Melissa Sprigler Completes ACCE Next Generation Leadership Program

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseUncategorized

NEW ALBANY, Ind. — One Southern Indiana (1si) is proud to announce that Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Melissa Sprigler has successfully completed the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Next Generation Leadership Program, a nationally recognized professional development initiative designed to prepare emerging leaders for executive leadership within the chamber of commerce industry.

The ACCE Next Generation Leadership Program brings together high-potential chamber professionals from across the United States and Canada for an immersive experience focused on leadership development, strategic thinking, industry best practices, and peer collaboration. Through mentorship, executive-level training, and relationship building, participants gain the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen their organizations and communities while preparing for future leadership roles.

Sprigler’s completion of the program reflects both her commitment to professional growth and 1si’s ongoing investment in developing exceptional leaders who can deliver meaningful value to businesses and the Southern Indiana region.

“Melissa has consistently demonstrated a passion for serving our investors, building meaningful partnerships, and advancing the mission of One Southern Indiana,” said Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “Her successful completion of the ACCE Next Generation Leadership Program is a testament to her leadership potential and dedication to continuous learning. We are proud of this accomplishment and excited to see the knowledge, ideas, and relationships she has gained translate into even greater impact for our members and our region.”

As Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Sprigler leads investor engagement and strategic relationship development for 1si, working closely with businesses, community leaders, and regional partners to strengthen the organization’s mission of driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life throughout Southern Indiana.

“Professional development is essential to ensuring our organization continues to evolve and meet the changing needs of the business community,” Allison added. “Melissa’s achievement strengthens not only her own leadership journey but also the future leadership capacity of One Southern Indiana.”

One Southern Indiana remains committed to investing in its team through ongoing education, leadership development, and industry engagement, ensuring members benefit from innovative ideas, best practices, and forward-thinking leadership.

 

About One Southern Indiana (1si)

One Southern Indiana (1si) is the chamber of commerce and local economic development organization serving Clark and Floyd counties in Southern Indiana. Through advocacy, economic development, workforce initiatives, and member engagement, 1si works to create a thriving business environment and a vibrant regional economy.

Bass Group Commercial Announces Closing of 5413 Hwy 62 in Growing Southern Indiana Corridor

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JEFFERSONVILLE, IN — Bass Group Commercial is proud to announce the successful
closing of 5413 Hwy 62, a prime vacant land site positioned in one of Southern Indiana’s
fastest-growing commercial corridors. Bass Group Commercial represented the sellers,
Indiana University, in the transaction.

The sale was led by Bobby Bass of Bass Group Commercial, who continues to play a
key role in commercial growth and development throughout the Southern Indiana and
Louisville markets.

Located near the rapidly expanding River Ridge Commerce Center and just minutes
from downtown Louisville, the property offers exceptional visibility, accessibility, and
long-term development potential. The Highway 62 corridor has experienced substantial
growth in recent years, driven by increasing residential density, commercial investment,
and continued economic expansion throughout the region.

The site’s proximity to River Ridge — one of the Midwest’s premier business and
industrial developments — has helped fuel demand for additional retail, hospitality, and
restaurant concepts in the area. Industry growth, new employment opportunities, and
strong regional connectivity continue to make Southern Indiana an attractive destination
for new development.

A new hospitality and quick-service restaurant (QSR) development is expected for the
property, further contributing to the momentum and transformation taking place along
the Highway 62 corridor. Additional details regarding the future project are expected to
be announced at a later date.

“We are proud to have represented Indiana University in the successful sale of this
property,” said Bobby Bass. “This area continues to experience incredible growth, and
we are excited to see new development continue to invest in Southern Indiana. The
location’s accessibility to Louisville, River Ridge, and the surrounding trade area makes
it an outstanding opportunity for future commercial users.”

For more information about this project or other commercial real estate opportunities,
please contact Bass Group Commercial at 502-552-1296

Indiana American Water and the American Water Charitable Foundation Provided Nearly $700,000 in Statewide Support to Communities in 2025

by with No Comment Member NewsUncategorized

GREENWOOD, IND – (April 13, 2026) – Indiana American Water announced its charitable giving for 2025. Last year, the company provided nearly $216,00 through grants, general charitable contributions and programming support to over 100 organizations across the Hoosier State. When combined with the $460,000 provided by the American Water Charitable Foundation, and volunteer hours of service the total amount of support increases to $697,000.

“At Indiana American Water, our work extends beyond providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to our customers,’ said Indiana American Water President Barry Suits. “Together with the American Water Charitable Foundation, we’re committed to supporting organizations that make our communities a better place to live and operate.”

As part of our community support, Indiana American Water employees engaged in philanthropy, raising over $64,000 and volunteered to serve local nonprofit organizations through the Foundation’s Employee Volunteer and Matching Gift Program.

“The American Water Charitable Foundation is proud to partner with eligible nonprofit partners to support impactful initiatives and projects across Indiana,” said Carrie Williams, President, American Water Charitable Foundation. “Our charitable focus to Keep Communities Flowing empowers our employees to get involved and our communities to learn how every drop counts.”

The American Water Charitable Foundation’s 2025 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program focuses on three pillars of giving: Water, People, and Communities. Since 2012, the Foundation has invested more than $25 million in funding through grants and matching gifts to support eligible organizations in communities served by American Water.  

To learn more about Indiana American Water’s community involvement, read the company’s 2025 Community Impact Report.

About Indiana American Water
Indiana American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people.

For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About the American Water Charitable Foundation
The American Water Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organization established by American Water (NYSE: AWK), focuses on three pillars of giving: Water, People, and Communities. Since 2012, the Foundation has invested more than $25 million in funding through grants and matching gifts to support eligible organizations in communities served by American Water. The Foundation is funded by American Water shareholders and has no impact on customer rates. For more information, visit amwater.com/awcf.

Photo (attached) Cutline:

The Friends of Charlestown State Park celebrate the announcement of a $50,000 STEM grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation last July, which will be used to create an educational exhibit with a large, former deep water well along the Ohio River.  The new exhibit is expected to open later this year.  Photo Credit: Alan Petersime Photography

Media Contact:
Joel Reuter
External Affairs Manager
Indiana American Water
joel.reuter@amwater.com
(317) 885-2434 

The Ogle Center Presents CELTIC ANGELS: IRELAND

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Theatrical Celebration of Irish Music, Dance & Culture — March 6, 2026

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (January 13, 2025) — The Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast is delighted to present Celtic Angels: Ireland, an exhilarating performance of traditional and contemporary Irish music, song, and dance, on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Richard K. Stem Concert Hall.

This internationally acclaimed show invites audiences on a spirited journey through the heart of Ireland with more than 30 timeless tunes performed live by the Trinity Ensemble, the Celtic Angels, and the award-winning Celtic Knight Dancers. Viewers will be swept away from the misty green valleys to the vibrant cities of the Emerald Isle in an immersive evening of Craic (fun), Ceol (music), and Traidisiún (tradition).

Celtic Angels: Ireland is directed and choreographed by Louise Barry of Dublin, with musical arrangements by Peter Sheridan from County Cavan and Irish Step Dance direction by Sarah Costello of Belfast.

“We’re thrilled to bring the passion and cultural richness of Celtic Angels: Ireland to Southern Indiana,” said Kirk Randolph, Director of the Ogle Center. “This performance isn’t just a concert — it’s a celebration of heritage and heart that resonates with audiences of all ages. We expect the lively rhythms, soulful voices, and dynamic choreography to create an unforgettable evening for our community.””

The performance is part of The Ogle Center Presents series, a curated lineup of world-class touring artists and productions. The 2025-2026 Ogle Center Presents season is underwritten by Patty Cress with support for Celtic Angels: Ireland from performance underwriters Janie and Roger Whaley, and additional supporters including the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County and the Ogle Foundation.

Tickets are on sale now at oglecenter.com.

EVENT DETAILS

The Ogle Center Presents
CELTIC ANGELS: IRELAND
with the CELTIC KNIGHT DANCERS
ant the TRINITY ENSEMBLE
Friday, March 6, 2026, 7:30 p.m.

OGLE CENTER | Stem Concert Hall
Indiana University Southeast
4201 Grant Line Road
New Albany, IN 47150
(812) 941-2525

$40* adults | MAIN FLOOR
$30* adults | UPPER TERRACE
$25* IU Southeast students**

Tickets are available online at oglecenter.com
*Includes processing fees
Any student with a valid ID. One ticket per ID.

PARKING
Free parking is available in the Dogwood lot directly in front of the Ogle Center and the Hickory lot directly behind the Ogle Center from one hour prior to the start of a performance until one hour following the conclusion of the event.

2025–2026 Season Underwritten by: Patty Cress
Performance Underwriters: Janie and Roger Whaley
Season Supporters: Caesars Foundation of Floyd County and the Ogle Foundation

Indiana American Water Installs First Drinking Water PFAS Treatment System in Indiana

by with No Comment Member NewsUncategorized

CHARLESTOWN, Ind. (Jan. 29, 2026) –Indiana American Water held a ribbon cutting ceremony today at its Charlestown water treatment plant. The company announced that the facility is now operating Indiana’s first drinking water treatment system designed to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. The nearly $6 million system investment, which went online last month, marks another major milestone in protecting public health and improving water quality for the community.

“We are proud to partner with Indiana American Water on this important project,” said Treva Hodges, Mayor of the City of Charlestown. “Access to high-quality drinking water is essential for the health and well-being of our community, and this new treatment system shows a forward-thinking approach to community safety. Continued improvements to our water system have helped Charlestown achieve a higher quality of life and have spurred community growth, making our city an even more attractive place to live and invest.”

According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), this is the first PFAS treatment installation in a public water system in the state. PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used for decades in industrial and consumer products and are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

To celebrate this milestone, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on January 29, 2026, with local officials, community leaders, and Indiana American Water representatives in attendance.

“This investment underscores our continued commitment to delivering safe, clean, and reliable water to our customers,” said Barry Suits, President of Indiana American Water. “By proactively addressing PFAS, we are leading the way in Indiana and setting the standard for future water quality improvements across the state. This project also provided us with an opportunity to gain valuable experience in adding PFAS treatment, which will guide and inform similar upgrades at other systems as we make these investments over the coming years.”

This investment builds on Indiana American Water’s commitment to Charlestown, following the commissioning of the $16 million water treatment plant in 2022. The PFAS upgrade is supported by Indiana’s State Revolving Fund Loan Program, which allows the company to finance the project at a lower cost than traditional loans. This additional investment includes the granular activated carbon or GAC system and also supports infrastructure such as pumps, piping, electrical systems, and controls. Charlestown was selected for this enhancement because the original plant was designed to accommodate future improvements, making it an ideal location for this advanced treatment technology.

The Charlestown facility serves approximately 3,000 customers, or about 8,000 residents and businesses, with four percent of its daily production sold to neighboring Marysville-Otisco Nabb Water Corporation. Indiana American Water’s Water Quality Reports, published annually, confirm that all Indiana American Water systems meet or surpass federal and state drinking water standards.

Future PFAS Investments in Indiana

Indiana American Water is committed to expanding PFAS treatment capabilities across other service areas. Plans are underway for similar upgrades to its water systems in Terre Haute, Johnson County and other communities as funding becomes available. These investments are part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with evolving water quality regulations and to safeguard public health for generations to come.

Curious about PFAS and how they impact your water?

Indiana American Water is committed to providing safe, high-quality water and keeping its customers informed about emerging contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). A dedicated PFAS resource page explains what PFAS are, why they matter, and what steps the company is taking to help ensure water meets the highest standards. Learn more about PFAS and our proactive approach by exploring the full details here.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors, and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Indiana American Water
Indiana American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people. For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Media Contact:
Joel Reuter
External Affairs Manager
Indiana American Water
P: (317) 885-2434
E: joel.reuter@amwater.com

IU Southeast students to volunteer for MLK Day of Service

by with No Comment Uncategorized

While campus will be closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Indiana University Southeast students will volunteer around the community for the annual MLK Day of Service.

WHAT: IU Southeast students, alumni, and community partners volunteering at locations in southern Indiana. Students will sign up through Grenadier Central. 

WHO: Representatives from IU Southeast Office of Student Life.

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 19. Students will meet on campus and load buses around 8:30 a.m. They will volunteer at the sites from approximately 9:00 a.m. and return to campus at 11:45 a.m. unless noted.

WHERE:

  • Our Place Drug & Alcohol Education Services
    • 400 E Spring St, New Albany, IN 47150 and 106 S. Capitol Avenue
      Corydon, IN 47112
    • Cleaning, organizing, painting
    • Site contact: MeriBeth Adams-Wolf, Executive Director (New Albany) and Donnie Willis, Director of Clinical Services and Harrison County Program Coordinator  
    • IUS liaison: Megan Kaelin Hicks, 502-599-6639

       
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana
    • 550 S. First Street, Louisville, KY 40202
    • Organizing, cleaning, and food-related tasks
    • Site contact: Dani Harper, Volunteer Coordinator
    • IUS liaison: Amanda Stonecipher, 812-941-2427

       
  • Culbertson Baptist Church and Homeless Coalition of Southern Indiana
    • 4007 Grant Line Rd, New Albany, IN 47150
    • Cleaning and laundry for the White Flag Shelter
    • Site contact:  Leslea Townsend Cronin
    • IUS Liaison: Abbie Dupay, 616-724-0275

For more information, contact Abbie Dupay at 812-941-2051 or aedupay@iu.edu.   

Thank You for Renewing Your Membership | November 2025

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One Southern Indiana would like to thank the following members for renewing their membership during the month of November 2025.

Quarter Century Club (25 years or more)Member Since
Louisville Business First1984
Star Electric1984
PNC Bank1985
  
Ten to 24 Years 
The Spaghetti Junction2014
Seven Development, LLC d/b/a 7D Commercial Real Estate2015
  
Five to Ten Years 
Mathes Pharmacy & Homecare2016
BJB Inc.2017
ActionCoach Bluegrass2018
Rapid Industries Inc.2018
A Class Act DJ’s2018
Hagerman Inc.2019
L & N Federal Credit Union2019
Kahl’s Body Shop2019
Big O Tires – Sellersburg2020
Homeless Coalition of Southern Indiana2020
  
Two to Four Years 
Hyland, Block, & Hyland, Inc.2021
Lamar Advertising2022
The Elderberry Co.2022
Twin Interiors, Inc2022
CXE Insurance2023
BIG Solutions2023
Keller Williams Realty Southern Indiana2023
Tommy’s Express2023
  
One Year 
Mochi Wren2024
University of Louisville – J.B. Speed School of Engineering2024
Carroll Media Corp.2024
The Barber House 2024
All Star Trucking, Inc.2024
East & Westbrook Construction2024

Welcome New Members | October 2025

by with No Comment 1si NewsUncategorizedWelcome New Members

One Southern Indiana welcomes the following members that joined or rejoined during the month of October 2025.

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Facilitates Aircraft Emergency Training Exercise

by with No Comment Uncategorized

Louisville, KY (October 21, 2025) – Today the Louisville Muhammad Ali
International Airport (SDF) will hold a full-scale, aircraft emergency disaster
drill on the airfield. The airport’s Public Safety Department with support from
a variety of emergency response agencies in the community will utilize a
portion of the airfield as part of a simulated aircraft incident. It will include a
period of fire, smoke and approximately 100 volunteers who will act as
passengers on the aircraft. There will also be activities in the terminal related
to this training exercise. All activities surrounding the drill will begin midmorning and conclude by late afternoon.

Motorists traveling on I-65 and I-264/Watterson Expressway as well as those
in areas along the airport’s perimeter including Preston Highway, Standiford
Lane, Grade Lane and Fern Valley Road can expect to see or hear the exercise
in progress. This may include flames, smokes and a heavy presence of
emergency response vehicles.

“Even as aviation remains one of the safest modes of transportation, it’s
crucial that our Public Safety and entire airport team are always prepared and
ready to respond to an emergency situation,” said Dan Mann, Executive
Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority. “Exercises like this one
today gives our team and community partners the opportunity to practice
their skills, putting their trainings to the test and going through our response
processes in a simulated live environment.”

The full-scale training exercise will be held on a portion of the airfield that will
not impact normal airport operations. Communications in the airport’s
terminal, on FlyLouisville.com and its social media channels will be shared so
the public is aware of the simulated drill should they see any of its activities.
The exercise scenario will include the following elements to add realism to the
simulated incident:

  • Numerous emergency vehicles and first responders from the airport’s
    Public Safety Department and mutual aid support from surrounding
    communities’ emergency response agencies
  • A period of fire and smoke
  • Conversations between dispatchers and responders on emergency
    radio frequencies
  • About 100 volunteer role players including moulage to simulate injuries
    sustained from the incident
  • Support helicopters staged and responding to the exercise site
    New for this year is the addition of a mock trauma response area in
    partnership with the University of Louisville Hospital to train for mass casualty
    incidents. This will allow trauma physicians and nurses to be on-site, and
    simulate their response to those immediate medical needs.
    Since 2023, the Airport Authority has invested more than $2 million in
    emergency response equipment. This includes two new Rosenbauer Panther
    6×6 Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Crash Trucks, a new UTV miniambulance, 15 military-grade litters and various triage tools.

    In addition to the full-scale training exercise on Tuesday, additional Public
    Safety trainings will be held on the airfield during the day on Monday, October
    20 and Wednesday, October 22. On all three days, periods of flames and
    smoke with a heavy emergency vehicle presence may also be visible from the
    terminal and surrounding roadways and areas.
    For more information about the airport, visit FlyLouisville.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.

Contact: Natalie Chaudoin
(502) 363-8507 office
(502) 475-8084 cell
Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com