Chamber Magazine, Spring 2022

PREPARING FOR THE YEAR OF THE

Bicentennial

Spring 2022

Community

SCHOLARSHIPS for local students

Grede INSIDE

HENRY COUNTY’S LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Special report inside:

CHAMBER AWARDS

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HENRY COUNTY BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS WHO EXCEL

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Good careers exist right here in Henry County

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our Chamber of Commerce is steadily focused on services and programs that have an impact far beyond the Chamber’s member businesses.

The Chamber’s Workforce Development Committee is a clear example of what can be accomplished when we work together.

The committee, comprised of business leaders, employers and engaged residents, seeks to connect residents to employment opportunities and training, building retention of area residents.

The committee addresses employment issues from all perspectives, and continually works to build awareness that good careers exist right here in Henry County. The success of our economy depends on collaboration and communication, and the Workforce Development Committee helps build those necessary partnerships.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Shonda Kane

‘The success of our economy depends on collaboration and communication, and the Workforce Development Committee helps build those necessary partnerships.’

For an excellent example of those imperative collaborations, one need look no further than the pages of this edition of Chamber Magazine: Be sure to read the article about the unique partnership between Grede, the Chamber’s 2021 Large Business of the Year, and Ivy Tech Community College. Programs like these bolster our economic health for generations to come.

And mark your calendars: Your Chamber has partnered with Eastern Indiana Works for the first-ever Henry County Career Day on May 6 at the Henry County Art Association pavilion. The event, beginning at 9 a.m., focuses on Henry County high school students exploring future career paths.

Students will gain valuable information about career interests, skills and schooling required, and advancement opportunities.

Students will also be exposed to career opportunities the y might not have previously considered. nnn As a side note, you might have noticed some changes to the cover of Chamber Magazine. As you will recall, the magazine celebrated its 10-year anniversary with the Fall 2021 edition.

The publication’s original branding was based on the Chamber’s branding in 2011. With the adoption of a new Chamber logo in May of 2020, the Chamber Magazine’s branding became somewhat disconnected from the Chamber itself. With this issue, we have made some subtle, but important, changes that more closely connect the Chamber to its publication, without ignoring the established style and branding of either. We would love to have your input on the changes!

Thank you for the continued support of your Chamber!

Shonda Kane is Executive Director of the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce.

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CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

SPRING 2022

Volume 12, Issue 1

PUBLISHER Shonda Kane, Executive Director, New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce info@nchcchamber.com DESIGN AND EDITORIAL DIRECTION The JMetzger Group Juli Metzger | juli@thejmetzgergroup.com John Metzger | john@thejmetzgergroup.com www.thejmetzgergroup.com 765.744.4303 CONTRIBUTORS Writing: Brenda Morehead, John Metzger Photography: Kurt Hostetler, Jeff Morehead Design: Tammy Pearson To advertise, contact The JMetzger Group: 765.744.4303 | john@thejmetzgergroup.com For subscription information, contact Shonda Kane at 765.529.5210.

Chamber Magazine: The voice of New Castle-Henry County Chamber businesses. It is a product of the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and The JMetzger Group. These materials are the sole and exclusive property of the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and The JMetzger Group, and may not be used without written consent.

Copyright 2022: The New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce and The JMetzger Group.

The JMetzger Group specializes in branded content, custom publishing and social media solutions.

Learn more: www.thejmetzgergroup.com

MAY

2022

14

TH

Kentucky Derby-themed charity gala supporting Meridian’s Addictions & Recovery Programs.

Presented by:

buy tickets now or donate at meridianhs.org

contents 8 10 12

ON THE COVER:

Entrepreneurship in New Castle and Henry County

GREDE: The Chamber’s Large Business of the Year

Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards

Henry County prepares for its bicentennial

Cover photos: Molten metal at the New Castle’s Grede casting company.

Photo by Jeff Morehead.

Inset, top: The Bicentennial Planning Commission.

Photo by Jeff Morehead.

Inset, center: Katie Payne, Grede’s Human Resources Manager.

Photo by Jeff Morehead.

Inset, bottom: Debi Ware, the Chamber’s 2021 Citizen of the Year.

Photo by Kurt Hostetler.

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Chamber community scholarship initiative supports students

what’s ahead at the chamber of commerce

16

Grede/Ivy Tech collaboration builds careers

Chamber builds on 2021 successes with full 2022 calendar BOARD PRESIDENT

‘Our monthly Wednesday workshops cover a wide range of topics from marketing to human resources.’

Cindi Kiner

Cindi Kiner is New CastleHenry County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors President. She is a human resources consultant and owner of The HR Connection, LLC. 6

I

hope you were able to join us for the Chamber Awards Gala on March 16. If you couldn’t be there, you missed a lot! To catch you up, we are including an article about the expanded awards and recipients in this edition of Chamber Magazine.

Here’s a look at your Chamber’s 2021 statistics: l Member businesses total 293, including 25 new members and 33 civic members. l $1,000 in scholarships to local students. l Nine active committees available to members. l We welcomed Cindy Brooks to the Chamber staff, and she has already been invaluable in the Member Services role. l 16 ribbon-cutting celebrations.

On the digital/social media front: l 3,428 followers and 2,988 page likes on Facebook. l Instagram account launched. Be sure to follow us: nchcchamberofcommerce l 1,020 email subscribers with a 37.2% open rate. (To put that into perspective, the average open rate in 2021 was 16.97%!)

We continue efforts to provide the best value to members by offering very practical seminars and

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

workshops. Our monthly Wednesday Workshops cover a wide range of topics from marketing to human resources. Other workshops include grant writing, business computer software, customer engagement tools, and other useful information.

Here are upcoming events for your calendar: l I hope you can join us for the Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade. This year’s event, presented by Citizen’s State Bank, celebrates Henry County’s bicentennial. l The Chamber Cup Challenge is back! It’s not too early to sign up for sponsorships and teams for our annual golf outing. We have injected some new energy into this year’s event, and you won’t want to miss it! The shotgun start is at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 18 at Memorial Park Golf Course. l Coming in late summer and early fall: Cash Bonanza is set for Saturday, Sept. 10, and the first annual Designer Bag Bingo, which raises funds our scholarship, will be on Thursday, Oct. 13.

Be sure to watch the website and our Facebook page for updates on events.

We welcome your input and involvement!

Reach us at the Chamber: 765.529.5210 or by email: info@nchcchamber.com

2022 BOARD

DIRECTORS

Executive Board Members President Cindi Kiner The HR Connection

1st Vice President Latina Masters Citizens State Bank

2nd Vice President Marka Sonoga The Courier Times

Treasurer Mary Campbell Purdue Extension

Secretary Kevin Brown Hinsey-Brown Funeral Services

Immediate Past President Cara Huffman F.C. Tucker/Crossroads R.E.

General Board Members Rebecca Gonya Big O Tires Justin Helman FocalPoint Business Coaching Amber Houser Henry County REMC Jeff Jaco The Sanctuary Cynthia Lines First Financial Bank

Kristen Bennett ERA Integrity Real Estate Brianna Chapman Weiland’s Flowers Cathy Crabtree McGowan Insurance Group Kevin Davenport Clean N Simple Commercial Cleaning

Vickie McIntosh First Merchants Bank Vaughn Reid Vital Computing Christy Tompkins Individual Luci Welch Henry Community Health

Ex-Officio Board Members Linda Link Chamber Ambassador

Corey Murphy President: NCHC Economic Development Corp.

Greg York Mayor:City of New Castle

Chamber Staff

Shonda Kane, Executive Director

765.529.5210

Cindy Brooks, Member Services

nchcchamber.com Welcoming New Businesses

In Henry County

Supporting Growing Companies

Encouraging Expansion

GrowInHenry.com

765.521.7402

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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Entrepreneurship is a 2022 economic focus for New Castle and Henry County

The New Castle Henry County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is a community non-profit corporation that provides economic development services for the City of New Castle and Henry County. Governance and funding are a public-private partnership including county government, city government and the private sector.

Our team welcomes investment, talent and visitors to Henry County and East Central Indiana. Learn more about our team at https://growinhenry.com/about/.

Here are some examples of some of EDC DIRECTOR the EDC’s main activities: Business attraction: A recent example of business attraction is Connecticut based TOMZ Corporation choosing Knightstown for their second manufacturing location. TOMZ is an industry leading manufacturer of medical devices and implants with employment around 50 and growing.

Learn more at www.tomz.com.

Business retention and expansion (BRE): Business retention Corey Murphy and expansion is statistically the highest source of jobs and investment for a community. Two local examples of of expansions are former attraction projects. l TS Tech announced their New Castle plant in 2007.

Construction is now underway at TS Tech with a $19 million expansion, nearly doubling the Japanese-owned automotive seat supplier. This expansion provides 40 new jobs and the opportunity for the plant to compete for new business. Learn more at www.tstech.com. l Family-owned Boar’s Head Brand opened its New Castle delicatessen processing facility in 2016. In April 2022, the company announced plans to double the processing facility with an investment of $126 million and 120 new jobs by June 2024.

Boar’s Head mission is to continue to be recognized as the leading provider of exceptional customer service and superior quality delicatessen products. Learn more at www.boarshead.com Tourism: In December 2020, the EDC began providing tourism development and marketing services for Henry County.

During 2021, the tourism brand was confirmed with a steering

David Brock

Abigail Gulde

Jon Madison

1315 Broad Street, New Castle, Indiana 47362

committee along with public input via survey. Our brand promise is: “With iconic sites like the Hoosier Gym, the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, and the world’s largest High School Fieldhouse, Henry County, Indiana, is made for basketball fans. Families, travelers, and history buffs can find enriching, entertaining, and recreational experiences throughout the county and make memories that last a lifetime.”

The brand led to the tagline: “Basketball Lives Here” and the logo is shown here. A new tourism website, www.HoopsInHenry.com, was launched in late December 2021. Collateral material, including a visitor’s brochure is in the works. Our tourism development and marketing will focus on the fundamentals, like any good basketball team. Fundamentals wins games.

Strategic alignment of tourism and economic development is a powerful combination for long-term community prosperity. The benefits: increased economic activity through visitor spending, improved quality of place and talent retention and attraction.

Entrepreneurship: Helping create an environment for business formation and entrepreneurial business growth is a focus for the EDC in 2022. We’re convening a group of stakeholders and have hired business management consultants Plaka & Associates to help us inventory and identify actions to enhance our ecosystem. This includes the continued support of business training through the Chamber of Commerce and New Castle Main Street’s Business Builders program. Stay tuned on ways to help build our entrepreneurial eco-system.

Regional collaboration: If you are a regular reader of this column (hi, Mom), I have written about the importance of regional collaboration. Nearly 6,000 Henry County residents drive out of the county for work. They choose to live here but work elsewhere.

The prosperity of our community is tied to surrounding counties, despite basketball rivalries and political boundaries. The main hub our collaboration occurs through is the East Central Indiana Regional Partnership, purveyors of the Forge Your Path campaign.

Learn more at www.ForgeEci.com Corey L. Murphy, CEcD, serves as President of the New Castle Henry County Economic Development Corporation.

Jim Millikan

765.521.0656

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DeFur Voran is a proud supporter of Chamber Magazine!

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Chamber of Commerce awards nine community champions

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he New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce has a long tradition of recognizing individuals and businesses for their impact on the community.

“We have presented a Citizen of the Year award since 1942 and have recognized a Business of the Year since 2000,” said Shonda Kane, the Chamber’s executive director. “While these two awards were sufficient for a long time, the business community has changed and become more diverse. We realized that too many businesses and individuals were being overlooked, and it was time to make some changes.”

With that in mind, the Chamber expanded the number of awards to nine, all with specific definitions.

“There are so many great things going on in our community, and so many people and companies making important contributions,” said Cindi Kiner, board president.

“By tailoring the definitions of each award to specific functions, we have the opportunity to give people

and companies their well-deserved attention.”

The award presentations themselves saw changes this year as well. “In previous years, the names of the award recipients were kept secret until the actual announcement at the annual dinner,” Kane said. “Although it was fun to surprise them, it was difficult to include friends and family in the celebration.”

The solution: Name finalists for each award and notify them well ahead of the awards presentation.

“It’s an honor to be a finalist and we are excited to recognize them,” Kiner said. “By alerting them in advance, finalists were able to share the evening with friends and family.”

Chamber recognitions are based on the previous year, and all organizations, businesses and individuals must be active and/or located in Henry County. Included here are the award descriptions, finalists and award recipients for 2021, in the order they were presented at the Awards Gala on March 16.

GREDE FOUNDRIES, LLC Mark Brock, Plant Manager

LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR recognizes a Henry County business with 26 or more employees that demonstrates achievement and innovation in management, product service development and commitment to growth in Henry County. This business is also civically engaged with the communities in the past 12 months.

Finalists: l BOAR’S HEAD PROVISIONS l

HYFLEX

Award presenter: l SHONDA KANE, Executive Director, NCHC Chamber of Commerce

LEARN MORE ABOUT GREDE ON PAGE 16.

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CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

F.C. TUCKER CROSSROADS REAL ESTATE

Front row: Carrissa Kidd, Lisa Loveless, Matt Huffman, Cara Huffman, Debbie Brammer, Jennifer Kelsik. Back row: Susie Dudley, Andrea Dailey, Jon Kindred, Mike McKown.

COMMUNITY CULTURE EXCELLENCE

recognizes a Henry County workplace that has made significant strides in employee practices to establish a highly desirable work environment. The award also recognizes the company for its leadership, culture and best practices, and its demonstration of uniting people of different backgrounds and abilities, including a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Finalists: l DRAPER, INC. l SELAH SALON AND SPA

Award presenter: l CINDY BROOKS, Member Services, NCHC Chamber of Commerce

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

recognizes a Henry County business with 25 or fewer employees that has been in business for more than five years. The business demonstrates achievement and potential growth and has also civically engaged with the communities in the past year.

Finalists: l 321 GO KIDS l SERVPRO OF HENRY AND RANDOLPH COUNTIES Award presenter: l DUKE HAMM, Co-owner, MRS Heating & Cooling, Awards Gala Presenting Sponsor.

HINSEY-BROWN FUNERAL SERVICE

From left: Ryan Ballard, Wanda Jones, Chrissy Henderson, John Henderson, David Brown, Jon McCutchen, Shane Williams

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS FIVE WHO INSPIRE US

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

HOSPITALITY & SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARD

Deputy Jared Millikan

Henry County Sheriff’s Dept.

FRONTLINE HERO OF THE YEAR

recognizes a Henry County frontline worker who has excelled in working toward the well-being of our residents and visitors in the past year. Nominees may be a volunteer or employed in the areas of health care, law enforcement, firefighting, or education.

Finalists: l ANGELA FOX

Finalists: l KY & JO SCOTT Ky’s Kreations l

TISHA GREEN

Primo

Award presenter: l VICKI McINTOSH

First Merchants Bank; Chamber Board Member

RON HUFFMAN

New Castle Fire Department

Award presenter: l GREG YORK

Mayor of New Castle

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

FocalPoint Business Coaching

recognizes a Henry County business in business 5 or fewer years. This award honors the skill, courage and determination to create a business out of an idea.

It celebrates the hard work and inspiring stories of many outstanding Henry County entrepreneurs.

Finalists: l KEVIN DAVENPORT

CHRIS WILKEY Award presenter: l CATHY CRABTREE l

McGowan Insurance Group; Chamber Board Member

Clean N Simple Commercial Cleaning & Detailing Made Simple

Henry County Health Department l

recognizes a Henry County young professional ages 18-40. The award celebrates the accomplishments of a highly motivated, emerging leader from Henry County.

Nominees demonstrate excellence, creativity and show initiative in their company or profession.

Finalists: l JUSTIN HELMAN

recognizes a Henry County service employee whose efforts often go unrecognized. They are the frontline at restaurants, stores and attractions. The nominees are those who help make Henry County Cindy Gibson a great place to live, Maxwell’s Boutique & work and visit.

The Warehouse

l

JO & KY SCOTT

Ky’s Kreations

Award presenter: l CATHY CRABTREE Jennifer Donoghue McGowan Insurance Walmart & City Transit

Group; Chamber Board Member

Debi Ware

STAR Financial Bank (retired)

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

recognizes a Henry County citizen who, through their personal involvement, leadership abilities, and selfless giving of their time and talent, has positively affected Henry County and the lives of its citizens. The award honors a recent effort resulting in a substantial benefit to the county, and a steady, reliable long-term history of service.

Finalists: l CARRIE BARRETT New Castle Main Street

Stuart Hamby

Fierce Martial Arts

Award presenter: l SHONDA KANE

Executive Director, NCHC Chamber of Commerce

COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT

recognizes a Henry County non-profit organization that has made outstanding contributions to the county. This organization, over the previous 12 months, has positively affected Henry County and the lives of its citizens. The organization has a reputation for integrity in its dealings with clients, volunteers, staff or other individual groups. The organization must be an active 501(c) organization.

Finalists: l HENRY COUNTY YOUNG LIFE l

NEW CASTLE EVENING OPTIMIST

From left: Tina McSherry, Cathy Crabtree, Rex Crabtree, Hayden Ooten, Brenda Baker and Ralph Holmes.

KENNARD KRUSADERS, INC.

Award presenter: l CINDY BROOKS, Member Services, NCHC Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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The Bicentennial Planning Commission in front of the Henry County Courthouse in New Castle.

From left: Ricky Cottman, Scott Frost, Carrie Barrett, Kaye Ford and Everett Cole.

1822

Henry County prepares to celebrate its founding and 200th birthday STORY BY BRENDA MOREHEAD

PHOTOS BY JEFF MOREHEAD

Henry County’s Bicentennial Celebration promises a wide array of events – from time capsules, to donut holes, to a countywide torch run.

And, of course, basketball.

Henry County turns 200 years old on June 1, and for the past 18 months, a Bicentennial Committee – Henry County 200 – has been making plans to celebrate in style.

“It’s a time to look back at our past, but also a chance to look forward at our future and celebrate with people in the present,” said Kaye Ford, committee member and Co-Executive Director,

Henry County Historical Society & Museum.

Henry County was formed in 1822 from the Delaware New Purchase resulting from the Treaty of St. Mary’s in 1818. It was named for Patrick Henry, governor of Virginia. Then, Indiana Governor Jonathan Jennings signed Henry County into existence.

Henry County 200 Committee

2022 CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

A time capsule from 1972 will be unearthed and opened during the summer celebration, and a new time capsule will be buried.

HENRY COUNTY HISTORIC LANDMARKS

Knightstown Academy

Hoosier Gym

Henry County Historical Society Museum

Wilbur Wright Birthplace

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

13

FROM PAGE 13

member Scott Frost, with Henry County Tourism, said that in addition to the planning committee, a couple dozen individuals also are helping plan individual events. An idea is presented and approved, and then volunteers assume the planning and coordination.

Frost said the Passport to Henry County publication will be used for people to go on a treasure hunt. The Passport book lists 30 historically significant Henry County locations – maybe some people have never seen before, even if they live nearby, he said. Those who complete the hunt can be eligible for a cash prize drawing.

“We’re trying to generate interest in things that are right around all of us,” Frost said.

Committee member Carrie Barrett, executive director of New Castle Main Street, said that the committee felt it was important to emphasize education as part of the celebration. In that spirit, some funding from the Bicentennial Celebration is being allocated to help start a 529 college savings account program for Henry County third-graders through the Henry County Community Foundation.

“We want to demonstrate that we believe it is important to invest in you, and then you, in turn, will hopefully invest in Henry County,” Barrett said.

Committee member Everett Cole said he remembers some of the celebration the community had for the Henry County sesquicentennial in 1972.

He hopes to see the same enthusiasm with this year’s events.

“I hope this is an awakening of where we’ve been,” he said. “We’re a completely different community than 50 years ago.”

Barrett said she hopes all the events being planned help market Henry County to its own residents. “I think when you live in a county, you tend to take it for granted. This is a great place to live,” she said. “If we can help people recognize the gem that is Henry County, we are happy to do that.”

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Bicentennial events are being added almost daily! Stay updated by visiting the website or Facebook: www.henrycounty200.org facebook.com/HenryCounty200

Guyer Opera House

7 WAYS TO ENGAGE WITH THE BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

1

2 14

J A KNOCKOUT TOURNAMENT and world-record attempt at the New Castle Fieldhouse. Knockout is a game where players line up at the basketball free-throw line. The first player attempts to make a basket or score with their own rebound before the person behind them in line can make a shot.

Organizers expect about 800 people to participate in an attempt to break the world record of 701 people.

J THE OPENING OF THE 1972 SESQUICENTENNIAL TIME CAPSULE.

Committee members said it is a bit of a mystery as to what was included 50 years ago as there is no documentation about capsule contents. A new time capsule also will be buried in June, and residents can complete a survey on the Bicentennial website to suggest items to include.

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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4

J A TORCH RUN that will take

place over a 65.7-mile route that passes through all 13 Henry County townships.

The planning committee is encouraging all 13 Townships to have some kind of ceremony or event as the torch goes through their area. “It’s one of our ideas to reach out to the entire county to get everyone involved,” Frost said.

J A COUNTYWIDE WORSHIP SERVICE for all denominations to

come together to celebrate and bless Henry County.

You have friends in high places!

When you find yourself in the dark, we’ve got your back.

Henry County Courthouse

5 6 7

J CONTESTS FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN,

Providing the cooperative difference since 1936.

including designing a Henry County flag and writing essays.

J A DONUT-HOLE EATING CONTEST

hosted by Jack’s Donuts and New Castle Main Street.

This is a sanctioned Major League Eating competition for competitive eaters, including the legendary Joey Chestnut.

J AN ICE CREAM SOCIAL at the Henry

County Historical Society and Museum. Activities include pioneer demonstrations, museum tours and a genealogy program called “Tracing Your Henry County Roots.”

3400 S. State Road 3 n New Castle, IN 47362

800.248.8413 hcremc.com CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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Pathway to EMPLOYMENT Grede and Ivy Tech collaboration enhances workforce opportunities STORY BY JOHN METZGER

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CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

|

PHOTOS BY JEFF MOREHEAD

A

unique Henry County collaboration is focused on building employment opportunities for area residents and strengthening the workforce in the process.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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FROM PAGE 17

Grede casting company in New Castle

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CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

Grede, a New Castle casting company named as the 2021 Large Business of the Year by the New Castle Henry County Chamber of Commerce, has teamed with Ivy Tech Community College to enhance workforce qualifications for area residents.

Collaboration between Grede and Ivy Tech isn’t a new concept. “Ivy Tech has always been a valuable resource to us,” said Katie Payne, Grede’s Human Resources Manager. “We have been working alongside for some time with the ‘Achieve Your Degree’ program.” In this program, current employees pursue courses to obtain new skills that are beneficial to the facility, while moving student employees towards degree attainment.

“It is designed so that the costs for education are deferred toward the end of the semester to allow Grede to work within their guidelines of tuition reimbursement,” said Jeannie Hamblin-Fox, Executive Director of Site and Campus Support for Ivy Tech Henry County. “Ivy Tech staff are invited to go directly to the facility to talk with employees who are interested in starting or continuing their education at Ivy Tech.”

Partnerships like the one between Grede and Ivy Tech, while unique, are part of a growing trend across the country. As employers grapple with a workforce shortage, they get creative about retaining local talent and continuously offer training to existing employees.

Economists predict automation will create more jobs than it eliminates, but retraining will be key.

Congress has discussed ways to give some incentive to create these powerful partnerships. The Assisting Katie Payne Community Colleges in Educating Skilled Students to Careers Act — or ACCESS to Careers Act — was introduced last year but hasn’t become law. It is designed to increase the number of students who earn these types of credentials and the number of colleges meeting the needs of local employers. It could provide states with up to $2.5 million a year for up to four years to develop policies around this type of workforce training and provide community colleges with grants of up to $1.5 million each to carry out the programs.

The bill was reintroduced in May 2021 by Sens. Todd C. Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) after a February 2020 version languished without success.

So far, the latest iteration also has stalled. That’s not stopping local entities who see the need and Jeannie Hamblin-Fox work together to make things happen. Grede works closely with the Chamber’s Workforce Development committee, chaired by Justin Helman of FocalPoint Business Coaching, focusing on young adults and how to better expose them to work options within the community.

“We are broadening awareness of programs and encouraging residents, especially high school students, to utilize all that Ivy Tech offers,” Payne said. “We want them to be aware that they don’t have to move away to have a career. They can do that right here in Henry County.”

The latest Grede/Ivy Tech collaborative effort in the works reaches out to people who are seeking employment but may have some barriers that challenge that goal. “Local Ivy Tech staff will meet with the individual and work on soft-skill training as well as courses that will lead to a certificate in Industrial Electrical Technology,” Hamblin-Fox said.

“During the three semesters the student is taking courses to complete the certificate, Grede is open to consideration of hiring the student to work during the hours outside of class schedules.”

“While the student is pursuing courses, we will be working closely with Ivy Tech and the student,” Payne said. “The goal includes not only the certificate attainment. We want to help the student become a stable and valuable employee.”

In the very early stages is a plan to work cooperatively with area probation officers to extend this program to people emerging from the corrections system.

“We have always been a second-chance employer,” Payne said.

“People who have been incarcerated have few resources when it comes to employment. This program could be an important steppingstone on the pathway to employment.”

Learn more about Grede, page 20.

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GREDE’S LEGACY Here’s a brief look at Grede, (the name rhymes with “lady”) the New CastleHenry County Chamber’s 2021 Large Business of the Year:

GREDE’S LONG HISTORY: In 1920, 23-year-old Bill Grede bought the

40-employee Liberty Foundry in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Today, Grede is an independent company owned by Gamut Capital Management (Gamut), that designs, engineers, validates and manufactures high-quality ductile, gray and specialty iron castings for automotive, commercial and industrial markets. Grede, headquartered in Southfield, Mich., operates 10 facilities across North America and employs a team of 3,800 workers.

GREDE IN NEW CASTLE: The local

facility, located on Plum Street on the east side of New Castle, specializes in the production of large, highly cored ductile iron castings, and has been operating since 1920. The New Castle facility first carried the Grede nameplate in 1989. In 2014, it became Metaldyne Performance Group (MPG), a publicly traded company.

In 2017, it was acquired by American Axel Manufacturing (AAM). In 2019, it returned to the Grede brand when it was acquired by parent company Gamut Capital. Key products are automotive/commercial truck/industrial parts including differential carriers, axle carriers, planetary carriers, hubs and brackets. Grede customers cover a wide range and include Caterpillar, Dana, Ford, John Deere and Daimler.

ENVIRONMENTAL/SOCIAL AWARENESS: Grede includes scrap metals from outside sources in production. If scrap were not used in this creative way, it would end up in landfills. Foundries are the largest recyclers in the world. The New Castle facility is committed to supporting the community and the environment and is a proud member of the Indiana Partners for Pollution Prevention and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Environmental Stewardship Program.

Upgrade Your Team Your company performs at its best when your employees have the right knowledge and skills.

Ivy Tech Community College has taken the employer relationship to a new level.

Ivy Tech can provide customized, affordable workplace training for your employees.

Contact us today

Jennifer Gasiorek

Vice Chancellor of Workforce Partnerships and Strategic Communications jgasiorek@ivytech.edu | 765.289.2291 ext. 1219

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CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

Investing in youth Local scholarships support students’ college educations

T

STORY BY JOHN METZGER

he New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce scholarship was created through the Henry County Community Foundation in 2009 with a goal of awarding one $500 scholarship to a Henry County student every year.

The scholarship committee, comprised of parents and community members, understand the challenges of financing a college education.

“Many of us have funded our children’s education, and we know first-hand how substantial those costs can be,” said Rebecca Gonya, the Chamber’s scholarship committee chair. “But even beyond providing financial help, we want to show students that their community supports ‘We want to them. The scholarship show students helps recognize their hard work.” that their The Chamber community scholarship committee uses a holistic view supports them.’ when selecting REBECCA GONYA scholarship recipients.

“Scholarships are based on several factors including academic achievement,” Gonya said. “But we give equal weight to community involvement, volunteer work, and the student’s goals.”

The scholarship is funded through a collaborative effort by local businesses and community members, led by the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce. In recent years, the scholarship has received renewed interest.

“We wanted to do more for these students,” Gonya said. “So, in 2021, the committee voted to award two $500 scholarships.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

AT RIGHT: Rebecca Gonya, chair of the Chamber’s scholarship committee, with designer handbags that are similar to those offered as prizes during the Designer Bag Bingo fund-raising event on October 13.

PHOTO BY JEFF MOREHEAD CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

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SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Recipients of the New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Scholarship:

AT LEFT: A gift basket raffle at the Chamber Awards Gala raised more than $1,700 for the scholarship fund.

Shown here, from left: Raffle winner Brenda Grider and committee members Vickie McIntosh and Cathy Crabtree.

2018: Zachary Barkdull, Blue River Valley Jr.-Sr. High School

2019: Daniel Chapman, Shenandoah High School 2020: Jarel Coatie, New Castle High School

2021: Jace Logston, New Castle High School

& Emily Adams, Knightstown High School

FROM PAGE 21

In 2022, the committee will award two scholarships, but the income can continue to grow the endowment” she said. “Every amount of each will be doubled to $1,000. And the goals for the donation, no matter the amount, adds to the endowment’s total, future are even loftier. and therefore, increases the investment income.”

“We want to award a $1,000 scholarship A brand-new event, benefiting the to one student in each of the five high schools scholarship fund, will debut this fall.

You can make a in the county,” Gonya said. “While this is a “I am excited to invite Chamber members difference in the challenging goal, we believe that our youth are and everybody in the community to the First lives of area students the future of our communities and worth the Annual Designer Bag Bingo during the evening by donating to the investment.” of Thursday, Oct. 13, at the New Castle Armory,” Scholarship Fund!

To meet the challenge, the committee is Gonya said. “The doors open at 5:30, and bingo Simply mail a check, stepping up efforts at fundraising. Raffles and starts at 6:30.” drawings benefitting the scholarship fund are There will be 10 bingo games, and the grand with held at Chamber meetings and lunches. During “NCHC Scholarship Fund” prize for each is a high-end designer handbag. the awards gala on March 16, Chamber board For a $30 donation, participants receive three in the memo line, to: members sold raffle tickets for a large gift bingo cards for each game. Throughout the Henry County basket containing an array of donated items, evening, there will be a raffle and door prizes, Community Foundation, and food and wine will be available for purchase. including $190 in cash and $800 in gift cards 700 S. Memorial Dr., and merchandise. The raffle raised $1,765, and The six-person scholarship committee is New Castle, IN 47362 every dollar went to the scholarship fund. devoted to the cause, Gonya said. “Each member “I think it’s important that people know that brings a unique perspective to the table,” she Or every donation, big or small, helps reach our said. “While there’s a lot to be accomplished, NCHC Chamber goals,” Gonya said. “Before I educated myself, I I’m confident we can get there, thanks to the of Commerce, thought that unless I could write a huge check, commitment of the group.”

100 S. Main Street, my donation wouldn’t be helpful.”

Besides Gonya, the committee’s chair As Gonya investigated, she learned that each and owner of Big O Tires, members are: Suite 108, scholarship is its own fund. The dollars in each Kevin Brown, Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service New Castle, IN 47362 of the scholarship funds are invested, and the and Crematory; Cathy Crabtree, McGowan yearly scholarship awards are funded by the Insurance Group; Doug Meier, State Farm; investment income.

Vickie McIntosh, First Merchants Bank; and Luci Welch, “The scholarship’s principle stays intact so the investment Henry Community Health.

Spring

INTO GIVING

PO Box 6006 New Castle, IN 47362 22

CHAMBER MAGAZINE │ SPRING 2022

Are you looking for a way to make an impact in your community?

Give to the Choose Henry Flex Fund which addresses local needs through our spring and fall grant cycles!

765-529-2235

www.henrycountycf.org

All that’s old is new again!

Basketball history IS Indiana history!

The Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame presents that important heritage in a whole new way!

Extensive interior renovations make our past come alive!

Interactive digital displays and a digitized slide show of state championship teams that appeal to a new generation.

Improvements to lighting and HVAC make the facility more efficient than ever, and flooring upgrades welcome visitors.

And don’t miss the interior of the new elevator with its wrap depicting a historic photo of a high school game!

Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame

Honoring, preserving and promoting the heritage of Indiana high school basketball

One Hall of Fame Court | New Castle, Indiana 47362

hoopshall.com

765-529-1891

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MUNCIE, IN PERMIT NO. 860

100 South Main Street, Ste. 108 New Castle, IN 47362

A HEART FOR HENRY COUNTY HEART OF INDIANA UNITED WAY PROVIDES VITAL SUPPORT TO HENRY COUNTY: DOLLY PARTON’S IMAGINATION LIBRARY A free book delivered monthly to nearly 400 Henry County children between the ages of newborn to age 5

THE THRIVE NETWORK

One-on-one coaching in the areas of employment, access to public supports like SNAP benefits, childcare vouchers, rent and utility assistance, and financial help like budgeting, improving credit, homeownership, and more

COVID RELIEF FUNDS FOR FOOD, RENT, UTILITIES AND CHILDCARE More than $418,000 distributed in Henry County during the pandemic

LOCAL ORGANIZATION WHO HAVE RECEIVED FUNDING:

Children’s Bureau, PathStone Corp, Salvation Army, Christian Love Center, LifeStream Services, New Castle Career Center, Safe at Home, The Guest House, Turning Point Church, New Castle Schools YMCA program and The Henry County Health Department.

Heart of Indiana United Way United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Give at www.HeartOfIndianaUnitedWay.org