Barbara Ann's School of Dance and Messer Construction Celebrate Anniversaries
Critchfield Meats
Expansion
On Reframing the City’s Vision for Growth and Preservation
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Built to Own
Messer Construction celebrates 35 years as an employee-owned firm, shaping Lexington’s skyline and beyond
PAGE 20
Banking On Financial Literacy
Tates Creek High School students gain hands-on financial experience with a new UKFCU branch inside their school
22
INDUSTRY
Kinemetrix Expands Operations
Kinemetrix, a Lexington-based leader in robotic automation and advanced manufacturing solutions, has completed a $4 million expansion of its manufacturing facility, adding 12 high-skill jobs and doubling its production capacity.
The expansion, which began in January 2024, includes new precision manufacturing equipment and expanded floor space to support the region’s growing advanced manufacturing and electric vehicle industries. Since 2023, the company has increased revenue by more than 50 percent and is positioning for additional growth in 2026.
“Kentucky’s advanced manufacturing industry continues to create new jobs and spark economic growth in communities throughout the state,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “This expansion will not only support our growing EV sector; it will also add quality, skilled job opportunities to the Lexington area.”
Founded in 1995, Kinemetrix has built a national reputation for next-generation robotic assembly systems and lean manufacturing practices. The company now employs 43 people at its Lexington headquarters.
“Since our last major expansion, we’ve continued quietly building strong internal teams and next-generation robotic assembly technology,” said Jim Peyton, president of Kinemetrix. “It’s now time to move to the next level of scale. We’re growing along with our market-leading customers and building additional capacity to serve the accelerating manufacturing growth in our region.”
Local leaders praised the company’s continued success.
“We work hard to help create an environment that supports our local business
community and job growth,” said Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton. “Congratulations to Kinemetrix, a Lexington success story.”
Commerce Lexington President and CEO Bob Quick added: “Since 1995, Kinemetrix has provided automation solutions that help companies boost efficiency and productivity. We are honored that Kinemetrix calls Lexington home and appreciate its ongoing investment here.”
YMCA of Central Kentucky to sell High Street property
The YMCA of Central Kentucky’s Board of Directors voted October 22 to move forward with the sale of its High Street property to Florida-based developer Tramell Webb Partners, Inc.
The decision follows a September 24 vote that authorized YMCA leadership to sign a contract with Tramell Webb Partners and evaluate two options: remain on the property in partnership with the developer to build a new YMCA alongside student housing, or sell the property outright and pursue a new downtown location. With this week’s action the board selected the second option, confirming the sale
and beginning the process of identifying opportunities for the Y’s downtown presence and longer-term growth.
“The board’s decision was made with one objective in mind: to secure the Y’s ability to serve this community well into the future,” said Steve Byars, board chair of the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “We’re deeply proud of the High Street YMCA’s history, and now we have a chance to build upon that legacy in ways that reflect how our community continues to grow and change.”
The YMCA said the High Street location will remain open through at least March while staff develop a transition plan to minimize disruption for members. The organization will continue operating current programs and services at High Street as it establishes an ad hoc board committee to evaluate future downtown facility options.
The Y also has retained Al Isaac, president and founder of NAI Isaac Commercial Properties, to serve in a consulting role and provide guidance throughout the process.
“The heart of the Y has always been the people,” said Paula Anderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “As we take these next steps, we do so with gratitude, care, and confidence that the Y’s impact will continue to grow in new and meaningful ways for generations to come.”
t The YMCA of Central Kentucky’s board of directors has voted to proceed with the sale of its High Street property to Florida-based developer Tramell Webb Partners Inc.
PHILANTHROPY
Record-Breaking Gift to UK HealthCare to Transform Pediatric Care
Entrepreneur and philanthropist Tom Golisano has committed $50 million to the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare, marking the largest gift in UK HealthCare’s history and the second-largest in university history. The investment will dramatically expand pediatric health care across Kentucky and solidify the institution’s place within a new national children’s health network.
Golisano, founder of Paychex Inc., the nation’s largest human resources company for small- and medium-sized businesses, and the Golisano Foundation, announced the gift in late October.
The donation establishes the Golisano Children’s Alliance, a collaboration among 10 children’s hospitals in eight states that will share expertise, expand specialized services, and improve access to care closer to home. The initiative brings Golisano’s lifetime giving to more than $1 billion.
“This gift supports the health and well-being of children in the Commonwealth,” Golisano said. “As part of the Golisano Children’s Alliance, UK HealthCare becomes part of a nationally recognized network of children’s hospitals that exemplifies excellence, dignity, and innovation in pediatric health care.”
In recognition of the gift, the UK Board of Trustees approved renaming Kentucky Children’s Hospital and its affiliated sites. The hospital will become Golisano Children’s at UK, while Kentucky Children’s Richmond Road will become Golisano Children’s at UK – Richmond Road. The affiliate network will be renamed Golisano Children’s at UK – Affiliate Network.
Funds from the donation will enhance the hospital’s facilities, expand the statewide affiliate network, and strengthen programs designed to recruit and train pediatric health professionals.
“We are honored and incredibly grateful to Mr. Golisano,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “His generosity is a testament to his faith in what we provide to Kentucky and its children — a promise to extend compassionate care, to more patients, closer to home. We’ll translate his gift into acts of goodness to ensure a healthier, wealthier and wiser Kentucky.” n
PVA REPORTS
Statistics on local residential and commercial property are compiled by the office of the Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator. The data reflect the most up-to-date information available at the time of printing for this publication, but monthly figures may be revised as additional public records of property transactions are submitted and become available.
Top Commercial Transactions for Oct. 2025
10/7/25 1927 Harrodsburg Road $2,000,000* Hospitality/Recreation Olowalu Land Company LLC
10/7/25 1919 Harrodsburg Road
10/20/25 151 N. Eagle Creek Drive
$2,000,000* Parking Garage Structure or Lots Olowalu Land Company LLC
$1,870,000 Office Building Isaac 151 LLC
10/23/25 4050 Georgetown Road $1,245,000 Other Hold The Door Properties LLC
10/3/25 252 E. High St. $965,000 Office Building C S A NY Investments LLC
10/1/25 711 W. Maxwell St. $470,000 Multifamily Lyman, Terri Ttee
10/6/25 635 N. Broadway
$285,000 Office Building Waller Property Management LLC
10/2/25 1031 Wellington Way Unit 235 $180,000 Office Condo Barrel Creek Investments LLP
10/1/25 1096 Duval St. Unit 120 $168,000 Office Condo Parsons & Company Cpa's PLLC
10/22/25 513 Darby Creek Road Unit 52 $150,000 Office Condo East, Thomas Craig
Residential Sales Data for Oct. 2025
The chart below shows the monthly residential sales activity in Fayette County for the previous 24 months. The data for the most recent month reflects a projected estimate from the office of the Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator and is subject to change.
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A CUT ABOVE
Critchfield Meats expands with new wholesale distribution center
BY SHANNON CLINTON
Just in time for the holidays, the wholesale branch of one of Lexington’s most iconic food service providers has begun operating out of a new 53,000-square-foot distribution center.
Critchfield Meats was founded 56 years ago as a local retail butcher shop by Amos Critchfield, whose descendants continue to co-own and operate the business today. It’s Amos’ face that still appears on the company logo.
Originally located on North Limestone, the shop spent 33 years in the Zandale Shopping Center before announcing in August 2020 that it would pull up stakes (or steaks) and move to Southland Drive. The former Save-A-Lot grocery building now houses Critchfield Meats Family Market.
Although CEO and co-owner Larry McMillan isn’t biologically related to the Critchfields, he’s been part of the extended business family for more than two decades, working closely alongside company President Mark Critchfield, Purchasing Manager A.P. Clayton Critchfield, and Customer Service Manager Brandon Critchfield on the wholesale side. The company today employs about 42 people in its wholesale division and about 45 in retail, some working part time.
McMillan said the former wholesale facility on Danforth Drive included just 10,000 square feet of operating space and 2,000 square feet of offices. The new, larger site on Jaggie Fox Way — formerly home to God’s Pantry Food Bank — allows for a wider range of products and greater capacity to serve customers that include restaurants, universities, and grocery stores across Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Tennessee.
“With the new warehouse we will have room to bring in further processed items, paper goods, spices, canned goods — just a lot of things that we didn’t carry previously,” he said. At the official ribbon-cutting ceremony in October, President Mark Critchfield said: “Critchfield Meats has always been more than a business — it’s a family tradition. This expansion allows us to continue that legacy while better serving our customers and community for years to come.”
From a business standpoint, McMillan said, the extra space makes it possible to carry higher-margin items such as spices, breadings, flour, paper goods and carryout supplies, boosting profitability. The new site supports the company’s goal of becoming a full-service, one-stop shop for food-service customers.
“We guarantee everything you buy from us, and if we don’t have something one day, we’ll bring it to you the next,” McMillan said.
He added that the company sources ingredients and products from local farmers whenever possible and prioritizes keeping employees for the long term. Some wholesale employees have been with the company for more than 20 years, and in recent years, several others retired after roughly 35 years of service.
Rising costs — particularly for beef and plastic items — remain a challenge, McMillan said, but prices for most other food items have stayed steady compared to last year.
PHOTO FURNISHED
“Nothing that’s really bothering us — we still get our normal supply because we’ve been with our vendors and suppliers for many years, and they make sure we have the products we need,” he said.
Expanded wholesale capabilities also position the company to continue growing its footprint. “Our market is expanding out with more customers in the outlying states, rather than just in Kentucky,” McMillan said.
He estimates that wholesale gross sales could double over the next five years — from $50 million to $100 million — as a result of the expansion.
In the meantime, the holiday season brings a whirlwind of activity for both the wholesale and retail sides of the business, as restaurants prepare orders for events and customers stock up on meats, sides, breads and desserts for their own gatherings.
The retail store offers Thanksgiving “bundle meals” featuring cooked beef tenderloin, boneless ham, herb-roasted turkey, and an assortment of sides. Meals come in two sizes: small (serving six to eight) and large (serving 12 to 14).
To handle the extra demand, including catering orders, a 32-foot long refrigerated trailer is brought onsite to store the volume of meats, casseroles, mac and cheese, gravy, quiches, cakes, pies, rolls, biscuits, cornbread and more that customers order.
Several employees are cross-trained to work where they’re needed most during the rush.
“We stay wide open during the holidays,” McMillan said, urging customers to place orders early so staff can plan ahead for both time and ingredients.
McMillan, like many of his customers, looks forward to enjoying his own Critchfield meal at home. “Normally I buy what [ingredients we] need and … and cook it when we’re ready,” he said. ■
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QUICK BITES Spin, Sip, and Stay Awhile: The Laundry Room Opens
BY SHANNON CLINTON
y combining the lesscelebrated suds of laundry detergent with the more enjoyable kind that come in a glass, The Laundry Room spins together a mundane chore with socialization, creativity and adult beverages for some good, clean fun.
Owner Joyce Velicovich grew up in Kentucky as one of seven kids, and recalls long weekends at the laundromat with her parents and siblings.
“It was a family ritual — part of how we kept life running with so many people under one roof,” she said. “But even back then, I remember thinking laundromats could feel a little cold or impersonal. They were functional but not inviting.”
As she grew into adulthood — graduating from the University of Kentucky and earning an MBA from Duke University — Velicovich said she held onto the idea that “everyday spaces could be transformed into something better.”
Though she went on to build and sell several businesses in other states, including an elite military training company and drone technology firms, she decided to channel her entrepreneurial skills into something that offered more work-life balance and served a community need.
In recent years she had a child, and her father experienced a major health scare. Both events led her back home to Lexington, where she used her time as a stay-at-home mom to determine her next chapter.
“I reached a point in 2024 where I was ready to step back into the entrepreneurial world and challenge my mind again,”
she said, adding that she’d noticed growing social media buzz about laundromats being recession-proof with strong, longterm business potential.
Intrigued, she did her research and in December 2024 bought an existing laundromat at 100 Regency Point Path #130 off Nicholasville Road, beginning renovations in April 2025.
By October, “we had the finished product — a fresh, bright and modern space designed to feel more like a social café than a chore shop,” she said.
Along with self-serve washers and dryers, wash-and-fold service and commercial linen accounts, The Laundry Room offers the unexpected: a full indoor bar, cozy seating and a furnished outdoor patio.
The bar menu includes canned and chilled beers, wines, seltzers and readyto-drink cocktails. Specialty drink nights are in the works, featuring seasonal cocktails, wine flights and bourbon tastings tied to themed events and local partnerships.
Already, guests have enjoyed a “Sip, Paint & Spin” night, where, Velicovich said, “people painted, sipped and shared laughs while their laundry ran in the background.”
“We’re also planning Trivia & Tap Nights, Bourbon & Bluegrass Evenings, and Family Wash Weekends with snacks, music and fun activities for kids,” she said, adding that her ultimate goal is to expand the concept nationwide as “clean, welcoming, community-driven spaces where you can sip, connect and slow down for a moment in the middle of everyday life.”
In other local food and beverage news: The city’s pizza lineup is shifting, as a mix of closures and openings keeps the local slice scene lively. Giovanni’s Pizza has closed on East New Circle Road, and Mod Pizza has shuttered its Tates Creek location, though its Hamburg and Georgetown stores remain open. Puccini’s Pizza Pasta on Boston Road has closed, but its Chevy Chase restaurant is still operating.
Meanwhile, Marco’s Pizza has opened at 2051 Richmond Road. Milano Italian Restaurant is closing its Louisville location to focus on opening a Georgetown spot at 135 E. Main St. “Diners can expect an authentic Italian experience with a cozy atmosphere and a few signature dishes our chef has crafted especially for Georgetown,” said owner Lorenzo Milano.
Bella Café & Grille–Hamburg opened in mid-November.
Chick-fil-A Hamburg reopened in early November at 1863 Plaudit Place.
Papi’s Citation held its soft opening in early November before the official launch of the newest fast-casual Mexican restaurant, its fourth location.
The Nori Machine launched in early November outside FoodChain on West Sixth Street, offering fresh food from a vending machine in partnership with the Louisville-based Nori Project.
Ford’s Garage has opened near Fayette Mall with a Ford automobile–themed décor and a menu featuring burgers and sides.
The application process began in October for Oasis at Oleika, a new mobile marketplace featuring food vendors and craft artisans open seven days a week at 326 Southland Drive.
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii has closed its Limestone location.
Luna’s Coffee, Wine & Butterfly Café in Nicholasville has expanded its space to include an independently owned bookstore, Fireside Reads.
Sushi restaurant Kitto Yokatta has opened in Nicholasville at 137 Orchard Drive. n
ABOVE THE BARRE
In its eighth decade, the beloved Lexington dance studio continues to evolve as it welcomes new generations of students
BY LIZ CAREY
Barbara Ann’s School of Dance, an iconic institution in Chevy Chase, celebrated its 80th year with a bang.
Some traditions may have changed, but the school remains true to its mission: providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere where young students can learn tap, ballet and jazz.
Clemmy Ann Baskin, daughter of original owner Barbara Ann Kelly, said she is passionate about teaching children more than just dance.
“We try to focus on not just teaching children how to dance, but about being better human beings,” she said. “My mom always said it’s not always about teaching them the pirouette, but it’s teaching them how to hold themselves, how to be more poised, how to be more self-confident and things like that. What I tried to teach my students is that this may be a really hard step, but we’ve got to practice it, and smile, and we’ll get it.”
Located at 898 East High Street, the dance school is in its second Chevy Chase location. At one point, it was at 308 South Ashland Avenue. The school has been a Lexington tradition since its first recital in June 1945 at the Frankfort High School Auditorium.
Barbara Ann Kelly founded the school to meet a need in the community, Baskin said. After growing up in Frankfort and running a dance studio there, Kelly moved the business to Lexington.
“At that time, Chevy Chase was going to be the upand-coming shopping center,” Baskin said. “It was going to be the hub of the shopping world in Lexington. My mom was all about doing things that were new and being the entrepreneur of dance, so she decided she had to have a studio in Lexington, and it had to be in Chevy Chase.”
While the Chevy Chase studio was being prepared, the school operated across the street from Stoll Field on the second floor of another business. Kelly and her mother, Minnie Moore, ran the business together, with Kelly teaching and Moore playing piano accompaniments.
“We’re kind of a family legacy and we’ve been that way forever because my grandmother and my mom started the studio and then, of course, when my grandmother passed away my mom continued on the business,” she said. Later Baskin and her brother joined the business.
Now, generations of students have passed through the school’s doors. Baskin often sees the daughters of girls she taught years before and, in some cases, the granddaughters of the students her mother taught.
BASKIN
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Kelly passed away in 1990, and Baskin took over the business. In its current High Street location, the studio owns the building, the parking lot and the studio space. The dance school will remain in the family and in Chevy Chase, Baskin said.
“We are small business. We’ve always been in the Chevy Chase area. People know us and I have tried to continue the business the way my mother did, being open-armed to everybody coming in to learn to dance,” she said. ”We’re more of a technical studio and the fact that we teach ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, we teach it all. We have something for everyone, even tumbling.”
Over the decades, the studio has faced challenges. COVID-19 lockdowns nearly ended the business, but classes moved to Zoom. Post-pandemic, parents are scaling back after-school activities, and dance lessons now compete with year-round sports and other interests.
Economic pressures also present challenges. Rising costs for costumes, programs and other expenses make participation more expensive for families.
“Because of supply and demand, [costume makers] have upped their prices,” she said. “That just deters people away from
an activity that they’ve got to buy a costume for. It’s not just the dance lessons. They’ve got to pay for the auditorium, they’ve got to pay for the costume, they’ve got to pay for ticket, all of that. I’m rethinking things this year.”
Instead of doing a printed program book, the studio is switching to a QR code program parents can download to their phone.
Rathan than all-school recitals, the school will now feature three shorter, faster-paced shows that showcase students while keeping audiences engaged.
Baskin said she’s not sure what the future will hold for the school. At 65, she is at the business six days a week.
“I probably put in more hours now than I did when I was 45 just because I love what I do,” she said. “I run the business. I teach. I talk to the parents. I try to make it all work. I think that sometimes that is a good thing, but in the business world that’s kind of unheard of because there’s always somebody behind the scenes. When my mother ran the business, I was always the one behind the scenes. Now I’m having to do both.”
Baskin said she’s hoping one of her current teachers, or perhaps one of her former students, will want to carry on the company’s traditions into the next 80 years. n
A
Caring Place
A Chance to Dance
A Sense of Place - Lexington’s Black Hamlets
Access Ministries dba McLeods Coffee House
ActOut Theatre Group
African American Ballet Troupe
African American Genealogy Society of Kentucky
Allegro Dance Project
Alpha Beta Lambda Chapter Education Foundation
Alzheimer’s Association of Greater KY & Southern IN
AMEN House
American Spiritual Ensemble
AppalReD Legal Aid
Arbor Youth Services
Art Center of the Bluegrass
Arts Commission of Danville/Boyle County
Arts Connect
Ashland Terrace
AVOL Kentucky
Baby Health
BedHeads
Betty’s Brave & Beautiful Hearts Foundation
Bike Walk Kentucky
Black Male Working Academy
Black Yarn
Blessing Hands
Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation
Bluegrass Care Navigators
Bluegrass Community and Technical College - Winchester
Bluegrass Greensource
Bluegrass Heritage Museum
Bluegrass Land Conservancy
Bluegrass Ovarian Cancer Support
Bluegrass Parkinson’s Alliance
Bluegrass Youth Ballet
Broke Spoke Community Bike Shop
Camp Horsin’ Around
Caritas Care Solutions
Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning
Casa de la Cultura Kentucky
CASA of Lexington
Catholic Education Opportunities Foundation
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope
Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras
Central Music Academy
Charlie’s Heart Charity
Child Care Council of Kentucky
Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass
Chrysalis House
CivicLex
Clark County Community Services
Clark County Equity Coalition
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Clark County Youth Sports Association
Common Good, CDC
Community Inspired Lexington
Community Response Coalition of Kentucky Inc. (CRCKY)
ComposeArts
Cuddles & Coo Diaper Pantry
Cynthiana-Harrison County Chamber Foundation
Digital Access Project of Kentucky
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Committee
DV8 Kitchen Vocational Training Foundation
E7 Kids Cafe
Easterseals Bluegrass
Exhilarating Inc.
Family Services Association of Boyle County
Fayette Cooperating Preschool
Fayette County 4-H Council
Fayette County Bar Foundation
Fayette Eating, Education & Delivery-FEED
FC Kentucky
FoodChain
Fostering Goodwill
Foundation for Affordable Housing
Freedom Bridges
Friends of Huntertown Community Interpretive Park
Friends of Parks and Recreation
Friends of the Clark County Animal Shelter
Friends of the Lexington Senior Centers
Friends of the Parks in Fayette County
Glean Kentucky
Gleanings Housing
God’s Pantry Food Bank
Grace Cafe
Green Forests Work
GreenHouse17
GreenRoom Exchange
Habitat for Humanity of Madison & Clark Counties
Harstad Fine Arts Series
Holly Rood
Hope Center
HOPE Spay Neuter Clinic
Hospice Care Plus
Hospice East
Starts on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 2nd 6am to midnight
Imagination Library of Frankfort
Isaiah House
ITNBluegrass
Jessamine County Homeless Coalition
Jewish Federation of the Bluegrass
Josephine Sculpture Park
Jubilee Jobs of Lexington
Just Fund Education Project
Kappa Tau Alumni Association
Kentucky Center For Economic Policy
Kentucky Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty
Kentucky Equine Adoption Center
Kentucky Heartwood
Kentucky Horse Park Foundation
Kentucky Natural Lands Trust
Kentucky Refugee Ministries Lexington
Kentucky Resources Council
Kentucky State University Foundation
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Kentucky United Methodist Children’s Homes
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Key Assets Kentucky
Kingdom Mission Outreach
KORE Academy
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Leeds Center for the Arts
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Nursing Home Ombudsman Agency of the Bluegrass
One Parent Scholar House
Operation Be You
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Organic Association of Kentucky
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Partners for Youth
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Pearls of Service Foundation
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Pioneer Playhouse
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RADIOLEX
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The Toy Chest Corporation TKs Special Programs
Transform Scott County Trees Lexington!
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Urban League of Lexington - Fayette County
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YOU ARE CO.
Thanks to our generous sponsors
Clark County Community Foundation*
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Charitable Foundation
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Evangelos “Angel” Levas Foundation*
Traditional Bank
Mason Investments
THE GROOVALUTION*
Independence Bank
Edith D. Gardner Charitable Fund*
Lexington Black Prosperity Initiative*
Lexington Legends
Mahan Multimedia and Blue Grass
Community Foundation!
*at Blue Grass Community Foundation
Liz Sheehan & Dan Wu
The city councilmember and vice mayor talk proposed changes to Lexington’s growth boundary and planning for the future
BY MATT WICKSTROM
E
ver since Lexington became the first city in the country to create an urban service boundary in 1958, the topic has fueled debate. The discussion resurfaced in 2023 when councilmembers voted to expand the boundary for the first time in more than 25 years.
The urban service boundary is one of many variables in the city’s Lexington Preservation and Growth Management Plan (LPGMP), which was previously part of the city’s five-year comprehensive plan. Earlier this year, the LPGMP separated from the overall plan to allow more focused attention on growth and preservation.
Two leading voices in current discussions are Fifth-District Councilmember Liz Sheehan, a University of Kentucky psychology professor and chair of the General Government and Planning Committee overseeing the LPGMP, and Vice Mayor Dan Wu, who sponsors the policy. Business Lexington spoke with them about proposed changes, prioritizing infill development, addressing the housing crisis, and more.
Tell us about proposed changes to the Lexington Preservation and Growth Management Plan?
Liz Sheehan: In the past, discussions about our urban service area have been tied to our comprehensive plan review that happens every five years. That plan, which we last did a couple years ago, is about the vision of our community, not just how big our urban service area is. For instance, there’s entire sections on our environmental goals, transportation, jobs, the economy and housing. It’s basically our entire vision for the growth of our community and what we want it to look like 20 years from now.
Previously our discussions mostly revolved around the 'expand or don't expand' issue related to land use, so our last two comprehensive plans have said that that plan should not be part of those discussions, but rather its own, data-driven process. It’s separating those long-term goals and vision from the specifics of expansion language so that they can both be discussed on their own.
Dan Wu: It seems like every time we have a comprehensive plan conversation the oxygen gets sucked out of the room by the expansion question and winds up overshadowing a lot of other, equally important stuff. There’s been this binary for too long of either being for preservation or for growth, which has thrown out any nuanced conversation. My hope is this program and the changes we’ve made help to change that narrative so we can have a much more data and needs-driven approach to the planning.
BizLex Q&A
Aside from the growth boundary, what is the biggest issue you’re looking to combat in these discussions?
Sheehan: We are currently in a housing crisis, particularly when it comes to affordable housing and people that make 80 percent or less of our area median income. Overall, housing availability has been scarce at all income levels, so a big part of the conversations we had during the comprehensive plan were what calculations would go into determining the LPGMP. Using a predictive formula, we process what our housing needs will be for the future to help us set what land needs are and to guide future development.
Wu: A lot of those conversations factor in more when you get into the master planning phase. For example, the areas we just expanded two years ago are having their development informed by everything from walkability to proximity to services, mixeduse and density. Both are big discussions that needed their own space.
A big issue related to the service boundary is prioritizing infill development, which a majority of the public seems to support. Where do things stand there?
Wu: No matter what the growth study gives us, the first step is to look at our policies and regulations that feed directly into our infill process and how we can make them better. In terms of how much vacant land we have, that’s something I want to take a look at. It’s always a dicey proposition because what one person considers vacant may not be available. A vacant or underdeveloped property is one thing, but it’s another thing if the owner of that property doesn’t want to do anything with it. We currently don’t have any mechanisms in place to force or incentivize them to do that, but it is something we’re looking at. One thing I’d love for us to take a look at is surface parking lots in our downtown — they make up something like 30 percent of the area. To me, in the middle of a housing crisis that is not the best use of our land.
What’s next for the LPGMP?
Sheehan: The next meeting of our General Government and Planning Committee for council, which I chair, and the LPGMP will be items on the agenda at our Dec. 2 meeting. We’ll be discussing this particular program and the draft language that you can look at on Engage Lexington. We’ve been getting community feedback since our last meeting on this item in September. Our goal is to bring that draft to a vote in the council later that month so that it has time to go through the planning commission and other necessary steps prior to its August 2026 deadline.
Wu: In the past year of working on this project we’ve been really diligent about building in a lot of public input by having meetings with major stakeholders and letting that input guide our discussions and planning. But ultimately, whatever we pass will not be perfect — I don’t think a product like this ever will be. We’re just trying to get it to make sense so we can maintain the balance that makes Lexington unique. n
Civic Connections: Getting to know
Dan Wu and Liz Sheehan
Favorite local outdoor getaway?
Wu: Any place I can play pickleball. My current favorite court is at Picadome, because it’s new and close to my house. Sheehan: The Ashland Estate. I live nearby and it’s a very walkable location, with plenty of trails and green space.
Favorite local restaurant and dish to eat there?
Wu: That’s tough, but Athenian Grill’s newest location out by the mall has a bit more of a sit-down vibe and the food is fantastic, as always. They have a grilled-octopus dish with lemon and thyme that is delicious. Sheehan: My family has been enjoying Umami, the new ramen place on the corner of High St. and Euclid Ave. They have a vegetarian ramen that I like to order with an egg on top.
Favorite part about working in city government?
Sheehan: As an academic, I love to learn new things and feel like I get to dive into so many different topics here. I never imagined I’d know so much about tree canopies, our sewer systems, how a concrete street is paved versus an asphalt one, or our electrical grid. It’s been fun to dig into something brand new, especially in such a meaningful way that affects people’s everyday lives. Wu: It’s my ability to connect regular folks to the resources and answers they need. Being able to leverage my position as vice mayor to help people find those solutions has been really cool.
BUILT TO OWN
Messer Construction celebrates 35 years as an employee-owned firm, shaping Lexington’s skyline and beyond
BY DAN DICKSON
I
n 1990, A pivotal moment arrived for Messer Construction Company, a regional building contractor with offices in Lexington and Louisville and several neighboring states. When the next generation of the Messer family declined interest in owning the company, the company’s managers and about 100 employees bought the business — transitioning it from a family-owned firm to an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP.
This year, Messer marks 35 years of employee ownership, a milestone that the Lexington regional office is using to reaffirm its commitment to community, work culture, and long-term financial stability.
Founded in Cincinnati in 1932, Messer grew steadily around the region. But by the late 1980s, few members of the Messer family still worked for the company, and none wanted to run it. “Our leadership at the time had the foresight to say that employees could buy the company,” said Mark Hill, Messer Construction vice president and Lexington regional leader. “I came just a few years earlier, so I’ve gotten to witness the company’s growth. It has been an amazing success.”
Over the 35 years of employee-ownership, Messer has grown in footprint, capacity and culture, says Hall. According to the company’s timeline, more than a decade after the ownership change the firm’s workforce had grown tenfold and annual revenue
p Founded in 1932, Messer Construction Co. transitioned to an employee stock ownership plan in 1990.
eight-fold. Companywide, Messer completed $1.9 billion worth of work over the past year.
Hill said employees take pride in their ownership and in watching the company succeed. “Everybody helps each other. There’s no trying to get ahead of others here. They know that if the employees grow, so does the company.”
Messer notes that its ESOP remains 100 percent company-funded, with no payroll contribution required from employees. The plan improves wages and strengthens retirement funds — the longer employees stay, the more “invested” they become. As company materials put it: “Employment without ownership is work; employment with ownership is opportunity.”
Employee ownership remains rare in the construction industry, but observers say ESOPs can deliver clear benefits: improved retention, stron-
PHOTO FURNISHED
ger alignment of interests and a shared stake in success. In Lexington and other regional offices, construction evolves today amid tighter labor markets, rising material costs and increasing reliance on technology, such as building information modeling, which Messer publicly credits on some of its projects. All this may offer Messer’s employee-owner culture a strategic competitive edge.
The Messer name is attached to many highly visual projects in the Lexington area. Messer served as the general contractor on the $241 million Central Bank Center, which included a renovation of Rupp Arena and the expansion and modernization of the convention center. Hall says his team is proud of the job they did. “UK basketball is on TV a lot,” Hall said. “The networks always show aerial shots of downtown Lexington with Central Bank Center right in the middle of it. It really changed downtown. It is the largest and the most significant project we have ever done in Lexington.”
The challenges were considerable. Parts of the convention center remained open during construction, and Rupp Arena continued hosting games and events, that is until the pandemic forced cancel-
lations. “It’s also a challenge when you’re opening a building’s walls and exposing the inside to the elements,” said Mike Wedding, operations vice president for Messer’s Lexington office. “That’s why continuous planning is so important.”
Messer has been involved in many projects at the University of Kentucky. Over the last decade and a half, it has built more than a dozen new student dormitories that are scattered across campus. It has also been involved with expanding or renovating parking garages.
A new UK Police command center was built by Messer and recently opened.
Students will be pleased when Messer completes major expansion and renovations to the Johnson Recreation Center, including next-level fitness spaces and courts, weightlifting areas, and a 55-foottall climbing wall, among other perks.
Messer is also working with the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment to construct a 64,000 square foot Meats and Food Development Center on the UK farm in Versailles. In addition, Messer renovated Pence Hall, built in 1909, for the UK College of Communication and Information. “We are extremely busy in all our
regions,” said Hall. “We have many backlogged projects scheduled for 2026 so it appears like we will continue to grow as a company.”
Messer also served as general contractor for the $32 million renovation of the Old Fayette County Courthouse, completed in 2018, which restored the historic rotunda and transformed the 119-year-old landmark into a mixed-use civic, tourist, and event space.
Beyond Lexington, Messer is leading a highly visible project in Frankfort: the $300 million renovation of the Kentucky State Capitol. The job, coordinated by the company’s Lexington and Louisville offices, includes restoration work on the dome, roof and masonry, as well as upgrades to the building’s electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. Completion is expected in 2029. Also coming to Frankfort will be a new Messer-built laboratory for the Kentucky Department for Public Health, a $219 million project.
For Messer, the 35-year employeeowned mark is more than symbolic, it underscores what the company believes is its sustained commitment to an ownership model that links employee wellbeing directly to business performance. n t Messer VP Mark Hill, fourth from left, and members of the Lexington-based team at the March of Dimes Signature Chef Auction Event.
PHOTO FURNISHED
Banking On Financial Literacy
Tates Creek
High
School students
gain hands-on financial experience with a new UKFCU branch inside their school
BY MATT WICKSTROM
partnership between the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union (UKFCU) and Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) has led to the opening of a second student-run branch at one of the district’s high schools.
In early October Tates Creek High School (TCHS) launched its operation to serve the building’s nearly 2,000 students and faculty by offering all banking services available at a typical UKFCU branch, except for extending loans.
Branch Coordinator Justin Sherwood, with UKFCU, said the initiative reflects the credit union’s mission to give back to the communities it serves, with financial education a central focus. “What better place to teach that than in a high school?” he said.
“I remember not feeling like I was financially prepared when I was 18 and about to graduate,” Sherwood recalled. “Students nowadays receive more financial literacy education than they used to, but they’re not necessarily getting that hands-on experience, which is something the credit union can offer. When most people go off to college and get part-time jobs, it’s often in retail or something unrelated — not something that gives them skills they can use no matter what they decide to do.”
The initiative is part of the Business, Entrepreneurship and Education branch of The Academy — small college and career prep communities available at Frederick Douglass High School, Bryan Station High School, and TCHS.
While The Academy offers a variety of pathways — from medical and nursing to design, engineering and pre-law, depend-
ing on location — all three schools have business and leadership tracks. The Academy first launched at Frederick Douglass and Bryan Station in 2017, and later at TCHS when its new $84.5 million building opened in 2022. Frederick Douglass opened its student-run UKFCU branch in 2023.
According to Jamie Cox, business and marketing teacher at TCHS, the branch has been popular in its first month, with an average of one new account being opened per day despite the branch opening without prior promotion. But between curious passersby who’ve noticed a different look to the former school storeroom and student interns visiting classrooms to explain the branch’s services, awareness has increased.
“Teaching and learning become so much more powerful when you can connect what’s going on in the classroom with real world applications, which is exactly what UKFCU has made possible for these kids,” Cox said.
In addition to teaching financial literacy, Sherwood said the program serves as a potential recruitment tool, giving students a pathway to future employment at UKFCU. Students complete an eight-week training program, shadowing credit union staff and learning all teller responsibilities to prepare for potential roles.
“The idea is to give students a firsthand experience in the financial field, allow them to get a jump start on their career, and figure out what to do with their money,” said Aiden Ward, one of the branch’s student interns.
While partnerships between credit unions and high schools are not widespread, similar programs exist in Jacksonville, Fla.; Greenville, S.C.; Richland, Wash.; and Piketon, Ohio — where even elementary students can open free savings accounts with no fees or minimum balances.
“It’s not super common, but it does exist,” Sherwood said. “There may only be one or two credit unions per state doing something similar, but it inspired us to explore the idea, and we’ve run with it.”
Cox said the program has already shown benefits. “The UK Federal Credit Union has been an amazing partner. I really do think they see the value in giving back and have embraced helping our students.”
UKFCU is also expanding its charter to include FCPS as a select employee group eligible for membership, opening opportunities for students and staff across the school district. Previously, membership eligibility was limited to those living, working, worshiping or attending school in an underserved area, or other preferred partners.
“Fayette County Public Schools are the second-largest employer in the city,” Sherwood said. “Teaming up with them has opened a lot of possibilities for the community and for us to reach students and staff throughout the county, not just at Tates Creek and Frederick Douglass where we already have branches.” n
SHERWOOD
COX
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MBA Programs
Institution
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
University of the Cumberlands Hutton School of Business 6984 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769 (800) 343-1609 ucumberland.edu
Northern Kentucky University Haile College of Business 100 Nunn Drive Highland Heights, KY 41099 (859) 572-6657 nku.edu
Campbellsville University 1 University Drive Campbellsville, KY 42718 (270) 789-5000 campbellsville.edu
University of Louisville 110 W. Brandeis Ave. Louisville, KY 40208 (502) 852-6440 business.louisville.edu
University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business and Economics Lexington, KY 40506 (859) 257-1306 gatton.uky.edu/programs/mba
Western Kentucky University Gordon Ford College of Business 1906 College Heights Blvd. Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 745-0111 wku.edu
Murray State University Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business 102 Curris Center Murray, KY 42071 (866) 906-0541 murraystate.edu
RANKED BY MBA PROGRAM ENROLLMENT
JAN. 1 – DEC. 31, 2024
Dean/Director Application Deadlines
Dr. Daniel Kanyam (Assistant Professor/ Director of Graduate Business Programs)
Dr. Hassan R. HassabElnaby (Dean of the Haile College of Business);
Dr. Abdullah Al Barani (Associate Dean, Graduate Programs)
Dr. Preston Jones (Interim Dean of the School of Business, Economics, and Technology)
Dr. Jian Guan (Interim Dean of the College of Business);
Dr. Sandeep Goyal (DIrector of MSBA Programs, Information Systems, Analytics & Operations)
Dr. Simon J. Sheather (Dean, Gatton College of Business); Karl Gustafson, MBA (MBA Academic Director)
2 weeks prior to start of terms (6 start dates througout academic year)
Application deadlines: June 1 and Dec. 1
Dr. Kate Nicewicz Scott (DirectorMBA Program)
Dr. Heath Keller (Chair of Management, Marketing, Business Administration, and Logistics & Supply Chain Management)
One Year Domestic: May 11
One Year International: Jan. 15
Professional Evening Fall Domestic: July 1
Professional Evening Fall International: March 15
Professional Evening Spring Domestic: Dec. 7
Professional Evening Spring International: Aug. 15
Applcations accepted on a rotating basis Rolling admissions (Six start dates throughout academic year)
MBA Programs
Midway University 512 E. Stephens St. Midway, KY 40347 (859) 846-5788 midway.edu
Eastern Kentucky University 521 Lancaster Ave. RIchmond, KY 40475 (859) 622-1000 eku.edu
Bellarmine University W. Fielding Rubel School of Business 2001 Newburg Road Louisville, KY 40205 (502) 272-7240 bellarmine.edu
Asbury University One Macklen Drive Wilmore, KY 40390 (859) 858-3511 asbury.edu
Sullivan University Lexington Campus 3101 Bardstown Rd. Louisville, KY 40205 (502) 456-6504 sullivan.edu
Dean/Director Application Deadlines
Dr. Mark Gill (Dean, School of Business, Equine and Sports Studies)
Dr. Thomas M. Martin (Dean, College of Business); Dr. Weiling Zhuang (MBA Director)
Jorge A. Pazmiño (Director of Graduate and Executive Education Programs)
Alesha Graves, D.B.A. (Dean, Dayton School of Business); Michael D. Ross, D.B.A. (Director, MBA Program)
Dr. LaVena Wilkin (Executive Dean, College of Business and Technology)
Applications accepted continuously
Applications accepted continuously (Online MBA can being any term, on campus MBA begins in fall)
Applications accepted continuously
Rolling admissions: Fall semester - July 15 Spring semester - Dec. 15 Summer semester - May 1
Applications accepted continuously
Source: Kentucky Council on Post-Secondary Education Data Center, Graduate Business Enrollment Data, Academic Year 2023-2024 Key: * Previous figures; ** Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Colleges & Universities
KENTUCKY PUBLIC AND INDEPENDENT INSTITUTIONS RANKED BY TOTAL NUMBER OF BACHELOR’S DEGREES CONFERRED
2023-’24 OCT. 2024
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Institution Name Address
University of Kentucky 101 Main Building Lexington, KY 40506 (859) 257-9000 uky.edu
University of Louisville 2301 S. Third St. Louisville, KY 40292 (502) 852-5555 louisville.edu
Western Kentucky University 1906 College Heights Blvd. Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 745-0111 wku.edu
Eastern Kentucky University 521 Lancaster Ave. RIchmond, KY 40475 (859) 622-1000 eku.edu
Northern Kentucky University Nunn Drive Highland Heights, KY 41099 (859) 572-5100 nku.edu
Murray State University 102 Curris Center Murray, KY 42071 (800) 272-4678 murraystate.edu
University of the Cumberlands 6919 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769 (606) 549-2200 ucumberlands.edu
Morehead State University 150 University Blvd. Morehead, KY 40351 (800) 585-6781 moreheadstate.edu
Bellarmine University 2011 Newburg Road Louisville, KY 40205 (502) 452-8000 bellarmine.edu
Dr. Eli Capilouto (President)
Dr. Kim Schatzel (President)
Dr. Timothy C. Caboni (President)
Dr. David T. McFaddin (President)
Dr. Cady Short-Thompson (President)
Dr. Robert L. Jackson (President)
Dr. Larry L. Cockrum (President)
Dr. Joseph A. Morgan (President)
Dr. Susan M. Donovan (President)
Colleges & Universities
KENTUCKY PUBLIC AND INDEPENDENT INSTITUTIONS RANKED
Institution
Campbellsville University 1 University Drive Campbellsville, KY 42718 (270) 789-5000 campbellsville.edu
Lindsey Wilson College 210 Lindsey Wilson St. Columbia, KY 42728 (270) 384-2126 lindsey.edu
Centre College 600 W. Walnut St. Danville, KY 40422 (859) 238-5200 centre.edu
Kentucky State University
400 E. Main St. Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 597-6000 kysu.edu
Asbury University
One Macklen Drive Wilmore, KY 40390 (859) 858-3511 asbury.edu
Berea College 101 Chestnut St. Berea, KY 40404 (859) 985-3000 berea.edu
Thomas More University 333 Thomas More Pkwy. Crestview Hills, KY 41017 (859) 341-5800 thomasmore.edu
Georgetown College 400 E. College St. Georgetown, KY 40324 (859) 863-8000 georgetown.edu
University of Pikeville 147 Sycamore St. Pikeville, KY 41501 (606) 218-5250 upike.edu
Dr. Joseph Hopkins (President)
Dr. William T. Luckey, Jr. (President)
Dr. MIlton C. Moreland (President)
Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo (President)
Dr. Kevin J. Brown (President)
Dr. Cheryl L.Nixon (President)
Joseph L. Chillo, LP.D. (President)
Dr. Rosemary A. Allen (President)
Dr. Burton J. Webb (President)
Colleges & Universities
KENTUCKY PUBLIC AND INDEPENDENT INSTITUTIONS RANKED BY TOTAL NUMBER OF BACHELOR’S DEGREES CONFERRED 2023-’24 OCT. 2024
Institution Name
Midway University 512 E. Stephens St. Midway, KY 40347 (859) 846-5788 midway.edu
Transylvania University
300 N. Broadway Lexington, KY 40508 (859) 233-8300 transy.edu
Union Commonwealth University 310 College St. Barbourville, KY 40347 (800) 489-8646 unionky.edu
Spalding University
851 S. Fourth St. Louisville, KY 40206 (502) 585-9911 spalding.edu
Kentucky Weslyan College 3000 Federica St. Owensboro, KY 42302 (270) 926-3111 kwc.edu
Brescia University 717 Federica St. Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 685-3131 brescia.edu
Alice Lloyd College 100 Purpose Road Pippa Passes, KY 41844 (606) 368-2101 alc.edu
Kentucky Christian University 100 Academic Parkway Grayson, KY 41143 (606) 474-3000 kcu.edu
Total Number of Bachelor’s Degrees Conferred 2023-’24
Total Number of STEM+H Degrees Conferred 2023-’24
DJ Washington (Interim President)
Dr. Anne Kenworthy (President)
Dr. James Cousins (President)
Father Larry Hostetter (President)
Dr. James O. Step (President)
Dr. Terry Allcorn (President & CEO)
Source: Kentucky Council on Post-Secondary Education Data Center, Baccalaureate Degrees Conferred, Academic Year 2023-2024 Footnote: STEM+H refers to majors in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Health. Frontier Nursing University, with a master and doctoral enrollment of over 2,500, also offers Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and post-graduate degrees.
Dr. John P. Marsden (President)
Dr. Brien Lewis (President)
Dr.
Private Schools
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Lexington Christian Academy 450 W. Reynolds Way Lexington, KY 40503 (859) 422-5700 lexingtonchristian.org
Lexington Catholic High School 2250 Clays MIll Road Lexington, KY 40503 (859) 277-7183 lexingtoncatholic.com
Sayre School 194 N. Limestone St. Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 254-1361 sayreschool.org
The Lexington School 1050 Lane Allen Road Lexington, KY 40504 (859) 278-0501 thelexingtonschool.org
Trinity Christian Academy 3900 Rapid Run Dr. Lexington, KY 40515 (859) 271-0079 trinitylex.org
Christ the King School 412 Cochran Road Lexington, KY 40502 (859) 255-5641 ctkschool.net
Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary School 605 Hill N Dale Road Lexington, KY 40503 (859) 277-3030 maryqueenschool.org
Lexington Latin School
Ashland Baptist Church 483 W. Reynolds Road Lexingon, KY 40503 (859) 940-7485 lexingtonlatinschool.com
Seton Catholic School 1740 Summerhill Drive Lexington, KY 40515 (859) 273-7827 setonstars.com
(Head of School)
Matthew George (Principal)
Stephen Manella (Head of School)
Una MacCarthy (Head of School)
Luke McAnally, Brooks Ward (Co-Heads of School)
Ann Bruggeman (Principal)
(Principal)
(Head of School)
(Principal)
Private Schools
Sts. Peter & Paul Regional Catholic School
432 W. Short St. Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 254-9257 sppslex.org
Providence Montessori School 1209 Texaco Road Lexington, KY 40508 (859) 255-7330 providencemontessoriky.org
Lexington Universal Academy 4580 Nicholasville Road Lexington, KY 40515 (859) 272-3360 luaky.org
St. Leo School 255 Huntertown Road Versailles, KY 40383 (859) 873-4591 saintleoky.org
St. John School 106 Military St. Georgetown, KY 40324 (502) 863-2607 stjohnschoolonline.org
Community Montessori School/ Montessori Middle School 725 Stone Road Lexington, KY 40503 (859) 277-4805/ (859) 277-1169 cmsmontessori.org
Good Shepherd Day School 544 Sayre Ave. Lexington, KY 40508 (859) 255-9734 goodshepherddayschool.org
Lexington Montessori School 319 S. Broadway Park Lexington, KY 40504 (859) 254-7034 lexkymontessori.org
KORE Academy 3150 Tates Creek Road Lexington, KY 40502 (859) 971-7129 koreacademy.org
Source:
Jonathan Kincheloe (Principal)
Joan Young (Head of School), Joellen Kuhn (Chief Administrative Officer)
Basiman Shalash (Assistant Principal)
Dr. Helena DiBiasie (Interim Principal)
Brent Mayer (President and Principal)
E. Nelson Griffin (Head of School) Rhonda May (Director)
RandiLynn Tucker (Head of School)
Stephanie Spires (Executive DIrector)
NEW HIRES & PROMOTIONS
Tania Walker has been named program coordinator of the One Lexington program, which is part of the mayor’s office. The ONE Lexington team addresses youth and young adult gun violence using community-based strategies.
Leah Taylor has joined South Central Bank’s lending team as an assistant vice president of lending.
Melissa Newman, a longtime advocate for rural Kentucky
and media equity, has been named executive director of Press Forward Blue Grass.
NAI Isaac welcomed property manager Maria Sarabia to its Lexington office.
Lexington Clinic announced the hiring of Brooke Trusty as its new director of marketing and communications.
KUDOS
Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) President Dr. Ryan Quarles and Morehead State University (MSU) President
Dr. Jay Morgan recently signed a treaty at a statewide transfer agreement creating more seamless pathways for students from all 16 KCTCS colleges to continue their higher education at MSU.
For the fifth consecutive year, Stock Yards Bank & Trust has been named one of the Best Banks to Work For by the American Banker and Best Companies Group.
Kentucky Farm Bureau has named Taylor and Hannah Jones of Gallatin County as its 2025 Outstanding Young Farm Family. This annual award honors a young
couple or individual who demonstrates exceptional management skill, innovation and leadership in production agriculture while remaining deeply involved in their community and the Farm Bureau organization.
Lexington ice cream company Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream recently won a blue ribbon at the recent “ConeCon.” The North American Ice Cream Association named Crank & Boom’s Dark Chocolate Truffle flavor a blue ribbon winner at its 2025 National Ice Cream Awards, held earlier this month in West Palm Beach, Florida. n
SARABIA TRUSTY
TAYLOR WALKER
T. JONES H. JONES
MORGAN
QUARLES
We recently celebrated the grand opening of our new state-of-the-art HVAC facility right here in Lexington!
To everyone who came out to support us – thank you from the bottom of our hearts. This milestone wouldn’t be possible without this amazing community that has believed in us from day one.
A special thank you to Mayor Linda Gorton and Adam Edelen for taking the time to speak and share in this moment with us. Your words meant the world to our team. And to Commerce Lexington Inc. — thank you for being there and for your continued support of local businesses like ours.
Lexington isn’t just where we do business – it’s our home. Growing here, hiring locally, and serving our neighbors has always been at the heart of what we do. The new facility represents our commitment to this community and our promise to keep delivering excellence for years to come.
To our team, our customers, our partners, and every single person who will walk through these doors — we’re so grateful for you. Here’s to the next chapter of growth, innovation, and serving the community we love! And of course a huge thank you to Season’s Catering for the amazing food!”
Call Synergy Home for a free estimate for any of your
