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 By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

Carlos Bravo, a standout community businessman, held an informational introduction to a program called Creative Entrepreneurial Opportunities (CEO). This is a part of Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship. They prepare student for business in a real-world environment and create entrepreneurial thinkers.

The meeting was Thursday, July 25, at El Camino Restaurant in Salem, which is owned by Bravo.

The program is for high school juniors and seniors on the path to graduation. Basically, the student has classroom training and also works for and is mentored by a business owner. The student must go through an application process to get into the program. CEO is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and costs the school and student nothing. The student will learn all about running and starting a business.

Bravo said,” It is a fight to help Salem grow. I learned the hard way up and down.” There was no one to help and teach him about running a business. He feels this will help to keep young people in Salem.

He continued, “This will prepare students to sell themselves.” The student will be more confident. The business owner will be teaching the student the ins and outs.
Over the past 15 years, the CEO program has helped communities all over the United States. CEO is a proven model that yields results. The program is in 11 states with 4800 graduates, and 74 programs in various states. It cost the student and the school nothing. It depends on contributions from the local businesses.

Bravo said, “It’s not going to help make you more money.” It is an investment in the community. Bravo, who has spent 23 years in Salem, is very passionate about this project.

Speaking at the presentation was Molly Blythe, a past student of the program. Representing business was the owner of Ace Hardware in Hardinsburg, Mark Ratzloff. He spoke of the need for this program. He said, “Washington County needs a reassessment of their values. There is a lack of parental responsibilities.”

Also speaking was Keegan Hash of Morning Harvest Produce.

If your business is interested, please contact Carlos Bravo or http://www.discoverceo.com/discoverceo

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Campbellsburg, Ind., July 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A hearing officer for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) decisively recommended that Metal Powder Products' (MPP) objections to the April 10th union election be overruled, where a majority of workers at the Campbellsburg plant voted to join the industrial division of the Communications Workers of America (IUE-CWA). This ruling underscores MPP's persistent and underhanded attempts to obstruct its employees' rights to unionize and seek fair representation.

Following a thorough review, the NLRB’s hearing officer found no credible evidence to substantiate MPP's allegations or to rerun the election. Consequently, the hearing officer overruled the objections in their entirety, confirming the legitimacy of the workers' decision to unionize and shedding light on ongoing concerns regarding MPP's treatment of its workforce.

Recently, IUE-CWA filed several Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges against MPP, alleging the company engaged in unlawful conduct. These charges included unlawful interrogation, perceived surveillance, and removal of union materials from workers' personal spaces. Together with MPP's baseless election objections, these actions underscore a troubling pattern aimed at suppressing workers' rights.

"MPP's attempts to disenfranchise its workers and sow discord have been exposed," said Carl Kennebrew, President of IUE-CWA. "Our members stand united, committed to achieving a workplace where their rights are respected and their voices heard. They will not be silenced by the company’s bullying and intimidation tactics."

MPP, owned by Mill Point Capital, a New York-based private equity firm managing over $1.4 billion in capital commitments, faces increasing scrutiny regarding corporate responsibility and ethical governance. Investors and stakeholders alike should consider the implications of supporting companies that prioritize profits over fair treatment of their workforce.

Despite MPP's efforts to delay and contest the election, the workers at the Campbellsburg plant remain steadfast. They have elected a bargaining committee and stewards, with the first bargaining session scheduled for July 22nd. This group, comprising approximately 160 workers, will join workers at two IUE-CWA-represented facilities in Pennsylvania.

"The solidarity and determination of our members are unwavering," Kennebrew added. "As we enter negotiations, we remain committed to securing improved conditions and a brighter future for all employees at MPP."

IUE-CWA is the industrial division of Communication Workers of America representing a force of 150,000 active and retired men and women united collectively to seek dignity on the job and a secure future for ourselves, our children and all future generations.

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Purdue Extension – Washington County is updating the Washington County Local Products Guide. 

Any Washington County farm or business that sells local products grown, raised, or made in Washington County direct to consumers are encouraged to have their information included in the guide. 

Business and product information may be submitted via the form found at https://bit.ly/24LPG or by contacting Danielle Walker at the Purdue Extension – Washington County Office at 812-883-4601 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

To be included in the updated guide, information must be submitted by Friday, August 2, 2024.

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At its monthly meeting, the River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) made significant strides forward in its mission to drive economic activity in Southern Indiana.

Jerry Acy, RRDA's Executive Director, is leading negotiations for the sale of approximately 23.5 acres of undeveloped land, known as Tract 12G, strategically positioned along Salem Road and within Jeffersonville, presenting an attractive opportunity for development. The potential buyer intends to construct a 150,000 square foot industrial building on the site.  A 60-day window has been set for the execution of a purchase and sale agreement, highlighting the urgency of the process.

The potential economic impact of this venture emphasizes the RRDA's commitment to fostering growth and job creation in Southern Indiana.

The Board also approved a contract for $1.3 million to Excel Excavating, Inc. to extend 1,700 linear feet of access road and drainage infrastructure near its headquarters building to serve future tenants of the River Ridge Commerce Center.  

Board Meeting Materials Now Available Online

Additionally, as part of its commitment to transparency and accessibility, the RRDA announced that materials from its board meetings are now accessible on its website at www.riverridgecc.com. 

About River Ridge Development Authority

The River Ridge Development Authority, spanning over 6,000 prime acres, has become a source of major economic development for the Louisville-Southern Indiana region. Established to mitigate the economic impact of the shuttered Indiana Army Ammunition Plant, the River Ridge Development Authority has evolved its mission to meet the tailored needs of the community. Our goal extends beyond mere replacement of lost revenue to creating a premier destination for advanced manufacturing, distribution, and industrial companies from across the nation and around the globe. 

Serving as home to more than 80 companies, RRDA contributed an estimated $2.93 billion to the region's economic output in 2023, supporting over 18,000 jobs. In addition, RRDA funded approximately $20 million in capital projects in 2023. These initiatives include vital infrastructure improvements, including $5.9 million in roadway projects, $6.2 million in utility enhancements, and $3.5 million allocated to demolition and site preparation.