GO Business Q4 2015

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

FROM THE CHAMBER

W

elcome to our third edition of GO Business! Autumn is in full swing and the Chamber is busy working on a number of very important initiatives.

GO Vote!!!, Red White and Blue, Leadership Owensboro, Community Priorities Forum, Small Business Saturday… there are so many exciting things happening.

This publication highlights some cool things going on in Owensboro. Our cover features the Blue Bridge Tie. The tie was the brainchild of Chamber member Eric Adams, owner of Adams and Sons Men’s Fine Clothier. The tie features the iconic Glover Cary Blue Bridge for its 75th Anniversary.

The tie is an example of innovation, creativity and social entrepreneurship that is beginning to become a hallmark of Owensboro culture and business.

W

hile we are always striving for continuous improvement, the Chamber appears to be clicking on all cylinders. As I mentioned last quarter, membership continues to grow and membership count is the highest that it has been in the last three years. The increase in membership is a direct result of a tremendous Chamber staff who works diligently to provide opportunities and value to your membership. It is election season with several state-wide offices that will have new leadership.

At the October Rooster Booster, the Chamber unveiled the Go Vote initiative.

Voting is extremely important and we encourage you and your employees to make a plan to vote. As our speaker indicated, we need to “punch above our weight class” to reinforce to Frankfort that the Owensboro

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

CANDANCE BRAKE

President & CEO

We have a new face on the Chamber staff. Welcome to Shelly Nichols, our Membership Development Manager! Shelly comes to us from the Public Life Foundation where she served as Director of Civic Engagement. Shelly’s goal is to connect with our members, to find out what is important to them and what we need to be doing as a chamber to meet each member’s needs.

We also welcome intern Elizabeth Griffith, Kentucky Wesleyan College graduate and Western Kentucky University graduate student. Elizabeth is the perfect example of young professionals we hope to keep and recruit to Owensboro!

Our Chamber Team wishes you the best! Thank you so much for allowing us to serve you! And do not forget to shop local and shop members!

MARK MARTIN

Chairman

area means business. Both gubernatorial candidates have been confirmed for the Red, White and Blue picnic, so we hope to see you there.

The 2016 Leadership Owensboro class has been selected and have begun their program year. We are blessed with another strong class which is a direct result of our members recruiting and retaining the best and the brightest in our area.

In the near future, the Chamber will begin the community priorities process and we look forward to and welcome your involvement. By having a unified voice, we can strategically identify, target and advocate for projects that will yield greater benefits to our 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:

4TH QUARTER 2015

ADVERTISING SALES

Bo Alexander bo@tannerwest.com

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Robert Williams robert@owensboroparent.com

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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Taylor West taylor@tannerwest.com

CHAMBER IN ACTION Leadership Owensboro

BIG PICTURE THE ELEMENTS OF AN IDEA

Andrea Roberson andrea@tannerwest.com

COPY EDITOR

Aleris CALP Expansion

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EXECUTIVE ANSWERS On the Record

CHAMBER EVENT SCHEDULE THE HEIGHTS OF OWENSBORO The 5 Tallest Buildings in the City

Ashley Murphy

COVER PHOTO

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David Grinnell

PRINTING

Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

HAND-PICKED

Most useful business conferences from a few of our favorite local leaders SODA BY DESIGN

CONTACT INFORMATION:

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

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

A Jason Tanner Design Group publication

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DESIGN INSIGHTS FROM LOCAL EXPERTS

11 15 18 20 32

SHOP SMALL TIMELINE 2015 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPOTLIGHT The Malcolm Bryant Corporation Girls Inc.

THE BUSINESS OF BRINGING THE MAVS TO TOWN OMU FIBERNET 10 QUESTIONS Fr. Larry Hostetter

Effective brand interactions.

TM

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

GREATER OWENSBORO

CHAMBER IN ACTION LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CONTINUES THE TRADITION JESSICA KIRK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Co-sponsored by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, Leadership Owensboro continues its strong tradition in the community with the newly accepted class of 2016. Leadership Owensboro has carried the tradition of excellence in building and encouraging Owensboro leaders since 1982. The program boasts an alumni base of more than one thousand, and I am proud to be included in that number.

Leadership Owensboro is more than learning about and expanding leadership in Owensboro. It works from the ground up to grow passion and desire to make Owensboro an even greater place to live, to open a business, re-locate for college, raise our families – the list could go on and on. The program encourages the class to appreciate so many unique things that Owensboro has to offer and it makes you want to share all of the goodness with others. It expands the classes’ knowledge

and background on several topics and pressing issues in our community while facilitating a connection between the class and local leaders. But, most of all – it presents honesty; honesty to ask a lot of tough questions about our community that we need to hear the answers to in order to better understand how we fix the obstacles that hold us back from being the community that we strive to become.

Classes consist of nine full-day sessions that include topics such as education, human needs and services, local government issues, crime, arts, tourism, healthcare and more. In addition to the once monthly classes from September through April, the class members are required to participate in local civic leadership meetings, and will work in a team to present a solution to an identified community challenge.

As Executive Director, I could not be more excited to share the next year with the new Leadership Owensboro Class of 2016. The EDC and Chamber leadership look forward to another great year of continuing the rich tradition. Congratulations, LO class of 2016!

BIG PICTURE

ALERIS CALP EXPANSION (CONTINUOUS ANNEALING LINE AND PRETREATMENT)

100 480 New wellpaying jobs

10. 2014 CALP project breaks ground

RESULT: 8

GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

million pounds of aluminum auto body sheet produced annually

350 350,000 Million dollars invested

square feet expanded

Present 2017 Structure of the CALP building complete

Goal remains to ship auto body sheet to customers in 2017

This investment in assets and resources will position Aleris to meet the significant growth in North American automotive demand as this industry continues to shift to lightweight aluminum to achieve required fuel-efficiency standards.

EXECUTIVE ANSWERS

ON THE RECORD

Knowing the right time to expand is a crucial point for any business. Based on your experience, what deciding factors helped you know when to expand your business?

CARL V. GREENWELL

REV. RHONDALYN RANDOLPH

DON MOORE

In the early 80s, our company experienced increased growth in our customer base, requiring more productive equipment and employees to meet this demand. It became apparent that we had to expand physically as well to accommodate this growth. Our plant at 211 W 9th St was land-locked, and expansion at that location was not possible - a move was imminent.

The move to the East Parrish location paid off, and our business went through a growth spurt. Our employee base expanded from 18 in 1994, to 30 employees today.

But physical expansion of one’s business is not enough. Real success lies in one’s ability to expand their mind. Being open to creative thinking, new ways of problem solving, and innovative solutions is critical for any lasting success. Had this not been a cornerstone of our company over the past 96 years, we would not be here today.

With the Lord’s blessings, good clients, employees and vendors, our company is excited to expand into the future as a community partner, bringing innovation and growth to Owensboro.

Knowing the right time to expand is crucial to the longevity of business, and missing the right time to expand can stagnate or fold a business. The “pangs” of such decisions can be a logistical nightmare or a dream come true.

Determining the business’s profitability, having enough capital, ensuring increased customer support, and timing are all important markers to decide expansion.

Some businesses will only break even, but once above the break even point, consider reinvesting for expansion. Capital gains could provide a source of income for that reinvestment.

The next step should be determining what areas to expand. Has the business grown to the degree that it has outgrown you? If so, determine if adding new staff or reassigning and increasing responsibilities of current staff works for you. Do you have the customer base to support your expansion? If you cannot keep up with the demand from customers of the product you offer, you need to expand.

During my career, I have found that the best time to expand is when the opportunity presents itself. That opportunity can come in many forms. Opportunity can come when the space next to your business becomes available.

Opportunity can come with the availability of a new product line. Opportunity can come when the right piece of property is available to purchase. Opportunity can come when another business in your industry is available for purchase. So the right time to expand is when the opportunity for growth presents itself.

But you should also be cautious. You must constantly be searching for opportunities, but you should not force “false opportunities”.

Never expand just because you want to be bigger! Expand for a reason and that reason should always be “Opportunity”.

PRESIDENT GREENWELL CHISHOLM PRINTING CO.

PRESIDENT, OWENSBORO NAACP BRANCH 3107 PASTOR, PLEASANT POINT MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

PRESIDENT DON MOORE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

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CHAMBER EVENTS SCHEDULE OCTOBER EVENTS

COMMUNITY PRIORITIES PUBLIC FORUM

DECEMBER EVENTS

RED, WHITE AND BLUE PICNIC

KWC – Rogers Hall in the

ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST

Daviess County Courthouse Lawn October 29 // 4 – 6 pm

Winchester Center

NOVEMBER EVENTS ELECTION DAY – GO VOTE! November 3

ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST Owensboro Convention Center November 5 // 7:30 am

HAND-PICKED

Owensboro Convention Center December 4 // 7:30 am

November 17 // 6 pm

JANUARY EVENTS BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

ROOSTER BOOSTER BREAKFAST

Brescia University

Owensboro Convention Center January 7 // 7:30 am

November 19 // 4 – 6 pm

ANNUAL CHAMBER CELEBRATION

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

RiverPark Center January 15 // 6 – 11 pm

November 28

Most useful business conferences from a few of our favorite local leaders:

HILLIARD LYONS NATIONAL SALES FORUM WITH KEVIN O’LEARY FROM TV SERIES SHARK TANK -Rick Hobgood

GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

IDEA FESTIVAL

-Kyle Gorman

-Joe Berry

GORMAN RECRUITING

-Amy Jackson

FIRST SECURITY BANK

GO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

AICPA’S EMERGING PARTNER TRAINING FORUM -Adam Hancock

BB&T LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE -Scott McCain BB&T

RINEY HANCOCK CPAS PSC

HILLIARD LYONS

THE HEIGHTS OF OWENSBORO The 5 Tallest Buildings in the City

ROOSEVELT HOUSE

OWENSBORO HEALTH REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Built in 1973

Built in 2013

195 ft.

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157 ft.

NOV 28, 2015

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

LAST YEAR, SHOPPERS COULD GET THEIR “PASSPORT” STAMPED AT EACH PARTICIPATING LOCATION.

THROUGH THE YEARS

2010

American Express launched first Small Business Saturday on November 27th, encouraging people across the country to “shop small” by supporting local businesses on the morning after Black Friday.

2011

US Senate officially recognized the day. Governors, mayors, senators and even President Obama voiced their support.

2012

American Express encouraged small business owners to take charge of the day, helping them promote their businesses with free personalized ads and resources. Based on a consumer insights survey, 73.9 million people shopped on Small Business Saturday 2012.

2013

1,450 neighborhoods pledged support. Owensboro Chamber of Commerce organized a Small Business Saturday shopping card campaign. 38 Chamber members participated.

Just for fun, here’s a side-by-side comparison of Owensboro’s five tallest buildings.

Roosevelt House Tower 1 still reigns as king of the skyline since overtaking Gabe’s Tower when R1 was built in 1973. The Hampton Inn tops the downtown skyline, at just under 100 feet. Interesting fact: With only 6 stories, Independence Bank is just 5 ft shy of Gabe’s Tower’s 13 stories.

2014

To take its share of the $14.3 billion estimated sales nationwide on Small Business Saturday, the Chamber sponsored a Shop Small Campaign. 50 Chamber members participated in a “passport” program, where shoppers could get their cards stamped at each participating location for door prizes.

2015

This year, Small Business Saturday is November 28th. The Chamber plans to kick off Small Business Saturday by sponsoring a number of fun activities around the city. Contact the Chamber for more details.

Honorable mentions: At only 3 stories, the Owensboro Convention Center still rises 82 ft.

Down the shore, the RiverPark Center is just two feet shorter than the Convention Center.

At only 6 stories, Roosevelt II stands 74 ft.

GABE’S TOWER

INDEPENDENCE BANK

HAMPTON INN & SUITES

Built in 1963

Built in 2004

Built in 2014

125 ft.

120 ft.

96 ft.

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

THE ELEMENTS OF AN IDEA Adams & Sons’ Limited Edition Blue Bridge Tie

BY DANNY MAY 12

GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

. PHOTO

BY DAVID GRINNELL

Y

OU SAW IT MODELED IN THE FASHION

walked down to the bridge with a handful of pantone

SHOW AT ROOSTER BOOSTER. NOW

books to perfectly match the blue paint.

HERE’S THE BACKSTORY:

The blue gaps between the replicating bridge patterns create a wave effect, adding to the water

BACKGROUND As a fairly new business, Eric Adams was searching

elements of the design.

for a way to raise awareness about the menswear

PRODUCTION

store and needed a creative idea to broadcast to the

With the idea finalized, Adams & Sons partnered

community what Adams & Sons is all about. Perhaps

with Collared Greens, based in Virginia, to produce

a limited edition neck tie with a great story behind it

the limited run of 75 neckties celebrating the 75th

that could also support a worthy cause…

anniversary of the opening of the Glover Cary Bridge.

INSPIRATION

To take it the final step, Adams wanted the proceeds

Some might call it a light bulb moment, but the

of the tie to somehow impact the community. After

answer, he realized, was always right in front of him:

considering several charities, he decided to donate

the Blue Bridge, which spans in perfect view from

the proceeds to the Owensboro Health Foundation

his office at Adams & Sons Clothiers on the ground

to help offset expenses for underprivileged patients.

floor of the Hampton Inn Waterfront hotel.

Selling 75 ties for $150 will raise roughly $7,500

“I drive that bridge every day on my way to work.

for the Owensboro Health Foundation, which works

It’s iconic to Owensboro. To me, it’s a symbol of

out very nicely with the project’s ongoing theme

connectivity,” Adams said.

with the number 75.

In researching the Glover Cary Bridge, Adams discovered an interesting fact: The bridge was built

THE DEBUT

in 1940, which means it is 75 years old this year. At

Tie #1 was presented by Mayor Ron Payne, on

that point, it became really important to get the tie

behalf of the City of Owensboro, to Governor Steve

out in the 2015 calendar year. The tie needed to be in

Beshear during the League of Cities Conference at

production soon.

the Convention Center. The Blue Bridge Tie was officially unveiled the next morning at the Chamber’s

DESIGN The design created for the tie is a replicating

Rooster Booster Breakfast. Sales began October 1.

pattern that is actually a reverse of the bridge with its

MOVING FORWARD

mirror image. The outline of the bridge is depicted

The goal of Blue Bridge Tie project is twofold: to

in white and the background is “Blue Bridge blue,”

raise awareness for the new business, and to raise

making it immediately identifiable to anyone

money for charity.

familiar with the Owensboro landmark bridge.

coverage, the goal to raise awareness is already

To get the blue exactly right, Eric and his designer

being met. But more importantly, proceeds of the

With exposure from media

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

Blue Bridge Tie will help ease the financial burdens of several local families when they receive assistance from the Owensboro Health Foundation for unmet medical expenses incurred by travel, lodging and other medical costs.

As far as future limited edition tie projects, “We’ll see how it goes this year to determine the run next year,” Adams said.

“We’re a young business, but I want people to think that we are progressive minded, that we have fresh ideas that help not only us, but also help our community. My hope is to continue to grow the idea of the limited tie for charity so we can contribute more and more to the community each year.”

To purchase a tie for yourself, drop by Adams & Sons inside the Hampton Waterfront (401 W 2nd St, Suite 105), or contact Eric Adams at 270-993-3245 or online at adamsclothiers.com.

ERIC ADAMS WITH GOVERNOR STEVE BESHEAR, RECIPIENT OF THE FIRST BLUE BRIDGE TIE

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SPOTLIGHT

THE MALCOLM BRYANT CORPORATION

By Caitlin Merritt

In 1980, the recently-wed Malcolm and Sally Bryant

successful development of Downtown Owensboro.

started working at Sally’s family business, Barron

The Malcolm Bryant Corporation is a leader for the

Homes, which eventually became The Malcolm Bryant

green energy initiative. Since 2012, the business has

Corporation in 1993. Since then, The Malcolm Bryant

experimented with geothermal energy, solar panels,

Corporation has invigorated Owensboro through

and LED lighting. The Malcolm Bryant Corporation’s

its loyal investment in the community. The business

dedication to innovative clean energy is showcased

now owns and manages one million square feet of

by Owensboro’s Downtown Hampton Inn & Suites,

commercial real estate, including three award-winning

Kentucky’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy &

Hampton Inns.

Environmental Design) certified hotel. The waterfront

Recognized as the Greater Owensboro Chamber

Hampton Inn proudly boasts geothermal heating/

of Commerce 2015 Business of the Year (Real

cooling, a “living roof ” covered in soil and plants to

Estate Development & Property Management), the

conserve energy, and a car charging station. All three

Corporation played a significant role in revitalizing

Hampton Inns also participate in the Clean the World

Owensboro’s commercial real estate, inclusive of the

Foundation, a nonprofit company, who collects and

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

awards, the corporation has previously been the recipient of Commercial Real Estate’s Global Standard for Professional Achievement, Entrepreneur of the Year, and the Mayor’s Award for Business Excellence.

In 2014, The Malcolm Bryant Corporation was also awarded the Habitat for Humanity Corporate Citizen of the Year.

With impressive projects like The Springs Health Centre and Midtown Office Building beneath its belt, The Malcolm Bryant Corporation will continue to add and improve Owensboro real estate through their exceptional customer services and positive attitudes.

“The Malcolm Bryant Corp. team is the absolute best recycles soap and shampoo products discarded by the hospitality industry and then distributes the donated hygiene products to those in need.

The Malcolm Bryant Corporation’s perseverance for excellence has not gone unnoticed. Among many

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

to work with,” said Bret Julian, a customer of Malcolm Bryant Corporation. “It is truly a responsive team atmosphere that will go the extra mile to serve their customers. If you have a need, they will be the best you will ever work with.”

NON-PROFIT

GIRLS INC. “BECAUSE I WAS A MEMBER OF GIRLS INC, I AM STRONG, SMART AND BOLD.

I volunteer and work at Girls Inc. now because I want to be able to inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold, too.”

- LAUREN, PROGRAM STAFF

Girls Incorporated is a national, nonprofit youth organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

Girls Incorporated of Owensboro-Daviess County, formerly referred to as Girls Club of Owensboro-Daviess County, was founded in 1969 through the efforts of the of the Junior Woman’s Club and interested community leaders to a provide quality, informal educational opportunities for girls between the ages of 6 and 18.

It offers a full-day summer program and an after-school program that utilize research-based and age-appropriate national Girls Incorporated program curricula with locally developed programs, field trips, and guest speakers.

There are two campuses where comprehensive programming services are offered. The main campus in Rolling Heights follows the city school calendar. The Owensboro Christian Church location follows the county school calendar.

Girls Inc. can report that of the girls that have started with us and stayed involved with us: • 100% have graduated from high school • 99% have graduated without pregnancy • 100% have not been in trouble with the law • 100% are not using drugs • 100% of all past regular participants who graduated from high school have all gone on to college or are continuing their education in some way.

We are seeing firsts in the family college attendees get Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees, and one girl is working on her PhD. As one parent said, “I can say that I cannot think of a better place for my daughter to spend her time. It has opened so many doors for her. From experiences that she has had to just coming out of her shell and trying new things. I am blessed to have an organization that truly practices its mission statement of making girls strong, smart and bold!”

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THE BUSINESS OF BRINGING

THE MAVS TO TOWN

“We did our homework. We know Owensboro is the #1 sportstown in Kentucky.” - Head Coach Steve Tucker “This team is buying into our community. They want to be involved. Any time they’re invited to anything, they go!”– Jared Bratcher

The

decision to relocate the Mavericks from

Owensboro will take a while to pinpoint, but the potential is

Louisiana to Kentucky was a very calculated

very substantial.

move. At a time when the team was transitioning from the

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American Basketball Association to the Premier Basketball

CONSIDER THIS:

League (PBL), it made good business sense to move closer

The Mavs are already spending money on advertising and

to the other teams in the PBL. Kentucky, being basketball

marketing in the community. Two of their staff have relocated

country, looked like a good option geographically.

and now live in Owensboro. The team rents apartments for

The deciding factor to move to Owensboro goes back to a

players for at least four months during the season.

packed game against the Bisons at the Sportscenter – a night

Of course, the players also eat in restaurants and spend

that left an impression on the Mavericks players, coaches

money on gas and entertainment while they live here during

and staff, including Operations Manager Gary Green. “That’s

the season.

what these guys deserve. I want them to come out of that

Similarly, the opposing teams will stay in hotels, eat

locker room January 9th to a packed house,” Green said.

meals, and fill their buses with gas each home game. Plus,

If that proves true, it would be a very good thing for

the Sportscenter gets rented and sells concessions during 12

Owensboro. Sports Tourism Director Jared Bratcher says the

home games.

economic impact of having a professional basketball team in

Beyond the money, having the Mavs in Owensboro “also

GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

gives credibility to our brand as the best sportstown in Kentucky,” Bratcher

TICKET INFO:

said. “It’s another piece of the puzzle to help bring other sports tournaments to town.” The same could be said in terms of booking conferences, recruiting for local businesses, and attracting families to relocate to Owensboro.

On our end, the City of Owensboro renovated the former Executive Inn

$11: General Admission $50: Family Pack (4 t-shirts, 4 tix- 2 Adult 2 Child,

4 concession items & drinks)

Racquet Club into the Mavs training facility, which now includes a full court,

$150: Season Tickets (12 games)

workout gym, lounge for watching game film, offices, and a gift shop for

Court-side, catered VIP booths are also available in a section with tables

merchandise and ticket sales.

MORE POTENTIAL: Bratcher believes the Mavs’ presence could have a much larger impact on Owensboro if the NBA made the Mavs a development league (D-league).

The NBA is in negotiations now to expand their D-league program. If that happens, the Mavs could be a likely D-League system because of the their

and chairs directly behind the benches.

LOGISTICS OF THE MOVE: It took two large U-hauls, a semi, a truck with a gooseneck trailer, and a pickup truck to move the Mavs’ equipment from Shreveport, LA to Owensboro. The semi flatbed was used to move their court, which has now been installed in their training facility.

record and legacy of success.

That is still to be determined, but the PBL is already affiliated with the NBA in several ways. The PBL trains the D-league referees and plays by NBA rules.

The potential is there for the PBL to be a “stepladder to the NBA,” according to Green.

For now, Owensboro can expect to enjoy some quality, up-tempo professional basketball in an energetic environment. The Mavs plan to upgrade the sound system in the Sportscenter, and are even looking at new scoreboards and video boards. “We play basketball, but we’re really in the entertainment business,” Green said. “It’s going to sound and feel exciting.”

BY THE NUMBERS: $281 MILLION: Total Economic Impact in Daviess County for 2014 $29 MILLION: Estimated impact of sports for 2014 70,000: Tourists in Owensboro/Daviess County strictly for sporting events In 2014

With the announcement of the Class B Fast Pitch World Series coming to Owensboro, next year is expected to be the best year ever for sports tourism. Adding the Mavericks to the mix can only help.

The Mavs also have entertainment planned during time outs and halftime.

The fun begins Saturday, January 9th at the Owensboro Sportscenter.

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

OMU FIBERNET

In

today’s culture, reliable internet seems as essential to a business

Public Relations and Communications Specialist, Sonya Dixon, says

as water and electricity. Companies rely on a fast, dependable

OMU was very forward-thinking when it identified a need for fiber

internet access to the extent that the Federal Communications

optic lines and installed the initial ring of fiber around Owensboro

Commission has now classified internet as a utility.

in 1997. Initially it was constructed to serve OMU itself as well as

You may have recently heard about Owensboro Municipal Utilities’

City of Owensboro facilities, but the utility knew that it was a service

fiber services, but the local utility has offered the service to business

necessary for current businesses to grow. As technology has improved

customers since 1997. In fact, Owensboro now serves as an example

since then, the infrastructure was already there, ready to be built upon

to other cities across the commonwealth.

and expanded.

“Other communities are just now struggling by trying to build what we already have,” said Christopher Poynter, Telecommunications

WHY FIBER?

Superintendent at OMU. “We have more than 100 miles of fiber

There are many benefits to using fiber optics.

currently serving our community, and that’s one heck of an economic

It’s “future proof.” Coax has weaknesses. Wireless has security

development tool.”

issues. But the fiber optics being used today will only be enhanced as

After a review and update of its competitive pricing structure, the

technology continues to grow in the coming decades.

newly branded OMUfibernet also grew to include phone services.

It’s durable and dependable. OMU fiber run along Tamarack Road

This was a direct result of OMU wanting to provide the services their

withstood the T2K tornado and was not damaged by the OMU trucks

customers needed.

that ran over downed fiber optic lines.

The reason for that durability is the way the fiber optic cable is

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WHAT IS OMUFIBERNET?

structured. The outer covering is only the first protective layer. Kevlar

OMUfibernet offers a variety of services including internet, phone,

fibers wrap the inside, offering a second. Four buffer tubes form

and advanced data services for commercial customers. It uses both

another plastic sheeting around each of the color-coded fiber bundles.

Active Ethernet and Gigabit Passive Optical Networking (GPON) to

The color coding itself is an additional shield around the fiber bundles.

deliver those services.

Inside the bundle, each individual fiber is about the width of a human

GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

hair. A strength member along the top of

switching out the electronics at each end

the cable keeps the tube rigid so the cable

to facilitate upgrades.

can be suspended without sagging.

“That’s why that initial investment to

“As an added bonus,” Dixon explained,

go with fiber was so important. We knew

“it is provided by your local utility. One

it had that flexibility,” Dixon added.

local phone call connects you directly to will not only work with you to determine

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

your needs, but provide responsive

High-speed,

assistance as you need it.”

that is dependable and reliable.

the personnel and system experts that

affordable

internet

“PEOPLE ARE FAMILIAR WITH THE TAGLINE ‘LOCAL PEOPLE, LOCAL SERVICE.’ NOW WE’RE CONNECTING THEM TO THE WORLD.” -CHRIS POYNTER

“For

us, it’s about meeting the needs of our

OMUFIBERNET TECHNOLOGY

customers,” Dixon said. “We serve

Fiber is physically secure, is highly

everyone from ‘mom and pop’ businesses

resistant to outside interference, lasts for

to large industries, and we’re very proud

decades, and is the medium of choice

that we have the capability to do that.”

for researchers seeking to expand the

Getting the service at your office or

boundaries of data transmission in the

business is as easy as a local phone call. A

future.

technician will help you determine what

The real beauty in this technology,

you need and walk you through the entire

according to Chris Poynter, is that

process.

once the fiber is in place it can be used

For pricing and other information, visit

for decades to come. It’s as simple as

www.OMU.org or call 270-691-4668.

In case you’re wondering, home service, or Fiber To The Home (FTTH) is still in the beginning stages. OMU is starting a pilot project on 558 homes in the Town & Country neighborhood in January.

That area was chosen for several reasons: it’s close to where the equipment is, the neighborhood has both aerial and underground services, and there are diverse residential properties in that area. Customers in the pilot area can visit omu.org for more information and express their interest in the service by registering for the pilot.

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

SODA

BY DESIGN MEET RILEY SODA: “We

try to keep everything the old fashioned way,” says Riley Soda founder Steven Riley. “Our sodas are made

in bottles the way they were back in the ‘50s.”

One of the Chamber’s Newest Members

BY DANNY MAY . PHOTOS BY DAVID GRINNELL

Anyone who remembers drug store soda shops knows exactly what Steven is talking about. “We’re trying to bring that same experience back,” Riley said.

To do so, Riley Soda has positioned themselves inside Nona’s Downtown Market with a countertop just inside the main door, in full view of Second Street foot traffic. “Our goal is to put out a good product with an experience that someone remembers,” Riley explained.

Which is why Riley wanted to open a soda parlor in addition to selling bottled soda. When a soda is poured off the tap, it “heads out” with about an inch of foam on the top that can actually be scooped out. It has a flavor to it.

That’s something you can’t get in a bottle.

But even Riley’s bottled sodas have their own character. The cream soda, for example, is made with real cream, so when a bottle sets on the shelf for a while, the cream separates to the top, which means you get to give it a little shake before you open it. “A kid will remember getting to shake the bottle before they drink it,” Riley said. “Or with

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our blackberry soda, when you open the bottle, it will foam out a little,” he continued. “That’s part of the experience. Part of the fun.”

For Steven, Nona’s already felt like familiar territory. Nona’s was the first place to sell Riley’s Soda when it was created.

The first test run was 14 bottles that were given away to friends and family this past summer. Everybody loved them! Based on that initial sample, the first batch Steven made was 24 bottles of blackberry soda.

It was love at first taste for Maria Kelly, owner of Nona’s, who agreed to sell Riley’s Soda in her market. The first 24 bottles sold out the first day. The next day, Steven brought in more bottles and they sold out again. Next day, same thing.

Since then, life has been a whirlwind of activity for Steven. Riley Soda can now be found in a growing list of places around town. It’s even on tap at Lure.

Riley says he was influenced by the drive to leave a legacy that his son could eventually continue. “That’s why I attached my family name to it,” Riley explained. “I didn’t want my son to have to go through the physical kinds of jobs that I did,” Steven said, referring to his earlier job at a body shop. “I want this to be a heritage thing that I can pass down.”

A self proclaimed “soda fanatic,” it was Steven’s vision from the start to produce soda that is all natural so it’s healthier to consume. “Every bit of water that goes into any of my products is purified by reverse osmosis.

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It’s the purest water you can get. The sugar is pure cane sugar. It’s as clean as you can get,” Riley explained.

Keeping things local is also a trademark for Riley Soda, which prides itself in being a Kentucky Proud company. Everything that goes into their products, if at all possible, is Kentucky Proud as well.

Along with cream soda, cola and root beer are the usual flavors. It all started with blackberry, though. “I remember picking blackberries as a child. We would sell them by the gallon to get money to go to the drive in movie,” Steven recalled, which made blackberry an obvious choice when choosing the initial flavor. Plus, it was different enough to grab people’s attention.

It worked. It’s still the most requested.

Other flavors are inspired by whatever is in season. A pumpkin spice soda will be launched at the ribbon cutting for the Chamber of Commerce on October 29th.

Steven’s goal is to be totally set up for Small Business Saturday, in plenty of time for the Holiday shopping season. “We’re going to keep building a little at a time. The first step will be having the sodas on tap.

Next we’ll add syrups, and then floats,” Steven said. He also hopes to have a line of candy so it really looks like a 50s downtown soda fountain.

To see the work in progress, stop by Nona’s Downtown Market at 126 W 2nd St.

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

DESIGN INSIGHTS FROM LOCAL EXPERTS F

or this special feature in GO Business, we spoke DESIGN IS A VERY BROAD TERM WITH A WIDE with several Chamber members who specialize in VARIETY OF IMPLIED MEANINGS. THANKFULLY, commercial design to get their perspectives. Here is their advice to keep in mind when considering the design THERE ARE PLENTY OF CHAMBER MEMBERS or re-design of your business, office or workspace.

TO HELP WITH ANY DESIGN NEEDS YOUR BUSINESS MIGHT HAVE. WHAT SHOULD WE BE PREPARED TO ADDRESS

WHEN TALKING TO AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?

BY DANNY MAY - PHOTOS BY DAVID GRINNELL

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

When it comes to working with an Interior Designer, many are not sure where to begin.

“Designers are here to help!” says Laura Ruth Edge.

For an effective first consultation with your designer, L.Ruth Interior Design recommends coming prepared with some questions already in mind. “A distinct understanding of these three items will send your project soaring and will impress your designer with your ability to recall your requirements and wishes,” Edge said.

AFTER

L. RUTH INTERIOR DESIGN

BEFORE How much can we spend on this project?

We know! Zero dollars would be the most desirable

but it’s just not reality. If you’re not sure, discuss in detail with your designer in the first meeting so they can efficiently evaluate your needs and requests. It is essential to be on the same page in this department in order to justify spending money on a design/concept. All parties involved want to see this project happen to its highest potential, but a disconnect on budget will not allow that to happen.

How do we want this space to look/feel (and what is its function with how many occupants)?

Give us some information about yourself. Let us

know about your lifestyle and things that you love to see and do. You will be amazed as to how far we can take this information in reflecting you or your brand.

What is your deadline?

In today’s world the acronym ASAP is used for everything. It’s not effective because there isn’t a definite goal and is translated differently among even the most common of its users. A grand finale date sets the expectation for all parties involved and therefore makes for a happy ending for your project!!

These tips will help give you the best outcome to your design project no matter the size of the installation whether it is a residence, commercial or hospitality space!

WHAT SHOULD WE CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT A REMODEL OR UPGRADE?

As Project Coordinator at RBS Design Group, Steve Martin views design as “the entire process that we create to accomplish our goal, whether it be a remodeling or

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renovation.”

Aesthetically speaking though, Martin says most people tend to refer to design as the elements that are changed or modified in appearance or shape from what they were when they started.

“In that sense, we have liberties to change or add new elements to a building and truly ‘design’ something new to improve the structure and make it better.”

In regards to design aesthetics, Martin says RBS looks at several things prior to starting any design work: What do we have to work with?

This entails everything from our budget to the existing structure and time frame. All of these dictate, to some degree, portions of the design. You can only do so much with what you have to work with, in a given time.

What are the requirements?

Or parameters? These are typically items that we are required to address such as building codes & deficiencies for safety and accessibility, the needs of the owner and users (building program), structural

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problems or other such issues that need to be fixed.

WHAT ARE SOME CURRENT TRENDS IN OFFICE AND WORKSPACES?

Use and Function

How is the space used and where does it fall short for its users? How can we improve the functionality and use of the space and make it more efficient and user friendly?

For Jennifer McCrystal, of J.McCrystal Designs, current national design trends in the workplace go well beyond whatever the color or decorating tip happens to be popular at the time.

McCrystal is more concerned with trends that are “relative to productivity and return on investment…things that illustrate their worth as tangible evidence.”

She breaks them down into the following four measures:

Spatial Relationship How can we improve the relationship of the user to the space?

How do the aesthetics affect those who use the space and how can we improve that relationship? Color, form, shape and space all affect the mood and attitude of those who experience them in some way or another, usually subconsciously. So how can we improve that experience for the user? How can we inspire those using the space through what we design and create for them to use?

All of these elements, along with many, many more, shape the final design or construction of a structure.

Flexibility

“Design Thinking” is a term originally fitted for designers, architects, and engineers. However, in the last few years, it has evolved into a broader scope to encompass all industries. By juggling Design Thinking and flexibility, one is able to prepare for the future, and develop the best possible solution.

For example, one cannot predict when variability in the market may arise, when focus of operations may need to adapt, or future employee increases or

decreases. Designing for flexibility will prove a higher return on investment because it allows adaptability for these things, as well as advances in technology. Examples include mobile partitions instead of built-in walls; reconfigurable furnishings instead of fixed.

Health & Wellness

Studies have proven it is unhealthy to sit for long periods of time without periodic movement. It is best to move around multiple times throughout the day. Design trends focus on methodologies to encourage and support this, which in theory translates to healthier, happier, and therefore more productive employees.

Ergonomics is a term developed recently to “maximize productivity by reducing operator fatigue and discomfort.” Years of research in ergonomics and anthropometrics have driven the designs of current task chairs.

Most furniture manufacturers have developed sit-to-stand desk units to encourage workers to stand for a few minutes at the beginning and end of his or her day.

Other strategies also enhance wellness in the workplace and psychologically drive employees to be active. Today’s layouts of offices will typically have variations of work environments based on the task at hand… small breakout areas, collaborative areas, individual/ focus areas, and social areas.

AFTER

RBS DESIGN GROUP

BEFORE

Branding

No longer stringent to only objects such as business cards and pens, branding now takes the full environment of the interior workplace into account. Creating community, boosting morale, and strengthening the company image are a few benefits of effective branding.

Consumers can see this trend in the way designers suggest for organizations to use signature colors, finishes, and key features consistently throughout all branches and facilities. In that way, branding relates back to the company’s values, morals, slogans, and image.

Collaboration

Large private offices are slowly disappearing. Trends in the workplace are now encouraging owners to replace these large private offices with open-air studios and mixed-use environments. In this floor plan, employees have the ability to be familiar with what is going on in the full company. This trend is able to boost efficiency and productivity… the more minds are able to generate more ideas, and the more minds who understand the full scope of operations, the greater likelihood of each employee being capable of assisting in any way necessary.

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

10

QUESTIONS FR. LARRY HOSTETTER

President of Brescia University

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GO BUSINESS . FOURTH QUARTER 2015

W H AT I S YOUR FAVOR I TE VACATI ON / D ES T I N ATI ON? In the summer I love to go to cooler weather.

Colorado has been a favorite destination of mine now for several summers. When I have the opportunity I also love to visit with my family in Germany.

generation by using modern language with lots of hip pictures of young people. I read it cover to cover and I think it was instrumental in my priestly vocation.

I also remember always wanting to be a teacher of some kind, and my parents strongly encouraged me to pursue education at all levels. My childhood was filled with books, classical music and weekend trips

W H AT I S YOUR FAVOR I TE HOB BY OR WAY TO UNWI ND?

to some kind of educational destination (which my

I took up running a couple of years ago and discovered

DO YOU RE ME MBE R YOUR FIRS T PAYCHE CK? HOW DID YOU E ARN IT ?

that I really enjoy it. While I’m not going to break any speed records, it’s a great way to stay healthy and purge any negativity that might have crept into my life. For me, it’s a great way to disconnect with everyday stressors while reconnecting with what’s important. As such it allows me some time for quiet reflection and prayer, while also providing the space for reevaluating the strategic priorities of the university.

W H AT ’S STI L L ON YOUR BUCKE T LIST? I have never thought about having a bucket list, in all honesty. Opportunities and adventures just seem to find their way into my life in very spontaneous and unplanned ways. Someday

siblings and I didn’t always appreciate).

Yes. It was for $2.50 after I mowed our neighbor’s lawn. A couple of years later I earned my first big check for $42 for working at Pasquale’s Pizza in Hopkinsville.

WHO ME NTORE D YOU? / WHO FIRS T RE COGNIZ E D YOUR GIFTS ?

Beyond the encouragement of my parents there have been many who have inspired me to fulfill my potential. One who stands out is Fr. Bill Allard, who was the chaplain at the Newman Center during my undergraduate years at Western Kentucky University. He was a very quiet but forceful presence who promoted social justice while also providing outstanding pastoral care to the Catholic students

I would like to go on a photo safari in Africa

at Western. He was the first to suggest that I might

and also visit South America.

consider becoming a priest.

W H AT EXPER I ENCES F R OM C H I L D HOOD L ATER I NF LUENCE D YO U R CAR EER PATH? I have a very distinct memory of my father giving

WHAT S KILLS DID YOU DE VE LOP E ARLY ON (COLLE GE , FIRS T JOB, E TC) T HAT YOU S T ILL US E E VE RY DAY AS AN E X E CUT IVE ?

me my first “adult” Bible when he came back

I have always been a reader and have a deep love for

from Vietnam. It was one of those The Way, Living

learning. This remains with me today and I think is

Bibles from the 70s that tried to be relevant to that

a critical skill for any leader. I try to learn as much

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as I can about higher education, the needs of our students,

continue to be our alumni. It is my deepest hope that we will

new trends in education and other related issues so that I can

provide our students with an education that will help them

serve Brescia to the best of my ability. I have also had several

become the individuals that God calls them to be. Because of

jobs in retail and in food service with some great bosses who

the Brescia Difference our graduates are given the means to

taught me that the needs of the customer should trump all

build their careers, support their families and to give back to

other concerns. If you don’t take care of people (customer

their communities in a spirit of generosity. That is the legacy

and employees) then all other efforts are ultimately for

left to us by our Ursuline founders and a legacy that I will do

naught. This translates into my work as the President of

my best to preserve for the future.

Brescia by reminding me that the needs of our students should determine our plans and actions as an institution.

W H AT I S S O METHI NG YOU R STAF F OR S T U D E N TS AT BU WOUL D BE SU R PR I SE D TO KN OW AB O U T YOU? When I was in middle school I belonged to a boxing club.

W H AT L E G AC Y DO YOU HOPE B R ESCI A LE AVES F O R F U T U R E G ENER ATI ONS? Without a doubt the legacy of Brescia has been and will

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORIT E T HING ABOUT OWE NS BORO? I have lived and worked in several major cities here and abroad. Owensboro remains my favorite because it is such a well-rounded city. Our parks and outdoor facilities are phenomenal; restaurants are great; our schools are exceptional (at all levels); there are plenty of entertainment opportunities; and of course the people are the best you would ever want to meet. I’m proud and happy to be a part of this community.

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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