Louisville Zoo Announces a “Pawsome” New Winter Holiday Event

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Adventure through the Louisville Zoo as it launches a new winter holiday event — “Qannik’s Beary Happy Holiday.” Areas of the Zoo will be transformed into a winter wonderland throughout the month of December, providing a unique opportunity to experience the holidays alongside the community’s beloved animal residents.

Families are invited to create memories and celebrate with polar bear Qannik and her animal companions as they enjoy special holiday-themed enrichment activities during the first three weekends of December (2 – 3, 9 – 10, and 16 – 17). Guests can stop by the Zoo’s Gift Shop, December 1 – 17, to write and send a letter to Santa at the North Pole.

The power couple of the season — Santa and Mrs. Claus — will visit with guests when they celebrate the season at the Zoo on December 16 – 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, holiday elves will have special sweet treats available for purchase this weekend,  including fresh roasted s’mores, hot chocolate and cookie decorating.

To add an extra layer of festive fun, guests can embark on a monthlong scavenger hunt that promises adventure for all ages. Participants who successfully complete at least half of the scavenger hunt will be entered into a drawing for zoo-themed prizes. Guests can join the app-based game by scanning the QR code upon arrival to the Zoo.

For a detailed schedule of animal enrichment activities planned for our beloved animals and more, visit louisvillezoo.org/bearyhappy. Activities are subject to change without notice due to weather or the needs of the animals.

Qannik’s Beary Happy Holiday is included with Louisville Zoo admission or membership. The Zoo is also celebrating Wild Winter Days presented by Kroger through Feb. 29, 2024. Wild Winter Days offers Zoo guests discounted Zoo admission and incorporates a food drive for Dare to Care Food Bank.

Guests who bring at least one non-perishable food item per person may purchase discounted tickets at the Zoo ticket windows for $10 per adult and $7 per child/senior ticket. Twenty-five cents of every admission will also support conservation efforts of the Louisville Zoo.

Zoo Hours

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Fall/winter hours are 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (stay until 5 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more info.

 

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The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

 

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Stites & Harbison Welcomes Seven Attorneys to Multiple Offices

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 17, 2023)—Stites & Harbison, PLLC announces the addition of seven attorneys to the firm. Four attorneys join the Lexington, Ky., office: Harlee Havens, Brandon Lira, John Paul Stilz and Conner Wehrle. Alexandra Dunn, Lucy McIntire and Haley Duncan join the firm in Jeffersonville, Ind., Louisville, Ky. and Nashville, Tenn., respectively.

Harlee P. Havens is a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law, summa cum laude and Order of the Coif, in 2022. In law school, Havens was the managing editor for the Kentucky Law Journal, Volume 110, and published a Note in that volume. For Volume 109, she was a staff editor. Havens also served as class representative of the Election Law Society (2019-22). Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, she was a judicial law clerk to the Hon. Chief Judge Gregory N. Stivers, U.S. District Court, Western District of Kentucky (2022-23). She also participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2020 and 2021. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Brandon Lira is a member of the Creditors’ Rights & Bankruptcy Service Group. He earned his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School in 2017. While in law school, Lira interned for a bankruptcy judge in St. Paul and the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee in Minneapolis. He also served as a student attorney and later the student director for the University of Minnesota Law School Bankruptcy Clinic. Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, Lira worked for the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois as a law clerk for Judge Thomas M. Lynch and Judge Donald R. Cassling. In between these clerkships, he also served the Northern District as a staff attorney. He is admitted to practice in Illinois and Texas, and his application for admission in Kentucky is pending.

John Paul Stilz (JP) is a member of the Construction Service Group. He earned his J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law, summa cum laude and Order of the Coif, in 2022. In law school, he was a staff editor and an articles editor of the Kentucky Law Journal, Volumes 109 and 110, respectively. He also served as a teaching assistant to Professor Blanche Bong Cook for Criminal Law (Fall 2020). Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, he was a judicial clerk for Hon. Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky (2022-23). Stilz was a summer associate for Stites & Harbison in 2020 and 2021. He is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Conner R. Wehrle is a member of the Trusts & Estate Planning Group. He earned his J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law in 2023. Prior to joining the firm, he participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2021 and 2022. Additionally, he currently serves as the primary advisor to the Carolyn K. Wehrle Endowment. He partnered with the Blue Grass Community Foundation to set up the endowed fund in 2018 and delegates money each year to various community projects in Central Kentucky. Wehrle is also an active member of the Blue Grass Community Foundation’s 365 program (2021-present). He is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Lucy F. McIntire is a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, summa cum laude, in 2023. In law school, McIntire was a first year staff member of the Journal of Animal and Environmental Law, Volume 13. She served as class representative for the Women’s Law Caucus and was a member of the Business Law Society and the Entrepreneurship Clinic. She also was a teacher’s assistant for Professor Marcia Ziegler’s Lawyering Skills II class (Fall 2021). Prior to joining the firm, McIntire participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2021 and 2022. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Alexandra N. Dunn is a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law in 2022. In law school, she served as a member of Volumes 59-60 of the University of Louisville Law Review. Her publications include an article in the University of Louisville Law Review, Volume 60, and an article in the Louisville Bar Association’s Bar Briefs in 2021. Dunn was a Writing Skills Law School Mentor for the Central High School Partnership (Fall 2020). Her honors include being a Brandeis Scholar, an Ordered Liberty Fellow and a recipient of the Samuel L. Greenebaum Award for Achievement in Legal Writing. Prior to joining the firm, Dunn was a judicial clerk for the Hon. Charles R. Simpson, III, Senior U.S. District Judge, Western District of Kentucky (2022-23). Dunn is a registered nurse, and before her admission to the bar, she practiced as a military and civilian nurse for 14 years. She is admitted to practice in Indiana.

Haley Duncan is a member of the Real Estate & Banking Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, magna cum laude, in 2023. While in law school, Duncan was a member of the University of Louisville Law Review, Volumes 60-61. She served as vice president of the Business Law Group and was a member of the Women’s Law Caucus, the International Law Society and the Entrepreneurship Clinic. Additionally she is a recipient of the Samuel L. Greenebaum Public Service Fellowship. Before joining Stites & Harbison, Duncan participated in the firm’s summer associate program in 2022, was a judicial intern for Hon. Judge Irv Maze of the Kentucky Court of Appeals in the summer of 2021 and was a legal research intern for MothersEsquire in 2023. She is admitted to practice in Tennessee.

About Stites & Harbison

Stites & Harbison, PLLC is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm. With 11 offices across six states — Kentucky, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia — the firm represents clients across the United States and internationally. Tracing its origins to 1832, Stites & Harbison is known as a preeminent firm managing sophisticated transactions, challenging litigation and complex regulatory matters on a daily basis. For more information, visit www.stites.com.

Area entrepreneurs earn seed money, experience at pitch contest

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NEW ALBANY, IN (November 22, 2023) – The tension was palpable as entrepreneurial finalists gathered Saturday at the Next Big Thing Pitch Contest at Indiana University Southeast. The inaugural event capped a week-long list of activities in southern Indiana as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week.

In total, eight local entrepreneurs pitched their ideas to a group of judges, vying for seed money, space at Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus, membership to Maker 13, and scholarships to Indiana University Southeast. Sponsors included Indiana University Southeast and the IU Southeast School of Business and community partners including the Indiana Small Business Development Center, Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus, Maker 13, The Main Street organizations, and Floyd County Library.

The event kicked off with encouragement from Chancellor Debbie Ford, from IU Southeast and Mike Fulkerson, business advisor and ecosystem navigator for the Indiana Small Business Development Center. “It’s not just about winning,” said Fulkerson, about the pitch contest objectives. “It’s about learning and developing partnerships along the way.”

First up were four finalists in the Community Fast Pitch competition. The Community Fast Pitch is for individuals or teams who have identified a problem to solve or customer need, have executed market research, and have a rough business plan; however, they have not identified or finalized a minimum viable product or service to offer. Products and solutions pitched included in-home art kits, addiction recovery services, cleaning solutions, and packaging and shipping solutions.

While the judges ranked the placement of the Fast Pitch competitors, Chris Gilbert, owner, founder, and president of Security Pros, LLC, gave advice to the participants on how to “fail forward” when developing their pitch and company. “First, lead with your story,” said Gilbert. “People will believe in your product if they know your story and believe in you.”

Gilbert told of his journey from working at a Circuit City in high school to starting and owning a successful security company with two locations in Indiana. His was a journey 25 years in the making, learning from his upbringing on the family farm to working for two of the largest national security companies in the country. “You’ll need space to fail safely and people to support you in your journey,” said Gilbert. “Above all, concentrate on you and your business and you can change the world.”

Following the judge’s break, the Community Pitch Tank competitors took the stage. The Community Pitch Tank is for individuals or teams who have a completed business plan and have identified a specific minimum viable product or service to offer. Products and business concepts pitched included an autobody repair tool, a healthy option bakery, a veterinary records-sharing service, and an online educational platform to teach entrepreneurship. The Pitch Tank competition ended with two first-place winners.

Winners of the event included:

Community Fast Pitch

First Place (pictured below): CAAT Technologies, Anthony Thompson, Alexander Couch, Austin Walden, and Christy Vanderpool. $2,000 and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

 

Second Place: Project 369 Recovery, Johnathan Goble Daulton.  $1,000 and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Third Place: Red Headed Princess Designs and Wholly Rustic Crafts, Ericka Johnson. $750 and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Fourth Place: Helping Hands Cleaning, Jada Clark. $500 and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Community Pitch Tank

First Place (pictured below) (tie): Craftech Innovations, Andrew Godfried and Tony White. $5,000, plus 1-year of development space at NovaParke and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

 

First Place (pictured below) (tie): VetNexus, Stacey Konkle. $5,000, plus 1-year of development space at NovaParke and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Third Place: Royal Couture Treats Boutique, Minniequa Johnson. $2,500, plus 1-year membership to Maker 13 and a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Fourth Place: NexTech, Connor Cummings. $1,500 plus a $500 scholarship to IU Southeast.

Judges of the competition included Don Lopp, Floyd County Director of Operations and County Planning, Allen Howie, Ideology and Lisa Russell, Associate Professor of Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship Management at IU Southeast.

“The Next Big Thing Pitch was a great experience, and the presentations showed the quality of entrepreneurs in the region,” said Don Lopp. “We are very excited to be housing two ventures – VetNexus and Craftech at Novaparke as inaugural winners of the Next Big Thing and look forward to assisting them in their entrepreneurial journey.”

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About IU Southeast:  IU Southeast is one of seven campuses of Indiana University. Offering more than 150 degree programs and concentrations, 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 eight counties in the Louisville region. IU Southeast has three nationally recognized, accredited schools including the School of Business, School of Education, and School of Nursing. For more information, visit www.ius.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

 

IU Southeast names 2024 Chancellor’s Medallion honorees and scholars

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NEW ALBANY, IN (November 27, 2023) – Indiana University Southeast is proud to announce two recipients of the 2024 Chancellor’s Medallion.

Dana Huber, Vice President of distribution and public relations at Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards, and the Starlight Distillery, and Gary Libs, chairperson of the board for Libs Paving Company, Inc., and president of Asphalt Supply Co. Inc., will be honored April 13, 2024, at the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner at The Foundry in Jeffersonville.

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, 59 of these awards have been presented.

Dana Huber

Dana Huber currently holds the position of Vice President, Distribution and Public Relations at Huber’s Orchard, Winery, & Vineyards, and the Starlight Distillery.

Huber attended Indiana University in Bloomington, IN where she received her bachelor’s degree from the Kelley School of Business. Prior to joining the family business in 2003, Huber worked for Humana, Citicorp, and Kindred Healthcare. Her passion and expertise are with people and project management.

Huber is highly active in her community and currently serves on the following boards:

First Harrison Bank Board of Directors, Southern Indiana Tourism Board Member, Our Southern Indiana Regional Development Authority Chairperson, Indiana Destination Development Corporation, Indiana State Dept. of Agriculture & WineAmerica.

She is very involved with local tourism efforts and is always finding ways to spread the word about family-owned businesses and agritourism.  

Huber’s responsibilities include wine and spirits distribution & outreach, public relations, brand ambassador, and community outreach. She is married to a co-owner and sixth-generation family member, Ted Huber, and has two sons – Christian & Blake.

Gary Libs

Paving the way has always been of interest to Gary Libs…and something he has done throughout his life. Whether it is a family man, businessperson, or community leader, Libs has provided direction and a road to travel. That direction and path are deeply rooted in family and community.

Libs’ ancestors blazed a trail in the Knobs many years ago, with eight generations of members of St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Community.

He serves as Chairperson of the Board of Libs Paving Company, Inc., which he started in 1971. He is also president of Asphalt Supply Company, Inc. Libs currently serves as a member of the WesBanco Bank Advisory Board for Southern Indiana and Kentucky and Director of the WesBanco Bank Board in Wheeling WV.

Previously, Libs has served in the US Army Reserves, Board of Advisors at Indiana University Southeast, Board of Overseers at Bellarmine University, past director and board chairman of Your Community Bank prior to its merger with WesBanco, Board of Overseers of the Sisters of St. Benedict in Ferdinand, Indiana, New Albany-Floyd County School Educational Foundation Board, the capital campaign committee for St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church, and Indiana State Auctioneer Commission Board. He served as an Ohio River Greenway Commission member at the request of the Indiana Governor.

Libs graduated from Floyd Central High School, attended the University of Louisville, and is a graduate of the Indiana College of Auctioneering. He and his wife, Sandra Gettelfinger have four children, Jeff Libs, Tricia Huber, Tracy Janson, and Trudy Betourne, and 11 grandchildren.

Eight Scholars Recognized

The Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance. It is one of the most coveted scholarships available at IU Southeast. Each year, four recipients of junior standing, with a minimum of 60 credit hours, are selected by the Chancellor of IU Southeast to join four senior students receiving the highly sought-after scholarship. The Chancellor’s Medallion award is up to $6,000, based on tuition, and is renewable. Criteria for selection include:

  • Minimum of 60 credit hours completed by the beginning Fall semester of selection,
  • Maintaining full-time enrollment of 15 credit hours or more,
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0,
  • Preference is given for financial need, and
  • Completed application including an essay, extra-curricular activities (civic and non-university volunteer activities), special accomplishments, and letter of recommendation.

The application deadline for next year’s Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship is May 31, 2024.

2023-2024 Senior Chancellor Medallion Scholarship Recipients

Reece Grace

Reece Grace is a senior majoring in criminal justice/criminology with a minor in communications. The Louisville Western High School graduate is a receptionist in the multicultural student center, a student leader for the Reading, Writing, and Peopling Program, an orientation leader, a campus life representative for the Honors Program Student Advisory Board and helps in the Southeats Food Pantry. Off-campus, Grace works at Educational Justice, a non-profit in Louisville.

Keziah Jones

Hailing from Plymouth, Indiana, Keziah Jones is a senior studying nursing at IU Southeast. Jones is a member of the Honors Program and serves as an honors peer mentor. She is currently working as the peer tutor for the School of Nursing and a student leader in the Reading, Writing, and Peopling program for first-year students. 

Courtney Kessinger

Courtney Kessinger, a senior from Greenville, Indiana, is studying journalism, media, and strategic communication – multimedia journalism, and working at the Floyd County Prosecutor’s Office as a legal intern. Her dream is to attend law school and become a practicing attorney.

Janasia Ricketts

A native of New Albany, Indiana, and graduate of New Albany High School, Janasia Ricketts came to IU Southeast to become an elementary school teacher. She currently teaches at Community Montessori in New Albany for ages 6-9.

2023-2024 Junior Chancellor Medallion Scholarship Recipients

Timothy Jerome Bryant

Timothy Jerome Bryant, a 2011 graduate of Eastern High School, is majoring in accounting at the IU Southeast School of Business. A medically discharged veteran of the US Air Force, Bryant previously worked as a specialist for the Disabled Veteran Outreach Program. After assisting Veterans for several years, he is taking his own advice and pursuing his college career.

Jadrian Morris

Junior, Jadrian Morris of Georgetown, Indiana, is pursuing her degree in Business at IU Southeast. Morris currently works as an intern at Humana, a receptionist in the multicultural student center, as a student tutor, and is currently a Senator in the Student Government Association.

Jenna Rogers

Sellersburg native, Jenna Rogers, is pursuing a degree in marketing and professional sales. This junior is busy in the Honors Program, and Marketing Club, and is looking to get involved in the Economics Club as well as start a women’s Bible study on campus. Rogers keeps active playing intramural volleyball, sand volleyball, and flag football.

Kara Page Wright

History major, Kara Page Wright, of Corydon, Indiana is passionate about her learning and non-academic activities at IU Southeast. Wright works as an aftercare worker at Christian Academy and serves as the lead writing consultant at the IU Southeast Writing Center. Additionally, she is president of the Christian Student Fellowship and chair of the Honors Program Student Advisory Board.

The Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. The Foundry in Jeffersonville, 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.

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About IU Southeast:  IU Southeast is one of seven campuses of Indiana University. Offering more than 150 degree programs and concentrations, 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 eight counties in the Louisville region. IU Southeast has three nationally recognized, accredited schools including the School of Business, School of Education, and School of Nursing. For more information, visit www.ius.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

 

Southern Indiana Tourism Bureau Announces Online Absolute Auction For Jeffersonville Commercial Building Complex 

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Southern Indiana Tourism Bureau Announces Online Absolute Auction For Jeffersonville Commercial Building Complex 

The Harritt Group, in partnership with The Southern Indiana Tourism Bureau, is excited to announce an online absolute auction for two unique properties located at 305 & 315 Southern Indiana Avenue, Jeffersonville, IN. The two properties will be sold together as one to the highest bidder with no minimum or reserve. The Southern Indiana Tourism Bureau will continue to serve the area from its newly renovated location in downtown Jeffersonville at 228 Spring Street, Suite 106. 

This unique commercial complex features the historic and beautifully restored 1929 art deco 2-story limestone Louisville Municipal Bridge toll house office building, a Circa 2000 modern designed Southern Indiana Visitor Center building, and stunning views of downtown Louisville. Located in a high-traffic area at the base of the Clark Memorial Bridge, just two blocks North of the Ohio River and a few minutes away from the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge.

Bidding will end on Tuesday, December 12th at 2 PM with extended bidding. Please contact the Harritt Group with questions regarding the auction at harrittgroup.com or 812-944-0217. 

 

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The Southern Indiana Visitor Center is Moving to New Location

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The Southern Indiana Visitor Center is Moving to New Location

“SoIN” Visitor Center and offices moving to Spring Street in downtown Jeffersonville in early 2024

Jeffersonville, Ind. (Nov. 28, 2023) – SoIN Tourism, the convention and tourism bureau for Clark and Floyd counties in Indiana, is moving to a high-traffic location to serve visitors in early 2024. After more than 25 years at their Southern Indiana Avenue location, the SoIN Tourism office, as well as its neighboring visitor center, are moving to 228 Spring St., Ste. 106 in Jeffersonville, Ind. The visitor center and tourism offices will be combined into one space in a prime location at the corner of Spring and Market streets. The new location will increase visibility and foot traffic for the organization.

“Our current visitor center location has seen changes in access from the interstate since it opened over 25 years ago, and our traffic has declined as a result,” said SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson. “Successful visitor centers today require foot traffic, and the new location, a block from the river and a block from Big Four Station Park, certainly has that. We hope this is the first of more visitor centers located in bustling downtowns.”

The central location of the new visitor center gives visitors and locals an opportunity to engage with SoIN Tourism travel counselors, as well as new self-service touch screens to learn more about attractions and businesses in Clark and Floyd counties. Being in the heart of downtown Jeffersonville, it also provides SoIN Tourism staff with an opportunity to enhance relationships with neighboring businesses.

“We want the Visitor Center to be the first place you stop to get the best info, so you can have the best experience,” said SoIN Tourism Visitor Services Coordinator Seth Lieber. “For locals, we want people to visit their own city and rediscover the area.”

Arc, the “innovation company” who designed and is constructing the new visitor center, is creating a unique guest experience.

“The visitor center will boast bright vibrant colors and provide an interactive environment that allows visitors to learn about the area’s exciting attractions,” said arc Founder and Chief Creative Officer Alan Muncy. “The interior components of the space include an elevated stage, video wall, sound system and overhead garage door.”

During favorable weather, the garage door can be left open for foot traffic to flow in and out of the visitor center. Features throughout the center are part of SoIN Tourism’s vision to provide a premier experience for visitors and residents by offering an inviting layout, enhanced technology, local expertise and, eventually, community gatherings and performances that support existing events and neighboring businesses.

The Future of SoIN

Unique features of the new Visitor Center create opportunities for increased community engagement.

  • A center stage in the main area provides a platform for local groups to host conversations and talent to perform.
  • True Omni touch screen displays and software will be implemented to offer visitors a self-service option to create a custom itinerary on-site.
  • Updated merchandise, including a display showcasing local attractions and businesses.

An official move date has yet to be set, but the organization anticipates moving into its new space in January of 2024. The existing Southern Indiana Visitor Center and SoIN Tourism offices are currently up for auction. Find more information at HarrittGroup.com.

For more details or to interview someone about the move, please contact Communications Manager Anna Rosales-Crone at Anna@GoSoIN.com or 812-282-6692.

SoIN Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Clark and Floyd Counties in Southern Indiana, just north of Louisville, Ky. Offering authentic experiences in the Kentuckiana region, SoIN includes historic downtowns in Jeffersonville and New Albany, Clarksville’s retail corridor, as well as the communities of Charlestown, Floyds Knobs, Henryville, Memphis, New Washington, Sellersburg, and Starlight. Visitors who would like more information can visit the destination’s website, GoSoIN.com.

 

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Southern Indiana Works Hosting Apprenticeship and Trades Fair for National Apprenticeship Week

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For Further Information Contact:                                                                                        11/14/2023
Carrie Baylor
Registered Apprenticeship Coordinator
carrie@soinworks.com
812.941.6436
www.soinworks.com

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern Indiana Works Hosting Apprenticeship and Trades Fair for National Apprenticeship Week

New Albany, IN – Southern Indiana Works (SIW) today announced its recognition and celebration of the U.S Department of Labor’s 9th Annual National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) with an Apprenticeship and Trades Fair taking place at Prosser Career Education Center, 4202 Charlestown Road, New Albany, IN on Thursday, November 16th from 3pm – 6pm.

Those considering a career in skilled trades are encouraged to attend and meet with industry experts, training providers, and top local employers to explore the opportunities and benefits of a career in the trades. Event exhibitors include Amatrol, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), Boyd CAT, Built to Succeed IN Careers in Construction, IBEW Local 369, IKORCC Carpenters Union, Indiana University Southeast, IUOE Local 181 JATP, Ivy Tech Community College, Jim O’Neal Ford, Meeks Hardwood Flooring, Mister “P” Express, Southeast PHCC, and TARC. High school students, college students, career changers, and licensed tradespersons are all welcome to attend!

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) was established by the U.S. Department of Labor to showcase and promote high-quality, inclusive, in-demand career pathway opportunities through Registered Apprenticeship. NAW gives employers, including sponsors and providers, the opportunity to showcase their programs, facilities, and apprentices so that career seekers can learn more about the benefits of Registered Apprenticeship and the programs that are available in their communities. During NAW events, apprentices have a platform to share their apprenticeship experience and how it has transformed their lives. For more information, visit apprenticeship.gov/NAW.

The theme for NAW 2023 is “Registered Apprenticeship: Superhighway to Good Jobs.” This theme reflects the prominence that Registered Apprenticeship has received as a proven and industry- driven training model for overcoming a variety of workforce and education challenges and addressing issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in the workplace.

Registered Apprenticeship is recognized as a key strategy to improving job quality and creating access to good-paying jobs for all, including populations historically underrepresented – women, people of color, and individuals with a disability – and underserved populations, such as youth and young adults. It addresses some of our nation’s pressing workforce shortages in teaching, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, cybersecurity, and other high-priority sectors.

Carrie Baylor, Registered Apprenticeship Coordinator for Southern Indiana Works states “Empowering our workforce through registered apprenticeships is the cornerstone of innovation and economic growth. By fostering hands-on learning and mentorship, we not only cultivate highly skilled professionals but also build a solid foundation which is inclusive of the next generation of talent allowing our region to be competitive in the global economy. We are proud to support National Apprenticeship Week and to showcase the impact apprenticeships have on building the workforce in Indiana.”

The hope is to connect individuals with opportunities in the skilled trades, providing a platform for exploration, interaction with professionals, and insights into diverse career paths. By showcasing apprenticeship programs and trade schools, the fair will promote the importance of practical skills in the workforce, fostering a direct pathway for individuals to enter the dynamic world of skilled trades.

To learn more about Registered Apprenticeship Programs, visit soinworks.com/get-started to be contacted by a Southern Indiana Works Business Consultant.

About Southern Indiana Works

Southern Indiana Works (SIW) is the Local Workforce Development Board and a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that leads the Talent Development System in Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott, Washington, and Crawford Counties. SIW connects jobseekers to local employers; services include skilling up talent though pre- employment training, work-based learning, career services, and incumbent worker training.

Southern Indiana Works mission is to lead a robust talent development system and cultivate a skilled workforce that advances our community, economy, and quality of life.

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Entrepreneurs to Pitch Ideas at IU Southeast’s Next Big Thing

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NEW ALBANY, Ind. (Nov. 13, 2023) – Budding entrepreneur finalists will have a chance to pitch their ideas and take home seed money and other prizes as part of The Next Big Thing Pitch Contest, sponsored by the IU Southeast School of Business, Maker 13, Indiana Small Business Development Center, NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, and the New Albany Floyd County Library. The live pitch event will be held on Saturday, November 18th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Hoosier Room, located in the University Center North Conference Center on the IU Southeast campus. The public is invited to attend to hear the ideas and cheer on their favorite entrepreneur.

“We’re thrilled to be organizing a pitch contest that not only celebrates entrepreneurs and the spirit of entrepreneurship but is also an official event of Global Entrepreneurship Week,” said Dr. Aycan Kara, associate professor of strategic management and entrepreneurship at IU Southeast. “We’ve received submissions from both established and aspiring entrepreneurs. The submissions have truly impressed us, not just in terms of quality, but also in the wide range of concepts they cover, from high-tech solutions to mental health initiatives and services for pet owners.”

Finalists participating in the competition, similar to the popular television series, Shark Tank, will have the chance to present their ideas to a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and mentors, who will provide valuable feedback and guidance on projects. Registrants will also compete with other talented individuals/teams from around southern Indiana and the best pitches will receive cash awards, mentorship, and exposure. Additionally, there will be insights from Fail Forward speakers and opportunities for networking.

There are two categories in Saturday’s pitch competition including Community Fast Pitch, and Community Pitch Tank.

The Community Fast Pitch is for individuals/teams who have identified a problem to solve/customer need, have executed market research, and have a rough business plan; however, they have not identified or finalized a minimum viable product or service to offer. Participants must be an Indiana resident or have an existing business organized within the state of Indiana. If the business is not yet organized, winning submissions must pledge to start the submitted business idea within the state of Indiana to receive financial prizes.

The Community Pitch Tank is for individuals/teams who have a completed business plan and have identified a specific minimum viable product or service to offer. Participants must be an Indiana resident and have an existing established business in Indiana or pledge to start the submitted business plan/idea in Indiana.

“This year’s contest will serve as a stepping stone for future competitions, fostering increased cooperation among community partners and cultivating a truly nurturing environment for our startups,” said Kara. “For next year’s competition, our goal is to have a larger prize money pool, attract more submissions, and harness the innovative thinking of the upcoming generation. To create a vibrant local community and economy, we believe that we must attract and retain innovative ideas and talent, address the needs of our local community, and integrate high school entrepreneurs into the local entrepreneurship ecosystem,” she said.

The 2023 list of prizes total $16,750 in cash, workspace at the NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, and membership at Maker 13.

COMMUNITY FAST PITCH PRIZES

1st Place:  $2,000
2nd Place: $1,000  
3rd Place:  $750
4th Place:  $500

COMMUNITY PITCH TANK PRIZES

1st Place:  $5,000 + 1 year office space at Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus ($10,000 value)
2nd Place: $3,500 + 1-year membership at Maker 13 ($4,800 value)
3rd Place:  $2,500
4th Place:  $1,500

The Next Big Thing Pitch Contest is sponsored by Indiana University Southeast and the IU Southeast School of Business and community partners including the Indiana Small Business Development Center, NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, Maker 13, The Main Street organizations, and Floyd County Library.

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About IU Southeast:  IU Southeast is one of seven campuses of Indiana University. Offering more than 150 degree programs and concentrations, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has an enrollment of more than 3,750 students and employs more than 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 eight counties in the Louisville region. IU Southeast has three nationally recognized, accredited schools including the School of Business, School of Education, and School of Nursing. For more information, visit www.ius.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

 

Silver Creek High School Embarks on an Exciting Journey with FIRST Robotics Competition

by with No Comment Member News

Sellersburg, Indiana – November 13, 2023 – Silver Creek High School is proud to announce the launch of its FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team, marking a historic moment in the southeastern Indiana region. As the first school in the area to establish an FRC team, Silver Creek High School is taking an innovative step toward inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders and problem-solvers.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global organization dedicated to promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through exciting, mentor-based robotics programs. The FIRST Robotics Competition, known as FRC, is a thrilling, high-intensity competition that challenges students to design, build, and program robots to complete complex tasks on the field. FRC provides students with hands-on experiences in engineering, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, helping them develop invaluable skills for the future.

Heading this exciting new endeavor at Silver Creek High School is Jeff Harrell, the dedicated head coach of the FRC Team. Jeff brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for STEM education, making him the perfect leader for this inspiring journey. Under his guidance, students can unleash their creativity and technical skills while participating in the FRC program.

To ensure the success of this initiative, Silver Creek High School is actively seeking mentors and sponsors who share the school’s vision of fostering STEM education in the community. Mentors play a crucial role in guiding students through the design and construction of their robots. At the same time, sponsors provide essential support to help the team participate in district and national FRC events.

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor or sponsor for Silver Creek High School’s FRC Team, or if you would like to learn more about starting your own FRC team, please contact Chris Osborne at cosborne@indianafirst.org. Your support will make a significant difference in the lives of these young, aspiring engineers.

In addition to this exciting news, it’s essential to highlight FIRST Indiana Robotics, the state-level organization dedicated to advancing STEM education through robotics competitions and educational programs. FIRST Indiana Robotics empowers students, educators, and mentors across Indiana, and they play a pivotal role in the success of FRC teams like the one being established at Silver Creek High School.

Silver Creek High School is thrilled to embark on this educational adventure with FIRST Robotics Competition. Together, they are committed to fostering innovation, teamwork, and a passion for STEM education in the community. Join them on this remarkable journey as they aim to make a lasting impact on the future of education and technology in southeastern Indiana.

For more information about Silver Creek High School’s FRC Team and their journey with FIRST Robotics Competition, please contact Jeff Harrell at Silver Creek – jharrell@scsc.school

About FIRST Indiana Robotics:

FIRST Indiana Robotics is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting STEM education through robotics programs and competitions. They provide valuable opportunities for students, educators, and mentors to engage in hands-on learning experiences that inspire innovation and a lifelong love for science and technology.

About FIRST

FIRST, an acronym meaning “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology,” is an international not-for-profit organization founded by accomplished inventor Dean Kamen in 1989. The organization has a proven impact on STEM learning, interest, and skill-building well beyond high school. It is one of the world’s leading organizations providing experiential workforce development skills for STEM industries. Participants and alumni of FIRST programs gain access to education and career discovery opportunities, connections to exclusive scholarships and employers, and a place in the FIRST community for life.

Contact:
Chris Osborne
Vice President of Programs
FIRST Indiana Robotics
cosborne@indianafirst.org
317-748-6427

Louisville Zoo Offers Free Admission for Active and Retired Military on Veterans Day Thanks to Kroger

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To celebrate and show appreciation to our military heroes, the Louisville Zoo, in partnership with Kroger, will provide active, discharged and retired members of the military and their immediate household families the opportunity to enjoy free Zoo admission on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

Those wishing to participate must simply have proof of military service. This includes but is not limited to: U.S Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), a photograph in uniform, in-person wearing a uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation and present it at the Zoo’s admission windows.

“This is just one way we can thank veterans for their service,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “We hope to see many of our veterans and other military folks enjoy a day with their families and the animals.”

“Kroger is honored to support veterans with a promotion in conjunction with the Louisville Zoo,” said Kroger Spokesperson Jessica Sharp. “We are always looking for ways to directly support our veterans and thank them for their service.”

In addition to free admission on Nov. 11, 2023, active and retired military, and their dependents (with a military identification card) will receive 10% off Zoo gift shop purchases and 50% off food and drink concessions at the Zoo.

Active military receive free admission year-round to the Zoo. The dependents of active military personnel receive 10% off general admission at the Zoo’s ticket windows and must be accompanied by active military personnel with a valid ID. Military personnel are encouraged to check with the leisure travel offices at their bases in advance of their visit for other available discounts.

Zoo Hours

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Fall/winter hours are 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (stay until 5 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more info.

 

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The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).