BUSINESS FOCUSOFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. FEBRUARY 2018 VOLUME XXVI, ISSUE II

www.CommerceLexington.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Special Section: Highlights ofWinner’s Circle 2017 Results

Next Opportunity Exchange isThursday, March 1st

Emerging Leader ScholarshipApps Available for Boise Trip

2018 Ambassador CommitteeMembers Announced

INTERNATIONAL TRIP:Experience the Best of Chile & ArgentinaSeptember 15-26, 2018

Get Your First Look at theEMERGE 2018 ConferenceCheck Out the Session Titles & Key SpeakersThen, visit www.EmergeLexington.comfor More Information & to Register.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

WHAT 2 WATCH 4

Business Focus is published once a month for atotal of 12 issues per year by CommerceLexington Inc., 330 East Main Street, Suite 100,Lexington, KY 40507. Phone: (859) 226-1600

2018 Chair of the Board:Karen HillChief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing OfficerBaptist Health Lexington

Publisher:Robert L. Quick, CCE, President & CEOCommerce Lexington Inc.

Editor: Mark E. TurnerCommunications Specialist: Elizabeth BennettPrinting: Post PrintingMail Service: SouthEast Printing & MailingService, LLC (2610 Palumbo Drive)

Subscriptions are available for $12 and areincluded as a direct benefit of CommerceLexington Inc. membership. Business Focus(USPS 012-337) periodical postage paid atLexington, Kentucky.

POSTMASTER: Send address corrections toBusiness Focus, Commerce Lexington Inc.,P.O. Box 1968, Lexington, KY 40588-1968.

Display RatesFor DISPLAY RATES in Business Focus, con-tact Dana Zinger at (859) 226-1607 ordzinger@CommerceLexington.com, and anaccount executive will contact you.

Personnel UpdatesSubmit your company’s awards and mile-stones or personnel changes and additionsto mturner@CommerceLexington.com.Personnel news might include promotions,additions, awards and milestones, recogni-tions and certifications and/or appoint-ments. Information is published only asspace permits.

February 2018: Volume XXVI, Issue II

2 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

BUSINESS FOCUS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:CLX Economic Development Division’s 2017 Year in ReviewSchedule Set for 2018 5 Across Pitch EventsNext Opportunity Exchange is Thursday, March 1st

PUBLIC POLICY:2018 Legislative Session Begins; Gov. Bevin Releases Budget Proposal

EVENTS:@330: Social Media, On-Line Listings, Engaging ClientsRegister Now for 2018 Leadership Visit to Boise, IdahoEmerging Leader Scholarships Available for Boise TripFirst Look at 2018 EMERGE Conference on March 27th

GET CONNECTED:Leadership Development Program RecapsAMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Chuck Powers2018 Ambassador Committee AnnouncedWelcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. MembersMember Personnel Announcements & Awards

WINNER’S CIRCLE:Special Section Highlighting 2017 Campaign Results

SAVE THE DATE!Forcht Bank Presents EMERGEConference on March 27, 2018

Registration Available for2018 Leadership Visit to Boise,

Idaho, May 8 - 10, 2018

@330 Presented by DistilleryHeights Features Social Media,

On-Line Listings, Engaging Clients

Republic Bank PresentsSpring Opportunity Exchange

on Thursday, March 1st

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

2016 Chamber of the Year

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 3

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! | INTERNATIONAL TRIP: SEPTEMBER 15-26 | EARLY-BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE UNTIL MARCH 30, 2018

Experience the Best of Chile & Argentina During CLX International TripFor the eighth consecutive year, Commerce Lexington Inc. is pleased

offer a unique international travel opportunity for its members and thegeneral public. Commerce Lexington’s International Trip Series hastaken groups to China, Cuba, Vietnam/Cambodia, Dubai, Croatia, Sicily,and South Africa. In 2018, CLX will be offering yet another attractivedestination, which will enable travelers to take part in this popular grouptravel experience.

Commerce Lexington Inc. is partnering with Aventura World byCentral Holidays West for a 10-day, 9-night trip to Chile and Argentinafrom September 15-26, 2018. Revel in the energy and enthusiasm ofChile and Argentina on this journey from Santiago to Iguassu Falls. VisitSantiago de Chile, a truly cosmopolitan city with its colonial charm, neo-classical plazas and stylish neighborhoods.

Wind through the country lanes of the Mendoza region and beenchanted with its vineyards, wineries, mineral waters springs andbreathtaking Andes, Canyon and Valley views. Explore Buenos Aires,called the Paris of South America, with its cafes, tango shows, restau-rants, colonial sites and great shopping. Finally, discover the majesticIguassu Falls, the most magnificent waterfalls in the world!

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:Departing from Miami, the early-bird pricing (good until March 30,2018) for this once-in-a-lifetime trip is $4,599 per person (double occu-pancy) for CLX members, $4,699 per person (double occupancy) fornon-members, and includes hotels, most meals, day trips, and airfarefrom Miami.

TRIP INFORMATIONAL MEETING IS FEB. 21:If you'd like to learn more about this unique travel opportunity, aChile/Argentina Trip Informational Meeting will be held on Wednesday,February 21, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. in Commerce Lexington's first floorconference room (330 East Main Street). A representative fromAventura World by Central Holidays West will be on hand to discuss theitinerary and answer any questions that you may have. To attend thisInformational Meeting, RSVP to Lynda Bebrowsky at (859) 226-1611 orlbebrowsky@CommerceLexington.com.

A Collaborative Effort of the Bluegrass Business Development Partnership (BBDP):

SUBMITTED BY: Gina Greathouse, Hannah Crumrine, Kimberly Rossetti & Allison Boyd | CLX Economic Development Division

www.LocateinLexington.com | www.twitter.com/locateinlex | www.facebook.com/locateinlex

4 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Join Awesome Inc. for the first 5 Across event of 2018!Sponsored by the Bluegrass Business DevelopmentPartnership, 5 Across is a pitch contest for entrepre-neurs. 5 pitches, 5 minutes per pitch, $500 prize,5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., $5 cost (includes food). If youhaven’t checked out a 5 Across, make sure to attendthis fun entrepreneurial event. Mark your calendarsfor the 2018 dates.

2018 5 Across DatesFebruary 28 at 5:00 p.m.April 25 at 5:00 p.m.June 27 at 5:00 p.m.

August 29 at 5:00 p.m.October 24 at 5:00 p.m.

December 5 at 5:00 p.m. (Finals)

2018 Schedule for 5 Across Pitch Events

Commerce Lexington Inc. EconomicDevelopment Division: 2017 Year in Review

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 2017 GOAL ACTUAL

PROSPECTS (New, Existing, Start-ups) 150 154

EXISTING BUSINESS VISITS 160 160

SITE VISITS 25 30

PROSPECT LOCATIONS 25 27

CONSULTANT VISITS 200 191

DIRECT JOBS CREATED 1,000 681

AVERAGE WAGE $45,000 $62,540

CAPITAL INVESTMENT $100,000,000 $1,444,022,462

Over 2017, the Commerce Lexington economic development team sawincreased activity and worked with great companies. Here is a breakdown ofour goals and results from 2017, as well as a breakdown of the types of leadswe receive and the types of leads that located in Lexington.

Locations (2017)

1,463 Total JobsProject Leads (2017)

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 5

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

2017 New & Expanding Companies List

FIRM/ANNOUNCEMENT TYPE PRODUCT COUNTY REPORTEDINVESTMENT

DIRECTPLANNEDJOBS

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Ky. EXP. North American production support Scott $1,212,400,000 0

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Ky. EXP. North American production support Scott $120,960,000 0

SPARK NEW Entrepreneurial companies Fayette $57,193,486 270

EnerBlu, Inc. NEWHeadquarters and R&D facility for energy solutionscompany

Fayette $40,000,000 110

Florida Tile EXP. Corporate headquarters of tile manufacturer Fayette $3,524,000 12

Xooker, LLC EXP. Mobile marketing app developer Fayette $1,472,000 100

JR Buck Industries, LLC EXP. Custom metal fabrication services Fayette $1,300,000 10

Vebridge EXP.Enterprise content and business processing management firm

Fayette $1,193,967 20

TEC Biosciences NEWBiotech company focused on measurement ofmetabolomics

Fayette $1,000,000 4

AVENTICS Corporation USA EXP.Manufacturer of pneumatics components, systems,and applications

Fayette $861,830 20

Fooji EXP. Tech company connecting brands to consumers Fayette $754,795 41

Fusioncorp, LLC EXP. Software development company Fayette $747,150 8

KITO U.S.A. EXP. Manufacturer of robotic welding equipment Fayette $695,000 5

MosquitoMate EXP. Biotech manufacturerof ZAP mosquitos Fayette $535,040 12

MakeTime Inc. EXP. On-demand manufacturing marketplace platform Fayette $437,500 5

Molding Solutions EXP. Custom injection molders of plastic & rubber Fayette $366,758 6

hydra EXP. Homemade aromatherapy products manufacturer Fayette $285,000 26

Barnhill Enterprises, LLC EXP. Manufacturer of chimney caps and products Fayette $82,737 6

Old World Timber, LLC EXP. Manufacturer of reclaimed wood products Fayette $50,466 4

Visumatic Industrial Products Inc. EXP. Manufacturer of automated systems Fayette $41,802 5

The Apiary, LLC EXP. Event space and caterer Fayette $32,300 2

Bluegrass Tool & Industrial EXP. Supplier of industrial products Fayette $22,000 4

The Weekly Juicery EXP. Manufacturer of raw, cold-pressed juice Fayette $16,500 1

West Sixth Brewing Company EXP. Craft brewing operation Fayette $14,700 4

PowerTech Water, LLC EXP. Technology company for water production Fayette $14,495 2

Old World Timber, LLC EXP. Manufacturer of reclaimed wood products Fayette $14,240 3

ParaTechs Corp. EXP.Biotech company that offers innovative technolo-gies for easier & more cost effective research

Fayette $6,696 1

2017 TOTALS ----> INVESTMENT: $1,444,022,462 JOBS: 681

6 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Make Connections With Area Purchasing Professionals at Opp. ExchangeMARCH 1, 2018 | 4:30 - 6:30 P.M. | REPUBLIC BANK (333 W. VINE ST.)

Commerce Lexington Inc.’s next OpportunityExchange on Thursday, March 1, from 4:30 - 6:30p.m. at Republic Bank & Trust Company’s downtownlocation at 333 West Vine Street will feature great net-working and interaction forminority-owned and small busi-nesses in the Lexington commu-nity.

Several large companies andorganizations will have purchas-ing professionals on hand. Thefeatured speaker will be ShawnRogers, Director of the

Bluegrass Small Business Development Center, whowill talk about the services available through theSBDC. Shawn has more than 13 years of experiencehelping small businesses and working in economicdevelopment.

TO REGISTER:The cost to attend is $5 for Commerce Lexington Inc.members, and $10 for potential members. PleaseRSVP to Lauren Gross at lgross@commercelexing-ton.com.

SILVER SPONSOR:WUKY 91.3 FM

MBD PROGRAM SPONSORS:PRESENTED BY: Lexmark International, Inc.GOLD LEVEL: Community Trust Bank; Cumberland Valley National Bank; Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.;University of KentuckySILVER LEVEL: Messer ConstructionBRONZE LEVEL: Blue Grass Airport; Fifth Third Bank; LG&E & KUCONTRIBUTING LEVEL: Park Community Credit Union

PRESENTED BY:

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 7

PUBLIC POLICY

2018 Session is Underway; Gov. Bevin Releases Budget Proposal

State legislators have convened in Frankfort for the 2018 RegularSession of the Kentucky General Assembly. During the 60-day session,the primary focus will be formulating the next two-year state budget.Balancing the budget, as is required by the Constitution, will be anextremely difficult task this year. Significant costs for required contribu-tions to the financially troubled public pension systems and Medicaidexpansion are predicted to force severe cuts to remaining governmentalagencies and programs, including higher education. The lack of suffi-cient growth in state revenue to meet Kentucky's needs continues to bea chronic issue. These factors have put more pressure on the need fortax reform to stimulate economic growth and additional revenues.

It is yet to be seen if the internal leadership issues in the House willimpact the progress of legislative priorities, such as pension reform, taxreform and regulation reduction.

State legislators and other stakeholders continue to review and ana-lyze Governor Matt Bevin's budget proposal (HB 200). Any bill thatimpacts revenue must begin in the State House of Representatives. Inthe weeks ahead, members of the House Appropriations and ReviewCommittee will review specific aspects of the budget, hear testimonyfrom impacted agencies and groups, and then make decisions aboutany changes to the Governor’s budget bill.

Some of the Governor's proposed cuts, specifically to education part-ners like Fayette County Public Schools, the University of Kentucky and

Bluegrass Community and Technical College, are a concern because ofpotential economic and workforce development impacts on the region.Commerce Lexington Inc. will continue to closely monitor the budgetprocess and provide input to legislators when appropriate.

Some highlights of the Governor's $20 billionbiennium budget proposal include:

Revenue Projections: The Governor's Office estimates $570 million innew projected revenue for the next two years. This is not enough tocover required payments to the public employee pension systems,Medicaid expansion and other costs of state government.

Budget Cuts: To meet obligations and balance the budget, the Governorrecommends 6.25% cuts across most state agencies, with some exclu-sions for K-12 education and public safety agencies. He also eliminates70 programs, including several programs at the University of Kentucky.

Public Pension Systems: The Governor fully funds the state's actuarialrequired contributions to the public employee pension systems, allot-

SUBMITTED BY: Andi Johnson | CLX Chief Policy Officer & Director of Regional Engagement

SEE “STATE BUDGET PROPOSAL” ON PAGE 15

Every small business faces challenges.How do people find you? How do you com-municate with them once they find you? It’san age-old question for just about everybusiness owner. Once a customer hasfound you for the first time, how do you getthem to come back again and again? Afterall, the data indicates that the acquisitioncost of a brand new customer is far greaterthan a loyal regular who gives you repeatbusiness.

During the next Commerce LexingtonInc. @330 Series event presented byDistillery Heights on Tuesday, February 13,from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. at Commerce Lexington’s firstfloor conference room, Paul Novielli, theKentucky/Ohio Market Manager for Thryv, will helpensure that you’re getting the most out your socialmedia posts, keeping your business information up todate on-line, and better engaging your customers.

Are you doing everything within your power to but-ton up your posts in social media feeds, especiallyFacebook, that are now more competitive than ever,chock-full of local business promotions and messag-ing? Facebook is a great tool for connecting peopleacross the world with your business.

The web is great at aggregating large amounts ofdata and sharing it where it sees most fit. However,business information often changes regularly, so thatmeans there is likely inaccurate information being dis-tributed on-line about your business. Paul will high-light steps to take to ensure information about yourbusiness is correct on the web.

Finally, how do you effectively stay connected andengaged with your existing customer base? There arestill far too many businesses with valuable customer

data just sitting in an excel spreadsheet, oreven written down on paper. Businessesaren’t engaging with or reaching out tothose customers on a regular basis, whichis a lost opportunity and lost dollars com-ing in. Paul will discuss the ins and outs ofusing customer relationship management(CRM) software.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:Paul Novielli has over seven years of expe-rience in the field, three of which have comewith Thryv. He started with the company as

a sales representative and now runs the Kentucky andOhio based Thryv teams. He was also part of the lead-ership team that started the thryv only sales channel.Since then, Paul has overseen more than 100 busi-ness partnerships in the Ohio Valley Region, as Thryvcontinues to grow and help local business ownerssucceed in a complex marketplace.

ABOUT @330 SERIES:The @330 events provide a topical presentation thatis relevant to the success of entrepreneurs, businessowners and business professionals. They also allowmembers the opportunity to discuss ideas, share bestpractices, and work through challenges.

TO REGISTER:The @330 events are open to Commerce LexingtonInc. members at no charge. However, please registerfor the events by contacting Liz Bennett at (859) 226-1615 or lbennett@commercelexington.com.

EVENTS

8 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

@330: Social Media, Online Listings, Engaging Clients. Where to Begin?

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2018 | 3:30 - 5:00 P.M. | COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. (330 E. MAIN ST. - FIRST FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM)

PRESENTED BY:

GOLD SPONSOR:TravelHost of the Bluegrass

PAUL NOVIELLITHRYV

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 9

EVENTS

PRESENTED BY:

OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION SPONSOR:Saint Joseph Hospital & Saint JosephEast, part of KentuckyOne Health

PLATINUM SPONSORS:Baptist Health LexingtonKentucky Utilities Co.MCM CPA’s & AdvisorsThe McBrayer Law FirmStites & Harbison, PLLCUnified Trust CompanyWesBanco

GOLD SPONSORS:KLH EngineersLexington Legends

BRIEFING BOOK SPONSOR:J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC

NAMETAG SPONSOR:Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, LLP

WIFI/TEXT ALERT SPONSOR:Hanna Resource Group

CHARGING STATION SPONSOR:Friends of Coal

Emerging Leader Scholarship Applications Available for Boise Leadership Visit

Commerce Lexington Inc. is pleased toannounce that the 2018 Leadership Visit pre-sented by Central Bank & Trust Co. will take usto Boise, Idaho, from May 8 - 10, 2018. Knownas the City of Trees, Boise (pronounced Boy-see) is earning national acclaim like no othermid-sized city in America. Its quality of life hasattracted a thriving mix of high-tech, agribusi-ness and manufacturing businesses, along witha young, educated workforce to serve them.

According to the Boise Valley EconomicPartnership, Boise is the 99th-largest city in thenation with a county population of 392,365 and683,525 in the greater metropolitan area. It isthe hub of commerce, banking and governmentfor the state of Idaho and is located midwaybetween Salt Lake City and Portland. Idaho isamong the top five fastest-growing states in thenation.

With companies like HP, Micron, Simplot,Albertsons, the Boise Valley has an infrastruc-

ture of talent and expertise from a legacy oflarge corporate headquarters. Collectively, theworkforce is three years younger than thenational average. A full 40-percent of its work-force has earned college degrees. The area isalso home to more than 14 institutions of high-er education with a cumulative enrollment of50,000.

With a low cost of living and a pro-businessenvironment, Boise is attracting new compa-nies and entrepreneurs to the region. KPMGranked Boise the #1 city for lowest businesscosts in the Pacific U.S. in 2012, 2014 and 2016.

TO REGISTER:Registration is available now for the LeadershipVisit to Boise, Idaho, May 8-10, 2018. For registra-tion options and more information, visitwww.commercelexington.com/boise-2018.html.

Emerging LeaderScholarships Availablefor Boise, Idaho TripIn an effort to engage more emerging lead-ers, the Emerging Leader Scholarship wascreated to provide an opportunity for someof Lexington’s younger leaders and firsttime trip attendees, who may not otherwisehave the resources, to attend the annualLeadership Visit. Commerce Lexington Inc.wants to cultivate the energy and commit-ment these young leaders possess to driveinitiatives learned about, discovered anddiscussed in these cities once theLeadership Visit has ended and we are allback home. Individuals between the ages of25 and 39 are encouraged to apply for ascholarship assisting with the cost of the2018 Leadership Visit. Applications mustbe submitted by Thursday, February 22, at5 p.m. Applications and trip informationare posted on-line at www.commercelex-ington.com/boise-2018.html.

10 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

EVENTS

EMERGE 2018 Features Great Speakers & Sessions

TUESDAY, MARCH 27, 2018 | 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. | LEXINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

An outgrowth of a pastCommerce Lexington Inc.Leadership Visit, the fifth annu-al EMERGE Conference present-ed by Forcht Bank will engagethe next generation CentralKentucky leaders, connectingemerging leaders to each otherand to the community. The con-ference will take place onTuesday, March 27, atLexington Center from 8:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m. This full-day con-ference offers networking, aswell as education throughbreakout sessions in a variety oftracks, such as personal & pro-fessional development, as wellas community engagement.

Community Engagement:Solving Community•Hunger IssuesEmergence of Shared•EconomiesIssues Facing YP’s of Color•

Personal & ProfessionalDevelopment:

Get the Most from Emerge•Communicate with Stronger•Presence & CredibilityMake * Happen•Corporate Responsibility•Career Sculpting•Crowdsourced Topic TBA•

TO REGISTER:The cost to attend the confer-ence is $135 per person forCommerce Lexington Inc. mem-bers, and $160 for non-mem-bers, and includes a full-dayprogram, lunch, keynote speak-er, a copy of Jim Coleman’sbook, and reception. Savemoney by registering for a cor-porate table of ten for $1,000.To register on-line, visitwww.emergelexington.com ore-mail to rsvp@commercelex-ington.com.

LUNCHEON SPONSOR:Community Trust Bank

OPENING SPEAKER SPONSOR:Stoll Keenon Ogden, PLLC

RECEPTION SPONSOR:Dinsmore & Shohl

GOLD SPONSORS:Associations InternationalBallastBeam SuntoryKentucky Coal AssociationLexington LegendsLexus of LexingtonTraditional BankWesBanco

SILVER SPONSORS:Alltech | Bluegrass Community &Technical College | CMI Consulting |Lexington Clinic Foundation | LexmarkInternational | UK Federal Credit Union

MEDIA SPONSOR: iHeart Media Lexington

DESIGN SPONSOR: Lynn Imaging

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR: UK GattonCollege of Business & Economics

PRESENTED BY:

Justin PattonExecutiveLeadership Coach

Jim ColemanAuthorCut the Crap & Close the Gap

OPENINGSPEAKER

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Abby Vaughn$69,823

Top Producing Teams

Top Producing Individuals

Official Newsletter | VICTORY EDITION 2017

“What a fantastic time I hadleading Commerce LexingtonInc.’s Winner’s Circle cam-paign in 2017. For those ofyou who may not be as famil-iar with this initiative, theWinner’s Circle is our organi-zation’s annual fundraisingcampaign, which enlists thehelp of volunteers and cor-porate teams to sell spon-sorships. This program ishugely important toCommerce Lexington andhelps to enhance ourevents, programs andservices.

The Winner’s Circle began in Julywith its highest goal in the program’s15-year history. This was an extraordi-narily tough goal, but the volunteerscame through with flying colors, settingan all-time production record of$956,035 when we concluded inDecember. Our volunteers are absolute-ly incredible, and I would like to send aheartfelt thank you to the companyCEO’s and senior officials who allowtheir employees time to participate in

this effort.One of the key reasons for

the consistent success of TheWinner’s Circle program isthe support of the many pastchairs, who continue to stayinvolved, engage in events,and assist volunteers in theirsales efforts. Thank you to

the following Winner’sCircle past chairs, who arealways willing to step upwhen called upon: GuyHuguelet, Glenn Leveridge,Harry Richart, Nick Rowe,Stephen Hillenmeyer, Herb

Miller, Ann Bakhaus, Debbie Long, AlanStein, Terry McBrayer, Steve Grossman,Bill Lear and Luther Deaton.

Finally, thank you to our membercompanies who have supported TheWinner’s Circle by purchasing sponsor-ships or donating gifts to the effort.Your investment makes a big differencein the quality of programming that weare able to offer each year. It says a lotabout the confidence that you have inour organization with so many compa-nies supporting events year after year.”

PAULA HANSON2017 CHAIR

WINNER’S CIRCLE

Dean Dorton Allen Ford,PLLC

WINNER’S CIRCLE15years

Winner’s Circle volunteers, campaign leadership, and past Winner’s Circle chairs gathered at the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa in December to celebrate thesuccess of Commerce Lexington’s 2017 campaign. Pictured above are the top individual producers from the 2017 fundraising effort. (CLX Staff Photo)

Message from the 2017 Chair

$92,000 | Captain: Terri Stein

$72,332 | Captain: Abby Vaughn

$86,154 | Captains: Susan LanchoTeresa Haggard

#1

#1

#2

#2

#3

Cheryl Eadens$54,718

Todd Sallee$37,320

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 11

#3

Campaign Event PhotosWINNER’S CIRCLE 2017

WINNER’S CIRCLEBy The NumbersTOTAL PRODUCTION:$956,035TEAM PRODUCTION:Central Bank & Trust Co. ..........$92,000 Ky. American/Windstream........$86,154 Unified Trust Company.............$72,332 Leadership Lexington Alumni ...$67,002 Ambassadors.............................$65,966 University of Kentucky...............$63,385 Griffin Gate Marriott

Resort & Spa ........................$52,762 PNC Bank ..................................$49,348 WesBanco ..................................$46,755 Community Trust Bank .............$46,675Ky. Employers' Mutual Insurance ..$37,320 Friends of Commerce Lex. ........$34,038 Columbia Gas of Kentucky........$34,009 Kentucky Utilities Co. ................$32,257 Republic Bank & Trust ..............$32,030 CHASE / J.P. Morgan................$30,890 Forcht Bank ...............................$28,931 City National Bank.....................$26,061 SteinGroup, LLC ..........................$8,864 PBI Bank ......................................$4,027 Xooker ..........................................$3,868

Karen Lackey

Lisa Smith

Mike Runyon

Stephen Hillenmeyer

Don Hart

Larry Jones Jeannine Petell David Kidd Mark Ruddell

12 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

Gwen Hart

Brandi Mason

WINNER’S CIRCLEBy The NumbersTOP INDIVIDUALS:Abby Vaughn..............................$69,823Cheryl Eadens ............................$54,718Todd Sallee ................................$37,320Terri Stein ..................................$36,217Curtis Warren ............................$32,076Mark Ruddell .............................$30,913Tamara McCain .........................$28,179Allen McDaniel ..........................$26,500Maxine Lee.................................$26,071Victoria Carling ..........................$22,952Tyler White.................................$21,500Lisa Smith..................................$20,873David Kidd .................................$20,500Jeannine Petell ...........................$20,460Kelly Johns .................................$19,979Valeria Swope ............................$19,139Lisa Greer...................................$18,250Gwen Hart .................................$17,791Larry Jones .................................$17,045Emily Downey ............................$17,000Kristen Brown ............................$16,875Camden Skidmore.....................$16,500Jeff Koonce.................................$16,500Steve Deaton .............................$16,500Phil McConathy .........................$15,274Jeff Zinger ..................................$15,042Kathy Edwards ...........................$14,875Keith Preston .............................$14,633Susan Lancho ............................$14,455Angie Marshall...........................$13,380Perry Dunn.................................$10,979Teresa Haggard .........................$10,315

Fast FactsSPONSORSHIPS SOLD:

227NEW MEMBERS:

41TRUSTEE UPGRADES:

$15,000

Thank you to the following CLX membercompanies who donated gifts or hosted eventsduring the 2017 Winner’s Circle campaign!

21C Museum HotelA&W Restaurants, Inc.Advertising SpecialtiesAZURBella RoseBill Straus Photography, Inc.The Botany BayBrasabanaBreakout GamesCarson'sChocolate HollerClarion Hotel & Conference Center SouthClarion Hotel LexingtonThe Club at UK’s Spindletop HallCoit Cleaning & Restoration ServicesDudley’s on ShortEmbassy Suites at Lexington GreenGood Foods Co-opGriffin Gate Marriott Resort & SpaGrillfishHampton Inn Lexington Medical CenterHome2Suites by HiltonJ. Render's Southern Table & Bar

JA BizTownJohnny Carino’sJulie Quick Art StudioKebco Inc.Keeneland Association, Inc.Kentucky Eagle, Inc.Kentucky League of CitiesKentucky Lottery CorporationLexington Children's TheatreLexington LegendsLexington PhilharmonicLM Communications BroadcastMedia GroupMilward Funeral DirectorsPerspectives Inc.Ramsey's DinersThe Red MileScout and Molly'sTed’s Montana Grill (Summit at Fritz Farm)Willie's Locally KnownWindstream CommunicationsYMCA of Central Kentucky

Todd Sallee Curtis Warren

Lisa Parke, Cheryl Eadens & Abby Vaughn

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 13

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS!Ambassadors

Cheryl Eadens (Captain)Jacob SizemorePeyton Tierney

Central Bank & Trust Co.Terri Stein (Captain)

Karen LackeyKeith PrestonMatt Ratliff

Ashley RodgersMark Ruddell

CHASE / J.P. MorganMaxine Lee (Captain)

City National BankVictoria Carling (Captain)

Scott Carling

Columbia Gas of KentuckyLisa Smith (Captain)

Judy Cooper

Community Trust BankJeannine Petell (Captain)

Larry Jones

Forcht BankHouston Hall (Captain)

Tim AsbridgeSarah BrockGina FarmerDustin Million

Friends of Commerce Lex.Lisa Parke (Captain)

Jason BradleyMarilyn ClarkKathy EdwardsMelia Hord

Jodi Massey-Kenner

Griffin Gate MarriottResort & Spa

Gwen Hart (Captain)Susan Bunning

Don HartKelly Johns

Ky. American Water/Windstream

CommunicationsTeresa Haggard (Co-Captain)Susan Lancho (Co-Captain)

Perry DunnPhil McConathyValeria SwopeEllen Williams

Kentucky Employers’Mutual InsuranceTodd Sallee (Captain)

Kentucky Utilities Co.Curtis Warren (Captain)

Leadership Lex. AlumniTony Bonner (Captain)

Emily DowneyAllen McDanielMaggie MickHunter StoutTyler White

PBI BankCatherine Rincon (Captain)

Clay CollinsPeter CostichDebbie CoxJeanne ElderTracy HatfieldNella Hiens

Danielle HowardScott McCauleyPatty MitchellJohn Taylor

PNC BankDavid Kidd (Captain)

Brandon GreenJeff Zinger

Republic Bank & Trust Co.Tamara McCain (Captain)

Robert RuddickPhil Suiter

SteinGroup, LLCBrandi Mason (Captain)

Barry Stumbo

Unified Trust CompanyAbby Vaughn (Captain)

University of KentuckyLisa Greer (Captain)

Melanie BarberKristen BrownSteve DeatonLaurel MartinAngela PennAshley TabbJenny Wallace

WesBancoJeff Koonce (Captain)

Angie MarshallAbdul MuhammadCamden SkidmoreGeorge Wallace

XookerMike Runyon (Captain)

Marissa Bradley

14 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

ting $3.3 billion or 15% of General Fund expen-ditures to this problem. Pension reform isneeded to help control skyrocketing costs andimprove Kentucky's financial outlook. Thestate's financially troubled pension system isone of the worst-funded in the nation with anestimated $60 billion in unfunded liabilities. Ifnot dealt with, it will continue to impact thestate's bond rating and economic develop-ment efforts. Although a pension reform billhas yet to be introduced at the time of print, apackage is expected this session.

Education: The cuts apply to the state's baseappropriation to public colleges and universi-ties. The budget preserves funding levels forthe SEEK formula, which is the primary perpupil funding mechanism for K-12 education.Additionally, local school districts have beenasked to share in costs for employee healthinsurance, transportation and other needs forstudents and teachers by cutting administra-tive overhead or using local district reservefunds.

Policy Priorities: This proposal prioritizes fund-ing for a new adoption and foster care initia-tive, prosecutors, public advocates and othersocial services, opioid abuse, criminal justicesystem reforms to lower recidivism rates ratherthan building new prisons, workforce develop-ment capital projects ($100 million in bondfunding), and resources for law enforcementand fire fighters.

Debt: The Governor's budget holds down thepercentage of debt to less than 6%.

Tax Reform: Governor Bevin said tax reformwill be addressed in 2018. Although he did notprovide specifics on a plan or timeline, he saidit would be focused on making Kentucky com-petitive with surrounding states and attractingbusiness. Last week, testimony was given inthe Senate Health & Welfare Committee aboutincreasing the state's cigarette tax by $1.00 perpack.

In 2018, all 100 state House seats and 19Senate seats will be up for election. Frequently,controversial legislation is not considered untilafter the filing deadline on January 30. Thepace of legislative activity is expected to pick-up in February and March. The session isscheduled to conclude in April.

Other priority issues for CommerceLexington Inc. this session include support for:pension and tax reform, workers compensa-tion system reform, medical liability reform toimprove the healthcare economy, higher edu-

cation funding, essential skills legislation toencourage soft skills development in schoolsand continuing economic development incen-tives such as the angel investor tax credit pro-grams.

Commerce Lexington Inc. will be monitor-ing legislation and providing regular e-mailupdates throughout the session to keep youinformed about the issues impacting the busi-ness community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:If you have questions, need assistance witha policy issue, or would like to get involvedwith advocacy efforts, contact AndiJohnson, Chief Policy Officer and Directorof Regional Engagement, atajohnson@commercelexington.com or(859) 226-1614.

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 15

PUBLIC POLICY

STATE BUDGET PROPOSAL Continued from Page 7

Article by Tawanda Owsley, ExecutiveDirector, American Red Cross

On January 11, the Leadership Lexington classparticipated in Health and Human Services Day.What a wonderful way to kick off the New Year, aswe explored the complexities of healthcare and theneeds of our most vulnerable in our community.The class began the day at the new Whitaker BankYMCA, which showcases our community’s ability toensure that fitness and wellness are options for all,including our youth, seniors, and underserved.

The insight that Karen Hill of Baptist HealthLexington provided around the service delivery wasastounding. We are very fortunate to have health-care leaders in Lexington that are committed tocommunication and collaboration across all institu-tions. A panel discussion of leaders from LexingtonClinic offered an understanding from the uniqueposition of a healthcare professional that proved toeducate and prepare the audience on the changesand influences of national health care policies thatimpact care delivery for our community.

As a Kentucky resident, we all are concernedabout the substance abuse challenges and the opi-oid crisis. To be able to hear from Dr. KraigHumbaugh and Robert Walker on this very impor-tant and complex issue was a reality check for manyof us in the room. The personal testimony of Alex

Elswick of Voices of Hope provided hope of whatadequate recovery support can do to change ourspectrum around the opioid crisis. His personalstory was emotional and authentic.

The class ended the day visiting health andhuman service agencies covering a range of mis-sions. I was fortunate to visit two amazing organi-zations - the Family Care Center and the ChrysalisHouse. While at the Family Care Center, the high-light of the tour was a visit with a teenage mother,who is a client of the center and who this year,because of the education enrichment and childcareassistance, will be able to graduate with her classand is considering college as an option. TheChrysalis Center is an agency that supports givingpeople a second chance at parenthood and soberliving. This house provides the necessary transitionthat many need as they recover and rebuild theirlives.

The exploration of healthcare and understandingthe unmet needs of our most vulnerable and at riskpopulations made for an emotional day. Overall, it’simportant for everyone to be involved in the conver-sations about our health and supporting the non-profit agencies making the slightest difference inthe lives of others could mean the world of changefor our community.

2017-18 CLASS PRESENTED BY:

BRONZE SPONSORS:

BOOK SPONSOR:

PLATINUM SPONSORS:

Kentucky Employers’ MutualInsurance

KU - A PPL CompanyLexington Clinic FoundationToyota Motor Manufacturing,

Kentucky, Inc. Lexington History Museum

PRESENTATION SPONSOR:

KVC Kentucky

CONNECT

Mahan MultimediaWhere L ight Meets Stor y™

16 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

Leadership Lexington Class Studies Local Health & Human Services

2017-18 CLASS PRESENTED BY:

Leadership Central Ky. Class Explores Key Attributes of Jessamine CountyArticle by Susan Lancho, Manager - ExternalAffairs, Kentucky American WaterEntrepreneurism and reinvention were key themes

during Leadership Central Kentucky’s recent visit toJessamine County.

Our day included a stop at High Bridge on theKentucky River, once the highest railroad bridge inthe world. The bridge has changed throughout itshistory, but remains an engineering landmark, andthe refurbished park near it is a popular destinationfor visitors and locals alike.

A tour of Highbridge Springs Drinking Watershowed us how an entrepreneur who had bought aquarry to use for a storage business transformed aproblem into another thriving business. When helearned in the early 1980s that he needed to removethe spring water that kept flowing into his under-ground storage operation to keep his businessviable, he decided to bottle the water and sell it.

Our next stop was Lockmasters, a fourth-gener-ation, family-owned company that provides a varietyof locks for customers around the world and world-class lockmaster training for more than 1,000 stu-dents annually, with most of them representing the

U.S. military. Our tour of R.J. Corman RailroadGroup then demonstrated how a dynamic, hard-working, Nicholasville native started a one-backhoecompany in the early 1970s that is now a leading rail-road services provider with 1,500 employees nation-wide.

Our last two visits were to the Amcor Plasticsplant, where 230 employees make plastic bottles forwell-known products of all kinds that are shippedaround the world, and The Alternative Jewelry Shop,where artists Danny and Libby Barnes have madeand sold unique jewelry for 27 years.

Our class also learned that Jessamine County’sindustrial park is expanding, Brannon Crossing con-tinues to evolve with new businesses, the county’stourism efforts are being strengthened, and the his-toric Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park will likelysoon be proclaimed a national monument.

There is a lot of activity going on in JessamineCounty on many fronts, and it will be exciting to seeand learn from the impact that today’s efforts willhave on the county, region and beyond in the yearsto come.

PLATINUM SPONSOR:

GOLD SPONSOR:

Kentucky American Water

SILVER SPONSORS:

Ale-8-OneKentucky Bank

LUNCH SPONSOR:

R.J. Corman Railroad Group

CONNECT

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 17

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Chuck Powers, LexingtonInsurance Agency

Commerce Lexington Inc. Announces2018 Ambassador Committee Members

Chuck PowersLexington Insurance Agency465 East High Street, Suite 101Lexington, KY 40507Phone: (859) 253-6570chuck@lexingtoninsuranceagency.com

About Lexington Insurance: LexingtonInsurance was started by Garvis Kincaid in1952, fast forward to 2004, the agency waspurchased from the estate by four personsworking in the agency offering all lines ofinsurance including benefits and bonds.

About Living in Lexington: He said, “As aresident for over 30 years, it still amazes me what Lexington isdeveloping, achieving, the diversity of efforts, opportunities,and the feeling of cooperation which exist, CommerceLexington assists and promotes this activity.”

About Serving as an Ambassador: “Being involved withCommerce Lexington as an Ambassador, I get a chance to bragabout Lexington to others and be informed about other busi-nesses,” said Powers. “Attending events such as @330, BOABgroups, and Business Link are practical, educational, andinformative. With many events priced at a low cost to attend, awide range of opportunity exists for members regarding theirlevel of commitment and involvement.”

CHUCK POWERSLEXINGTONINSURANCEAGENCY

Commerce Lexington Inc. Staff ReportThe 2017-18 Leadership Lexington Youth class spon-

sored by UK HealthCare explored the topics of arts andmedia on January 10th. The day began at LexingtonPublic Library’s Eastside Branch with a welcome fromBranch Manager and Leadership Lexington (adult) classmember Rob Parmley.

Next, a panel focusing on media was moderated byRichard Copley (Lexington Herald-Leader) and featuredRufus Friday (President and Publisher, H-L Media),Emily Ho (Blogger, Authentically Emmie), Lezell Lowe(Radio Host, Key Conversations), and Richard Young(Co-Creator, CivicLex) discussing the changing natureof media and its impact on community.

Class members then relocated to the KentuckyTheatre to learn about the making of the film, “Ghost inthe Family,” which was written, filmed and produced inLexington, including the cast, screenwriter/director andproducer. The next stop for the class was Latitude ArtistCommunity followed by the Lyric Theatre & CulturalArts Center. During lunch, students had the opportuni-ty to eat in groups with local artists.

The class relocated to the Lexington Children’sTheatre for the afternoon portion of the day. Theyreceived a tour of LCT and saw a rehearsal for “WhyMosquitoes Buzz.” Then, the class broke into twogroups for activity sessions with Bluegrass Youth Balletand Bucket Drumming/Community Drum Circle. Forthe final activity of the day, the class traveled back to theEastside Branch to hear a performance by DevineCarama, a local hip hop artist, community activist, andmotivational speaker, who challenged the class to thinkabout what leadership looks like in 2018.

Leadership Lexington Youth: Arts & Media Day Recap

BEVERAGE SPONSOR:

Ale-8-One

2017-18 CLASS PRESENTED BY:

BRONZE SPONSORS:

PLATINUM SPONSORS:

Central Bank & Trust Co.Sleep Outfitters

Toyota Motor Manufacturing,Kentucky, Inc.

Read More About Our Ambassadors at www.CommerceLexington.com > Connect > Volunteer Opportunities

Ambassadors represent Commerce Lexington Inc. by educating its memberson benefits, and to serve as a liaison between the organization and its mem-bers. They also represent the organization at ribbon cuttings and other events.

Laura Adams, Schrader Commercial Properties (Committee Chair)Melanie Barber, Uuniversity of Kentucky Career CenterShawn Blades, BB&TJohn Brandon, Raymond JamesGreg Brown, C-Forward Inc.Amy Caudill, Kentucky American WaterJulia Cedergren, U.S. BankCheryl Eadens, Bluegrass Office SystemsDwayne Edwards, Integrity ITLesley Fluke, First Security BankMichelle Gill, TownePlace Suites Lexington South/HamburgLaura Henry, Energy Insurance AgencyKristy Maggard, Dupree Financial GroupEli Mertens, TravelHost of the BluegrassJake Michul, Bingham Greenebaum Doll LLPKenneth Miller, Coffee NewsCrystal Newton, Bates SecurityDonnie Niehaus, Ward, Hocker & Thornton, PLLCMegan Niespodziany, Dinsmore & Shohl LLPSusie Patrick, LM Communications Broadcast Media GroupBerry Popp, Town Square BankChuck Powers, Lexington Insurance AgencyTodd Sallee, Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance (KEMI)Jacob Sizemore, Sizemore Strategic SolutionsPeyton Tierney, Northwestern MutualBecky Trimble, Lexington Convention CenterKelly Tudor, KentuckyOne HealthMelanie White, Manpower of Central Kentucky

Another Man's Treasure, Inc.Furniture DealersMain Contact: Dottie Gibbs2550 Regency RoadLexington, KY 40503Phone: (859) 296-5991www.anothermanstreasurefurniture.com

Apex Mobility ProductsMedical Supplies/EquipmentMain Contact: Kim Williams318 Fielding RoadVersailles, KY 40383Phone: (859) 873-5049

Association for Linen ManagementAssociationsMain Contact: Linda Fairbanks138 N. Keeneland Dr., Suite DRichmond, KY 40475Phone: (859) 624-0177www.almnet.org

AVI SystemsAudio Visual Equipment & ServicesMain Contact: Lisa Ratliff7139 East Kemper RoadCincinnati, OH 45249Phone: (513) 578-6564www.avisystems.com

The Benefits FirmInsuranceMain Contact: William Fowler620 South Third Street, Suite 102 Louisville, KY 40202Phone: (502) 451-4560www.thebenefitsfirm.com

Bluegrass IIBA ChapterNon-Profit OrganizationsMain Contact: Judeth Tarter1588 Leestown Rd., Suite 130-111Lexington, KY 40511www.bluegrass.iiba.org

Brian Tooley RacingAuto Parts & Supplies-NewMain Contact: Stacie Mudd2100 Filiatreau LaneBardstown, KY 40004Phone: (888) 959-8865www.briantooleyracing.com

Bridgepointe at Ashgrove WoodsAssisted LivingMain Contact: Tracy Byrne5220 Grey Oak LaneNicholasville, KY 40356Phone: (859) 885-3000www.bridgepointeassistedcare.com

Carter Construction & RenovationConstruction-RemodelingMain Contact: Carter Rowland736 Graftons Mill LaneLexington, KY 40509Phone: (859) 396-6330www.ccrlex.com

Crown CastleTelecommunicationsMain Contact: Renee Morales10170 Linn Station RoadLouisville, KY 40202Phone: (502) 681-8460http://crowncastle.com

Delta 2 Corp.Economic DevelopmentMain Contact: David Banks110 West Vine St., Suite 311Lexington, KY 40511Phone: (859) 396-3924www.jcareysmith.com

Element DesignEngineers - CivilMain Contact: Ramona Fry366 S. BroadwayLexington, KY 40508Phone: (859) 389-6533www.element-site.com

Employee Benefit Associates, Inc.InsuranceMain Contact: Gregory Humkey1029 Monarch St., Suite 130Lexington, KY 40513Phone: (859) 422-4242www.ebaky.com

The Finishing TouchJewelers & Jewelry DesignMain Contact: Bobby Holman109A MacArthur CourtNicholasville, KY 40356Phone: (859) 885-4720www.tftofky.com

Frankfort Chiropractic CenterChiropractors D.C.Main Contact: Jason Luking103 Twin Oaks Drive #2Frankfort, KY 40601Phone: (502) 875-3200www.frankfortchiro.com

Glancy, JacobIndividualsMain Contact: Jacob Glancy759 Longwood RoadLexington, KY 40503Phone: (859) 948-2326www.glancyfor9th.com

God's Pantry Food BankNon-Profit OrganizationsMain Contact: Michael Halligan1685 Jaggie Fox WayLexington, KY 40511Phone: (859) 255-6592www.godspantryfoodbank.org

Goff Tents, Inc.TentsMain Contact: Tiffany Goff152 Commerce DriveNicholasville, KY 40356Phone: (859) 887-5272www.gofftents.com

InsuranceWorksInsuranceMain Contact: David Shaw103 Wind Haven Dr., Suite 200Nicholasville, KY 40356Phone: (859) 225-9195www.insuranceworksky.com

The Kentucky CastleHotels/MotelsMain Contact: Brian Adkins230 Pigsah PikeVersailles, KY 40383Phone: (859) 256-0322www.thekentuckycastle.com

Kentucky Telecom AssociationTelecommunicationsMain Contact: Tyler Campbell305 Ann Street, Suite 202Frankfort, KY 40601Phone: (502) 699-2206www.ktaoffice.org

MetroNetCommunicationsMain Contact: Paula Wolfe3701 Communications WayEvansville, IN 47715Phone: (812) 213-1060www.metronetinc.com

MosquitoMate, IncPest ControlMain Contact: Stephen Dobson2520 Regency RoadLexington, KY 40503Phone: (859) 488-1125www.mosquitomate.com

Movement MortgageMortgagesMain Contact: Nick Adams2704 Old Rosebud Road #230Lexington, KY 40509Phone: (859) 214-6029www.movement.com/10/nick-adams

My Three Sons ProfessionalPainting ServicePainting ContractorsMain Contact: Keith Zafren2223 Reserve CourtLexington, KY 40514Phone: (859) 321-7344www.mythreesonspainting.com

Omnivue Business SolutionsBusiness ConsultantsMain Contact: Sean Nichols1053 Henderson DriveLexington, KY 40515Phone: (404) 944-6892www.omnivue.net

PeopleReadyEmployment-Temporary HelpMain Contact: Beth Murphy565 E. New Circle Rd., Suite 2Lexington, KY 40505Phone: (859) 225-8592www.peopleready.com

The Potter's Clay LLCHair Salon/Day SpaMain Contact: John Hendricks164 Plaza Drive ABerea, KY 40403Phone: (859) 986-0313

Select Auto SalesAuto Dealers-UsedMain Contact: Rachelle Berington455 Versailles RoadFrankfort, KY 40601Phone: (502) 695-8900www.selectautoky.com

Selma's Catering & EventsCaterersMain Contact: Selma Owens720 Henry Clay Blvd.Lexington, KY 40505Phone: (859) 971-2763www.selmascatering.com

TownePlace Suites by Marriott -Lexington Keeneland/AirportHotels/MotelsMain Contact: Caroline Dollar980 Midnight PassLexington, KY 40513Phone: (859) 368-9491www.marriott.com/LEXTW

The Urban SquirrelStorageMain Contact: Christie Evans203 Lisle Industrial Ave.Lexington, KY 40511Phone: (859) 382-2265www.theurbansquirrel.co

Welcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. members for the period of Dec. 18, 2017 through Jan. 22, 2018

18 BUSINESS FOCUS FEBRUARY 2018

NEW MEMBERS

ABEL Construction Company recently hired TroyFraley, PMP, as director of operations for theLexington office.

Advertising Specialties recently welcomed SadieLatham as new sales executive and client relationsspecialist.

Bingham Greenebaum Doll LLP announced P.Branden Gross has been named the new managingpartner of the Lexington office.

Central Bank & Trust Co. announced the selectionof eight new members to its Lexington AdvisoryBoard, including Dennis Anderson (AndersonProperties), Ray Ball (Ball Homes), Crinda Francke(Executrain of Kentucky), Steve Heller (AtchisonHeller Construction), retired Kentucky SupremeCourt Judge Mary Noble, Nick Rowe (KentuckyAmerican Water), Nick Strong (Old ColonyInsurance), and Bill Thomason (KeenelandAssociation).

Central Bank & Trust Co. announced the promo-tion of Jason Smith to senior vice president, creditadministration and Ellen Sharp to senior vice pres-ident, special assets.

Community Trust and Investment Companyannounced H. Trigg Mitchell has joined CTIC’sWealth and Trust Management team as vice presi-dent, relationship officer for private wealth services.

Denham-Blythe Company: Marty Trimble wasappointed to the board of directors of the Lexington-based construction and design company.

Dickinson Wright PLLC attorney Emma Wolfe hasbeen elected as a new Member to the firm’sLexington office.

Laura D’Angelo Holoubek, a partner in Dinsmore’sLexington office, has been elected to serve on theboard for Equestrian Events, Inc., a Kentucky non-profit supporting development of horses and ridersin sports.

Adam Johnson, senior director of KentuckyBourbon Trail experiences, was recently elected tothe board of directors of Horse Country. Re-electedto the board were Allison Bishop (Claiborne Farm)and Price Bell, Jr. (Mill Ridge Farm).

Jackson Kelly PLLC announced that firm membersMichael Leahey, Kristin White and Robert Tweelwere elected to three-year terms on its ExecutiveCommittee.

Keller Williams Greater Lexington announced thefollowing new agents: Karen Bishop, Chris Johnson,Kendra Jarnagin, and Marissa Stevens.

Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced thatRob Samuels, chief operating officer at Maker’sMark Distillery, has been named chairman of the

KDA’s Board of Directors for 2018. Other boardmembers include: Pauline Rooney (Diageo); JosephJ. Magliocco (Michter’s); Campbell Brown (Brown-Forman); Ryan Ashley (Four Roses); and EarlHewlette (O.Z. Tyler).

The Society for Human Resource Management(SHRM) presented the Kentucky Chapter of SHRMand 11 other affiliates with its Pinnacle Award —the highest honor given to SHRM state councilsand chapters for notable contributions to thehuman resource profession. Kentucky SHRMrecently created an initiative called Bridging theTalent Gap-Kentucky to bring together industry,governmental and education leaders to addressrecruiting problems of many companies.

Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) recentlyhonored outgoing AWI board member and long-standing volunteer John Leininger, President &CEO of Leininger Cabinet & Woodworking, Inc.,with the prestigious President’s Award, recognizinghis service to the organization and the industry.

Lexington-Bluegrass Association of Realtors (LBAR)announced its 2018 officers and board of directors.Officers include John Groft (RE/MAX CreativeRealty in Lexington), president; Al Blevins (CaswellPrewitt Realty, Inc.), president-elect; and KristyGooch (RE/MAX Elite Realty), treasurer. The 2018LBAR board of directors include Nancy Allison,Greg Back, Ty Brown, Greg Buchanan, Anne HartCornett, Sha Fister, Mike Gooch, Alicia Huff, ToddHyatt, Amanda Marcum, Randy Newsome, KelleyNisbet, and Rusty Underwood.

Lexington Podiatry announced that Dr. Jamie Carterbecame a partner with owner Dr. Nicole Freels,FACFAOM. Meanwhile, Katherine Kubarek, APRN,was promoted to clinical director, and Dr. AmyBarko, CWSP, is now credentialed for surgery atBaptist Health and Saint Joseph East, in addition toThe Surgery Center.

Preston Clark Worley, an attorney with TheMcBrayer law firm, was recently appointed to theLexington-Fayette Urban County Council, filling the7th District seat left vacant when CouncilmemberJennifer Scutchfield resigned to become assistantdirector of the Kentucky Board of Elections.

The McBrayer law firm announced that seven of thefirm’s attorneys received the Super Lawyers distinc-tion for 2018: Steve Amato, Emily Cowles, CindyEffinger, Jim Frazier, Calvin Fulkerson, Rob Maclin,and Jack Wheat. Emily Cowles has remained onthis list for more than five years, and this year wasrecognized as one of the Top 50 attorneys inKentucky, as well as one of the Top 25 womenlawyers. Additionally, McBrayer attorneys BrittanyRoethemeier and Ross Ewing remain on the list ofRising Stars for 2018, where they were joined by newassociate Amber Knouff.

Al Isaac, president of NAI Isaac, has been named tothe NAI Global Leadership Board AdvisoryTaskforce, which institutes the strategic initiativesof the Executive Leadership Committee and assiststhe Strategic Leadership Committee in researching,vetting and aligning the strategic initiatives with thegoals and objectives of NAI professionals.

Leslie Moore of Precision Staffing, Inc., has beenselected as the 2018 president-elect for theBluegrass Chapter of the Society for HumanResource Management, where she has served asthe wellness director for the last two years.

Stites & Harbison, PLLC attorney Walt Robertsonwas recently elected to the board of directors of theThoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, a nonprofitorganization with the mission to accredit, inspectand provide grants to approved aftercare organiza-tions to retire, retrain and rehome Thoroughbredhorses.

T. Potter Advertising: Susan Scott has joined itsteam as vice president, client services.

Transylvania University was once again named byKiplinger’s Personal Finance as one of the nation’sBest College Values. The magazine’s ranking recog-nizes schools for both academic quality and afford-ability, specifically measuring factors such as four-year graduation rate, total cost and financial aid.

Longtime University of Kentucky Professor ofMarketing Steven J. Skinner has been named theinterim dean of the University of Kentucky’s GattonCollege of Business and Economics.

WealthSouth, a division of Farmers National Bankof Danville, recently promoted Sam Pollom to vicepresident, director of operations and compliance.

Women Leading Kentucky recently welcomed newboard members Susie Basham (Colwell Realty),Jeannine Petell (Community Trust Bank), andAngela Lang (UK Healthcare).

Business Name Changes:Enderle Besten Dieruf, PLLC announced a firmname change to Besten & Dieruf, PLLC.

Benefit Insurance Marketing has rebranded as BimGroup.

Hilton Lexington Suites is now Embassy Suites atLexington Green.

Post Time Studios has changed its name to WrigleyMedia Group.

SUBMIT PERSONNEL NEWS:Submit your company’s awards, personnelchanges, additions, or promotions for BusinessFocus to mturner@CommerceLexington.com.Information is published in the order received & asspace permits.

FEBRUARY 2018 BUSINESS FOCUS 19

PERSONNEL ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. UPCOMING EVENTS

Commerce Lexington Inc.330 East Main Street, Suite 100P.O. Box 1968Lexington, KY 40588-1968

PeriodicalPostage PAIDat Lexington,Kentucky

FEBRUARY 2018:Business Link presented and hosted by Blue Grass Airport(4000 Terminal Drive), 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

2018 Economic Outlook Conference sponsored by CentralBank, 8 a.m. - Noon, at Lexington Center. Registration detailson-line at http://Gatton.uky.edu/economic-outlook.

Leadership Lexington Youth Program presented by UKHealthCare: Ambassadors for Change Day Session.

Leadership Lexington co-presented by Child Care Council ofKy./McGregor & Associates, Inc.: Government Day.

@330 Series presented by Distillery Heights, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.,at CLX first floor conference room. - SEE PAGE 8

Leadership Central Kentucky presented by LG&E & KU Energyat Madison County.

The Best of Chile & Argentina International Trip InformationalEvent, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m., at Commerce Lexington Inc.’s firstfloor conference room. - SEE PAGE 3

MARCH 2018:Opportunity Exchange presented & hosted by Republic Bank(333 West Vine St.), 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. - SEE PAGE 6

Leadership Lexington Youth Program presented by UKHealthCare: Higher Education & Career Day Session.

Leadership Lexington co-presented by Child Care Council ofKy./McGregor & Associates, Inc.: Economic Development Day.

@330 Series presented by Distillery Heights, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.,at Commerce Lexington’s first floor conference room.

Leadership Central Kentucky presented by LG&E & KU Energyat Woodford County.

New Member Luncheon presented by WindstreamCommunications, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at CommerceLexington Inc.’s first floor conference room.

EMERGE Conference presented by Forcht Bank at LexingtonCenter, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - SEE PAGE 10

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