration of the final season of Stranger Things™, they’ll dive into the very real experiments that inspired Eleven’s powers. Around the world, universities and government programs have studied extraordinary abilities like remote viewing, ESP, and psychokinesis. They will be testing the limits of the human mind and body. Just like Eleven’s training at Hawkins Lab, these experiments pushed participants into uncharted territory, blurring the line between science and the supernatural. Get a hands-on look at the hidden history of parapsychology and decide for yourself: is it all just fiction, or is something stranger at play?

Science Behind Stranger Things™ with Boo 812
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. (Two 30-minute shows)
Location: Southern Indiana Visitor Center, 228 Spring St., Ste. 106, Jeffersonville, IN Cost: Free

More Halloween/Spooky Events:
Fright Fair at NoCo
Fright Fair is now Fright Fair at NoCo! The annual Halloween-themed festival is moving to

Jeffersonville’s NoCo Arts & Cultural District. This year’s festival takes place from 1–7 p.m. on Saturday, October 25.

Fright Fair features a vendor market with 30+ artisans, live music by Missy and the Misfits with DJ Cam, and a kids zone full of inflatables, crafts, and face painting. Watch live art demos, sample Kolkin Coffee’s special Fright Fair roast, and explore more attractions throughout the day.

Fright Fair at NoCo
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 1 – 7 p.m.
Location: NoCo Arts & Cultural District, 628 Michigan Ave., Jeffersonville, IN Cost: Free to Attend

New Albany Wicked Walk Spooky Season Tours
Take a walking tour to explore all things wicked in downtown New Albany and hear the stories of strange and creepy happenings during a New Albany Wicked Walk. This is a historical tour, not a haunted house, where you’ll learn chilling, graphic and shocking details from the history of downtown New Albany, IN! Be prepared to walk about two miles as the tour lasts approximately 2-2.5 hours. Held rain or shine. This year’s “Spooky Season” tours take place every weekend in October and include Halloween night tours.

New Albany Wicked Walk Spooky Season Tours
Dates: Fridays & Saturdays in October & November 1
Time: Varies by Date
Location: 202 E. Market St., New Albany, IN
Cost: $25/person + tax

House of Anguish
House of Anguish, formerly known as “Literally, A Haunted House,” is back this year at New Albany’s historic and legendary Culbertson Mansion. If you dare, take a tour of the Carriage House in the backyard. This year, they’re inviting you to try and escape the “malevolent souls” who inhabit the Carriage House.

House of Anguish
Dates: Fridays & Saturdays, Now – October 25
Time: 7 – 11 p.m.
Location: 914 E. Main St., New Albany, IN
Cost: $18/person

Worth a Mention:
Dial “M” for Murder at Derby Dinner Playhouse
Derby Dinner Playhouse presents Dial “M” for Murder October 1 – November 9. This suspenseful crime thriller unravels a tangled web of blackmail, passion, and revenge with surprising twists that will keep you riveted until the very end! Tickets include dinner, show, tax, and parking.

Dial “M” for Murder
Dates: October 1 – November 9
Time: Evening & Matinee times available
Location: Derby Dinner Playhouse, 525 Marriott Drive, Clarksville, IN Cost: $45 – 51 per person

For more events and things to do in Southern Indiana, visit gosoin.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok!

Photos: https://sunnysideoflouisville.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/EudMLYPbSaxPl_f9xFBN76IB-ZnSmskxI80Z_GF8opXEPg?e=kp6qf5

 

ONCE Awards Opens Today!

by with No Comment Uncategorized

Voting for ONCE Awards is open until Thursday October 9th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Vote for your favorite company or business professional and help them a 2025 ONCE Award! Online voting counts for 10% of their final score, and has determined winners in the past.

Click here to vote.

Finalists

Duke Energy Kevin Hammersmith Community Leader

Adrian Brown, German American Bank
Ann Carruthers, Clark/Floyd System of Care
Kenton Wooden, Meta

Axiom Financial Strategies Group James W. Robinson Young Professional of the Year

Brandi Pirtle, Homeless Coalition of Southern Indiana
Chris Smith, C&M Smith Restaurants Inc.
Krista Yockey, Cornerstone Group

Kightlinger & Gray, LLP Sam Day Professional of the Year

Allen Howie, Idealogy Marketing + Design
Amy Rudy, Impact Sales System
Lyn Longmeyer, America Place

Meta Business of the Year (50 or fewer employees)

America Place
Board and You
Sukhino Float & Wellness

German American Bank Business of the Year (51 employees or more)

Clark County REMC
Indiana University Southeast
Mister “P” Express

Centra Credit Union Nonprofit Program of the Year

Center for Lay Ministries, Food Pantry
Homeless Coalition of Southern Indiana, The Housing Stability Program
THRIVE, Integrated Reentry and Correctional Support (IRACS) Program

Ivy Tech Community College Miles Legacy Community Impact Award

First Savings Bank
Paul Ogle Foundation
NWSB

First Harrison Bank Rising Star Award (incorporated in past 1-5 years)

Distillery 64
ENCON Equipment
Small Talk Pediatric Therapy

Harding, Shymanski & Company, P.S.C. Manufacturer of the Year

Cimtech
KCC Manufacturing
W.M. Kelley

 

Welch Packaging Merges with Elite Packaging Expands Presence in Kentuckiana Region Completes 41st Acquisition in 40th Anniversary Year

by with No Comment Member News
L-R Kristy Murphy (Elite), Scott Welch (Welch Packaging), Krista Uhl (Elite)


ELKHART, Indiana, September 29, 2025 – Welch Packaging Group, Inc., a family-owned and operated
manufacturer of custom corrugated products, has announced its merger with Elite Packaging of
Jeffersonville, IN.

Founded in 2015, Elite Packaging has built a solid reputation in a competitive market by being solutions-focused and service-driven. Like Welch, Elite prioritizes relationships—developing customized programs
and packaging through close collaboration.

“We are excited to expand our presence in this region and welcome Krista and Kristy to our
management team, ” stated Scott Welch, President and CEO of Welch Packaging. “I have known them
for many years and am honored they chose us as a partner to continue their journey. I am humbled to
finally be on the same team. They bring fresh expertise in distribution, kitting, and fulfillment and will
return to their roots to drive sales in Kentucky, Indiana and beyond, if you know these ladies.”
“Our combined strengths—Elite’s experience and Welch’s network of sheet plants—will create new
opportunities for customers, vendors, and associates. This partnership perfectly aligns with our
aspiration to join forces with outstanding independent packaging companies led by strong leaders.
We’re proud to welcome Elite into our family of companies while preserving the legacy they’ve built,”
said Welch.

This marks Welch’s 41st acquisition—coinciding with its 40th anniversary year. “Our goal has always
been to provide an umbrella for family businesses who may not have strong succession plans, growth
resources, or exit strategies,” Welch continued. “These companies typically have deep ties to their
associates, customers, and communities. We want these businesses to see Welch Packaging as a
lifeline—an opportunity to protect their legacy while continuing to grow.”

For Elite’s customers and associates, the merger underscores Welch’s commitment to serving the region
with expanded capabilities and a great associate experience. “We are thrilled to join the Welch Packaging family,” said Krista Uhl and Kristy Murphy. “We’ve shared a friendship with Scott and many of
his team members for years. Becoming part of the Welch network allows us to offer enhanced products,
technology, and a broader services footprint to our customers, while providing greater opportunities
and purpose for our team. Our partnership with Welch in the Louisville area is particularly timely for our
customers, given the significant changes we have seen recently in this market. We’re especially excited
to work alongside Lindsay Welch and Emily Welch Stiglitz of the Welch family — both accomplished
women business owners whose leadership and vision are helping to shape the future of Welch
Packaging.”

Specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

About Elite Packaging:
Elite Packaging is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise focused on optimizing the packaging supply
chain. The company identifies opportunities and develops customized strategies to help customers
improve efficiency and reduce costs across packaging and supply chain operations.

About Welch Packaging
Celebrating forty years in business, Welch Packaging is a family-owned and led company. The Company
is a network of custom corrugated box manufacturers specializing in package design, business solutions
and personalized service for local customers. The business units are supported by the Welch sheet
feeder system. Welch associates are passionate about delivering the Ultimate Corrugated Experience to
customers and engaging with the company cause – To Make a Difference! With a purpose-driven family
culture focused on growth, Welch has a history of integrating new business partners while preserving
their legacy. www.welchpkg.com

Sales Contacts at Elite:
Krista Uhl—Krista@elitepackgroup.com–502.649.5208
Kristy Murphy—Kristy@elitepackgroup.com–859.420.5966

Press Contact:
Blair A. (Andy) Rieth
574-575-4275
riethba@welchpkg.com

IU Southeast, Spalding University Create Preferred Admissions Pathway for Graduate Healthcare Programs 

by with No Comment Member News
(L to R) Spalding University Provost, Dr. Melissa Chastain, Spalding President, Dr. Anne Kenworthy, PsyD student, Daniela Reuter, IU Southeast Chancellor, Dr. Debbie Ford and IU Southeast Exective Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Michelle Williams pose following a signing ceremony between the two universities.

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (September 30, 2025) – Indiana University Southeast Chancellor Debbie Ford and Spalding University President Anne Kenworthy have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Preferred Admissions Pathway between the two institutions. 

This new agreement creates opportunities for IU Southeast students to seamlessly transition into select graduate-level healthcare programs at Spalding University, including the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT), and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD). 

Under the agreement, Spalding will offer IU Southeast graduates an expedited admissions process with priority consideration for these high-demand programs. To qualify, students must complete their undergraduate degree at IU Southeast and meet Spalding University’s admission criteria for each program. 

“We are excited to collaborate with Spalding University to create clear pathways for our students into graduate healthcare programs,” said Debbie Ford, chancellor of IU Southeast. “This partnership not only opens doors for our graduates to pursue advanced degrees, but it also strengthens the pipeline of healthcare professionals who are so critically needed in our region. Many of these graduates will stay in southern Indiana and Louisville, making a lasting impact on the communities we serve.” 

“This partnership with Indiana University Southeast represents a shared commitment to student success and opportunity, said Dr. Anne Kenworthy, president of Spalding University. “By creating clear pathways into graduate programs, we are helping students dream bigger, achieve more, and prepare to meet the needs of the times, in keeping with Spalding University’s mission.” 

Daniela Reuter, a fourth-year student at the Spalding School of Professional Psychology summarized her experience with the two universities, “I have the privilege of being a practicum student here in the IU Southeast Counseling and Psychological Services office,” said Reuter. “I wish I had the mentorship and support future IUS students will now have with this collaboration. I am honored to be here to witness two incredible universities come together to shape the future and I am confident that many students from IUS and Spalding will benefit from this relationship, and the field of psychology will be better for it.” 

The signing ceremony took place September 30 at Indiana University Southeast, celebrating a shared vision of educational excellence, community service, and regional workforce development. 

About IU Southeast

IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from ten counties in the Louisville region, including Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Trimble, and Spencer counties, and discounted tuition for remaining Kentucky residents through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

About Spalding University 

Founded in 1814 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Spalding University is a co-educational private institution situated in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. Dedicated to academic excellence and service, Spalding empowers students to meet the needs of the times and inspire positive change in the world. For more information about Spalding University, visit www.spalding.edu. 

For more information, contact:
Indiana University Southeast
Nancy Jo Trafton
812-941-2676
ntrafton@iu.edu

Spalding University
Kylyn Schnelle
502-873-4276
kschnelle@spalding.edu

1si Non-Profit Spotlight | Community Foundation of Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si NewsNonprofit Spotlight

Since 1991, the Community Foundation (CFSI) of Southern Indiana has granted more than $71M in grants and scholarships, including $5M from the Foundation’s unrestricted Community Impact Fund, which supports the most pressing needs of our region.

The Community Foundation provides community grants to nonprofits that help address the highest priorities of Clark and Floyd counties. Using community resources such as the Community Needs Assessment, Affordable Housing Study and Nonprofit Resource Guide, CFSI is identifying areas of greatest need and using our grant dollars to increase their impact in the community. They work with individuals, families, businesses, and other organizations to help them make grants from their funds to accomplish their own, unique charitable objectives.

By making a gift to the Community Impact Fund, you are supporting the long-term sustainability and viability of our community. From now until December 31, 2025, every $1 donated to our unrestricted Community Impact Fund will be matched with a $2 donation. $1 + $2 = $3!

Contact CFSI at 812-948-4662 or visit their website to learn more.

Indiana University Southeast announces 2026 Chancellor’s Medallion recipients: Linda Speed and Jim Epperson 

by with No Comment Member News

New Albany, Ind. — Indiana University Southeast is proud to announce two recipients of the 2026 Chancellor’s Medallion Award. 

Linda Speed, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Indiana, and Jim Epperson, Executive Director of SoIN Tourism, will be honored April 11, 2026, at the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner at Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden. 

The Chancellor’s Medallion is the highest honor presented by the chancellor of IU Southeast. It is given to individuals who have rendered distinguished service to the university and to the community; have given their talents in the promotion of human welfare and community well-being; and who, through their integrity, sensitivity, and commitment, serve as models for students and alumni of IU Southeast. To date, 63 of these awards have been presented. 

Linda Speed 
Linda Speed exemplifies the importance of a life of service in her role as the President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana. She has spent nearly 25 years in the community foundation field and has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector. She has served as the Vice President of Development & Stewardship for the Community Foundation of Louisville, Vice President of Gift and Trust Administration for the Presbyterian Church (USA) Foundation in Jeffersonville, and Director of the Samuel L. Greenebaum Public Service Program at the Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville.  She is a former litigation attorney with the Louisville law firm of Frost Brown Todd.  

During her 15-year tenure with the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, Speed has seen the Foundation’s assets grow from $16 million to over $160 million. Her work with individual donors and their professional advisors has led to the creation of hundreds of charitable funds that support the interests of those donors here in our region and elsewhere. The Foundation’s grantmaking – over $6 million each year from all funds – supports local nonprofit organizations and also important local and regional projects and causes. Under her leadership, the Foundation has become a trusted community leader for projects and initiatives that improve the quality of life for all residents of Clark and Floyd counties. 

Speed has extensive community leadership experience that includes serving on the Louisville Zoo Foundation Board and the Governing Board of Align Southern Indiana. She is a member and serves on the executive committees of the Estate Planning Council of Metro Louisville and the Southern Indiana Estate Planning Council, where she is the past president. She is a member and Past President of the Charitable Gift Planners of Kentuckiana, and she is the Past Chair of the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance board of directors. In 2021, she received the Duke Energy Kevin Hammersmith Community Leader Award presented by One Southern Indiana’s ONCE Awards. In 2024, she was a recipient of the Louisville Business First Enterprising Women Awards. 

Speed received her B.S. in Agronomy from the University of Kentucky and her J.D. from the Vanderbilt University School of Law. She lives in Jeffersonville with her husband Tom. They are the parents of Savannah and Marc (Araceli) and proud grandparents of Declan, Cayden and Sofia.  

Jim Epperson 
Jim Epperson has dedicated himself to serving the southern Indiana community through his support of local tourism. As Executive Director of SoIN Tourism, Epperson has made a strong contribution to the economic and social culture of the Kentuckiana region. 

Epperson started his tourism career in 1988 as marketing manager at an Ohio (USA) ski resort where he managed marketing and promotional efforts and served as founding president of the Ohio Ski Industries Association, a cooperative marketing organization of Ohio ski areas and ski shops. In 1994, Epperson moved to the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism where he served for four years as marketing manager, becoming State Tourism Director from 1998 until 2002.  

Upon his departure from Ohio, Epperson worked briefly as VP Marketing for the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in Rhode Island.  Later in 2002, he returned to his native Southern Indiana to continue his career in destination marketing and management and became the Executive Director of the Harrison County Convention & Visitors Bureau in Corydon, Indiana.  In 2013, he moved next door to the neighboring SoIN Tourism as its Executive Director.  

During his career, Epperson’s leadership experience includes service as Vice President-Recreation Division of National Collegiate Ski Association, on the Marketing Committee, National Ski Areas Association and Joint Marketing Committee, NSAA/Ski Industries America, and as the Founding President of Ohio Ski Industries Association. He also spent time as the Marketing Chair and Board Chair, Great Lakes of North America international marketing consortium, and as a board member of the Travel Industry Association of America and CenStates Travel and Tourism Research Association.  

Epperson has served the community on the Research Committee for Destination Marketing Association International, as a Visiting Professor at Purdue University Dept. of Hospitality & Tourism Management, on the Advocacy Committee, Destinations International, as the Advocacy Chair & President, Indiana Tourism Association, as the Advocacy Chair, One Southern Indiana, and as the Event Chair, Rotary Toast & Benefit Banquet, New Albany Rotary Club. He lives in Floyds Knobs with his wife, Sandy. One daughter, Cassie, lives in Greenfield, IN, with her husband and children. Daughter Alysa and her husband live in Indianapolis.   

The Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden, IN. Proceeds from the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner benefit the Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship program. 

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, contact the IU Southeast Office of Development at 812-941-2464.

Indiana University Southeast
Contact:  Nancy Jo Trafton
812-9412676
ntrafton@ius.edu

Dierks Bentley and ROW 94 Whiskey LaunchGroundbreaking Hologram Experience in Partnership with Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

by with No Comment Member News

Louisville, KY (September 8, 2025) – ROW 94 Whiskey, founded by country music
superstar Dierks Bentley, is proud to team up with Louisville Muhammad Ali
International Airport (SDF) this September and October to offer fans and bourbon
lovers a one-of-a-kind surprise. Beginning Friday, September 12, a life-sized Dierks
hologram will welcome travelers to Louisville, share the story of ROW 94 and point
them towards exclusive signed bottles and limited offerings of ROW 94’s Broken
Branches Bourbon at the airport’s Distillery District Marketplace. Distillery District
Marketplace is located in the post-security rotunda area, near the entrances to
Concourses A and B.


“We welcome ROW 94 and this unique Dierks Bentley experience to SDF,” said Dan
Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, owner and
operator of the airport. “The addition of ROW 94, including the exclusive selection
available in the terminal, is the perfect way for thousands of bourbon enthusiasts
from around the globe and Dierks Bentley fans to start or end their visit by enjoying
our state’s signature spirit. SDF is proud to be the gateway to Bourbon Country and
provide opportunities like this, showcasing why our airport offers a best-in-class
experience to passengers.”


A press event to kick off the hologram experience will take place on Friday,
September 12 at 10 a.m. EST. Beaming in live from his home in Nashville, Dierks will
answer media questions and even chat with travelers passing through the airport.
September is not only Bourbon Heritage Month, it also marks one year since ROW 94
launched, becoming one of the industry’s more talked-about new bourbons. For any
media who wish to attend, please see below for event access information*. If you
have questions about the event location, please contact Natalie Chaudoin at (502)
475-8084 or Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com.
In addition to the live Dierks beam, there will be a signed guitar giveaway at
10:30 a.m. EST (entrants must be present to win) and ROW 94 tastings in the
rotunda. Bourbon tastings will continue at select times throughout September and
October.


*Event Access Information
All media should arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. EST to the Louisville Regional Airport
Authority Administrative Offices at 700 Administration Drive, Louisville, KY 40209.
This is on airport property, but not at the terminal. (Click here for a map with
directions if needed.) Please proceed to the lobby where transportation will be
provided to the post-security area of the terminal. Contact Natalie Chaudoin at (502)
475-8084 with questions or for directions.

About ROW 94 Whiskey
ROW 94 is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, launched in September 2024 by country music
superstar Dierks Bentley and crafted with pride at the historic Green River Distilling Co. in
Owensboro, Kentucky. ROW 94 uses Three Ingredients and The Truth, reflecting Dierks’ dream to
create a bourbon that he and his fans can enjoy on the big nights and everyday gatherings,
amplifying the country in us all. Subsequent bottlings include Broken Branches Bourbon, a limited
release. Learn more about ROW 94 at ROW94whiskey.com.


About Dierks Bentley
Released on June 13, 2025, Dierks Bentley’s acclaimed 11th studio album, Broken Branches, is
rooted in raw honesty and storytelling, embracing life’s outliers and underdogs with songs about
resilience, change, and connection. Praised for its “distinctive and daring sound” (Esquire), the 11-
track collection features a cross-generational lineup of collaborators—including John Anderson,
Riley Green, Miranda Lambert and Stephen Wilson Jr.—and is a bold reaffirmation of Bentley’s
heartfelt grit paired with standout musicianship. After more than 20 years on country’s family
tree, the multi-Platinum superstar’s current Top 30 “She Hates Me” is quickly climbing the charts
following eight Number One albums, 22 Number One songs and over 9.5 billion global streams,
plus 15 Grammy nominations and membership in the historic Grand Ole Opry. Praised for
delivering a live show that “blends hits, a genuine onstage ebullience that easily outpaces many
of today’s newcomers, and intentional audience engagement” (Billboard), Bentley recently took
his 30-city Broken Branches tour to amphitheaters across the country, including a stop at the
iconic Madison Square Garden. He also recently launched the Broken Branches Fund, a multi-year
initiative in partnership with Music Health Alliance to provide mental health support for the music
industry’s creative and touring professionals. Continuing the path built from the ground up, as an
entrepreneur, he has four locations of the gastropub and live music venue “Dierks Bentley’s
Whiskey Row” and has a Flag & Anthem lifestyle collection “Desert Son.” For more information on
new music and upcoming tour dates, visit Dierks.com.


About Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Owned and operated by the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, the Louisville Muhammad Ali
International Airport (SDF) is the state’s premier airport, serving more Kentuckians annually than
any other airport in the Commonwealth. Eight commercial passenger airlines offer nonstop
service to more than 35 nonstop destinations from Louisville. SDF is home to UPS Worldport,
moving millions of tons of product each year, making it the 3rd busiest cargo airport in North
America and 5th in the world. Aviation is an economic powerhouse for the region that generates
$12.8 billion in economic impact every year. One in 8 jobs is generated by SDF and Bowman Field
and their aviation partners. Visit www.FlyLouisville.com to learn more.

Media Inquiries
ROW 94 Whiskey Jen Neugeboren – jen@neugeborenpr.com
Debbie Rizzo – debbie@drinkpr.com
Dierks Bentley Tyne Parrish – tynep@thegreenroompr.com
Sarah Bennett – sarah@thegreenroompr.com


Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Natalie Chaudoin – (502) 475-8084,
natalie.chaudoin@flylouisville.com

The Lamiflex Group chooses Borden, IN as first U.S. Production Facility

by with No Comment 1si Press ReleaseMember News

Borden, IN. (September 04, 2025) The Lamiflex Group, a global leader in industrial packaging solutions, has announced plans to establish its first U.S. production facility in Borden, Indiana. The company will operate out of the Borden Business Park, where it will manufacture and warehouse a variety of plastic components. This new location is expected to create 62 net new full-time jobs by 2027, offering wages above the county average and contributing to the economic growth of the region.

Headquartered in Sweden, The Lamiflex Group has a global presence through subsidiaries and partnerships. They are a world-leading supplier of transport packaging solutions mainly in the steel, aluminum and cable industries. Lamiflex’s global presence now includes Indiana as they selected Borden, Indiana as their first U.S. manufacturing location. They have a rich, global history of supporting local communities where they are present. Historically, they have sponsored and funded activities in schools and neighborhoods.

Further, Lamiflex is committed to training initiatives related to its upcoming manufacturing activities. This investment will support comprehensive employee development across multiple functional areas. A key focus of the training will be to introduce and support the integration of new robotic machinery, ensuring that staff are well-prepared to operate and maintain advanced automation systems. The training program aims to enhance operational efficiency and equip employees with the necessary skills to meet future production demands.

Phil Yu, an active Board Member of Lamiflex, shares, “We are excited to locate Lamiflex’s operations to Southern Indiana—a region that offers both strategic advantages and a strong sense of community. While our decision has been guided by technical and financial considerations, we’re equally committed to making a meaningful, long-term impact. We look forward to investing in the region, creating quality jobs, and becoming an engaged partner in the community’s continued growth.”

Based on the company’s Indiana job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed an investment in Lamiflex up to $750,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“The town of Borden welcomes Lamiflex and the opportunity for engagement and employment in Southern Indiana,” said Borden Town Council President Steve Williams. “We look forward to the work they will provide to our community with a total of 62 added full-time positions. In all, we are proud to demonstrate Borden’s attractiveness and how we support local manufacturing in our region.”

“Lamiflex’s investment is demonstrated through their selection of Borden, IN as their first U.S. production facility,” says Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development. “Not only will this greatly benefit the community through full-time work at competitive wages, but it will also be a benefit to Lamiflex’s growing international presence. We look forward to supporting their continued success as they pursue this opportunity.”

About Lamiflex
The Lamiflex Group is a global supply leader in transport packaging solutions for the steel, aluminum, cable and oil & gas industries. Our product line includes materials, machines, services and calculated methods for an optimal packaging solution. The Lamiflex Group is headquartered in Nyköping, Sweden with offices and subsidiaries across the globe.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.