GO Business Q3 2015

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

INDEPENDENCE BANK

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

FROM THE CHAMBER

W

elcome to Issue Number Two of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce GO Business Magazine.

For this quarterly edition, we proudly feature on our cover one of the most important sectors of our regional economy … agriculture and agri-business.

The Greater Owensboro economy is fueled by our area farmers and the businesses that serve — and have spun off — their operations. In fact, agriculture is where we are witnessing one of the most important and significant advancement of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Our natural geography resources, our community history and our pioneer spirit of always finding a better way, create the perfect

T

he Chamber continues to experience exciting momentum, and it is poised for even greater things. Membership continues to increase, and membership count is the highest that it has been since the end of 2012. The increase in membership is a direct result of a tremendous Chamber staff who works diligently to provide opportunities and value to your membership. One of the primary benefits of being a Chamber member is related to the Chamber’s advocacy efforts at the state and local levels. The Chamber is here for you, and it will continue to advocate for a pro-business climate.

When I spoke at the Businesses of the Year Celebration, I identified two areas that I wanted the Chamber to focus on in 2015. The first area was the small-business community, and the second was young professionals. I am pleased with the progress in both areas, and we are only halfway through the year.

In regards to the small-business community, the Connections Expo on April 30th was well attended and the Chamber staff is already

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

CANDANCE BRAKE

President & CEO

environment to make us a leader nationwide.

And we have the individuals to prove

it.

Travel across the state and nation.

Travel overseas.

Our area farmers are

using sophisticated systems, are creating new processes and products, and they are receiving attention and accolades for their work.

We hope you enjoy this issue. And if

you haven’t been to a farming operation lately, we would love to see you at one of the many Chamber Co-Sponsored events on our calendar. It is important for us all to understand what role agriculture plays in our daily lives — and in the future our community hopes to build.

MARK MARTIN

Chairman

planning enhancements for next year. Also, the Chamber is partnering with the Society of Human Resource Professionals for a monthly series (“What You Need to Know Wednesdays”), which will begin in July and run through December. The series is specifically designed for small businesses and non-profits that do not have the resources to hire staff professionals in the areas of focus.

In regards to the young professionals, I could not be more proud of the success that the Chamber has experienced so far. The Greater Owensboro Young Chamber (GOYC) has formed and you will be hearing more from this group in the future. In June, GOYC had a soft rollout which was extremely successful, and a more formal event is being planned for the end of the summer. It is truly a blessing that Owensboro has so many young professionals that want to be active and engaged in the community. Please feel free to contact the Chamber if there is anything that it can do to help your business.

PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com

FEATURES:

3RD QUARTER 2015

ADVERTISING SALES

Bo Alexander bo@tannerwest.com Robert Williams robert@owensboroparent.com

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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Taylor West taylor@tannerwest.com

8 A FIFTH GENERATION FAMILY BUSINESS

Andrea Roberson andrea@tannerwest.com

COPY EDITOR Joel Dulin

COVER PHOTO Jason Tanner

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PRINTING

Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

TRADITION CONTINUES

TM

A Jason Tanner Design Group publication

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Chamber Programs

BIG PICTURE

Glover H. Cary Bridge

9 10 11

EXECUTIVE ANSWERS On the Record

CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC EVENT SCHEDULE OWENSBOROTICKETS.COM

Will Owensboro Tickets help your business?

HAND-PICKED

Favorite apps from a few of our favorite local leaders

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 200 E.Effective 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 brand interactions.

(270) 926-1860 http://chamber.owensboro.com

CHAMBER IN ACTION

GREATER OWENSBORO’S MODERN FARMERS

22 23 28

CHARACTERISTICS OF HIGH ACHEIVERS 2015 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPOTLIGHT Musick Studios Brescia University

8 QUESTIONS Philip Patterson

Effective brand interactions.

TM

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GREATER OWENSBORO

CHAMBER IN ACTION The Chamber of Commerce is always looking for ways to market our members to the community. Two of our unique marketing programs are in partnership with Cromwell Radio Group.

The Business of the Day program allows members of the Chamber to record a 90-second radio spot which is played on a scheduled day during the lunch rush hour. In addition to the member’s spot being played on the radio, the member is also promoted on all of the Chamber’s social media the on the day that their commercial is aired.

This is a benefit that most new members of the Chamber utilize and that many of our seasoned Chamber members find useful too.

The Business of the Week program is a newer program that the Chamber recently started. This program features 30-second spots highlighting the member 30 times throughout a week on a Cromwell Radio station of the member’s choice. The spots are produced with one of the community’s favorite radio talents, Brian Jackson. This opportunity allows memebers to experience the benefits of doing radio promotion. Both of these programs are free to any member of the Chamber.

Business of the Day and Business of the Week are Chamber Perks exclusively for Chamber members — They are FREE for Chamber members.

The programs allow our members to wade into the world of radio advertising. They can track the number of calls they receive and interest generated by this opportunity we provide them.

DARRELL HIGGINBOTHAM AND BRIAN JACKSON IN THE RADIO STATION STUDIO.

“It is one of our favorite times of the week because it gives us the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with our members and learn more about each of their businesses in a relaxed, fun atmosphere,” says Candance Brake, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. “With free radio ads, it is beneficial to each business who participate. However the Chamber team is really who benefits from the time spent with each member.”

BIG PICTURE

GLOVER H. CARY BRIDGE 1885

Birth year of the late Glover H. Cary, the congressman for whom the bridge was named.

2017

Number of total feet the bridge spans between Kentucky and Indiana.

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

75

Number of years the bridge has been in operation.

347

Number of people it would take to line the entire bridge, laying down head to foot.

1.03

Million dollars allotted

by FDR to fund the bridge’s construction.

7,292

Daily automotive traffic across the bridge.

EXECUTIVE ANSWERS

ON THE RECORD

Conflict is a part of life. As an executive, what’s the best way to resolve conflict within the office?

AMY JACKSON

ROXI WITT

JERRY MORRIS

GROVER HARDIN

PRESIDENT OWENSBORO REGION FIRST SECURITY BANK

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RIVERPARK CENTER

PRESIDENT & CEO SOUTHERN STAR CENTRAL GAS PIPELINE

MILL MANAGER KIMBERLY-CLARK CORP.

Yes, conflict is a part of life. I’ve heard it many times, and believe it to be true — conflict develops character.

But it only develops character if the conflict is handled appropriately. In all of my leadership opportunities, resolving conflict happens most effectively when you focus on the issue, not the person or people involved.

Attack the problem, not the person.

The best teams have conflict each day because they are constantly solving problems, whether for customers or co-workers. Knowing how to debate, seeing issues from every angle and appreciating the perspective of others are the characteristics of a great team.

And remember, it is OK to be emotional, excited, irritated, urgent or anxious in conflict. When there is emotion involved, it means you care and have skin in the game. Again, just make sure to channel the emotion you have within yourself or in the team to focus on solving the problem together.

Conflict can be positive and provide growth for your team and business, as long as it is done with the best intention to turn an obstacle into an opportunity.

Conflict is a part of our work lives. We all have differing opinions. The objective of a leader is to create an environment where people are free to ask questions and have differences, but with respect.

Listening is a critical skill that is rarely taught, yet it’s one of the things we most want from another person. We get that we may not always agree or get “what we want,” but if someone really listens and hears “our side,” we feel validated as a person. So I try to let my staff have differing thoughts, ideas and opinions and really listen to them.

If there’s a conflict among people on the team, I’ll usually talk to each one of them individually and then bring them together for a discussion. The purpose is for each one to understand the other’s point of view — not to necessarily agree.

Hopefully this interaction allows for clearer communication moving forward.

Conflict can manifest itself in the workplace in many forms. It can appear as a dispute over policy interpretation, a difference of opinion on strategic direction, a philosophical leadership divergence, or even an old-fashioned “personality conflict”.

In many cases, conflict arises in a business setting due to perceived competing objectives by groups or departments, and strains placed on any area’s most valuable commodities: time and resources.

How do we resolve conflict? There can be “power in a good fight,” or creative conflict, when everyone is initially aligned with, understands, and supports the company’s objectives. One key is to have ongoing communications with various delivery mechanisms (audio, video, written, email, department meetings, etc) to define the company’s goals and alignment expectations. The best vaccination is likely face-to-face communication across and within work groups to answer questions and improve role clarity. Ultimately, if a tough conflict does persist, it is best resolved head-on and face-to-face in a positive fashion that focuses on issues, not personalities, and that encourages all to move forward toward outcomes that will be best for everyone.

No matter where I’ve worked, my playbook for resolving conflict has remained the same. First, experience has proven that when conflict exists, we must be willing to talk about the issues and leave emotions out of it. Each of us must hold ourselves accountable to actively listen to points of disagreement and to clearly articulate our concerns to get them out in the open. Once concerns have been shared, a good practice is to repeat back what you’ve heard to demonstrate that you’ve listened (even if you don’t agree). Then work toward a solution together: ask what you can do to improve the situation, talk through potential solutions and, before closing, agree on a path forward. I also encourage my team to not only provide, but also ask for honest feedback. While no situation is the same, these simple steps seem to work in any organization. The most important tip I can provide is to do something to resolve the conflict.

Don’t ignore or let problems linger; it won’t move you or your team along, and it undermines your credibility.

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AUGUST 21, 2015 2014 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC BY THE NUMBERS:

41 SPONSORS 144 GOLFERS 36 TEAMS 84 MULLIGANS $1,520 CASH IN PRIZE MONEY

2014 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC WINNERS WITH AMY JACKSON, FORMER CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO, CURRENT PRESIDENT OF FIRST SECURITY BANK.

JULY EVENTS

AUGUST EVENTS

CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC

ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST

ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST

Owensboro Country Club

Owensboro Convention Center July 2 // 7:30 a.m.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WEDNESDAY Developing a Social Media and Email Use Policy Old National Bank Conference Room,

Owensboro Convention Center August 6 // 7:30 a.m.

AG APPRECIATION NIGHT AT FRIDAY AFTER 5 Veterans Blvd.

August 7 // 4-7 p.m.

Commerce Center — 200 E. 3rd St.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WEDNESDAY

July 8 // 11:30 a.m.

National Labor Relations Act & Employment Policies Old National Bank Conference room, Commerce Center — 200 E. 3rd St. August 12 // 11:30 a.m.

NEW MEMBER LUNCH Chamber Office July 17 // 11:30 a.m.

AGRI-BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 2108 Hwy 279 July 17 // 4-6 p.m.

DAVIESS COUNTY LIONS CLUB FAIR Daily attractions from July 22-25

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NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT With E.M. Ford & Company Old National Bank Conference room Commerce Center — 200 E. 3rd St. August 13 // 10 a.m.

Presented by One Health August 21 // 7:30 a.m.

RED, WHITE AND BLUE PICNIC Daviess County Courthouse Lawn August 25 // 5-7 p.m.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST Owensboro Convention Center September 3 // 7:30 a.m.

NEW MEMBER BREAKFAST Chamber Office September 11 // 7:30 a.m.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WEDNESDAY Successfully Recruiting and Onboarding the Right Employees

NEW MEMBER LUNCH

Old National Bank Conference room

Chamber Office August 14 // 11:30 a.m.

September 9 // 11:30 a.m.

Commerce Center — 200 E.3rd St.

OWENSBOROTICKETS.COM A new regional ticketing system for the community of Owensboro that will launch in July 2015. This online service will enable businesses to promote their events and sell their tickets on a trusted ticketing platform — Spectra Ticketing & Fan Engagement (formerly Paciolan). Owensboro Tickets will serve as the area’s destination for all live entertainment ticketing and event registration needs.

WILL OWENSBORO TICKETS HELP YOUR BUSINESS? DO YOU NEED TO PROMOTE OR SELL TICKETS FOR EVENTS? WHAT TYPE OF TICKETS DO YOU NEED TO SELL? CHARITY FUNDRAISERS

YES

ANY OF THESE EVENTS?

YES DEFINITELY!

CONCERTS

DANCE RECITALS FIREARMS EXPO

NO

NO Owensboro Tickets is a trusted platform for building increased awareness of your event.

DO YOU WANT TO SAVE MONEY PROMOTING AND SELLING YOUR TICKETS?

PLAYS

NO

YES

DO YOU NEED TO PROMOTE YOUR EVENT?

BALL GAMES

DO YOU EVER ATTEND EVENTS IN OWENSBORO?

NO

ABSOLUTELY!

ARE YOU A WORKAHOLIC? I DON’T HAVE TIME TO ANSWER

NO

THE GUN SHOW MUSCLE FLEXING

Owensboro Tickets is a cost-effecient alternative to other online ticketing services.

NO

YES

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE GUN SHOW!

HAND-PICKED

Favorite apps from a few of our favorite local leaders:

GOOGLE

REAL TIME STOCK TRACKER

YAHOO FINANCE

INSTAGRAM

CALENMOB

POCKET

-T. Frederic May

-Jack Wells

-Neel Ford

-Kate Higdon

-Dan Griffith

-Joe Berry

US BANK

WELLS HEALTH SYSTEMS

EM FORD & MONEY CONCEPTS

CAPTURED MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

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BY DANNY MAY

. PHOTO

BY DAVID GRINNELL

F

OUNDED

IN

1885,

DAHL

AND

truckload, by barge, by railroad cars and by overseas

GROEZINGER HAS THE DISTINCTION

containers. A CSX railroad runs right through their

OF BEING KENTUCKY’S OLDEST

property, and they recently bought a facility across

FAMILY-OWNED SCRAP IRON AND METAL

from the Owensboro Riverport at 1600 River Road

PROCESSOR. Today, John and Drew Kirkland,

so they can load barges. With all those avenues,

along with cousin Will Helwig, run the day-to-

the scrap metal from your garage could literally

day operations. All three are great-great grandsons

be shipped anywhere in the country or around the

of founder George Groezinger, who started the

world to be melted down and made into something

business.

new. Just last week a shipment container went to

The story goes that George Groezinger met Phillip

China. Next week they’re loading a barge.

Dahl on the boat ride over from Stuttgart, Germany,

Driving through the scrap yard, there are giant

in 1867. Once in New York City, the two met a man

piles of car parts, appliances, lots of random metal,

named Mr. Lacer, who brought them to Owensboro

and even junk automobiles. Five cranes (one with

to buy hides, wool, and pelts for his American

a giant magnet, one with a mobile cutting shear,

company. When Mr. Lacer retired, they bought his

and three grapples) swing about, moving material

business, established it as Dahl and Groezinger, and

and loading railcars for shipping. Another building

set up shop at 114 Frederica Street at what is now the

collects and weighs aluminum and copper.

empty lot where the Bluegrass Center will be built.

Recycling metal at D&G is pretty simple. First,

When George’s son, Walter, joined the firm in

you drive up on the scale so they can record your

1910, he believed scrap metal was the future of the

full load weight. Then you follow the path around to

business and began to develop the metal processing

the giant “claw” that empties the load for you. Once

operations. With that new direction, the company

you’re empty, you circle back around to the scale so

continued to grow and expand, survived the Great

they can record your empty weight. After they signal

Depression, and moved to the current location at

you, you park and walk up to the window to collect

940 W. 9th St. in 1954.

your money.

Today, D&G averages 100-120 customers a day

Being one of the oldest family-run businesses in

from the surrounding region, bringing in everything

Kentucky caught the attention of KET. Kentucky

from aluminum cans to junk cars. They accept both

Life filmed a “Dave Does It” segment where Dave

ferrous (scrap iron and steel) and non-ferrous

Shuffett gets to drive a Bobcat, run a crane, and crush

(copper, aluminum, brass and stainless steel items).

a car. After all that, Dave comments that the work is

Basically, anything metal. They then ship it by the

hard and dirty, but everybody who works at D&G

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“It’s unheard of in our industry to stay a family run business as long as we have.

A LOT HAVE STARTED OUT THAT WAY, BUT MOST PEOPLE END UP SELLING TO LARGER CORPORATIONS.” - BILL HELWIG

THE BIG PICTURE Ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture is one of the fastest growing segments of the furniture market in the world. Sometimes also known as knockdown (KD) furniture, RTA furniture has become a consumer-friendly furniture alternative because of improved materials, hardware and design innovations. While cost is the most important factor for many corporate buyers and business owners, consumers are drawn to the improved quality, easy assembly and increased options and styles that are available in today’s RTA furniture.

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loves their job and enjoys the family atmosphere.

Understandably, remaining a family-run business is something they take great pride in at D&G. “It’s unheard of in our industry to stay a family run business as long as we have,” says Vice President Bill Helwig. “A lot have started out that way, but most people end up selling to larger corporations.” Oh, they’ve had offers, for sure. But Helwig explained that each time they had an offer, the family had to come together and make a decision. “Ultimately, we decided that we don’t want our kids to be trust fund babies. We wanted them to work.”

Which worked out great because the sons did want to work. John and Drew Kirkland and Will Helwig each started working as soon as they could — at age 16. Will joined the firm after he graduated from Georgetown in 2002. John and Drew joined when they graduated from Alabama with MBAs in 2003. “We just always knew we wanted to do this, so every business class we took, we had this in our minds,” says Drew.

“I always say that being born into a family business can be a blessing and a curse,” says President Drew Kirkland, Sr. “It’s a blessing if you love it. But it you don’t love working for the family business, it can feel like a curse. It’s not for everybody. It has to be

Sr., was a connecting link for over 40 years from his time in the service during the war years until 1987.

Helwig admits that it’s not always easy to make a family business work. It takes good communication, a little giving in, and agreeing to work together. “Our predecessors really taught us that, and thankfully this generation has been able to work together like we have and keep this thing going.”

Looking forward, the fifth generation members now have growing families of their own, which leaves plenty of opportunity for the legacy to continue.

The last paragraph on the “history” page of their

something you enjoy.”

website puts it this way:

Fifth generation member Lee Hall decided not

Though another century has passed, Dahl

to join the firm and is pursuing her own interests

& Groezinger will continue to use our family

as a successful interior designer. The other fifth

ownership and management to give each customer

generation member is Bill Conley III, who did join

and consumer the personal attention they deserve.

the firm for a while, but then decided to enter the

Regardless of the ever-changing business climate,

banking business. The Conley line of the family was

our customers and consumers will remain our top

very instrumental in the success of D&G. Bill Conley

priority. Thank you for allowing us to serve you for

Jr. was fourth generation, and his father, Bill Conley

over 125 years.

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TRADITION CONTINUES

Sometimes following in your father’s footsteps can be daunting.

FOR ADAM HANCOCK, IT’S AN HONOR AND A PRIVILEGE.

BY DANNY MAY

. PHOTO BY DAVID GRINNELL

A

fter 28 years as managing shareholder/president with Riney Hancock CPAs, Joseph A. Hancock has announced that he will be stepping down.

Effective July 1, 2015, the shareholder board

appointed J. Adam Hancock, who is Joe’s son, the new managing shareholder/president. The two men obviously have a great deal of respect for each other.

Outgoing managing shareholder/president Joe Hancock says of his son, “Adam has been a significant part of the firm’s success, and I believe the firm will have continued success under his leadership.

I am pleased that Adam has been named managing shareholder/ president. We have a great team of young professionals at Riney Hancock. They are our next generation of leaders in business, as well as in our community, and they will flourish under Adam’s leadership.”

According to the younger Hancock, working alongside his father has been an incredible experience. “Yes, he is my father, but he has also been one of the best role models and teachers I could ever ask for,” Adam says. “He pretty much taught me everything I know. I just hope that I can build on all the things that he taught me and continue to grow the firm as well.”

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Adam currently serves as the director of the firm’s consulting services division. He joined the firm in 2005 and became a shareholder in 2013.

Hancock says becoming president isn’t something he felt he had to accept or was expected to do. “This is something I was invited to do, and it was an easy decision for me.” He says the staff at Riney Hancock is the number one reason.

“It’s a great group of people to work with. There are people who have been here for 20 and 30 years and have become experts in their fields. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the people we have in the firm.”

RINEY HANCOCK AT A GLANCE: Founded in 1973 2 offices (Owensboro and Evansville) A staff of 30 team members 7 Shareholders

Marketing coordinator Jeana Sorrells, who has been with the firm for six years, but considers herself a “lifer,” echoed that same sentiment. “There are many in the firm who started as interns or have come on board after college and stayed with Riney Hancock for many years. If there is turnover, it’s

SIMILAR PATHS BETWEEN JOE AND ADAM HANCOCK:

normally because they have gone into private practice, not with a competitor.”

Sorrells says another reason for the family atmosphere at work is because the

Joe Hancock:

staff are encouraged to further their careers by discovering what aspects of

Chair of Owensboro Chamber of Commerce at age 31

accounting they are most interested in and then pursuing those specialties.

First Class of Leadership Kentucky in 1985

Adam is actually a prime example of that. Adam admits he was questioning whether he really wanted to be in accounting for the rest of his life until he branched out from auditing to valuation and fraud investigation. By the time he had moved into consulting services, Hancock says “I found my way, and I love it. I’m a true believer that you need to be passionate about what you do in order to be successful.”

Adam Hancock: Chair-Elect of Owensboro Chamber of Commerce this year (age 34) Leadership Kentucky class of 2013

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GREATER OWENSBORO’S

MODERN FARMERS PICTURE A FARMER: UP AT SUNRISE, WORKING HARD, HANDS DIRTY, SWEAT ON HIS BROW. NOW PICTURE A COMPUTER TECH OR A SCIENTIST: STERILE ENVIRONMENT, WHITE LAB COAT, AND NOT A SPECK OF DIRT IN SIGHT.

BY STEVEN WILSON - PHOTOS BY JASON TANNER

F

arming is one of the world’s oldest professions. In contrast, the field of computer science, which has allowed computers to become part of our every

day lives, has rapidly developed over the past years into a profession that’s in high demand. While these professions seem to exist in stark contrast to one another, you may be surprised by how much modern purveyors of crops, science and computer technology actually have in common.

Though farmers still get their hands dirty, and computer

techs and scientists still spend plenty of time in the lab, their worlds have seamlessly meshed to birth the farming industry as it operates today. Old stereotypes associated with farming have fallen by the wayside. Taking their place is a synergistic picture where farming and technology act hand-in-hand.

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

Nowhere is that more evident than right here in

an expected population of 9.6 billion people. As if this

On a farm

wasn’t a tall enough task, farmers face additional obstacles

in Stanley, Suzanne Cecil and her father, Gary, of Cecil

such as the limited availability of arable lands, an increasing

Farms, and Rick Kamuf, of Kamuf Brothers Farms, provide

need for fresh water, and the impact of climate change.

a glimpse into how farming has evolved and the role

That’s exactly why technology in farming has become so

technology plays in their operations. Like so many other

important. And as the agricultural industry changes, more

areas of our lives, technology has made farming far more

farmers are embracing the practice known as “precision

efficient. And as a result of the ever-changing agricultural

agriculture” or “smart farming.”

landscape, computers have become just as valuable a tool to

the farmer as the tractor. No longer is modern technology

use of technology, precision is the one word that was

seen as a luxury on the farm; it’s become a necessity.

mentioned more than any other. With the increasing food

Consider this: by 2050, the FAO (Food and

needs of a growing consumer population, as well as stricter

Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) estimates

government standards on food safety, precision agriculture

that global food production must increase by 70% to feed

helps farmers by increasing profitability, improving

Greater Owensboro and Daviess County.

During discussions with local farmers about their

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

20

management practices, and reducing soil

Precision is the key.”

consumer in mind, and also the earth,

depletion.

In addition to the necessity of

because we want to be able to use this

Cecil Farms and Kamuf Brothers

technology, Gary also noted the prevalence

land over and over. This is our livelihood,

Farms pool their resources and man power

of computers in farming. “We have more

and we are concerned for the consumer

to partner in growing peppers, cucumbers

technology in one spreader now than we

that’s going to be receiving this product.”

and watermelons, among other crops, in

used to have in the whole outfit. But it’s

Technology aids the farmer in these areas of

Daviess County.

Gary Cecil and Rick

required of the industry — that’s just what

quality and environmentalism by affording

Kamuf have each been farming for over

it takes anymore. Everything’s a lot faster,

them greater control over how their land is

forty years, and both men recognize

and that’s the reason everybody can cover

utilized.

the value of the precision provided by

a lot more acres and be more efficient. It’s

modern technology.

In addition to

all a volume world now, and while you can’t

allows the farmer to realize higher yields

growing fruits and vegetables, Gary and

make as much per acre, you have to be able

from every inch of his land. For Gary, the

his son, Ryan, operate a lime and fertilizer

to manage more acres.”

main advantage of utilizing advances in

business, providing services to other local

But even with an increased demand,

technology is the increase it provides in

farms. When questioned about the use

strict regulations dictate that quality has

the farmer’s efficiency. “We use GPS to

and advancement of technology in his

to keep up with quantity. Says Rick, “The

go through the field and grid it. You take

profession, Gary stresses the importance

technology in varieties, the equipment, the

soil samples sporadically through the field

of GPS and satellite mapping to their

science of it — it’s all geared back to food

and plug that into your computer, and as

business. According to Gary, “The biggest

safety. We have to try to be as friendly to

the year goes on, you can see the changes

change is the technology used to apply

the earth as we possibly can. We work

and what the needs are. Then when your

variable rates and to steer and be accurate

hard at that.” Suzanne Cecil echoes those

combine goes through the field, you have

when you’re going through the fields.

sentiments: “Everything we do is with the

the same computer that goes through and

GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

Modern computer technology also

picks up the yield — it can show you the weak spots in your field and the good spots, and where you need attention, where you need to fertilize.

If there’s disease present, it’ll show that. It allows us to go back and evaluate our products and our production.”

Compared with when he began farming,

Rick says the difference is not even close. “30 or 40 years ago you just go back and plant and hope for the best. Now, every five years you see an influx of new technology. It’s pretty amazing to keep up with, and it becomes more and more important every year. If I were to go back to my method of 40 years ago, I couldn’t keep up. It’s important to keep up with the technology, or you’ll get left behind.”

In order to keep up with the trends,

education and innovation are keys. And the next generation of Greater Owensboro and Daviess County farmers and farm professionals are on top of their game. Jason Strode, of Strode Farms, graduated from Murray State University in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture.

In addition to learning the business side of farming from his professors at Murray, Jason also notes that “Farm periodicals, websites, and UK extension meetings are a great way to stay informed of the newest trends and improvements in agriculture.” education

and

modern

Continuing

technology

are

important tools for today’s farmers. According to Jason, “We use computers for everything from accounting to farm records. All of our tractors, combines, and sprayers are equipped with monitors that log our every pass, and the Internet is a valuable research tool to solve problems in a quick fashion.”

There will always be a need for farmers.

In fact, the need now may be greater than in any other time in history. And if recent predictions and global trends are an indicator, that need will only continue to grow. While some of the numbers on population growth and food production may seem daunting, our local farmers and their willingness to embrace modern farming technology provide us with a bright hope for the future.

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FOUR CHARACTERISTICS OF

HIGH ACHIEVERS Many of you reading this magazine are entrepreneurs, which means you are achievers. You know how to get things done. But even successful achievers wonder “Why is that entrepreneur experiencing so much more success than I am when he or she is not any more skilled?”

The difference lies in your mindset — how you think about your business. Below are four key mindsets of highly successful entrepreneurs. Spend time developing these indicators, and you will become a high achiever as well.

By Travis Chaney

HIGH ACHIEVERS PROCESS AND IMPLEMENT CHANGE AT A VERY RAPID PACE. If your company is going to succeed, you must be ready to adapt. Successful, value-based change works best when it is planned. Once you have decided the direction you want to take, don’t be afraid to launch yourself headfirst into that change.

Many other changes are unplanned, so as an entrepreneur, you must develop an ability to roll with the punches. Stay committed to your vision and plan, but be ready at any time to adapt based on circumstances. Flexibility is an undervalued trait, but a fantastic way to demonstrate your willingness to do what’s necessary to push through to the next level.

HIGH ACHIEVERS KNOW HOW TO MANAGE RISK EFFECTIVELY, SO THEY’RE NOT AFRAID TO TAKE RISKS. In order to manage risk, you actually have to take risks.

Because high achievers are so accomplished at managing the possible effects of their actions, they are willing and able to take more risks than everybody else.

Here’s a helpful grid through which you can view risk.

Calculate the best and worst possible results of a proposed course of action. If you can tolerate a bad result, move ahead with the risk — the possible good outweighs the potential bad.

If you cannot accept the bad result, don’t take the chance — the risk is too great.

The end result usually falls somewhere in between the best and worst options, but high achievers are quick to decide if they can tolerate the worst. The more you practice this method, the more you will develop your sense for acceptable risk.

HIGH ACHIEVERS KNOW HOW TO EFFECTIVELY LEVERAGE RESOURCES. High achievers have learned the best and highest use of their time, talent and resources. The idea is to perform the tasks that only you are qualified to do while you make use of your teams

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and resources to take care of the rest. If you’re the CEO of your organization, you’re setting the vision, creating the strategic plan and building relationships. Hire team members who can answer the phone, keep the books and carry out your plan.

HIGH ACHIEVERS KNOW WHO THEY ARE, WHERE THEY’RE GOING AND HOW THEY WANT TO GET THERE, SO THEY CAN MAKE DECISIONS MORE QUICKLY. Many entrepreneurs are equally talented in terms of the knowledge specific to their industry — financial services, health care, construction, etc. One financial advisor, for example, may have 20 high-net-worth clients, while another has 100 of the same type of clients. Both advisors know how to handle such clients and are skilled in strategies that increase their clients’ wealth (and their own). The second advisor just knows how to attract more clients at a quicker rate. His advantage is in the speed with which he operates because of his certainty in what he’s trying to do.

SO HERE’S THE QUESTION: When you look at highly successful entrepreneurs, what differences do you see between them and you? These four characteristics might be the answer.

Are you willing to take change quickly and take managed risks? Are you leveraging your resources in the best way? Are you sure about who you are so you can you make decisions quickly?

In the end, your results will only change when your behaviors change, and your behaviors will only change when your beliefs change. Focus on these fundamentals and they will be difference makers for you.

Travis Chaney is the CEO of Dynamic Directions (www.dynamicdirections-d2. com), a coaching and consulting firm in Owensboro. He also co-founded Inner Circle Entrepreneur (www.innercircleleader.com) to provide coaching to successful entrepreneurs, and is the co-founder of Kids Football League (www.kidsfootballleague. com) in Owensboro.

SPOTLIGHT

MUSICK STUDIOS 411 E. 2nd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 | (270) 688-8908 | www.musickstudios.com Dance is an art form that has increased in popularity over the last several years. With television shows like “So You Think You Can Dance?” and “America’s Got Talent,” dance has transformed from a creative form of exercise into breathtaking displays of choreography and the high energy routines of perfectly precisioned dance teams. With the help of passionate instructors like LeAnne Musick of Musick Studios, this growing love of dance has spread throughout the Owensboro community as well.

It all started eight years ago with one simple question, “Why not start a dance class?” Musick Studios taught 98 students in its first year. That number has now grown to 450 students who participate in six dance teams and five traveling all-star teams.

What LeAnne Musick has been able to accomplish through dance in the Owensboro community is remarkable, but she

says, “I couldn’t have done it by myself.” With the support of her office manager, advisory board, six employees, and hundreds of dedicated students and parents, Musick Studios was named the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 2015 Business of the Year (1-10 employees).

Although the studio is known for its high-energy performances and high quality dance team instruction, Musick Studios has found a way to impact every generation in our community. Whether it is the four-year-old little girl that gets up on stage in hair and makeup for the first time, the boy who wants to perfect his hip-hop and street dance technique, or the woman who wants to improve herself and her body, the studio is a very cultured and diverse environment where people of all ages can learn to express themselves in a fun way.

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they earned five first place trophies in 2013 and 2014, and received a 2013 #1 National Ranking. This year’s team was selected as one of twelve (out of an original 4,000) to receive a $15,000 bid, and went on to win the national championship at Disney World in the youth division.

The trophies and awards are only a small part of what the studio has accomplished in its eight years. What is even more impressive is the number of ways that the studio collaborates with and impacts the community. Musick Studios currently visits 12 schools throughout the year to perform and provide dance education in order to help meet the school’s Common Core physical education requirements. The studio also provides dance instruction to several area organizations, including: Girls Inc., Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club, the Neblett Center and Dugan Best, and it performs at several events each year in order to raise awareness for various causes.

Leanne says that being named 2015 (small) Business of The studio is not only an enjoyable place to dance, but it is also a viable competitor in local and national competitions.

The accomplishments of the studio dance and all-star teams

24

the Year has “helped push me to the next level.” She is now seeking out and inviting nationally renowned choreographers to the studio, as she feels that it is “time to learn from people better than us.” Her vision is to “leave positive footprints”

over the last four years are stunning. In 2012, the teams earned

while continuing to help the city of Owensboro be stronger in

four first place trophies and were named Grand Champions,

the art of dance.

GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

BRESCIA UNIVERSITY 717 Frederica St., Owensboro, Kentucky 42301 | www.brescia.edu

As the longest-standing provider of higher education in Daviess County, Brescia University is as much a part of the fiber of the Greater Owensboro community as barbeque and bluegrass music. Brescia’s roots extend back to 1926 when it first formed as the Mount Saint Joseph College for women, and it has been a member of the flourishing downtown community since 1948 when Owensboro’s leaders asked the school to “come to town” in order to serve the educational needs of veterans returning from WWII. For over 90 years, Brescia University has been providing educational opportunities for those for those whoe might otherwise have none.

Recognized as the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 2015 Business of the Year (Education and Workforce Development), the University celebrated a landmark enrollment year with over 1,100 students calling Brescia home during the 2014-2015 school year.

Brescia University is a leader and pioneer in the delivery of online education. BUonline empowers students who want to learn by providing them the opportunity to do so in a format that fits their individual needs. Over 15 degree options are available at the certificate, associate, bachelor and master levels.

Brescia University’s excellence is not going unnoticed. In 2014-15, BUonline garnered five top rankings, including: Top College for Online Associate Degree Program, Top Online Psychology Degree, Top Online Accounting Degree and Best Online College in Kentucky for 2015 from the Affordable College Foundation. Brescia University was also named the Best Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students Before

Profits Award from Nonprofit Colleges Online.

The award-winning momentum does not stop with the online programs. Brescia University was named A Best College in the Southeast (Princeton Review), Best Regional College in the South (U.S. News World Report) and 2015 Best Value School. Brescia University was also named a 2015 College of Distinction and was the only school in Kentucky to be named a 2015 Catholic College of Distinction.

There could not be a more exciting time for Brescia University as it kicks off the “Campaign for Brescia University: Gateway to Our Second Century,” a $10 million capital campaign. The campaign will fund significant renovations to the Campus Center and the construction of a new “Signature Building” to be located on the corner of 9th and Frederica Streets. The projects will serve to address enrollment growth, meet the needs of modern day learners, and will give a new face to the University as well as a new landmark entrance to downtown Owensboro.

“The future is bright in this community because of Brescia University,” says the Honorable Al Mattingly, class of 1969, Daviess County Judge Executive. “The future is bright because of the students who have attended the college and received a liberal arts education. I can tell you today, that I have every confidence in the world that the future of our children and our children’s children will be brighter than the future we experienced all because of institutions like Brescia and the opportunity to gain an education that is unparalleled throughout this state, throughout this nation and, dare I say, throughout the world.”

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

PARTNERING TO CREATE A PIPELINE OF SKILLED WORKERS

By Scott Williams, Ph.D.

President, Owensboro Community & Technical College

Since April 2013, the labor force in Daviess County has dropped by

earn an industry recognized, multi-craft technician degree in about 18

6% and the number of actual workers has dropped by 3.8%. This trend

months. Applicants must be high school graduates (or equivalent) and be

is exacerbated by the fact that work force baby boomers are retiring at a

willing to participate in the program’s 40 hour per week, apprenticeship-

high rate (10,000 per day nationally), placing tremendous pressure on

style format. Students attend college two days per week, while working

advanced manufacturers in our region to hire and retain highly skilled manufacturing technicians. This is not unique to the greater Owensboro area, in fact, it is widespread across the Commonwealth. The result is a soaring demand for highly skilled workers in the advanced manufacturing industry so very critical to our economic prosperity.

To help reverse this trend, the Kentucky Federation

for

Advanced

Manufacturing

Education (KY FAME) was created. KY FAME is a partnership of manufacturers whose goal is to implement apprenticeship-style training to create a pipeline of highly skilled technicians. Regional KY FAME chapters partner with local KCTCS institutions to develop and implement an Advanced Manufacturing Technician Degree Program.

In May 2015, Owensboro became the fifth chapter of the KY FAME network. The Greater Owensboro Chapter of KY FAME (GO FAME) was created by 13 regional manufacturing companies

three days per week at their sponsoring company. Upon completion of the program, students receive an Associate in Applied Science degree, with the additional benefit of practical skills and paid work experience.

KY FAME’S AMT PROGRAM HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS THE “BEST CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAM IN THE U.S.”

BY THE NATIONAL CAREER PATHWAY NETWORK.

Graduates may begin full-time employment with the sponsor company or decide to further their technical education and obtain a bachelor degree.

A highly skilled workforce is one of the most critical drivers of a healthy economy. That is why partnerships between industry and educational institutions are essential to addressing this issue.

The GO FAME work and learn model allows industry and higher education partners to provide students with relevant workforce and professional skills, while the student earns a credential providing them with career mobility and progression. The work and learn model started with manufacturing in Kentucky. It can, however, work in all industry sectors where professional skilled technicians are

partnering with Owensboro Community and Technical College and the

required, from healthcare to service related businesses. Owensboro

Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to implement

Community & Technical College is ready to work with your business

the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) degree pathway.

or industry. Contact OCTC’s Workforce Solutions division to learn

The AMT’s work and learn model allows participating students to

more at (270) 686-4444.

Founding members of the GO FAME Chapter include: Omico Plastics, Kimberly Clark, Precision Roll Grinders, The Hines Group, Metalsa, TTMA, Ken-tron Mfg., Castlen Steel, Hunter Douglas, Inc, Sun Windows, WPT Non Wovens, Domtar, and National Office Furniture.

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8

QUESTIONS PHILIP PATTERSON

BY DANNY MAY

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GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

W H AT I S YOUR FAVOR I TE VACATI ON/ D ES T I N ATI ON? Our family loves to travel. We try to travel overseas

started on some of the unique offerings around this region, such as Land Between the Lakes and Garden of the Gods.

every other year and are always looking for adventures in the U.S. However, our lake cabin in Minnesota is a tried-and-true family favorite and a wonderful place to relax. It gives our family the chance to enjoy fishing, cooking, swimming, evening bonfires with s’mores, and many other great traditions and memories.

WHAT EXPERIENCE FROM CHILDHOOD LATER INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER PATH? I grew up in a family of seven physicians and two hospital administrators, so I was immersed in the health care industry from an early age. My grandfather really instilled a passion in our family about community service; to him that was the very

W H AT I S YOUR FAVOR I TE HOB BY OR WAY TO UNWI ND? I’m really a “no-place-like-home” kind of guy.

Whenever possible, I prefer to spend my evenings

core of being a doctor. Basically, I grew up around a hospital and always knew I would work in one someday. It was just a matter of choosing the medical side or the administrative side.

at home, cooking dinner with my wife, playing with my kids, and puttering in our garden. When time allows, our family loves to spend time outdoors.

We are into traditional tent-camping, hiking, biking and fishing. Quality time with my family is the best thing I can do to recharge. I am also an avid reader, so we are frequent visitors to the Daviess County Public Library. It is such a fantastic resource for this community.

WHO ME NTORE D YOU / WHO FIRS T SAW T HE GIFTS IN YOU? I will always be grateful for the advice and friendship of Mark Tarr, who is currently the executive vice president and chief operating officer at HealthSouth, where he has been since 1993. I was only 27 when Mark offered me my first CEO job, and I gained a great deal of confidence and experience under his watch. He saw potential and gave me an opportunity

WHAT IS STILL ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

to achieve success.

I would have to say that visiting all 50 states is at the top of my bucket list. There is an infinite variety of amazing sights and culture across our country and I would love to see it all. International travel is wonderful, but I think we often forget just how spectacular the scenery is right here at home. We have already

WHAT S KILLS DID YOU DE VE LOP E ARLY ON T HAT HE LP YOU TODAY ?

The ability to communicate is one of the most important skills a leader can have. That is why I am rarely at my desk; I prefer to be visiting employees— so I can learn what is important to them. I want

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our staff to feel invested in our mission and to know

headquartered in my hometown of Mobile, Alabama. I

the direction we are going as an organization. At every

bagged a lot of groceries and stocked a lot of shelves in

stop in my career, listening and developing relationships

my time there! It was back when we would individually

have been the keys to success. I also value spending

bag and carry everyone’s groceries to their car, and there

time travelling throughout our regional community in

was no better training on how to be nice to people.

Western Kentucky. There are so many innovative leaders and dedicated citizens who are passionate about the from industries outside of healthcare, that could help us

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORIT E T HING ABOUT OWE NS BORO?

better meet the needs of the communities we serve.

When Crystal and I began researching Owensboro, we

future of our region. There is much we could learn, even

were amazed by how progressive the area really is. The

D O YO U R E ME MB ER YOUR F I R ST PAYCHE CK? H OW D I D YO U EAR N I T?

30

riverfront, the festivals, the schools — the enthusiasm here is very contagious, and we wanted to be part of it. Owensboro has lived up to all of my expectations

Before I could start a formal job, I started mowing lawns

— and exceeded them. Plus, people are so warm and

around the age of 12. But, my “paycheck” working career

friendly, which made us feel right at home from our

started as a clerk at Delchamps — a chain of grocery stores

first day here.

GO BUSINESS . THIRD QUARTER 2015

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200 E 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 http://chamber.owensboro.com

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO KY 42301 PERMIT NO 420