Fort Knox Soldiers Set to Deploy. They Need Our Support!

The brave men and women serving our country overseas don’t ask for a lot, while giving up much –including time with their families and other loved ones. They’re doing an important, high risk job – helping to keep our country free – and they need to know how much we appreciate what they’re doing while they’re away.

That’s why the KIX team is asking for your support for the Soldiers of Fort Knox’s 3d Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, (The “Duke Brigade”) who are deploying to Afghanistan in the very near future. In fact, some are there already. “Adopt-a-Fort Knox Platoon” is an initiative that relies on the local community to help provide a better deployment quality of life for these Soldiers, by linking them with the caring community around Fort Knox, folks who are interested in supporting our heroes with periodic cards, letters, and care packages during the course of their deployment and beyond.

The “Adopt-a-Fort Knox Platoon” effort is looking for businesses, schools, and other organizations and individuals willing to help make this endeavor a success. The “Duke Brigade” is preparing for their next deployment now, and if you or your organization wants to participate, there are still units that could use your support. Please contact John Campbell at the Fort Knox Public Affairs Office, (502) 624-0150, john.e.campbell60.civ@mail.mil to find out more.  He’ll make sure you get the information you’ll need to proceed.

Your support is greatly appreciated!

Vote for Louisville as National Geographic Traveler’s Best Trips of 2014

National Geographic Traveler MagazineThis week above any, our region and the great city of Louisville sure do shine, but let’s make that spotlight even brighter.

We’re happy to share that Louisville is in the running to make the list of Best Trips of 2014 by National Geographic Traveler Magazine. Now we need everyone to get out and vote! You have until Friday, May 3 to nominate Louisville as your favorite travel destination.

Simply click here and tell the editors of National Geographic Traveler Magazine why Louisville deserves a spot on the list. All eyes are on Louisville this week as our city gears up for Derby, and what better time than now to draw even more attention to the city’s culture, arts scene, cuisine, great outdoor attractions, and of course sports!

The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, May 3. Help us in spreading the word about our great city!

 

image credit: National Geographic 

Update: KWIB Announces New Location for Kentucky Work Ready Communities Best Practices Summit

Kentucky Work Ready CommunitiesDue to overwhelming interest, the Kentucky Workforce Investment Board (KWIB) is moving its first Kentucky Work Ready Communities Best Practices Summit on May 16 from 300 Fair Oaks Lane in Frankfort to the Capital Plaza Hotel at 405 Wilkinson Blvd. in Frankfort. Since more space is available, more people can register for the event by the April 30 deadline.

The event is from 8 a.m. – noon.

For more information, visit the Kentucky Work Ready Communities program website at http://workready.ky.gov.

Kentucky Work Ready Communities Best Practices Summit in May will help counties prepare for economic growth

Kentucky work ready communitiesFRANKFORT, Ky. (March 27, 2013) – The Kentucky Workforce Investment Board (KWIB) is hosting its first Kentucky Work Ready Communities Best Practices Summit May 16 from 8 a.m. – noon at 300 Fair Oaks Lane in Frankfort. Space for the summit is limited, so advance registration is required.

The free summit is designed to help communities that want to improve their economic development potential by working toward Kentucky Work Ready Communities certification. The certification assures employers that a local workforce has the talent and skills necessary to staff existing jobs and to master the innovative technologies new jobs will require.

“The Kentucky Work Ready Communities program has become so popular that we wanted to give community leaders an opportunity to share their successes and network with each other, and provide an event for communities that are interested in the program to learn more about it,” said Crystal Gibson, chair of the Kentucky Work Ready Communities Review Panel and vice president of Public Affairs at Citigroup. “Community leaders who have gone through the application process will speak at the summit and be available at table discussions to give insight into the program and how it has benefitted their areas.”

In the year since Kentucky launched the program, 19 counties have been certified as Work Ready or Work Ready in Progress, and 34 are going through the application process or have shown an interest in the program.

“The Kentucky Work Ready Communities program has strenuous requirements that show that a local area has the skilled workforce and community support necessary to be competitive in a 21st century economy,” said Ed Holmes, chair of KWIB. “The requirements are based on input from business and industry, and economic development leaders in Kentucky and that increases the appeal of the program for businesses that are looking to build or expand.”

To be designated a Kentucky Work Ready Community, business, education, economic and elected leaders must collaborate and apply for the certification. Counties have to meet criteria in six areas including high school graduation rate, National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) holders, demonstrated community commitment, educational attainment, soft-skills development and digital literacy. Boyle, Daviess, Henderson, Warren and Woodford counties have been certified as Kentucky Work Ready Communities.

If a community is close to certification and is committed to reaching the criteria in three years, it is may be designated as a Work Ready Community in Progress.

Summit participants will have an opportunity to network during a continental breakfast sponsored by the Foundation for Kentucky Industry, Kentucky Association of Counties and Kentucky Association for Economic Development. Representatives from Daviess, Hopkins, Madison, Pulaski, Russell and Trigg counties will discuss the six requirement areas of the Kentucky Work Ready Communities program and their best practices. Members of the program’s review panel will field questions from participants about the process and criteria.

The summit is geared toward Kentucky Work Ready Communities committee members, elected officials, economic development organizations, Chambers of Commerce, human resource managers, business owners, school officials, business and industry associations, community college representatives, P-16 Councils, adult education directors and Kentucky Workforce Investment Boards.

For more information, visit the Kentucky Work Ready Communities program website at http://workready.ky.gov.

Standard Register Company Expands Footprint into Southern Indiana

In a press release issued yesterday, One Southern Indiana announced that a new digital print and distribution center will soon open in River Ridge Commerce Center, creating more than 300 new jobs. Read the press release in its entirety below:

Jeffersonville, Ind. (March 26, 2013) – One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization serving Clark and Floyd Counties, today announced Standard Register, a national workflow, communications and analytics solutions provider, will locate a new national digital print and distribution center in River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville, Ind. creating up to 360 new jobs by 2016. 

“The business climate in Indiana and desirable central location combined to make this a very attractive investment for Standard Register,” said Joseph P. Morgan, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Standard Register. 

“Our business climate provides cost, workforce and location advantages that put Indiana on the map as a state that works for business,” said Governor Mike Pence. “We’re honored that Standard Register has chosen the Hoosier State to expand and more efficiently operate its business, creating many new career opportunities for southeast Indiana workers.” 

The Dayton, Ohio-headquartered company will invest nearly $10 million to lease and renovate a 335,000 square-foot facility in the River Ridge Commerce Center, a state-certified shovel ready site in Clark County. The center, which is expected to be operational this summer, will house digital printing and distribution operations. Some operations from existing Standard Register facilities will be transferred to the new center. 

“This is further evidence that having a state-certified Shovel Ready Site matters when it comes to business attraction,” said Crossdock Development, Inc. President Lee Wilburn. “Through the Indiana Shovel Ready Program, we developed a state-of-the art facility that will benefit Standard Register. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome this outstanding company to our facility.” 

“It’s extremely exciting to have Standard Register join the growing list of diverse and vibrant companies discovering the many advantages a location at River Ridge Commerce Center affords,” said Jerry Acy, Executive Director of River Ridge Commerce Center. “We celebrate their location decision and look forward to their future success as our latest corporate resident.” 

“We are overjoyed Standard Register chose River Ridge Commerce Center as its location for this exciting project,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “The opportunities these 360 positions provide for our citizens are remarkable. And turning a vacant facility into an enhanced asset for both the company and the community is a definite win-win. The City of Jeffersonville wholeheartedly welcomes this dynamic company to our business community.” 

Founded 100 years ago, Standard Register has grown to more than 2,200 employees at 30 locations nationwide. The new Jeffersonville center will be the company’s second Indiana location. The company also has a facility in Shelbyville, Ind. which employs approximately 85 full-time associates. 

“Economic development is a team sport,” said Wendy Dant Chesser. “The benefits southern Indiana gains with Standard Register’s decision to locate here is a perfect illustration of a committed group of partners working toward shared results. On behalf of all 1si members and investors, I want to welcome Standard Register as southern Indiana’s newest corporate citizen.” 

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered The Standard Register Company up to $2,300,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $175,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning that until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. At the request of 1si, River Ridge Development Authority will consider additional property tax abatement through the business park’s enterprise zone. 

Standard Register is 1si’s 91st economic development announcement since its creation in July 2006. Collectively, these projects have committed to the creation of 8,707 new jobs representing $300,627,118 annually in new payroll dollars into southern Indiana’s regional economy. Together, these companies are investing $558,246,579 in new capital in Clark and Floyd Counties. 

About Standard Register:
Standard Register (NYSE: SR), celebrating 100 years of innovation, helps its customers optimize enterprise workflow and adapt to the rapidly-changing communications landscape with a portfolio of printed and digital communications and marketing solutions. In an environment where communication is more interactive than ever, faster than ever, delivered through more channels than ever and with results more measurable than ever, Standard Register provides value with industry-specific insights and by developing, executing and analyzing compelling communications campaigns to engage with targeted audiences. More information is available at http://www.standardregister.com/

About One Southern Indiana:
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization 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. 

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. www.1si.org

Building Cultural Awareness

GLI Cultural ToursDid you know that there are more than 75 nationalities represented in our region?  And it’s that diverse culture that helps make our region prosper and grow. With the globalization of our economy, building a greater understanding of the world’s many great cultures can benefit us not only personally but help businesses succeed. One of Kix’s managing partners, Greater Louisville Inc (GLI), certainly understands that.

After last year’s successful trip to Cuba, GLI is providing another great opportunity for people in our region to get a first hand look at two thriving economies. On tap this year are trips to ancient Turkey and Brazil. GLI wants to to “create a unique global cultural awareness experience with a one of a kind networking opportunity.” Both trips will offer insight into the region, the culture, history, and the international business climate. Many tourist attractions will also be a part of each trip.

Both trips will offer networking opportunities with local government or businesses in the growing business community. So whether you desire to build a global strategy plan for your business or are just looking to expand your personal knowledge of different thriving cultures, either trip will appeal to you.

To register for these trips or for more information, contact Michael Iacovazzi Pau 502-625-0070 ormiacovazzi-pau@greaterlouisville.com. To get a more detailed itinerary or for more information click here.

Turkey

May 23 – June 3

$2590 per person

As one of the top 10 travel destinations, Turkey welcomes more than 23 million visitors every year. This trip will include visits to the cities of Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadochia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Troy, Canakkale and more. Experience the rich heritage of Turkey’s mosques and ancient palaces. This friendly, beautiful and modern city is full of excitement to fill your 12-day trip. If you are interested in this trip, attend an informational meeting February 21 @5:45 at the GLI office, 614 West Main Street Suite 6000.

Brazil

September 25-October 3

$3650 per person

If you are looking for adventure, Brazil is the place to be. Named the “Best Destination in the World” for adventure by National Geographic, Brazil promises a dynamic experience. Brazil currently tops the charts as one of the most desired places to do business. Cities planned for visiting on this tour include: Sao Paulo, Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf mountain and more. If you are interested in this trip an informational meeting is planned for March 14.

 

image credit: GLI

From Rail to Trail—Big Four Bridge Opens to Pedestrians and Bicyclers

Big Four Bridge openingIt’s a project that has been in the works for more than two decades for the Waterfront Development Corp., but now the vision has become a reality. The Big Four Bridge that formerly served as a railroad bridge, officially opened to pedestrians and bicyclers today, February 7, 2013. This monumental development serves as a tremendous effort to connect the region between Louisville and Jeffersonville, Indiana, and to promote health and wellness.

Waterfront Development Corp. Executive Director David Karem said that this is “clearly the most anticipated project of Waterfront Park.”

The bridge originally got its name in 1895 from the railroad cities that were serviced through this railroad bridge—Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland and St. Louis—but a train hasn’t chugged across this bridge since the late 1960s.

Work on the Louisville side totaled $12 million to convert the railroad bridge to a cross-river bridge. The Indiana ramp, which is still under construction, has an estimated cost of $10 million. New cables for light installation were added along with metal benches, control boxes, and finishing wire for lights extending the Kentucky-side ramp.

Although Karem said that this 2,525 foot long bridge may still undergo some “fine tuning,” it is ready for pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

The informal ceremony this morning was presided over by Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer and Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. A dedication service is planned for mid-2013 when the Jeffersonville approach to the bridge is complete.

Pedestrians and bicyclers will have direct access to the bridge 24 hours a day, except on special occasions. What a great opportunity to connect and explore our region on both sides of the river! Hope to see on the Big 4!

 

image courtesy of Mayor Greg Fischer 

Local Employers Have a Unique Opportunity to Attract Veterans

In 2013, an estimated 132,000 soldiers will transition out of the U.S. Army. With Fort Knox in our region, local employers have access to veterans in a way that no other community can. Fort Knox is the headquarters for the Army Career Alumni Program (ACAP) – all Army personnel go through ACAP, physically or virtually, as they are exiting the military. This offers an excellent opportunity to attract and keep more veterans in our region and our workforce.

Surprisingly, 77 percent of all people between the ages of 18-24 are ineligible to join the Army due to a lack of a high school education, poor fitness, drug use, or criminal history. So, when an employer hires a veteran, the company is choosing a responsible and educated employee who is trained and disciplined with skills like leadership, a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and reliability.

Local employers such as Ford, Humana, and many others value having veterans on their teams for multiple reasons. This video segment shares some of the many important traits that veterans bring to the workplace.

Please contact us if you would like to help in our effort to deliver optimal employment, training, and support services to veterans in the region.  And whether you’re a veteran or an employer, be sure to check out our Veterans Resource Center for assistance in seeking employment opportunities or veteran talent.

 

Building a Better Workforce Pipeline

We don’t have a jobs crisis in the world, we have a skills crisis. In fact, a recent study by McKinsey & Company found that 45% of U.S. employers say that lack of skills is the “main reason” for their high numbers of entry-level vacancies.

We knew that in 2007, when our 26-county region began work on the Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development initiative (Wired65). Our primary goal back then was to help develop a more effective workforce pipeline, one where the needs of employers were more in sync with what the education and training providers taught. Sounds easy, right? Easier said than done!

Early College and Career CenterMore recently, some folks in Hardin County decided to do something about this problem, and on January 24, in what Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Jerry Abramson called a one-of-a-kind partnership, Hardin County Schools (HCS), Western Kentucky University (WKU), Central Kentucky Community Foundation (CKCF), and Elizabethtown Community & Technical College (ECTC) announced that, working together, they were going to build an Early College and Career Center for Hardin County Students.

To be constructed on 20 acres adjacent to ECTC and WKU’s Elizabethtown Campus, the center will be convenient for high school students in Hardin County Schools to take courses in several career pathways. The pathways include, but are not limited to, health science, engineering (the Project Lead the Way curriculum), manufacturing, automotive technology, media arts & communication, and culinary arts & hospitality services—the current needs of local business and industry.

“We have heard loud and clear from our business partners that they are longing for workers with the ‘soft skills’ and work ethic skills to be successful in our community,” said Nanette Johnston, Hardin County Schools Superintendent. “Our vision is to continue to work collaboratively with our community and business partners and our post-secondary partners to create classroom experiences that parallel the real world.”

The partnership’s “aggressive goal” is to have the new facility open and operating by August 2014. That’s going to be a tough deadline to meet, but with the way this energized group is collaborating and working together to overcome obstacles, we won’t be surprised at all if they meet it.

“This is a wonderful example of a community coming together,” said CKCF President & CEO Al Rider. “We’re meeting the mandate to provide career-ready workers to local business and industry, while building compelling new strategies and partnerships.”

And the “winners” will be the students in Hardin County and a region that will continue to grow and prosper, all thanks to cooperation, innovation, and forward thinking!

New Albany Celebrates Bicentennial in 2013

Our region has a rich history – one that needs to be remembered and celebrated. Communities throughout the region are doing just that and New Albany is a great example.

New Albany, Indiana's BicentennialNew Albany, Indiana, a 200-year-old scenic river town, was founded in 1813 by Joel, Abner, and Nathaniel Scribner, who purchased the land on which to found the town. That land lies along the banks of the Ohio River, and this year, New Albany celebrates its bicentennial.

There are no shortage of events and projects being planned throughout the year to honor this important achievement. In fact, despite having numerous events planned from now through September, the Bicentennial Commission is still busy putting together additional celebratory events for 2013.

Some of the 2013 Bicentennial Events planned are listed below. Be sure to check out New Albany’s Facebook page to stay up to date when additional events are added to the calendar. The first event of the new year starts today.

  • Friday, January 25—Wonderland Way Exhibit Opening
  • Saturday, January 26—DNA’s “Through the Decades Ball” at The Grand
  • Saturday, April 6—New Albany’s Bicentennial Style Show “200 Years of Style” at the Grand
  • Sunday, May 5—The Padgett Museum Brunch at the Floyd County Museum
  • Saturday, June 22—Division Street School’s Neighborhood Ice Cream Social
  • Saturday, June 22—New Albany’s Public Art Walk
  • Saturday, August 10—Vintage Baseball/Old Fashioned Day on the Park
  • Saturday, September 14–DNA’s Historic Home Tour
  • September 20, 21, 27, 28–“Stories Behind the Stones” Historic Fairview Cemetery Tour
  • Saturday, November 2— Historic Governor’s Ball

In addition to the events listed above, there are also numerous projects that residents are invited to participate in. These include:

  • New Albany and Floyd County First Families Project—Can you prove that you had a direct ancestor living in the New Albany area prior to December 31, 1840?
  • Bicentennial Scrapbook Project—“40,000 Pages of Memories”
  • Bicentennial Museum Mania Cards
  • Historic House History Certificates—If can prove your house was built prior to 1963, you can get a Historic House Certificate from the New Albany Floyd County Library.

You can find out more information about each of these projects by visiting the website. We hope New Albany area residents enjoy participating in the historical events planned this year, and learn something about their town they never knew!

image courtesy of newalbany200.org