NKY Business Journal Fall 2017

BUSINESS JOURNAL OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FALL 2017

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

IT’S IN THE BAG THE CONNECTOR P. 14 BE TRAVEL SAVVY THIS WINTER P. 22 SHOPPING LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS P. 24

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CONTENTS FALL 2017 VOLUME 36, NUMBER 4

4 Outgoing Chair’s Letter 6 Chair’s Letter 8 Getting the Most Out of Your Chamber 10 2017-2018 NKY Chamber Board 12 Cooper Steps Up to Lead NKY Chamber 14 The Connector 18 Holiday Helpers 20 Safe & Healthy Holiday Meals

— The chance to play a role in making Northern Kentucky a better place to live, work and raise a family is one I couldn’t turn down.

— BRENT COOPER PRESIDENT AND CEO, NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PHOTO: Steven Thomas, Photographic Memories LLC

22 Be Travel Savvy This Winter 24 Shopping Local for the Holidays 26 Around The Chamber Photos 28 Ribbon Cuttings 32 Member Milestones 36 Emerging 30 38 Events

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 3

OUTGOING CHAIR’S LETTER

Your Chamber has been very busy leading, connecting and advocating to ensure a vibrant economy in the Northern Kentucky region.

By Bob Heil CEO, KLH Engineers Immediate Past Chair, NKY Chamber of Commerce

WE’VE ALL SAID IT AT SOME POINT in our lives: “time is going by so fast!” If you’re sitting around doing nothing, time seems to just creep along; and if you’re busy, time seems to fly. Well, this past year, serving as the Chair of the Chamber, seems to have flown by at supersonic speed. And for good reason! Your Chamber has been very busy leading, connecting and advocating to ensure a vibrant economy in the Northern Kentucky region.

Last fall, we launched the new look for this publication. I hope you have found the new format more appealing and the content to be refreshing. We followed with arguably the most successful legislative session in the Chamber’s history with many of the Chamber’s longtime advocacy positions enacted into law. The right-to-work legislation signaled to businesses in the U.S. and abroad that Kentucky is open for business. We immediately saw the difference that can make with Amazon’s announcement of a $1.4 billion investment at CVG Airport.

PAGE 4

But those are the big things that get the big headlines. Day to day, the Chamber staff and volunteers deliver programs and events that range from “Learning to Speak Spanish for Business” to an all-day Women’s Initiative Summit.

When you look at some of the numbers you can see that the Chamber staff and volunteers have been very busy:

• • • • • • • • •

800+ members benefitted from programs focused on business growth 30+ events related to workforce with over 1,700 attendees 4 job fairs 141 member companies benefitted from workforce consults Certified over 5,000 exports shipped by 57 companies to 45 countries around the globe 6 NKITA events to bolster international trade in the region 300+ attendees at the second annual Women’s Initiative Regional Summit 200+ new Chamber members 1,000+ at this year’s Annual Dinner

Brent brings boundless energy to the Chamber.

And now we start a new fiscal year with Brent Cooper at the helm. Brent brings boundless energy to the Chamber – energy that I am confident will result in even greater impact for small and large businesses, alike. The Chamber is poised to be a prominent leader in Northern Kentucky as our region embraces the opportunities presented to us. I hope you find your own way to come along with us on this journey because “it’s time.” It’s time to make Northern Kentucky one of the most desired places in the U.S. to live, work and play. NKY

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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CHAIR’S LETTER

again to these outstanding award recipients! We appreciate all that you do in our community! I also want to thank our chamber board members and our many committee volunteers who really drive our chamber’s success. They are amazing volunteers!

By Rhonda Whitaker Director of Community and Government Relations, Duke Energy Chair, NKY Chamber of Commerce

Changing just one life is meaningful.

Changing many lives is extraordinary.

AS WE HEAD INTO THE LAST quarter of this calendar year, as well as into the beginning of our chamber’s new fiscal year, it’s a good time to reflect on the significance that business and community volunteers play in impacting the health of our overall community and economy. By health, I’m referring to the quality of life, the vibrancy of the community and the available resources to help our friends and neighbors thrive. And I’d like to personally thank those volunteers who we honored at our annual dinner. If you haven’t read their stories of personal contribution, I urge you to do so. Congratulations

PAGE 6

We are very fortunate to live in a region that has one of the most successful United Way’s across the country. We are fortunate that so many businesses and individuals contribute to their annual campaign and offer time and talent to move their initiatives forward for the greater good of our community.

We are just as fortunate to have a strong arts community, supported by ArtsWave; their regional campaign ensures that the arts can continue to thrive in our region.

I’m looking forward to working with our president of Duke Energy Ohio and Duke Energy Kentucky, Jim Henning, who will lead the 2018 ArtsWave campaign for our region. Many local businesses should be thanked for their employees who stepped up over the years to lead these and other important community campaigns. There are many studies that show how having strong social service and arts programs greatly contribute to building a strong local economy and a place where businesses want to locate.

The support of these types of initiatives and resources are important to the employee base within many companies, as well. Many employees value strong corporate citizenship by their employers.

If we stop and think about it, all of us have been impacted in one way or another through the services provided by our strong local nonprofits.

And while our community has been very generous in contributing financially to the aforementioned and many other local nonprofit campaigns, I am always amazed at the sheer number of volunteers in our region that choose to get involved by providing time to

these organizations. From individuals to company employees, there is a wealth of caring people in this region.

It’s time to grow the momentum around moving our economy forward.

I’d like to see how we can harness that spirit and passion in the coming year to do even more good work in our community. Specifically, it’s time to grow the momentum around moving our economy forward. Why? Because a healthy economy affords more possible contributions and more possible volunteers to support the needs of our community.

It’s easy to get burned out as a volunteer. I know; I’ve personally volunteered on behalf of Duke Energy, and with other former employers, or just as an individual, for over 30 years in this region, and for a short stint of five years in the Indianapolis region. But after all of these years, I have found the personal rewards far outweigh the investment of time. Changing just one life is meaningful.

Changing many lives is extraordinary.

Our Chamber needs to ensure our efforts are extraordinary, driving our economy forward and positively impacting the lives of many in this community. We can only do this with the support of great volunteers.

Won’t you join us? Please let me or Brent Cooper know if we can count on your engagement in this coming fiscal year. NKY

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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BENEFITS

Getting the Most Out of Your Chamber

By Lynn Abeln VP Membership, NKY Chamber

The NKY Chamber is known for its emphasis on making connections between members to encourage collaboration, business development and community engagement. And with that, the NKY Chamber offers members numerous opportunities to promote their business to other members, many of which are at little to no cost. Check out these FREE ways you can take advantage of your membership to promote your business to other members. #Lead #Connect #Advocate Member of the Day Each weekday, the Chamber highlights a different member company via our various digital outlets - Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and our email newsletter. This is a great way to shine a light on the services your company offers. Interested in being spotlighted as the Member of the Day? Contact Joni Huffmyer at jhuffmyer@nkychamber.com.

Email Newsletter Submit press releases for inclusion in the Chamber’s electronic newsletter that reaches over 12,000 contacts each week.

Highlight your company’s recent accomplishments, honors, upcoming events, or product releases. To have your press release included in a Chamber e-newsletter, email your press release (Word document files, please), along with a photo, to info@nkychamber.com with “Member News” in the subject line.

Member Milestones Publish news about your organization’s promotions, appointments, new jobs and awards in the NKY Business Journal, the NKY Chamber’s quarterly magazine. Milestones are 250 characters or less and photos should be 300 dpi and of good quality. Send your Milestone by email to info@ nkychamber.com with “Member Milestones” in the subject line.

PAGE 8

Member Coupons / Discounts Promote your business by offering coupons or discounts to other Chamber members only, or anyone who views the Chamber’s online business directory. Have an offer you’d like to share? Members can share coupons and discounts, at no charge.

Ribbon Cuttings Celebrate a unique or memorable event related to your business with a ribbon cutting. This ceremonial event can be shared with customers, prospects, friends, business neighbors, referral partners, among others. Chamber staff and ambassadors will provide the ribbon, big scissors and camera to capture the special moment. Your photos will be published in the NKY Business Journal. Contact Lynn Abeln at labeln@ nkychamber.com to schedule your ribbon cutting today.

Networking Events Free networking events like the Chamber’s Business After Hours or the Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour are a great way to meet new people and enhance your business relationships.

NKY

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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LEADERSHIP

2017-2018 NKY Chamber Board of Directors

RHONDA WHITAKER Chair of Board Duke Energy

JAMES PARSONS Chair- Elect Keating Muething & Klekamp PLLC

ROBERT HEIL Past Chair of Board KLH Engineers, PSC

PHILIP SCHWORER Treasurer Frost Brown Todd

GERALYN ISLER Secretary Business Benefits Insurance Solutions

2017-2018 Executive Committee Members

WONDA WINKLER Vice Chair, Women’s Initiative Brighton Center Inc.

DAN CAHILL Vice Chair, Business Growth & International Trade HORAN

JOHN NIENABER Vice Chair, Advocacy Heritage Bank

JASON PAYNE Vice Chair, Leadership LNK Advisory Council Republic Bank

DUSTIN DICHIARA Vice Chair, Workforce Chick-Fil-A

SHELLEY FUNKE-FROMMEYER Vice Chair, Membership Waddell & Reed

Chair-appointed Executive Committee Members

MARK EXTERKAMP BB&T

PAGE 10

JAY WUEST PNC Bank

GREG GREENE Strategic Advisers

DAVE SPAULDING Turner Construction

JOHN HAWKINS Pathfinder/MPI Consultants

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

LEADERSHIP

Elected Members

SHANNAN BOYER Scooter Media Company, LLC

MATT BOWEN Fidelity Investments

PAUL HEMMER Paul Hemmer Companies

MICHAEL HALL Citi

TOM PREWITT Graydon Head

RICHARD TIBERI 5/3 Bank

TIM SLAUGHTER Castellini Group of Companies

CARRI CHANDLER St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Edgewood

RICHARD FIELD Post Glover

MELISSA LUTZ Champlin Architecture

RYAN HEITKAMP ARMOR USA

PAUL RITTER CTI

ALAN MAJCHRZAK DHL

CAROLINE WELTZER Viox & Viox

Standing Members

CANDACE MCGRAW Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

PAUL MEIER City of Crestview Hills

GARREN COLVIN St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Edgewood

JAY BREWER Superintendent Dayton City Schools NKCES

DR. FERNANDO FIGUEROA Gateway Community and Technical College

DAVID ARMSTRONG Thomas More College

GERRY ST. AMAND Northern Kentucky University

ELIZABETH FRICKE Legacy, Children Inc.

One Year Appointments

JORDAN HUIZENGA Children Inc.

JOHN HENGELBROK Baker Stamping

BRIAN JONES C.K. Ash Insurance

PAMELA SCHMITT RiverPoint Capital Management

PATRICK HUGHES DBL Law

LAURA LYONS ATech Automotive Tech

MATT OLLIGES Zalla Companies

CHARLIE VANCE Erigo Employers Solutions

KATRINA WARD Huntington Bank

Ex-Officio Members

JUDGE EXECUTIVE GARY MOORE Boone County Fiscal Court

JUDGE EXECUTIVE STEVE PENDERY Campbell County Fiscal Court

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

JUDGE EXECUTIVE KRIS KNOCHELMANN Kenton County Fiscal Court

ERIC SUMME meetNKY, Northern Kentucky CVB

DANIEL TOBERGTE Northern Kentucky Tri-ED

PAGE 11

FEATURE STORY

Cooper Steps Up to Lead NKY Chamber

By Rachel Folz Director of Digital Marketing, Cerkl

IT’S SHAPING UP TO BE A VERY EXCITING FALL FOR MEMBERS AND STAFF AT THE NKY CHAMBER. Local entrepreneur and longtime Chamber advocate Brent Cooper was named President & CEO of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce in late August.

Brent Cooper was born in Rowan County, Kentucky, just a few minutes away from Daniel Boone National Forest. After high school, he headed northwest to University of Kentucky to study pre-law. There he met his future wife, Lisa. After graduation, the pair settled in Fort Thomas, where Lisa was born and raised.

At the advice of an early supervisor, Cooper set out on a career of IT management and support; resulting in the founding of C-Forward in 1999. Brent was 29-years-old. He says that from day one, C-Forward was a Chamber member. But it wasn’t until the firm had been operating for about a year that they began to really engage with the Chamber’s offerings. The year C-Forward ramped up their Chamber engagement, Cooper says their business doubled.

Through the Business Referral Network, he says he was able to gain new C-Forward clients, as well as find trusted vendors for his business. Cooper and his team deepened their Chamber engagement by serving on committees and attending learning and networking events. “The Chamber is like a refrigerator - you get out of it what you put into it,” he quipped. “I am living proof of that.”

Now C-Forward is 30 employees strong, with offices in Covington and Lexington and Cooper is ready to step into his new role at the Chamber. With skills honed at Leadership Northern Kentucky, he assembled a leadership team that’s ready to step in while he serves the community through his work at the Chamber. Cooper says he’s proud of the longevity and skill of C-Forward’s leadership team, “You are in the people business. You hire good people and you keep them. That’s how you build and grow a business.” He is looking forward to bringing his people-focused leadership style to the NKY Chamber where he says former president and CEO Trey Grayson has built a terrific team.

Cooper got a bit of a jump start on his new position when he was named Interim President back in June. He and the staff went right to work, putting together a comprehensive plan. The result is an exciting roster of new programming and advocacy efforts that align with the Chamber’s ultimate goal of improving the collective economy of the area.

He hopes to use the Chamber’s influence to tackle state and regional issues that create barriers for business growth and opportunities like tax and pension reform, regional 9-1-1 and the repeal of reformulated gas. With the help of incoming Board Chair Rhonda Whitaker, Cooper says he expects to do major workforce development, “Workforce development is key to the future of our region. It encompasses health, education, and transportation. I am looking forward to partnering with Rhonda and the Board on this critical issue.”

Cooper emphasizes he’s both honored and humbled to lead the Chamber, “If you’d told me four months ago I was going to be the NKY Chamber President and CEO, I would have laughed. It’s scary and exciting but I am up for the challenge.” NKY

PAGE 12

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

The chance to play a role in making Northern Kentucky a better place to live, work, raise a family is one I couldn’t turn down.

LEAD THE CHAMBER HAS THE ABILITY TO STEER THE COMMUNITY IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION BY FACILITATING COLLABORATION.

CONNECT THE CHAMBER WILL CREATE CONNECTIONS FOR BUSINESSES SEEKING VENDORS, CUSTOMERS, AND SOLUTIONS.

ADVOCATE THE CHAMBER WILL PURSUE LEGISLATION AND POLICIES CHANGES THAT HELP IMPROVE THE COLLECTIVE NKY ECONOMY.

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 13

FEATURE STORY

The Connector

By Jamie Holtzapfel Principal Consultant, Core Consulting Group

PAGE 14

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

She believes the Chamber’s openness to involvement from anyone in the business community has led to her continuous engagement, and ultimately this role.

RHONDA WHITAKER’S DRIVE, COUPLED WITH A STRONG DESIRE TO HELP the community, makes her a natural fit for Chair of the NKY Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. She’s a collaborative leader known for her ability to connect with others.

Rhonda is well-known for her public role as district manager of government and community relations for Duke Energy Kentucky (formerly Cinergy). She’s held this position for the past 16 years. But her 25-year career with the utility company has included a variety of roles in community affairs, corporate foundation, large account management, strategic planning, shareholder services and investor relations.

In addition to her career contributions, Rhonda has been a long time volunteer for efforts that continuously improve Northern Kentucky’s people and places. Some of her greatest volunteer accomplishments include:

• LEADERSHIP MANTRA

Always take the high road.

ADVICE FOR OTHERS

• •

Attitude is everything.

Integrity is critical.

Trust is earned.

NOTEWORTHY ACCOMPLISHMENTS 1984

Graduated valedictorian of high school class 1987

Graduated in 3.5 years with two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Miami University in Political Science and Public Administration

Raising over $4 million as the first woman to chair the NKY United Way Campaign in 2011, a 5% increase over 2010 Helping fill the talent pipeline in advanced manufacturing by co-chairing an jointly founding the NKY Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development Coalition Starting Duke Energy’s Urban Revitalization Initiative with colleagues and overseeing the effort for 5 years. This initiative has invested just over $1.8 million in urban revitalization projects in the Greater Cincinnati/NKY urban core since inception in 2011

If you ask this accomplished business woman and mother of two how she “does it all” she shares that her success is deeply rooted in a strong work ethic that she got from her loving, hard-working parents. Rhonda is committed to always giving 100 percent and to using her God-given talents as He would want her to for the betterment of others.

Rhonda is also quick to recognize a mentor who’s had a lasting impact. Joe Hale, a former boss and ongoing advocate, demonstrated core principles that helped propel her career forward. He taught her the art of networking and relationship management. She also learned from his visionary leadership how to drive others to action through collaboration, and how to effectively negotiate in and facilitate discussions.

2012

Outstanding Woman of Northern Kentucky Award 2016

“Strengthening Our Region” Leader Awardpresented by the United Way of Greater Cincinnati 2016

A.D. Albright Outstanding Business Leader Award, presented by the NKY Education Council and the NKY Chamber

Never dreaming she would be in the board chair role, Rhonda can recall how impressed she was by the Chamber volunteers on her very first interaction 16 years ago. She believes the Chamber’s openness to involvement from anyone in the business community has led to her continuous engagement, and ultimately this role.

As a strategic thinker and proponent of alignment, her goals as chair are clear.

She’ll collaborate with volunteers and staff to make sure the Chamber’s 2017/2018 work plan aligns with three strategic imperatives:

• • •

Ensure value for Chamber members Lead on business challenges and opportunities Increase the Chamber’s relevance at the regional, state and federal levels

Northern Kentucky welcomes this natural connector into the board chair role.

She’ll certainly work hard to aid the Chamber in its ongoing mission to be a leader in collaborative efforts that solve regional problems and advance our economy. NKY

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 15

Congrats to Brent Linn, Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Fort Wright for his selection to Leadership Northern Kentucky!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Ben Virost Leadership NKY Class 2018

Tommy Simendinger and the Leadership NKY Class of 2018

www.CForward.com 859.442.7877

fb.com/CForwardIT

@CForwardIT

www.aswdlaw.com 40 West Pike Street Covington, KY 41011 859-394-6200

Problems Solved

Congratulations

Raymond Dabbelt

Congratulations

Whitney Dickerson

and the 2017-2018 Class Members of L e a d e r s h i p N K Y.

On being named to the Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018!

Congratulations!

Sam Steenken Vice President, Citi

Know how it feels to know more.

Brent Boden 859-372-2247 BBoden@BBandT.com 2755 Mansion Place Crestview Hills, KY 41017

Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018 BB&T. Member FDIC. BBT.com © 2016, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.

CONGRATULATIONS on being named to the Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2017 - 2018!

Mark Krummen Assistant Superintendent

CONGRATULATIONS

Monisha Hatfield

Wendy Ferrell-Smith

2017-2018 Leadership Northern Kentucky

Angel Beets Vice President Scooter Media

on being named to the Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2017-2018.

CONGRATULATIONS

www.stelizabeth.com

Congratulations!

Kyle Waymeyer Education Studio Director KLH Engineers

Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018

on being named to the Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2017-2018!

SPOTLIGHT

Holiday Helpers

By Kelly Rose Welcome House of Northern Kentucky, Inc

The holiday season is upon us and there is no better time to reach out to your local nonprofit and lend a helping hand. Here are a few tips to maximize your time and your experience assisting others in need.

BE MINDFUL TO NEEDS OF THE AGENCY The best way to help is to call your favorite agency or one whose mission you hold close to your heart and to ask what their needs are for the holidays. Keep an open mind about the requests and remember volunteering can look a lot of different ways, whether you are working at the actual location or doing more outreach work within your own community. For example, an agency may need a church or a neighborhood to do a specific drive to help out during the holidays, do a giving tree donation drive or wrap presents.

DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE Many places are looking for their holiday volunteers starting as early as September. If you, your family or a larger group of people want to get involved, call to book your project. You’ll be happy that you planned far in advance and the agency will be grateful to know that they can rely on their volunteers during this happy and chaotic season.

THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX (AND CONSIDER PROVIDING A SMALL BUDGET) Cooking a shelter meal, hosting a game night or putting together a Thanksgiving feast are all amazing, but they come with a price tag. Agencies also look to donors to help fund these endeavors that bring happiness and normalcy to families and individuals who are the most in need.

HAVE FUN! Volunteering should be a fulfilling learning experience: one that leaves you feeling immersed in your community, with a better knowledge of the needs of others within that community. The best time to get your children involved with volunteering is during the holidays; they will leave the experience knowing that they made an impact.

PAGE 18

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

BE CONCERNED 859-291-6789 www.beconcerned.org Join Be Concerned for their 50th Anniversary of their Christmas Program. Between Halloween and the new year, Be Concerned receives over 50,000 pounds of food from around the community. Although times to volunteer are very flexible (nights and weekends are available), they need volunteers on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday-Friday mornings to walk clients around the pantry to shop on November 7-17 and to assist clients with holiday shopping December 5-16.

WOMEN’S CRISIS CENTER 859-491-3335 www.wccky.org Due to the very private nature of the work that the Women’s Crisis Center (WCC) provides, they are in need of gift cards in varying denominations and locations. This enables the WCC to support as many clients as possible in a way that’s responsive and empowering. Clients can shop for (and wrap) gifts for their own children, purchase ingredients for a special meal, gather holiday supplies or treat themselves to some holiday cheer. If you would like to learn more how you can provide these much needed resources, call Kira. And don’t forget that this could be a wonderful opportunity to take your volunteer skills out in the community by spearheading a donation drive, creating a giving tree or hosting a holiday event asking for donations.

EMERGENCY SHELTER OF NKY 859-291-4555 www.emergencyshelternky.org The Emergency Shelter of NKY (ESNKY) has many volunteer opportunities during the winter cold shelter which runs November 1 - March 31. Listed below are a few options; please note this is not an exclusive list and ESNKY is willing to work with you if there is another volunteer opportunity you would be interested in fulfilling. There is no minimum age requirement to volunteer, however minors must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian/leader. Shift Volunteers (morning and evening), Group Cleaners (monthly), Organizers (fold laundry, sort items, etc.), Meal Makers and Donation Drives are just some of the many ways to get involved with ESNKY. If you have questions email info@esnky.net or call Kim or Brittaney. NKY NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Women’s Initiative Presents:

2018 Awards Luncheon Tuesday, May 1, 2018 St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center Erlanger, KY Plan to join us as we continue this tradition, now in its fourth decade, of honoring women for blazing trails, opening doors and demonstrating leadership in their homes, their professions or their communities.

Tickets are $40 per person.

Event re gi st rat i on is n ow o p en !

Nominations must be received by January 19, 2018.

Visit www.ownk.org for nomination forms and instructions. Nominees must live, work or volunteer in Northern Kentucky. For questions, email ownk@nkychamber.com

ownk.org NKYChamber.com/OWNK

FOOD

Safe & Healthy Holiday Meals

By Preeti Bansal Kshirsagar, Monica Smith and Ted Talley, Northern Kentucky Health Department

In a study published in 2016 in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers from Cornell University found that the participants gained about 1.3 pounds between October and the end of the year. While that doesn’t seem like much, the researchers also noted that the weight gained during the holiday season stuck around until spring — or longer. Read on for some tips to keep your waistline in check without sacrificing nutrition in your mouth-watering holiday meals.

PLAN YOUR PORTIONS Aim to fill up on larger portions of low fat and low sugar foods like raw or steamed vegetables without sauces or ingredients.

These are high in fiber and have lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

For other foods and treats, watch your portion sizes. A portion of lean meat, like the white meat from roast turkey, is ounces — the size of your palm or a deck or cards. If adding gravy, just drizzle one or two tablespoons for flavor.

Go for smaller portions of high-fat and high-sugar foods like pumpkin pie (portion size = one-eighth of a 9-inch pie) or sweet potato casserole (portion size = 1/4 cup). Choose pumpkin pie over pecan pie to save calories as well.

MAKE SOME SIMPLE SUBSTITUTIONS For healthier cranberry sauce, replace the sugar with no sugar added applesauce and honey.

For corn casserole, bring down the saturated fat by replacing sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.

Substitute the oil in cakes and sweet breads with applesauce of an equal amount for a moist cake or bread with much less fat.

SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER, NOT ILLNESS The holiday seasons also brings potlucks and parties, which can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 48 million Americans get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from foodborne illnesses each year.

ADDITIONAL HELPFUL TIPS When serving food, keep food cold (41°F or below) by using ice under and around displayed food items. Keep food hot (135°F or greater) by using crock pots, warming units or chafing pans.

Perishable food should not be left out more than two hours at room temperature.

Place leftovers in shallow containers and immediately place in refrigerator or freezer. Leftovers should reach an internal temperature of 41°F within four hours.

Use cooked leftovers within four days, and reheat to 165°F before serving.

Cook eggs until the yolks and white are firm. When making your own eggnog or other recipes calling for raw eggs, use pasteurized shell eggs, liquid or frozen pasteurized egg products, or powdered egg whites. NKY

PAGE 20

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

RECIPES Sweet Potato Casserole Adapted from myrecipes.com Ingredients • 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped • 6 tablespoons sugar • 1/4 cup evaporated low-fat milk • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 flax eggs* • Cooking spray

Topping 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped pecans

• • • •

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. To prepare potatoes, place them in a Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until tender; drain.

Cool 5 minutes.

3. Place potatoes in a large bowl; add sugar,

evaporated milk, 3 tablespoons olive oil,

1/2 teaspoon salt and vanilla. Beat with a mixer

at medium speed until smooth.

4. Add flax eggs to mixing bowl; beat well. Pour potato mixture into a 13 x 9 inch baking pan coated with cooking spray.

5. To prepare topping, combine flour and brown sugar; stir with a whisk. Stir in 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Sprinkle flour mixture evenly over potato mixture; arrange pecans evenly over top. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or just until golden.

6. Remove casserole from oven. Preheat broiler.

7. Broil casserole 45 seconds or until topping is bubbly.

Let stand 10 minutes before serving. *To make two flax eggs, mix 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal (ground raw flaxseed) with 5 tablespoons water in a dish and stir. Set aside for five minutes to let thicken.

Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider Adapted from allrecipes.com Ingredients • 2 quarts apple cider • 6 cups cranberry juice • 1 1/2 teaspoons whole cloves • 4 cinnamon sticks • 1 lemon, thinly sliced Directions In a large pot, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves and lemon slices. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. With a slotted spoon, remove cinnamon, cloves and lemon slices. Serve hot.

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

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TRAVEL

Be Travel Savvy This Winter

By Mindy Kershner Sr. Manager, Public & Government Affairs, CVG

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

If you’re traveling this holiday season, take the travel savvy challenge and prove to your family and friends your travel smarts with a stress-free, fun trip. Nothing beats planning ahead, so challenge yourself now to add special touches to your holiday adventure.

BOOKING A FLIGHT

PACKING If traveling by air, familiarize yourself with TSA (Transportation Security Administration) procedures at www.tsa.gov to ensure what you pack in your carry-on is compliant with TSA standards. You can carry on liquids that are in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers, packed within a quart-size, re-sealable, clear plastic bag. For protection against lost luggage, label your bags inside and out with your contact information. Do not wrap gifts that you plan to carry onboard. If a security officer needs to inspect a package they may have to unwrap your gift.

Whether traveling by air or car, another good option if you shop for gifts online is to ship them directly to your destination.

Book your trip early for low-priced airfares and holiday deals. Be flexible with travel dates, and look for fare deals at cvgairport.com/deals or aggregator sites like Kayak and Expedia (also good for car rentals).

Pack plenty of healthy snacks and water to avoid wrecking your diet or becoming dehydrated. People traveling by air often don’t know they can pack snacks in their personal bag or carryon. You can also buy snacks at the airport, just keep them low sodium.

Download your airline’s app. When it’s time to check in for your flight, it makes it easy to pull up your boarding pass, check a bag and check flight status. Be sure to arrive at the airport two hours before your flight to avoid unnecessary stress.

No one wants to be sick during the holidays, so pack antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer.

PLANNING A ROAD TRIP Determine the maximum amount of time you are comfortable driving in one day, and map out fun rest stops and/or book places to stay the night. This will help cut back on drowsy driving and speeding to get to your destination. Roadtrippers, headquartered in Cincinnati, is a web-based/mobile app to help you plan. You plug in your starting point and your destination to get suggestions on interstate exits to take and unusual places to visit.

CHOOSING LODGING Again, an aggregator such as Expedia is helpful, and there are plenty of hotel apps to use. There’s also triphappy.com, which helps you choose what neighborhood to stay in at your desired destination. Type in your destination and a list of neighborhoods will be displayed based on 37 million reviews. It also lists what’s near (i.e., nightlife, backpacking) and what the neighborhood is best noted for (i.e., family friendly, peace and quiet, upscale).

If traveling with kids, pack small “surprise activities” and wrap them in gift wrap or a special tote bag. Each surprise activity will keep the little ones occupied at least for a while.

Before heading out, don’t forget comforts of home: download a favorite holiday movie or book on your device; pack a favorite blanket or pillow to relax on the plane or in the car; bring a can or seasoning packet of Cincinnati chili or chocolates from Graeter’s to share your tastes of home with out-of-town family or friends. NKY

WARM WEATHER DESTINATIONS: Destin, Florida Ft. Lauderdale/Miami, Florida Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Cancun, Mexico Montego Bay, Jamaica Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

For a full list of nonstop destinations CVG flies, go to: cvgairport.com/flight/cities

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 23

SHOPPING

Shopping Local for the Holidays

By Katie Scoville Scooter Media

IN ADDITION TO SCORING SOME UNIQUE FINDS, shopping locally helps support the local economy in a real way. For every $100 spent at a local business, an average of $45 remains in the local economy compared to $14 for larger chain stores.

Northern Kentucky has a wealth of local businesses contributing to the unique character of our many communities, and the region as a whole. This season, consider stopping by some of our favorites to see what special and unique items you can find.

FOR THE ANTIQUE-LOVERS Perhaps you have a family member whose home is filled with antiques. Head to the Florence Antique Mall or Fort Thomas Antiques. You’re sure to find an interesting accessory that’s perfect for them. While looking you might even come across a new piece of furniture that would be perfect in your own home – just in time for holiday entertaining.

FOR THE FOODIE/BEVERAGE CONNOISSEUR

The gift-giving season is upon us. Stopping by the nearest big box store to cross everything off your list or hopping online while watching your favorite TV show are convenient, but it’s also important to shop locally.

PAGE 24

Everyone has that foodie friend – they’ve tried all the newest restaurants and know all the best beverage pairings. Consider a gift card to The Gruff in Covington. In addition to being a great restaurant, they sell a wide variety of gourmet ingredients so your friends can make their new favorite dishes at home.

For those more into playing bartender, head over to New Riff Distillery (pictured below) in Newport. They don’t have the New Riff Bourbon on shelves yet, but you can sign up to get a Ranger Club batch once it’s ready. Leave with something in hand and pick up a bottle of their Wild Kentucky Gin or fun bar accessories.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

FOR AN EXPERIENCE

FOR KIDS

For the friend who has everything, consider giving them an experience they can enjoy. The Carnegie in Covington has several shows and events in the coming months including Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical and Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.

Joseph Beth Booksellers in Crestview Hills always has interesting games, toys and books for kids with any interests.

Browse around – you never know what you’ll find, and the knowledgeable staff can help point you in the right direction.

For those more interested in sports, tickets to cheer on the defending Horizon League Champion Northern Kentucky University Men’s Basketball team make a great gift.

Conference play begins December 29, with the first conference home game January 5 against Youngstown State. Mini packs of six games are available for $60, four games for $40.

Norse Up! Single game tickets, packages or season tickets are available from our local professional (Reds, Bengals, FC Cincinnati), semi-professional (Florence Freedom, Kentucky Enforcers) and collegiate teams (Thomas More, UC, Xavier).

For a family gift that keeps on giving, consider a season pass to the Newport Aquarium (pictured above), the Cincinnati Zoo or Coney Island. With new exhibits, attractions and rides being added to the bounty that each establishment holds already, you’re bound to discover something new with each visit.

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

If the kids in your life are more active, consider a gift card to Williamstown Family Fun Park. The whole family can zipline, putt-putt or explore the adventure course. There’s so much to do, you’ll definitely want to go back.

Gift giving is extremely personal, so why not keep it local?

Northern Kentucky has so many great options for unique gifts and activities that you’re sure to find something for everyone in your life. NKY

Save the Date November 25 is Small Business Saturday, a holiday shopping tradition that celebrates small businesses in NKY. Tell your friends and family and Shop Small with us this year!

PAGE 25

AROUND THE CHAMBER EGGS ‘N ISSUES

NKITA

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS WOMEN’S INITIATIVE CONNECT HOUR

STEM DAY OUT

MANUFACTURING JOB FAIR

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

ANNUAL DINNER

DON’T MISS OUT! NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 27

RIBBON CUTTINGS

BEST WESTERN PLUS CINCINNATI RIVERFRONT 200 Crescent Avenue | Covington, KY 41011 | (859) 581-7800 | bestwestern.com PICTURED: Evan Koller, AGM; Denise Tempco, Commonwealth Hotels; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Tom Osborn, Best Western Regional Director of Development; Brian Fry, Commonwealth Hotels President; Beth Wuestefeld, Best Western General Manager; Paul Stanton, VP Commonwealth Hotels, Nathan Chick, Chick-fil-A Newport/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Christy King, Best Western Director of Sales; Barney Creevy, CPC Exterminators/NKY Chamber Ambassador. Back row: Marla Sweitzer; Zach Wilson; Amanda Vogelsang; Lisa Litke; Matt Morelli; Blaine Anderson; Christy Craig Field

ST. ELIZABETH HEALTHY LIVING CENTER AND PHYSICAL THERAPY AND EXPANSION OF THE R.C. DURR YMCA 5874 Veterans Way | Burlington, KY 41005 | (859) 534-5700 | myy.com PICTURED: Jay Shelton, CFO/Heritage Bank; Mark Spaulding, President Mark Spaulding Construction Company; Deborah Jo Durr (Mrs. R.C. Durr); Randy Poe, Superintendent Boone County Schools; Vera Hall, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive,St. Elizabeth Healthcare; Gary Moore, Boone County Judge Executive; Jorge Perez, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Cincinnati; Jacob Brooks, Executive Director/R.C. Durr YMCA; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Cathy Flaig, Boone County Commissioner; Jason Wessel, Assistant Vice President of Professional Services, St. Elizabeth Healthcare; Addia Wuchner, KY State Representative, Boone County District 66; John Schickel, KY State Senator, Boone County District 11 .

DAVITA WALTON DIALYSIS 13250 Service Road | Walton, KY 41094 | (859) 485-0321 | davita.com PICTURED: Scott Stewart, Dwyer Insurance-NKY Chamber Ambassador; DaVita Staff: Kelsie Pugh, Jennifer Hoffman, Crystal Demmien, Barbara Frommeyer, Matt Luke, Lindsey Thompson, Heather Fritsch, Ladonna Cagle, Emily Gosney, Dawn Owen and David Gelter; Valerie Johnson, L&N Credit Union-Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

RIBBON CUTTINGS L’OREAL USA SOLAR PANEL 7080 New Buffington Road | Florence, KY 41042 | (859) 727-4700 | loreal.com

PICTURED: Philippe Lamote, L’Oreal USA; Nicole Frey, L’Oreal USA; Brad Konik, L’Oreal USA, Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President and other L’Oreal USA representatives

FYDA FREIGHTLINER WESTERN STAR NORTHERN KENTUCKY 11095 Dixie Highway | Walton, KY 41094 | (859) 379-7330 | fydafreightliner.com

PICTURED: Andy Johnston, BB&T-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Senator John Schickel; Patty Depaola, Controller; Tim Fyda, President & CEO; Maryann Fyda; Walter Fyda III; Mairead Fyda; JR Schneider, Allied Financial/NKY Chamber Ambassador .

LITTLE FLOUR BAKERY 2479 Dixie Highway | Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017 | (859) 609-7234 | littleflourbakedgoods.com PICTURED: Scarlet-Rae Marshall, Hampton Inn & Suites Newport–NKY Chamber Ambassador; Gary Auffart, Ft. Mitchell Fire Chief; Andrew Schierberg, Ft. Mitchell Police Chief; Jude Hehman, Ft. Mitchell Mayor; Shelby Jones, Little Flour Bakery; Elizabeth Hughes, Little Flour Bakery; Lynn Abeln, NKY Chamber; Rev. Philip DeVous, St. Joseph Church; Steve Brunson, Forcht Bank/NKY Chamber Ambassador

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PAGE 29

RIBBON CUTTINGS CHICK-FIL-A 8050 Mall Road | Florence, KY 41042 | (859) 594-4600 | chick-fil-a.com/mallroad PICTURED: Ellen Barnett, L&N Credit Union-Ribbon Cutting Sponsor; Charlie Walton, Boone County Commissioner; Gary Winn, City of Florence Council Member; Diane Whalen, City of Florence Mayor; Dustin DiChiara, Owner & Operator, Chickfil-A; Amy DiChiara & family; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Barney Creevy, CPC Exterminators/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Gene Kirchner, NKY Chamber COO; JR Schneider, Allied Financial/NKY Chamber Ambassador

HY-TEK 2200 Arbor Tech Drive | Hebron, KY 41048 | (800) 818-6242 | hy-tek.net PICTURED: Valerie Johnson, L&N Federal Credit Union-Sponsor; Beth Farrer, NKY Chamber; Angie Wormald, NKY Chamber; Lynn Abeln, NKY Chamber; Charlie Kenner, Boone County Commissioner; Mark Bruner, Hy-Tek; Donnie Johnson, Hy-Tek; Gary Moore, Boone County Judge Executive; Tom Mann, Hy-Tek; Dan Hammons, Shared Wellness/NKY Chamber Ambassador

METZGER EYE CARE CENTER 6901 Dixie Highway | Florence, KY 41048 | (859) 525-1800 | metzgereyecare.com PICTURED: Cincinnati Cyclones Twister; Ellen Barnett, L&N Federal Credit Union-Sponsor; Scott Stewart, Dwyer Insurance-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Senator John Schickel, District 11 Boone; Dr. Bill Metzger, Metzger Eye Care; Dr. Ferd J. Metzger; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Gary Winn, Florence City Council; Dr. Evan Bayles, Metzger Eye Care; Brady Metzger; Dr. Julie Metzger, Metzger Eye Care; Gary Moore, Boone County Judge Executive; Pat Aubuchon; Diane Whalen, City of Florence Mayor; Florence Freedom Y’All Star; Connie Flynn, Erigo Employer Solutions/NKY Chamber Ambassador

— LET US HELP YOU PROMOTE!

We want to help you promote and celebrate your ribbon cutting ceremony for your new facility, expansion, anniversary celebration or open house! We’ll bring our trademark giant blue scissors, a group of Chamber ambassadors and a camera to capture the excitement of your special day. Call Lynn Abeln at (859) 578-6390 to schedule your FREE ribbon cutting today!

Ribbon Cuttings Sponsored by: PAGE 30

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Congratulations to the

2017–2018 Leadership Northern Kentucky Class Including our very own Mark Shields.

Your leadership is key for our community’s growth.

@messerwearebldg

messer.com

Congratulations!

We would like to congratulate

TOM TILMES

Vice President / Senior Business Banking Officer 859-331-4850

NKU CONGR ATUL ATE S

RYAN SALZMAN

one of the newest participants in the 2017–18 Leadership Northern Kentucky class.

CLASS OF 2017-18 LEADERSHIP NORTHERN KENTUCKY

It’s just easier here.

®

RepublicBank.com

NKU_AD_MC170345.indd 1

Member FDIC

7/15/17 8:13 PM

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Julie Tarvin and all of the LNK 2018 class members.

Conrad Culbertson

On being named to the Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018!

RI

GROUP

www.taftlaw.com

R o ed i n g i n s uR a n c e

MEMBER MILESTONES

ATKINS & PEARCE recently celebrated 200 years of manufacturing in America. They are one of perhaps 20 companies in the US that are 200 years or older. There are a couple dozen farms, and orchards and hotels that make the claim, but only about 20 that are businesses.

It’s amazing to think that in 1817, when the company started, James Monroe was only the fifth President of the United States. Cincinnati, which was very much on the western frontier then, had a population of just 9,000 people.

The company started out making an adaptation of the cotton gin, the Spin-Ginner. They prospered in the early years, but also faced much adversity. There were roughly seven recessions in the first 40 years, and two were so major they would likely be characterized as depressions today.

And for A&P, the notion of “family company” is uniquely meaningful.

But throughout the years, A&P has been composed of many great families, and their unique culture has been developed over the years, and derived directly from the people and the families who have worked there.

Perhaps the most important reason that they have persisted for so long is that they are a company that is driven by strong values.

These values are a part of who they are, and exist today because of the people here that have practiced them on a daily basis. A&P doesn’t always get it exactly right. But they know that their people will always try to do the right thing - knowing that as A&P succeeds – so do we all.

By Jeb Head Atkins & Pearce

CENTENNIAL INC., provider of executive search and comprehensive talent management services, recently announced that Brenda Gumbs has joined the company as executive strategist.

Formerly serving as executive vice president of people and culture at one of the world’s leading confectionary companies, Gumbs’ vast experience aligns with and complements Centennial’s mission to help companies be more strategic in their efforts to hire, retain and reward their best talent. A 13-year client of Centennial in her former HR role, Gumbs brings an invaluable perspective to her new role at the company.

Gumbs has thirty years of human resources and business leadership experience, having spent the past 20 years in senior executive positions. “Brenda has a passion for helping companies recognize the value of the HR function, identifying HR solutions to business problems, and uncovering peoplerelated business opportunities. In short, she is a master at the art of talent management,” said Mike Sipple Jr., president of Centennial.

“Brenda is my go-to advisor on talent optimization. Her experience, insight and perspective relative to employee engagement and retention have been the cornerstone of her support. Brenda’s ability to size up a situation and sort through the noise is critical. She simply gets it: how to optimize business results through outstanding talent management,” said Jim Gibbons, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International.

Organizations today are on the frontlines of a war for talent. It’s not just about hiring the right people; it’s about engaging the right leaders in strategic conversations.

By Mike Sipple Jr. President, Centennial

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MEMBER MILESTONES

As part of its strategic growth strategy, RUDLER, PSC has named Alex Weidner, CPA, CFE, and Chris Guidugli, CPA, as shareholders of the firm, effective July 1, 2017.

Weidner joined the firm in 2007 as an intern through the Firm’s co-op program and became a full-time associate upon graduation in 2010. He primarily serves clients in not-forprofits and closely held businesses. He also assists high net worth individuals with tax and accounting consulting and provides support for employee benefit plan audits. After achieving his Certified Fraud Examiner designation, Weidner has applied his technology skills toward litigation support as well as industry standards to help people protect their personal identities and reduce the risk of fraud in business. In the community, he serves as the chair of the Thomas More College Accounting Advisory board and participates in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) designed for low-income taxpayers. He is also a member of the BKR International Forensic Accounting/Litigation Support Practice Group.

Guidugli joined the firm in 2007. He has served as the supervisor and training lead within Rudler’s accounting and auditing team for three years. He focuses on audits of not-forprofits and is a lead auditor for employee benefit plans. He also provides business consulting for closely held businesses and not-for-profits. In the community, Guidugli is President of the I Have Wings Breast Cancer Foundation, an organization that provides emotional and financial assistance to individuals who are going through their breast cancer journey. He also is active in LEGACY — a young professionals organization in Northern Kentucky that is committed to developing the region’s next generation of leaders.

By Laura Blair Rudler, PSC

FALL 2017 | VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

PHIL SCHWORER has been named the new board chair of the Dorothy Wood Foundation (DWF), which oversees the endowment for Redwood Rehabilitation Center. Schworer’s appointment to this position comes after the passing of the Foundation’s founding board chair – the late Wm. T. (Bill) Robinson III. Schworer has been affiliated with Redwood for over 30 years and with the DWF since 2010. His leadership service to Redwood includes 20 years of service as a trustee, board president, Development Council Chair, Redwood Express co-chair with his wife Lynn for multiple years, Promise & Potential Capital Campaign chair (raised $6.5 million) and philanthropic support to advance Redwood’s mission. To recognize his commitment to Redwood, he has received the Dorothy Jean Wood Award with his wife Lynn, the President’s Award, and the designation of Trustee Emeritus.

Apart from Redwood, he is a respected member of Frost Brown Todd, a leading Cincinnati based law firm, where his practice focuses on environmental and safety matters.

Redwood is honored to have the expertise and guidance of Schworer, to continue their mission to help guide children and adults with severe and multiple disabilities to achieve independence and reach their highest potential throughout their lives, by providing enriching educational, therapeutic and vocational services.

Redwood is an accredited facility through CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) and NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) helping children and adults with disabilities.

Redwood serves over 800 clients each year through their 22 comprehensive programs ranging from educational, therapeutic and vocational services.

By Loren Parsons PR Coordinator, Redwood

PAGE 33

MEMBER MILESTONES

Kayla Campbell

Jon Connor

Olivia Keller

Mickey Sutton

DRESSMAN BENZINGER LAVELLE PSC has added Kayla Campbell, Jon Connor, Olivia Keller and Mickey Sutton to the firm.

Campbell is working in DBL Law’s Louisville office where she is focused on Civil Litigation. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Louisville in May 2017.

Conner, Keller and Sutton joined the Crestview Hills office.

Connor focuses primarily on Creditors’ Rights (collections) and Community Association law. He received his J.D. from the University of Notre Dame Law School in 2017.

Keller is an associate attorney practicing primarily in the areas of Medical Malpractice and Employment & Labor. She graduated cum laude from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Sutton’s work is primarily focused in transactional matters involving corporations, commercial banking, and real estate.

Additionally, he advises residential community associations as well as businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, and individuals with various intellectual property needs. Sutton obtained his J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2017, where he graduated cum laude.

Dressman Benzinger LaVelle psc is a full-service law firm with offices in Cincinnati, Ohio; Crestview Hills, Kentucky, and Louisville, Kentucky.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY COMMUNITY ACTION COMMISSION (NKCAC) is excited to announce the newest members of the 2017-2018 Board of Directors, Josh Batchelor and Lisa Schneider. NKCAC’s Board of Directors are a dedicated group of community leaders who are committed to making life and opportunities better for the region’s less fortunate citizens.

Batchelor is the General Manager of Serenity Funeral Care, a division of Linneman Funeral Homes, in Covington, Kentucky.

Batchelor has a deep commitment to providing for the needs of lower income families who have lost a loved one. He is active with the Cold Shelter and Covington business affairs, and is a 2016 graduate of Leadership Northern Kentucky. He lives in Independence with his wife, Jennifer, and their lovely daughter, DeLaney.

Schnieder and her husband, Mark, own the successful plastics manufacturing firm, Tri-State Plastics, in Latonia. She and her husband adopted 3 of their 4 children (all grown) from foster care. They live in Covington.

By Tori Hall Client Support Specialist, NKCAC

By Nancy Spivey Marketing Director, DBL Law — SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!

All NKY Chamber members are invited to share announcements & personal achievements in the Milestones column.

Send Milestones to bgastright@nkychamber.com

PAGE 34

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Congratulations

Tracy Decker Leadership NKY

Congratulations!

Dr. Fernando Figueroa President, CEO

Selected as a Member of Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018

FURLONG BUILDING

Leadership

2017 | 2018 Northern Kentucky

Congratulations!

Kristen Baldini B2B Marketing Manager

Cathy Koop

Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2018

SHRM-SCP, SPHR Human Resources Director

Leadership Northern Kentucky 2018 horizontal.pdf

Congratulations

C

Bobbie Webster

M

Y

LNK Class of 2018

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

CONGRATULATES

MARK NOEL AND THE 2017-18 LEADERSHIP NORTHERN KENTUCKY CLASS

FT. MITCHELL, KENTUCKY GRAYDON.LAW THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT

1

9/22/2017

bankatfirst.com

11:21:11

EMERGING 30 Emerging 30 is composed of local businesses making a significant economic impact on the community based on annual revenue growth. Winners receive public acknowledgment of their achievements and are encouraged to offer their guidance to help other small businesses grow during events tailored specifically to E30 designees.

AHS, LLC, specializes in order fulfillment optimization and distribution design solutions. This includes consulting, engineering solutions, system installation, and maintenance within the four walls of the distribution center or warehouse. A multi-year Emerging 30 designee, AHS was founded in 1973, is headquartered in Cincinnati, and employees 32 people.

According to Matt Gerding, Vice President, Business Development, AHS’s largest challenge for continued growth is the length of the sales cycle. ”We are a relational company, not transactional - our business model focuses on becoming an extension of our customers, partnering with them throughout the entire project life cycle, and beyond. As such, a multi-year sales cycle can be commonplace,” said Gerding.

This focus has allowed the company to offer more services and deepen client relationships. “We continue to experience year over year growth, including larger and more complicated projects. For example, our proprietary Analyzer tool is ideal for clients considering a new facility, not satisfied with existing system performance, or seeing their labor force underutilized.

With Analyzer, our clients receive the extremely detailed evaluation needed for data driven decision making.”

To successfully lead top line growth, Gerding offers, “Internal communications is key. All our team members know and contribute to our vision, mission, yearly budget and goals. As valued parts of the team, they are empowered to make decisions necessary to help our customers.”

SUBMITTED BY: MATT GERDING, AHS, LLC AND LARRY NITARDY, COMASSIST

PAGE 36

SPONSORED BY

After a career spent mostly with large international organizations, like P&G and Fidelity, in HR and recruiting, Stephen Romanelli decided in 2012 it was time.

With his skill set in recruiting, Stephen set out and found a great match with the PrideStaff franchise. Owned and operated

by Stephen and his staff of 5, the goal and mission of PrideStaff Northern Kentucky is “to provide staffing solutions based upon what their clients value most,” including an excellent hiring experience.

PrideStaff NKY is part of a franchise group that has been rated in the top 2% of staffing firm’s nation-wide by not only clients but also by candidates 5 years in row. This excellence in client and candidate satisfaction has also resulted in PrideStaff NKY being recognized as an Emerging 30 honoree, in their first year of eligibility, by having grown their top-line revenue by over 300% since 2012.

This success has not come without its challenges. Starting out in 2012, Romanelli had clients asking him to find the “purple squirrel.” The purple squirrel is a term used by employment recruiters to describe how the combination of job requirements (education, experience, targeted pay, etc.) severely limits the potential talent pool.

According to Romanelli, “the purple squirrel does not exist in the current workforce environment. So we consult with our clients on best solutions for staffing their needs.”

He listed 3 pieces of sound advice for those starting their own business. First, network as much as possible. Second, get yourself an advisory board which will provide you honest feedback. Lastly, focus your energies on those drivers that will build your business.

As a 7-time Emerging 30 honoree, TiER1 knows a thing or two about growing top line revenues with bottom-line success.

Normand Desmarais, with co-founders Kevin Moore and Greg Harmeyer, have worked with their staff to attain an annual average growth rate of 25% since its inception in 2001. TiER1’s success has been so robust, they were approached by a publicly traded company a couple of years ago to be acquired. Normand and his partners decided instead to create an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), so that all employees could participate in the company’s continued success.

TiER1 works with Fortune 500 organizations to help improve growing revenue, increasing efficiency, improving customer experience, strengthening engagement, and scaling operations.

TIER1 helps align customer workforces with these challenges by providing Change Management, Talent Development, and aligning strategy, culture, leadership, and teams. They keep good company with customers including FedEx, Macy’s, P&G, and Delta.

TiER1 now has offices in 9 different cities with 210 employees; with a goal of 500 employees by 2020.

When asked what was the “secretsauce” of TiER1’s success, Desmarais indicated it’s all about people and a culture that allows them to do their best work. At their Covington headquarters, a message on the display screen states “We’re a 99.9% jerk-free workplace (because everyone has a bad day every once in a while!)” He went on to say that if we hire the right people and create the right environment, then magic happens.

SUBMITTED BY: SCOTT J. MALOF, CPA/PFS, MALOF & ASSOCIATES CPAS, LLC

SUBMITTED BY: SCOTT J. MALOF, CPA/PFS, MALOF & ASSOCIATES CPAS, LLC

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Ultimate Workshop

TAX, Succession, and Estate mistakes made by Business Owners and how to avoid them Presented By: NKY Chamber of Commerce

William E. Hesch, Esq., CPA, PFS • Amy E. Pennekamp, Esq.

Tuesday, November 7th, 2017, 8:00 am – 11:30 am Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 330 Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017

Register at www.nkychamber.com/events Members: $30, Non Members: $45

Benefits of Attending the Workshop: • Identify action steps for your business which become your 2018 road map for success!

• Protect the value of your business and its long-term success.

• Avoid major business problems that would arise if you died or became disabled.

• Get answers to your CPA and legal questions. Forward your questions to Bill prior to the workshop!

• All attendees receive a one-hour complimentary follow-up consultation with Bill.

8:00 am • Session 1: Top 10 Tax Planning Mistakes • Choice of Entity-Sole Proprietor, S or C Corporation • Maximize retirement plan deductions • Maximize your tax deductions • Avoid IRS audit problems

9:15 am • Session 2: Top 10 Succession Planning Mistakes • How to Plan for: *Death, *Disability, *Retirement • Secrets For a Successful Business Succession Plan • Planning for disability of owner

10:30 am • Session 3: Top 10 Estate Planning Mistakes • How to use a Trust and buy-sell agreement in estate plan • How to protect family and value of business if owner dies or becomes disabled

William E.Hesch Law Firm, LLC

Personalized • Experienced • Service-oriented After you meet with your attorney, CPA and Financial Planner, contact Bill on his cell phone at (513) 509-7829 to get a second opinion and see what he can do for you.

3047 Madison Road, Suite 205, Cincinnati, OH 45209 | 513-731-6601 | www.heschlaw.com This is an advertisement | Legal work may be performed by others within the firm.

EVENTS NOVEMBER: — 11/2

LEGACY Make Money, Make Sense - NKU Student Union Room 109

11/7

Small Business: Tax, Succession & Estate Planning Mistakes – NKY Chamber

11/9

HR Group 100: Impacts of Heroin on the Workforce – NKY Chamber

11/9

Pints & Policies – Hotel Covington

11/14

Eggs ‘N Issues: 2018 Regional Economic Outlook – Receptions

11/14

Small Business Academy: Cyber Security Series – NKY Chamber

11/15

Small Business Academy: Learn How to Network – Start at the NKY Chamber

11/16

Small Business: Doing Business with Federal Gov’t – NKY Chamber

11/27

Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour – Florence Antique Mall

11/29

Sales Workshop: 5 Tips to Create YOUR Voice on Social Media

11/29

Webinar: Employment Law Year in Review

TBD

NKITA Presents: Doing Business with Latin America

DECEMBER: — 12/12

Eggs ‘N Issues: Women in Leadership – Receptions

12/14

Getting the Most from Your Chamber Membership – NKY Chamber

TBD

Where We Stand: Legislative Preview – Devou Golf and Event Center

JANUARY: — 1/9

Eggs ‘N Issues: General Assembly Preview – Receptions

1/16

Small Business Academy: Cyber Security Series – NKY Chamber

1/17

HR Group 100 – NKY Chamber

1/17

Willy Wonka - Regional Youth Leadership Fundraiser – The Carnegie in Covington

1/23

Sales Workshop: TBD

1/24

Women’s Initiative: Annual Breakfast – NKY Convention Center

1/25

NKITA Monthly Meeting – NKY Chamber

1/29

Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour – TBD

1/30

Small Business Academy: Everyday Leadership – Communication & Teamwork

1/31

Webinar: Right to Work, Prevailing Wage & More

Northern Kentucky Business Journal is published quarterly by: Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. 300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330 P.O. Box 17416 Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017 859-578-8800 NKYChamber.com The Business Journal is a benefit of membership and included in membership fees. Annual subscription rate for nonmembers is $24.

Periodicals Postage Paid USPS-548630 at Covington, KY. Postmaster: Please send address changes to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 330, P.O. Box 17416 , Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017-0416.

Subscribers: Please send address changes by e-mail to info@nkychamber.com. © 2017, The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and by the individual authors. All rights reserved.

CEO/Publisher Brent Cooper Marketing / Communications Coordinator Ben Gastright | bgastright@nkychamber.com Vice President Membership – Sponsorship Sales Lynn Abeln | labeln@nkychamber.com Director, Sponsor Investments Diana McGlade | dmcglade@nkychamber.com Chamber Communications Committee Rachel Folz (Chair), Kristin Baldwin, Jamie Holtzapfel, Mindy Kershner, William Powell, Kelly Rose, Katie Scoville, Emily Gresham Wherle Design Steve Fine | stevef@artboyanimation.com Ben Gastright | bgastright@nkychamber.com Chris Ritter | christopheraritter@gmail.com

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LOOKING FOR MORE EVENTS? NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

PAGE 38

Wednesday, January 17, 2018 The Carnegie in Covington, KY Proceeds Benefit Regional Youth Leadership

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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