International Restaurant Chain Announces New Bakery and Distribution Hub in Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated will open a large-scale bakery to distribute its iconic desserts. 

Charlestown, IN. (October 25, 2023) 

Charlestown is welcoming a high-profile name to its community. The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated, an industry-leading restaurant, is opening a large bakery for manufacturing and distributing its iconic cheesecake and other desserts to operators, retailers, and distributors. The bakery and operations will be housed in the River Ridge Commerce Center and will invest over $74 million into the land, construction, machinery, fixtures, and IT. By 2025, the bakery and distribution operations should have more than 200 employees, making an average wage higher than the Clark County average.  

The Cheesecake Factory, known for its extensive menu, is a leader in experiential dining. The company has more than 300 restaurants in the United States and Canada across its portfolio of concepts and operates two bakery facilities in the United States. They were named to the FORTUNE Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list for the 10th consecutive year in 2023. The bakery’s role is to produce high-quality cheesecake and desserts for the company’s restaurants and licensees as well as third-party customers.  

“We are very pleased to locate our new bakery production facility in Charlestown, Indiana,” said David Overton, Founder, Chairman and CEO of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated.  “This year is the 51st anniversary of my parents opening the first Cheesecake Factory Bakery, and it also marks the 45th anniversary of opening our first restaurant in Beverly Hills.  Over the last half-century our desserts have developed a reputation around the world, and we are so pleased that we’ll have a third bakery production facility to support our domestic and international growth into the future.”   

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed to an investment in The Cheesecake Factory Bakery of up to $2.6 million in the form of conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in conditional training grants. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired and investments are made. River Ridge Commerce Center is also offering tax savings of approximately $6.3 million on real and personal property and will be making additional road improvements to support the project.  

“Indiana’s strengths in agbioscience and manufacturing make our state the ideal destination to help companies like The Cheesecake Factory to develop products and serve customers across the country,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “As a state, we’re committed to advancing economic and community development in all communities across Indiana. This new investment will accelerate industry growth in Charlestown and the surrounding southeast Indiana region, creating new jobs and new opportunities for Hoosier families to prosper.” 

“What an amazing opportunity for the City of Charlestown and the region,” said Mayor Treva Hodges. “We are excited to be the third production site for The Cheesecake Factory’s bakery operations, and can’t wait to see the community impact their investment will bring our growing area.   

“This commitment by The Cheesecake Factory to bring its bakery production facility to River Ridge is a major moment for the commerce center and exemplifies the investment and rapid growth we’re creating on the Charlestown side of River Ridge,” said Jerry Acy, River Ridge Development Authority Executive Director. “It is truly a pleasure working with David Overton and his team at The Cheesecake Factory, I am proud of what this partnership brings to Southern Indiana and the region.”

“This is a huge win for the City of Charlestown and the Southern Indiana region,” added John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development for One Southern Indiana.  “It is exciting for us to be the newest home to a company with great name recognition and a stellar international reputation for service and quality.  The company’s growth trajectory will benefit Southern Indiana families for decades to come.” 

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated 

The Cheesecake Factory is a leader in experiential dining. We are culinary forward and relentlessly focused on hospitality. Delicious, memorable experiences created by passionate people – this defines who we are and where we are going. We currently own and operate 324 restaurants throughout the United States and Canada under brands including The Cheesecake Factory®, North Italia® and a collection within our Fox Restaurant Concepts business. Internationally, 31 The Cheesecake Factory® restaurants operate under licensing agreements. Our bakery division operates two facilities that produce quality cheesecakes and other baked products for our restaurants, international licensees and third-party bakery customers. In 2023, we were named to the FORTUNE Magazine “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list for the tenth consecutive year. To learn more, visit www.thecheesecakefactory.com, www.northitalia.com and www.foxrc.com. 

From Fortune ©2023 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For are registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media IP Limited are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. 

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. 

Contact: 
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated 
Investors  
Etienne Marcus 
818-871-3000 
investorrelations@thecheesecakefactory.com  

Media
Berk Communications
Brooke Levine / Gabrielle Gaines
732-735-5982 / 917-991-8354 
cheesecake@berkcommunications.com

One Southern Indiana 
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
BrittanyS@1si.org  
812-945-0266 

 

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One Southern Indiana Launches Search to Find New President and Chief Executive Officer

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

Waverly Partners, a nationwide executive search firm, has completed the profile for interested candidates.

New Albany, IN (October 24, 2023) – The Board of Directors of One Southern Indiana (1si) has begun the search for the next President and Chief Executive Officer, retaining Waverly Partners as its executive search firm.  Waverly Partners serves chambers and economic development organizations throughout the country and is the preferred provider of executive search services for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.  Bryan Wickens, Executive Vice President/General Counsel of MAC Construction & Engineering and current 1si Board Chair, will head up the 10-member search committee working with Waverly Partners to identify qualified local, regional, and national candidates. 

“Our committee has developed a Position Profile with the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate,” said Wickens.  “We are open to executives with backgrounds in economic development, chambers of commerce, business associations, other kinds of nonprofits, private sector, or related experience with a commitment to our mission of economic growth and business advocacy in our region.”  A summary of the CEO position is available on 1si’s website.

Wendy Dant Chesser, 1si’s current CEO, who has led the organization for the past ten years, has accepted a role with the River Ridge Development Authority in Jeffersonville.  The Board is now embarking on a national search to identify a new CEO who can lead the organization to new levels of success.  

For more information about the search or to express interest in the position or make a recommendation, please contact Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith at 1si@Waverly-Partners.com;  all inquiries will be held in confidence.

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.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

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CEO POSITION SUMMARY

 

Local AISC Certified Steel Fabricator and Manufacturer Expanding Operations

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Midwest Metal Works, Inc. is expanding operations to include new machinery and training.

New Albany, IN. (October 19, 2023)

Midwest Metal Works, Inc. is growing. The steel fabricator and manufacturer plan to invest in new machinery and training to increase production and create additional business for the Indiana-based company. The total capital investment is estimated at $1,372,873, creating 12 more jobs with an average wage of over $42.00.

Midwest Metal Works has been a local industrial, commercial, and sheet metal fabricator and manufacturer since 2006. The company includes skilled journeymen and apprentices and has created products for many industries, including power generation plants, oil refineries, food manufacturers, automotive, distilleries, and the Department of Defense. Currently, they have 11 full-time employees with an average wage of $37.00.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to expand our current operations,” said Jeff Elzy, President of Midwest Metal Works. “The increased growth we have seen over the years has led to this expansion, and with the new equipment, we can now produce more for our current clients and increase our client base to include companies that currently look out of Indiana for their products.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed to an investment in Midwest Metal Works of up to $100,000 in the form of conditional tax credits. The IEDC also committed an investment of up to $73,140 in Manufacturing Readiness Grants, which are designed to help companies invest in smart manufacturing and new technologies. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired and investments are made. In addition, the City of New Albany is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in over five and ten years, respectively.

“Indiana’s robust manufacturing sector continues to accelerate and create new, high-wage jobs thanks to the commitment of companies like Midwest Metal Works,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “As a state, we’re working hand-in-hand with manufacturers to make critical investments in smart technologies and processes to future-proof our businesses, upskill jobs and push Hoosier manufacturing forward, ensuring Indiana is at the forefront of developing and producing the products that power tomorrow’s global economy.”

“The City of New Albany was pleased to be able to assist Midwest Metal Works with their expansion,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan. “It’s wonderful to see companies like Midwest Metal Works recognize the value of being located here in our River City, and we are so proud that they have chosen to expand in New Albany.”

 “We are very excited to see Midwest Metal Works continue to grow,” said John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development at One Southern Indiana. “Not only are they expanding current operations, but they are also contributing to our region’s sustained economic growth by creating more opportunities for our local community.”

 

About Midwest Metal Works

Midwest Metal Works specializes in industrial metal fabrication, installation, and maintenance. With skilled journeymen and apprentices, we are able to complete the work on time and on budget. Decades of experience have allowed our reputation to grow, along with our capabilities and our client list. We supply a variety of industries, including Power Generation Plants, Oil Refineries, Food Manufacturers, Distilleries & the Automotive industry. We offer the highest level of customer service to meet the demanding expectations of our customers. For more information on Midwest Metal Works, visit www.midwestmetalworksinc.com.

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.

Contact:

Midwest Metal Works
Jeff Elzy, President
jeffelzy@midwestmetalworksinc.com
812-981-0810

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

Executive Search Firm Selected for One Southern Indiana’s CEO and President Search

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

New Albany, IN. (September 19, 2023) – The One Southern Indiana (1si) Board of Directors has approved hiring Waverly Partners, a nationwide executive search firm with offices in, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Kansas City, to handle the President and Chief Executive Officer search. Waverly Partners was selected following an RFP process that resulted in a large number of highly competitive proposals.
   
Formed in 2001, Waverly Partners has expansive knowledge in executive-level recruitment and has a wide variety of clients, including Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofits, and professional service firms across the country. Their nonprofit clientele includes chamber of commerce and economic development organizations. 

“We are pleased to bring on Waverly Partners as our executive search firm,” noted Bryan Wickens, 1si Board Chair.  “Waverly Partners knows much about our region and what we seek regarding our next  CEO and President of 1si. Their record on successful CEO searches and proactive engagement with our Search Committee and process has been extraordinary, and we are excited to work with them moving forward in this important effort. ”

Waverly Partners will work with the 1si search committee, comprised of stakeholders, Board of Director members, business members, and investors. They will meet in the forthcoming weeks to create a detailed search plan and schedule meetings and opportunities for input from stakeholders, members, and investors. 
  
“Waverly Partners has an excellent track record when it comes to hiring for executive-level roles,” says Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President of 1si. “I do not doubt that they will be able to find someone to continue the great work that 1si is doing for our Southern Indiana and Louisville Metro area.” 

If you have any confidential nominations or recommendations or would like to discuss the CEO opportunity, please contact Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith via email: 1si@Waverly-Partners.com.  

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.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266


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Louisville-based manufacturer to expand into Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Conco, Inc. opening a new facility and investing over $54 million in Scottsburg.

Scottsburg, IN. (August 14, 2023)

Southern Indiana is celebrating the growth of another manufacturing company in the region. Conco, a full-time, full-service supplier of ammunition containers and related services, plans to invest $54.5 million to establish a second facility in the region, this one located in Scottsburg, Indiana. The company’s investment includes over $36 million in new equipment, furnishings, fixtures, hardware, and software; $11.5 million to purchase the former Tokusen USA space; and $6.9 million in improvements to the existing spaces. 

This investment will result in up to 175 new full-time positions at the Scottsburg location, including Production Team Members, Quality Technicians, Welders, Paint Technicians, Process Technicians, Controls Technicians, Tool & Die, Industrial Maintenance, Electricians, Engineering and Administration at an average wage of $28 per hour.

Conco has served the United States Armed Forces as a supplier since 1967. With a strong reputation for high-quality products, on-time delivery, and tech support, they continue to meet military needs and develop innovative products to adapt to ever-changing requirements. Conco is also a designated “return site” equipped to store, de-militarize, and prepare container models for reuse and resale. Their specialized products include insensitive munitions, rectangular containers, square bell containers, and round bell containers, in addition to their refurbished container options.

“We are excited to join the Southern Indiana region with our new facility in Scottsburg,” said Karen Paschal, President and CEO of Conco, “When looking at locations, the former Tokusen USA space was a perfect fit for what we needed to expand, and we look forward to working with the State of Indiana, the City of Scottsburg, and its residents to create additional growth for the region.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has committed to an investment in Conco of up to $1.925 million 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. In addition, the City of Scottsburg is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in over five and ten years, respectively.

“Indiana’s defense sector continues to grow, and we’re excited to welcome Conco to our network of advanced manufacturers that are contributing to and supporting our nation’s armed forces,” said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. “Conco’s decision to locate in Scott County is a testament to the region’s skilled workforce and vibrant communities, and the company’s presence in southern Indiana will further advance new patriotic career opportunities for families for years to come.” 

“The City of Scottsburg is thrilled to be working with Conco and helping them establish a home in Scottsburg,” said Terry Amick, Mayor of the City of Scottsburg. “We are proud to support their efforts as they expand their services for the United States Armed Forces and are excited to see the local community growth they will bring to the area.”

“Southern Indiana has seen major manufacturer growth over the last several years with projects expanding or new locations opening in the region,” said Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “Conco’s decision to expand and open a new location in Scottsburg shows that our region remains a prime location for manufacturers – big and small, current and new. 1si is excited to see what Conco will bring to the manufacturing region and look forward to continuing this partnership and assisting them in any way we can.”

About Conco, Inc.
Conco is a designated “small business” with 50 years of experience dedicated to the ammunition container market and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Conco is centrally located in Louisville, KY, and is currently the prime contract container supplier for several U.S. Army ammunition programs. For more information, visit concocontainers.com. If interested in a position at Conco, email resumes to resumes@concocontainers.com.

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.

Contact:

Conco, Inc.

Karen Paschal, President & CEO

kpaschal@concocontainers.com

502-962-2121

 

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager

BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

 

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One Southern Indiana Board of Directors Announces Transition Plan for CEO and President

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President, announced her resignation last month.

New Albany, IN. (August 10, 2023) – The One Southern Indiana (1si) Board of Directors has approved a CEO transition and search plan to guide the organization during the next several months.  Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President, is resigning her position as of October 26, 2023, and this transition plan includes hiring a search firm for 1si’s next president and CEO and ensuring all duties and projects currently performed by the President are completed or transitioned to other staff members by this date.

The search committee, comprised of stakeholders, Board of Directors, business members, and investors, will be led by Bryan Wickens, the current Chair of the Board of Directors. The search committee issued a Request for Proposals and will analyze and hire a search firm to facilitate the candidate identification and interview process.

“Wendy has done an excellent job for nearly 11 years, and we appreciate all that she has done in guiding the organization,” noted Wickens.  “We know that change can be challenging, but we truly have an incredible opportunity in front of us to build on her work and the wonderful foundation of 1si’s past accomplishments.  We are committed to finding the leader we need today to take our organization and region to the next level.”

The committee plans to engage board members, business members, and stakeholders during the search process. If a candidate is not found or hired by Wendy’s last day, an Interim CEO will be considered until a permanent replacement is found. Chesser will continue her current projects and duties until her resignation date but will have a secondary lead for ongoing projects and duties.

“I am pleased with the transition plan that the Executive Committee has developed for the remainder of my time at 1si,” said Chesser, “1si is in good hands with the current team of leadership and staff and will continue the mission to help businesses thrive and innovate in Southern Indiana and Louisville metro area.”

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.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager

BrittanyS@1si.org | 812-945-0266

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One Southern Indiana Celebrates Accomplishments at Annual Meeting

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

The Organization Announced Several Award Winners and Welcomed New Board of Directors

New Albany, IN. (August 8, 2023) – One Southern Indiana, the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties (1si), hosted their Annual Meeting today, August 8, 2023, at Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards. The theme of this year’s program was “New Perspectives.” The event hosted approximately 380 members and guests.

1si is pleased to present three awards during this event to members and individuals who embodied the characteristics of the award categories:

  • Economic Development Impact Project of the Year – HealthTrackRX, sponsored by DMLO CPAs and Advisors
  • Ambassador of the Year – Danny Berry, Prudential Financial, sponsored by MCM CPAs & Advisors
  • Volunteer of the Year – Kim Martin-Dawkins, PNC Bank, sponsored by First Harrison Bank

HealthTrackRx is the nation’s premier PCR-based infectious disease laboratory, providing clinical testing services throughout the U.S., and has a long-term vision to grow its regional presence. 

Members enthusiastically approved a slate of new officers and directors to the 1si Board.  Officers for the 2023-2024 year include: 

  • Chair – Bryan Wickens, MAC Construction & Excavating, Inc.
  • Chair-Elect / Economic Development Chair – Cathy Scrivner, Louisville Water Co.
  • Secretary / Governance Chair – Brad Blackburn, Samtec, Inc.
  • Treasurer / Finance Chair – Tommy Wallace, Old National Bank
  • Past Chair – Laurie Goetz-Kemp, Momentum Title Agency, LLC
  • Business Resources Council Chair – Jessica Carroll, First Harrison Bank
  • Board Development Chair – Ann Carruthers, Clark/Floyd System of CARE & Prevent Child Abuse
  • Advocacy Chair – Jim Epperson, SoIN Tourism
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council Chair – Raymond Smith, Jr., Park Community Credit Union
  • Investor Relations Chair – Afton Yaeger, Mariner Wealth Advisors

“I am thrilled to be the chair for the 2023-2024 year at One Southern Indiana,” said Bryan Wickens, “It’s an honor to lead the executive team and board of directors, and I am excited to work with the staff of 1si during this time of transition.”

New directors elected to the board for a three-year term include:

  • Morgan Bauer Brown, Schuler Bauer Real Estate Services
  • Jason Clemmons, Clark County REMC
  • Deborah Ford, IU Southeast
  • Christopher Jackson, Dan Cristiani Excavating Co., Inc.
  • Matt Neely, MCM CPAs & Advisors
  • Joseph Scott, Joash Construction
  • Andrea Strange, Harding, Shymanski & Company, P.S.C.

Once again, 1si partnered with the News & Tribune to publish our annual report to the community for the preceding 12 months.  The supplement will be available in the August 8 edition.

Samtec provided the keynote for today’s meeting.  Locally headquartered and privately held, Samtec is the service leader in the electronic interconnect industry with 40+ global locations.  Mark Bobo, Executive Vice President of Global Compliance, Sustainability, and Government Affairs tied the “New Perspectives” theme of the event to the ever-changing world of electronics manufacturing.   He highlighted how Samtec’s core philosophies around providing Sudden Service® to its customers have evolved while remaining true to the values upon which the company was founded.

 

1si’s sponsors for the event included:

  • Presenting Sponsor – First Harrison Bank
  • Video Sponsor – MCM CPAs & Advisors
  • Economic Development Impact Project Award Sponsor – DMLO CPAs & Advisors
  • Venue Sponsor – Huber’s Plantation Hall, Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards
  • Platinum Sponsors – ClearPath Mutual, German American Bank, ProMedia Group, and River Ridge Development Authority
  • Gold Sponsors – First Savings Bank, Ivy Tech Community College, Mister “P” Express, Inc., Shepherd Insurance, and SoIN Tourism
  • Silver Sponsors – Centra Credit Union, Clark Memorial Health, Greater Clark County Schools, L&D Mail Masters, Inc., PayFWDs, River City Bank of Kentucky, Schuler Bauer Real Estate Services

“1si is a robust organization that shows continuous growth each year. We could not be the organization we are without the support of our board of directors, investors, business members, and the community,” noted Chesser. “I am proud to have been a part of this team for the past eleven years and can’t wait to see where the organization goes in the future.”

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.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager

BrittanyS@1si.org | 812-945-0266

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: One Southern Indiana’s President to Resign in the Fall

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

After 10+ years, Wendy Dant Chesser is leaving 1si for a position at River Ridge.

NEW ALBANY, IN – One Southern Indiana (1si) officially announced today that Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO, will resign from her position in October 2023.  Chesser has worked with 1si since 2012, coming in as the organization’s third President and the first female to hold this position.   

Laurie Kemp, Immediate Past Chair of the 1si Board of Directors, stated, “Wendy has led the organization through many economic development successes, including securing a $50 million READI grant.  She helped 1si and many businesses weather the COVID storm and helped expand services and resources to our business members. 1si and this community are the better for her service, and while we will miss her leadership within 1si, we are thrilled that she will continue to use her talents to the benefit of Southern Indiana.”

She added that the 1si Board of Directors has met and will outline a transition plan in the coming weeks, which will include a search for a new President.

“For the last decade, I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the businesses, organizations, and residents of our communities in my role at One Southern Indiana,” Chesser said.  “The team of professionals that I have been able to work for and with is truly second-to-none in serving our businesses and communities with passion and foresight.   These business professionals are dedicated, eager, and smart – the future of 1si and those we serve is certainly bright and shiny!”

In late October, Chesser will start her new position with the River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) as the Chief Director of Corporate Strategy and External Affairs.   Jerry Acy, Executive Director of the RRDA, said, “Wendy will bring her passion for development as well as her extensive contact list to this new position.  She will help us plan and implement the next decade of growth by continuing to serve Southern Indiana.”

“River Ridge has been a great partner of 1si for many years, and this new challenge will allow me to delve deeper into the economic development strategies which will grow and sustain this regional asset,” said Chesser. 

“While I am excited about my new position, I remain committed to the mission of 1si and I am extremely grateful to those who have allowed me the opportunity to lead this organization,” Chesser added.  “I am so very proud of the work we have accomplished, and I look forward to supporting 1si as a committed partner.” 

About One Southern Indiana:

One Southern Indiana 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 provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana/Louisville metro area.  For more, visit 1si.org.

About River Ridge Development Authority:

The River Ridge Development Authority manages the River Ridge Commerce Center, a 6,000-acre business and office park established in 1998 to replace lost economic activity from the closure of a former government installation at the site. The Authority has invested more than $150 million to redevelop about 35 percent of the Center. River Ridge is home to more than 70 companies and investments and growth at River Ridge recently earned the RRDA the International Economic Development Council’s Gold Award for Real Estate Redevelopment and Reuse. For more information, visit RiverRidgecc.com.

For Additional Media Inquiries: 

Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
One Southern Indiana
8122.945.0266

Jerry Acy, Executive Director
River Ridge Development Authority
812.285.8979
 

One Southern Indiana and Ivy Tech Sellersburg Recipients of Childcare Grant.

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

The grant will focus on enhancing childcare in the Southern Indiana region.

[NEW ALBANY, IN.] – June 29, 2023 – One Southern Indiana (1si) and Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg (Ivy Tech Sellersburg) have been awarded a grant from the Indiana Economic Development Association (IEDA) Foundation and Duke Energy Foundation aimed at addressing childcare challenges in Southern Indiana. This grant will fuel an initiative to identify innovative solutions and develop a comprehensive plan to enhance childcare availability in the region.

“Duke Energy is proud to support this initiative,” says Lisa Huber, Duke Energy’s government and community relations manager. “A lack of affordable childcare can have a big impact on the region’s workforce, and the grant awarded to 1si and Ivy Tech Sellersburg will allow them to work on confronting these challenges and supporting working parents.”

The joint proposal, a collaboration between 1si and Ivy Tech Sellersburg, received funds to conduct research on understanding the gaps in the current childcare system and formulating a plan to overcome these challenges.

“We are thrilled about this grant, which enables us to explore our community’s childcare needs deeply,” said Dr. Travis Haire, chancellor at Ivy Tech Sellersburg. “Through this project, we will be able to analyze data, identify gaps, and propose recommendations to enhance accessibility and quality of childcare in Southern Indiana.”

This project aims to transform the childcare landscape in Southern Indiana by addressing the pressing need for childcare options and how it affects not only families but the local workforce and economy.

“A lack of affordable, high-quality childcare options can limit parents’ ability to work and participate in the workforce, which can negatively impact the economic development of our region, “said Wendy Dant Chesser, president, and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “One Southern Indiana and Ivy Tech Sellersburg believe this project will help us better understand our region’s childcare gaps and develop a plan to address them.” 

1si, Ivy Tech Sellersburg, and experienced consultants will oversee the project through three phases: planning and strategy development, stakeholder engagement and innovation assessment, and reporting findings and community engagement. Regular updates and progress reports will ensure transparency and collaboration.

About One Southern Indiana 

One Southern Indiana was formed in July 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources, and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area. For more information, visit 1si.org. 

About Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg

Ivy Tech is the largest, singly-accredited community college in the country.  Our two-year college has over 70 academic programs and classes in over 75 communities in Indiana and online.  Ivy Tech offers students a better way to reach their goals— whether that goal is to get a good-paying career fast, or to get a better, more affordable start to a bachelor’s degree by transferring credits on to a four-year school.  For more information, go to https://www.ivytech.edu.

For Additional Information: 

Brittany Schmidt
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
Phone: (812) 206-9024 
Email: brittanys@1si.org

Andrea Bush
Education Department Chair
Phone: (812) 246-3301, ext. 4587
Email: Abush22@ivytech.edu

 

 

 

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One Southern Indiana’s ONE Fund Program Approves New Loan for Chapman Funeral Home.

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

One Southern Indiana’s Microloan Program Facilitates Change in Ownership of Chapman Funeral Home.

[Clarksville, Indiana] May 31, 2023- One Southern Indiana (1si) is pleased to announce the successful approval of a new loan through The ONE Fund Loan Program. This loan will support the purchase of Chapman Funeral Home, the only funeral home in Clarksville.

Established in 1951, Chapman Funeral Home has shown dedication to providing compassionate services, offering families a personalized and enduring tribute for their loved ones. Todd Watts, the new owner, expressed his gratitude for the loan, stating, “This additional working capital has empowered me to expand my business and better serve our community.”

Town of Clarksville officials express their strong support for The ONE Fund Loan Program and its contribution to the local business community. Clarksville Town Manager Kevin Baity stated, “We are proud to partner with 1si in their efforts to bolster small businesses in our area. Funding for The ONE Fund comes from partnerships with local municipalities committed to the growth and success of our local small businesses, and to help them thrive in Clarksville.  We believe in the power of entrepreneurship and the positive impact it has on our community’s economic development.”

Rachael Armstrong, Small Business Navigator at 1si and the Indiana Small Business Development Center, also shared her enthusiasm for Chapman Funeral Home’s growth and the positive impact of The ONE Fund Loan Program on local businesses. She stated, “We are thrilled to witness Chapman Funeral Home’s commitment to expanding its services for the community. At 1si, our objective is to continue supporting local business start-ups and growth opportunities. The loan extended to Chapman Funeral Home exemplifies the program’s success in helping small businesses achieve their goals.”

About The One Fund
The ONE Fund was created by One Southern Indiana in 2022 to provide small business owners in the Indiana counties of Clark, Floyd, Jefferson, Scott, and Washington with the capital required for start-up and growth initiatives.  The Fund provides microloans to small businesses as their “lender of last resort” in order to support small businesses as they work toward stability and bankability. For more, visit www.1si.org/funding.

About Chapman Funeral Home
The caring and experienced professionals at Chapman Funeral Home are here to support you through this difficult time.  We offer a range of personalized services to suit your family’s wishes and requirements.  You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute to your loved one. And we’ll carefully guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.

For Additional Information:

Wendy Dant Chesser
President and CEO
Phone: (812) 945-0266
Email: wendy@1si.org 

Todd Watts
Owner, Chapman Funeral Home
Phone: (812) 283-7110
Email: chapmanfuneralhome47129@gmail.com

 

 

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