GO Chamber - Q2 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

FROM THE CHAMBER Welcome to the 2018 Second Quarter of GO Chamber.

When we planned this edition at the end of last year, we determined we wanted to focus on the talent recruitment and retention efforts in our community along with the talent pipelines we have in Greater Owensboro.

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President & CEO

BART DARRELL 2018 Board Chair President, Kentucky Wesleyan College

Those are all fairly nebulous concepts when you first think about them. But as we sat around the table discussing story ideas, it became increasingly clear to our Chamber-Tanner Publishing team that Greater Owensboro has an abundance of formal talent programs such as Chamber Young Professionals, Leadership Owensboro, Junior Achievement, Wendell Ford Statesmanship Academy, GO FAME and GO CAREERS.

Informal talent retention and recruitment tools are all over Owensboro. Basically, those are groups where people find a connection to the community.

We advise young people in our lives to find at least one activity at school where they can participate because this provides an opportunity for friendships and for a genuine connection to the school.

Communities are the same way. The more opportunities that exist for us to connect to one another beyond the walls of our home or our workplace, the more satisfied we are.

We are seeing an increasing number of networks across the community where friendships are being built and where positive community change is happening.

We have institutional talent pipelines with nationally ranked Brescia University and Kentucky Wesleyan College who graduate top notch students each year who want to make Owensboro their home. Our local school systems are home to some of the most innovative programming in the US, and we are home to the best community college in the state of Kentucky.

We have much more work to do here in Greater Owensboro and at the Chamber, but we are up to the challenge. And, we need each person to be a part of making our community a welcoming place.

Owensboro is not only becoming a place where great talent is developed and retained at a higher rate, but it is also a place where talent developed elsewhere now wants to be. We have momentum currently that Owensboro has not seen in decades. We are being talked about all over the state and beyond as a community to look to if you want to see how a community can rebrand itself.

The Chamber of Commerce is, and will continue to be, a major part of this condition. The reasons are many. They include, but are certainly not limited to, the attention the Chamber pays to proposed legislation that can impact, positively or negatively, our unique community interests; the opportunities for education and training opportunities that might otherwise be cost prohibitive for small or large business; a network of like-minded people who know that interdependence in business is critical to a successful business plan; the access to creative thinkers to help with a new idea or a newfound challenge; and the list could go on and on.

Our higher education institutions are attracting great talent, and the community makes it easier to encourage them to stay here after graduation. Organizations like the Chamber Young Professionals have created a tremendous vehicle to integrate young people into the fabric of Owensboro-Daviess County, and Leadership Owensboro continues to educate community leaders about Owensboro and how we can continue to progress. In summary, there is much to feel good about when we talk about Owensboro’s future.

We hope something in this edition will spark an idea or two that can make a difference.

Thank you for your investment of time and energy in our Chamber, and I encourage you to continue your membership and active participation. Your Chamber influence will not only help Owensboro continue to shine even brighter, but it will also help your business become even more successful and your life in Owensboro even more satisfying.

ON THE COVER:

Though from all different cities, even countries, the one thing the six people on the cover have in common is their love of their new home—Owensboro.

L to R: Mario Vizuet, Old National Bank - Mexico City, Mexico Jaclyn Graves, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce - Milan, Tennessee Matheus DaSilva, Wendell Ford Government Center - São Paulo, Brazil KO Lewis, Owensboro High School - Louisville, Kentucky Simone Montaven, Owensboro Health - Lansing, Michigan Harry Pedigo, St. Benedicts - Bardstown, Kentucky

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com

FEATURES:

MANAGING EDITOR

Benjamin Hoak ben@tannerpublishing.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Gleason

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GRAPHIC DESIGN Jamie Alexander Jason Tanner Taylor West

LAYOUT DESIGN

Andrea Roberson

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jamie Alexander David Grinnell Taylor West

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PRINTING

Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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THE CHAMBER REPORT THE RUNNING BUDDIES COLLEGE GRADUATES TURN OWENSBORO INTO THEIR NEW HOME LEAD ON

Celebrating our 2018 Leadership Owensboro Graduates

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BUILDING COMMUNITY SERVE TO LEARN, LEARN TO SERVE EXPERT ADVICE FROM 40 UNDER 40 LEADERS Special Advertising Section

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 200 E. 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 chamber.owensboro.com

2ND QUARTER 2018

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10 QUESTIONS

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THE FINAL ANALYSIS

Olga McKissic

Jaclyn Graves

DID ?

YOU

KNOW In 1996, a summer-long concert schedule began as a short event series brokered by a local legend and a downtown institution. Who are they?

FIND OUT ON PAGE 41

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

AUTHOR: JANE AUSTEN

Overview: Pride and Prejudice is a romantic novel published

by Jane Austen in 1813. Telling the story of Elizabeth Bennet—a headstrong, witty young lady with the (mis)fortune of having four sisters of marrying age, Austen illuminates the trials and tribulations of love and navigating society’s views on what fits and what doesn’t. This timeless classic pits Elizabeth against Fitzwilliam Darcy who both must banish their pride and prejudice if love is to prevail.

THE

READING LIST

Reviewed By: Jana Beth Francis

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, Daviess County Public Schools

The Takeaway: I reread Pride and Prejudice every year because at my core I’m a romantic. Since my entire life spins on a school year calendar, I always gear up for summer reading even though I now work year-round. Each time I pick up the book, I find myself reading it with a different frame.

There is the obvious frame of love. The book so eloquently illustrates how passion can be subtle.

In Austen’s romance, a simple touch of the hand is considered a grand romantic gesture. There’s no need for flowers and expensive dates when a simple walk in the park will do. If by chance you are under 18 and reading this article, you now are rolling your eyes and saying how old-fashioned I seem. But honestly, the bestowing of our time and full attention on someone is rare these days. To me, it’s the grandest of gestures of love we can make.

Another frame is dialogue. Austen uses the spoken word in a way that makes one marvel at the witty statements coming out of characters’ mouths. In the last few months, I have studied conversations in our classrooms. I find myself examining how students talk with the teacher and with each other and what topics of conversation keep their attention. What I’m finding is that academic discourse is dwindling. This

is mirrored in society. All you have to do is look around a family restaurant and notice the number of families holding some type of electronic and not engaged in dialogue.

I have started working with our educators to course correct the diminishing dialogue in our schools. Reading Pride and Prejudice will remind you have powerful conversations can be. There is very little that entertains me more than what my daughter and I refer to as “smart funny.” “Smart funny” is when the spoken words have so much meaning both on the surface and below, you are blown away with laughter.

Just google famous quotes from Pride and Prejudice and you will be reminded of the power of dialogue.

The last frame is simply enjoyment. Find something you love and go back to it over and over.

Little children have the right idea—read that favorite book over and over. Escape to that magical place and find the enjoyment in turning the page. Of course, nowadays you can also listen to that favorite book while you drive around town. Grab a book from your youth and read it again. I encourage students to read books again. You are rarely in the same place in your life, so the life experiences you bring to a book will be different. Lines you flew over will pop out to you with new meaning. No one should ever read something without making essential connections to oneself.

That’s why I pick up Pride and Prejudice summer after summer. After all, books have often “bewitched me body and soul.”

H A N D - P I C K E D What is your college alma mater?

CENTRE COLLEGE

GENEVA COLLEGE (BEAVER FALLS, PA)

-Brian Blair

SOUTHWIRE

KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY (MANHATTAN, KS)

-Amy Jackson

FIRST SECURITY BANK

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE (OWENSBORO, KY)

-Rebecca Whitehead, CPA

EBELHAR WHITEHEAD PLLC

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY

THE MALCOLM BRYANT CORPORATION

-Vicki Quisenberry

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY HENDERSON STATE UNIVERSITY (ARKADELPHIA, AR)

-Erin Waller

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

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(DANVILLE, KY)

-Madison Silvert

(MURRAY, KY)

FOUNDATION FOR DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

(LEXINGTON, KY)

NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

VINEYARD PRIMARY CARE

-Rebecca McQueen

-Dr. Jeremy Luckett

(CHAPEL HILL, NC)

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE

CHAMBER BEHIND THE SCENES:

CHAMBER AMBASSADORS

AMBASSADORS EXIST TO ASSIST THE GREATER OWENSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN BUILDING MEMBERSHIP INVOLVEMENT, RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION. Ambassadors commit to being involved by: • Attending Ribbon Cuttings for Member support and assistance • Providing Member visits throughout the year on behalf of the Chamber • Attending events such as Chamber Celebration, Chamber After Hours, Golf Classic, Rooster Booster, etc.

Ambassadors benefit from the program as well: • Increased name and face recognition • Increased networking opportunities • Opportunity to connect one-on-one with new and existing Chamber Members • Increased referral opportunities through other Ambassadors • Potential media coverage from attendance at Chamber events • Gain an insider’s perspective of the local business community • Opportunity to meet local business and community leaders • Recognition at Rooster Booster Breakfasts • Recognition via “Ambassador of the Month” at Rooster Booster and in Chamber Matters monthly publication • Recognition via “Ambassador of the Year” at the Annual Chamber Celebration

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BECOMING A CHAMBER AMBASSADOR CONTACT JACLYN GRAVES AT (270) 926-1860 OR JACLYN@OWENSBORO.COM.

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (NASHVILLE, TN)

-Daniel Hewlette

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY (BOWLING GREEN, KY)

-Ruth Ann Mason

TOM BLUE FURNITURE

O.Z. TYLER DISTILLERY

BRESCIA UNIVERSITY (OWENSBORO, KY)

-Joan Hayden

(MANKATO, MN)

-Rachael Faulkner

US BANK HOME MORTGAGE

(LUBBOCK, TX)

-Dr. Martha Maradiaga-Stone

HOLLISON LLC

HAYDEN FARMS

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

(COLLEGE STATION, TX)

-Mario Vizuet

OLD NATIONAL BANK

NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY (NEWPORT, KY)

-Dr. Nick Brake

OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BARRY UNIVERSITY (MIAMI SHORES, FL)

-Brooklyn Maple

KENTUCKY LEGEND

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

MEET THE

CYP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Dave Kirk

Andrew Howard

Erica Yartz

DESTINATION MANAGEMENT, VISIT OWENSBORO

COMMERCIAL LOAN OFFICER, INDEPENDENCE BANK

ATTORNEY, THACKER, HODSKINS, & KNIGHT, L.L.P.

CYP Chair

Dave has spent 25 of his 30 years of life in Owensboro.

He grew up here, went to the University of Kentucky and then lived in Tennessee before returning home. He started his career as a TV reporter and then served as public information officer for Owensboro Public Schools.

With Visit Owensboro, he works with marketing and selling Owensboro through mostly a digital approach. He also helps coordinate activities once visitors arrive here.

As the CYP Chair, Dave runs the meetings, serves as spokesman and guides advocacy projects. He also serves as a special director on the Chamber board representing CYP. Dave was the 2016 Young Professional of the Year as well as a graduate of the 2016 Leadership Owensboro class. He enjoys cooking, playing softball, reading and traveling. He is married to Jessica Kirk and they have a dogter named Hopsen.

Fun fact: He enjoys theatre of all sorts.

Past-Chair

Chair-Elect

Andrew is very active in the Owensboro community. Serving as past-chair of CYP, he is also a member of the 2017 Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 and was the 2017 Young Professional of the Year. He currently serves as a board member for Friday After Five, the Home Builders Association of Owensboro and the Owensboro Family YMCA. A graduate of Owensboro Catholic High School and Brescia University, he is also a true sports fanatic, focusing on anything and everything related to sports.

Erica is originally from Nashville, TN but she has always bled blue. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics and her law degree both from the University of Kentucky.

Go Cats! She focuses on real estate, probate, estate planning, business and commercial law. Erica assists with many aspects of CYP, including planning professional development events for members. Since moving to Owensboro in August of 2013, Erica worked as the assistant county attorney in McLean County, was part of the Leadership Owensboro class of 2017, and currently serves as a board member of the Boulware Mission. In her free time, she loves to travel and enjoys playing tennis.

Fun fact: Andrew and his wife Brittany became parents in December with the birth of their daughter, Kensington!

Fun Fact: A fan of the tv show Parks and Recreation, she once watched an episode where characters visited the Grand Canyon and booked a trip to Arizona the next day!

Mario Vizuet

Hannah Thurman

Sara Fleischmann

LOAN OFFICER, OLD NATIONAL BANK

TOUR GUIDE, O.Z. TYLER DISTILLERY

From growing up in Texas to experiencing the fastpaced of life of downtown Chicago, Owensboro is the perfect happy medium for Mario's growing family and he has loved every minute of the past year and a half he has been here. The small-town feel of Owensboro has made finding ways to get involved much easier, and he enjoys his position with CYP as well as on the Board of Directors for Community Development, volunteering with The Boys & Girls Club, as a member of Leadership Owensboro, Old National’s Men Who Cook fundraising, and practicing for Owensboro’s Dancing with our Stars fundraiser. Mario and his wife welcomed their first son in March and enjoy traveling, camping, going to the movies, sports and strolling through downtown Owensboro with their dogs.

Hannah coordinates opportunities for CYP members to give back to the Owensboro community. Through a combination of hands-on volunteering and giving opportunities, CYP strives to meet a variety of community needs. Outside of CYP, you can find Hannah working at O.Z. Tyler Distillery, serving as a volunteer for several community organizations, and building her own freelance graphic design business. Hannah is an Owensboro native and is excited to be engaged in the community as a young professional. She is an alumna of Western Kentucky University, with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and a Master of Science in Recreation & Sport Administration.

STAFF II ACCOUNTANT TAX AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES DIVISION, RINEY HANCOCK CPAS PSC

Finance Chair

Fun fact: When Mario and his wife decide to eat pizza, they HAVE to order two large pizzas because they can each finish one on their own.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Philanthropy Chair

Fun Fact: Hannah is a DIY project enthusiast and enjoys cheering on the Dallas Cowboys with her husband and two dogs.

Communications Chair

Sara moved to Owensboro in 2010 to attend Kentucky Wesleyan College, fell in love with Owensboro and its community, and has been here ever since. Sara is a 2015 Wesleyan graduate where she majored in accounting and minored in mathematics. She then went on to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), earning her license in January 2017. Sara also serves as a Board Member for the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden and is currently involved in Leadership Owensboro, class of 2018. Sara enjoys being outdoors, exercising, and spending time with family, friends, and her two rescue cats, Stanley and Brooks.

Fun fact: She has been skydiving!

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER Assured Partners - Charlotte Cecil

Austin Casebolt

Daniel Hewlette

TEACHER, DAVIESS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

DIRECTOR OF VISITOR EXPERIENCE, O.Z. TYLER DISTILLERY (TERRESSENTIA)

Membership Development Chair

Austin creates, implements, monitors and manages membership development plans for CYP to recruit and retain members. In addition to teaching, he is also an Independent Artist/Art Consultant, Artist in Residence at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, and the Daviess County High School Girls Tennis Coach. This is his first year in Owensboro, and he is looking forward to many, many more. He believes CYP is a wonderful way to get involved in the community, and he is excited to recruit more young professionals to this outstanding organization.

Social Co-Chair

Daniel holds a B.S. degree in both economics and human and organizational development from Vanderbilt University.

He has had a variety of roles with Terressentia including Private Label and Private Brand sales. He now manages tourism, special events and retail for the distillery. He has lived in Owensboro for about three years.

Fun Fact: He once lived and worked on a boat as a first mate for a summer.

Fun Fact: Austin's first job was dressing up for kids birthday parties—most notably, SpongeBob SquarePants!

Research Integrity, LLC Jennifer Hardesty Besecker Owensboro Community Health Network Mountain Valley Water Company Gordon Law Offices, P.S.C. Volunteer Owensboro Active Day of Owensboro Evolved Engineering & Design Porter Speech Pathology, LLC Koger Properties, LLC Caliber Home Loans GADSOOK Utopia Wellness Medispa Audubon Area Community Care Clinic Ginza Houchens Benefits

Kyle Heavrin Social Co-Chair

COMMUNICATIONS AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, KENERGY CORP

Besides being Kenergy’s media spokesperson, Kyle is also involved in key account management and

economic development for the company. He has 12 years’ experience in the electric utility industry. Before moving to Owensboro in August 2013, he was the communications and public relations representative for Meade County R.E.C.C. Kyle holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Kentucky, and he is currently working on his M.B.A. at Brescia University. Kyle serves on the Hancock County Industrial Foundation board as well as the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation board. He has been married for 2.5 years to Samantha.

They currently have no kids, but one cat.

Fun fact: Kyle sometimes skirts the line of being a bigger UK football fan than basketball fan—the players stay longer!

Jessica Kirk

CYP Executive Director

TALENT PROGRAMS & EVENTS MANAGER, GREATER OWENSBORO GREATER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE; EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO

Jessica was born and raised in Lexington, KY. She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky where she earned her Bachelors in Political Science with a minor in Philosophy. After graduating from UK in three years, Jessica moved from Lexington to be with her husband, Owensboro native Dave Kirk. Jessica works to create and manage meaningful programs to connect, engage and ultimately connect people to further invest themselves in the place they now call home. Wasting no time getting involved, Jessica is energized by the positive influence that individuals can have in this community. She encourages others, especially young professionals, to find what they are passionate about and work to make their own mark in Owensboro. Jessica is the ultimate dog mom to Hopsen and fills her free time traveling and exploring new places with her husband.

Fun fact: As the Kirk household barista, Jessica is a serious coffee enthusiast… although she receives no benefit from the effects of caffeine.

Mr. Appliance of Owensboro Physicians Eye Center - Dr Aubrey Harlan, O.D. Physicians Eye Center - Dr. Daniel R. McCormack, Jr. DO Daviess County Diabetes Coalition Alexander Francis Films Connecting Ministries Burger Theory Flamingos For Amber, Inc. Key Oil Company State Senator Joe Bowen

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

EVENT SCRAPBOOK:

ROOSTER BOOSTER WITH ELAINE CHAO

PHOTOS BY BRYAN LEAZENBY

United States Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao addressed a crowd of over 500 at the monthly Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Rooster Booster Breakfast in May sponsored by Visit Owensboro. Secretary Chao has played a key role in our regional transportation success.

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EXECUTIVE ANSWERS

ON THE RECORD

We asked three non-natives of Owensboro: Since moving to Owensboro, how have your impressions of the community changed? What did you do to make Owensboro home?

SIMONE MONTAVEN

SCOTT KENWORTHY

SHAELIE CLARK

I moved here after spending more than 20 years in Northern Virginia. When I was contacted about a job at Owensboro Health, I’d never heard of Owensboro.

When I first came to interview I was taken aback by the relative isolation and small size of the town. My first thought was that I could never live here… that thought lasted about three hours. Once I started talking to people and making my way through town, I realized what a great community this is. It seems like you can’t drive a mile without seeing a park full of kids and parents. I live near Moreland Park and I just love how full it is with walkers, tennis players and the multiple kids’ baseball teams!

It may be easiest to start with what hasn’t changed. My initial impressions were that Owensboro was a friendly, family-oriented community with a vision for growth. I still find that to be true. Now, however, I’d add that Owensboro’s impact reaches much further than I first realized. Since moving here five years ago, I’ve met professionals who lead companies in Atlanta, Denver, Louisville and Nashville, yet choose to raise their families here. I’ve seen local start-ups begin to exert their influence on global markets. The hospital and convention center, which both opened within a year of our arrival, continue to attract great thinkers, leaders, and entertainers to our city. And through it all, our demographic has grown more and more diverse.

The City of Owensboro was the first place life took me as an independent adult. Most of my college friends stayed in the Indy area, so moving here was a little scary, because I didn’t know anyone! Plus, I had never lived so far away from my family. But the nervousness wore off quickly, and Owensboro started feeling like home. I believe that when you put your heart into a community it will pay off, and starts to feel like YOURS.

And then we have downtown. What’s not to love about RiverPark Center and Smothers Park? I’m nothing like an old car buff, but I’ve even found myself strolling past the antique cars more than once when the streets are closed and they all come in to show off their cool rides. It’s just another representation of how great it is to live here. People are simply so pleasant and seem to really enjoy life.

Living here just feels right.

As I network with other churches in Evansville and Louisville, it’s common for those leaders to bring up all the good things happening in Owensboro. In short, Owensboro has been more effective in recruiting and keeping top talent than I realized it would be, which makes us not only a strong local community but a local community making ripples nationally and globally. This excites me because it fits with our vision of being a local church making a global impact.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HUMAN RESOURCES OWENSBORO HEALTH

When I moved here, I immediately bought a house and made some changes to make it home. I was immediately struck by the helpfulness of everyone, including the salespeople at the hardware stores who came to know me by name and the many coworkers who ensured I was able to find what I needed.

Season tickets to the Owensboro Symphony and the Broadway series soon followed. I quickly made a few friends in the neighborhood and was immediately welcomed by their families and friends, and my circle grew. Within just a few months, I found myself not wanting to drive “all the way across town,” which is a sure sign that Owensboro is home. Oh yeah, and I recently married an Owensboro boy.

LEAD PASTOR OWENSBORO CHRISTIAN CHURCH

The nature of my role as a pastor affords me the opportunity to get to know people quicker than other professions might. A large part of making a community home is simply experiencing life’s highs and lows with the people who have called that place home longer than you. You hope you can add value, but you recognize the community has a story that goes back much further than you. Learning the city’s needs and trying to help meet them has increased our personal investment in this place.

My wife, Sarah, and I enjoy the different amenities Owensboro offers including the Greenbelt, local restaurants and revitalized downtown. We try to attend different concerts, plays and sporting events as our schedule allows.

And with our first child on the way, we expect to take greater advantage of Owensboro’s many family-friendly activities.

SUNRISE ANCHOR 14 NEWS

A lot of the credit for helping me get settled in goes to an organization called MentorKids Kentucky. I met great people right off the bat, and that included my mentee, who is now a freshman at Owensboro High School.

Going to her ballgames and taking her to different events in the community started keeping me pretty busy. Another way I connected with the community was finding my home church, Bellevue Baptist. I've made good friends there, and it helped me find more ways to fill spare time.

But my job as a reporter in Owensboro played the largest roll in making me feel right at home in Owensboro. I met so many amazing people who work with fabulous organizations that serve Owensboro and make it the great city that it is. I worked with the Chamber staff on multiple stories and they guided me to join Chamber Young Professionals, where, again, I was able to network with more people in the community.

If you're new to town, my advice is to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. Go to Friday After 5, the BBQ Festival, the Air Show. Those events, and others, got me out of the house, and made it so much easier to meet the people who also serve in the community.

I started finding I didn't have the urge to go "back home to Indy" on the weekends, because Owensboro was home.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE CHAMBER REPORT

MEMBERS ON THE MOVE INDEPENDENCE BANK RANKS 5TH IN ANNUAL BEST PLACES TO WORK IN KENTUCKY The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM) have announced the rankings for the 14th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky list. Independence Bank ranked #5 among other Kentucky businesses in the medium size category.

This is the tenth year that Independence Bank has been a winner in the Best Places to Work in Kentucky program. President, Darrell Higginbotham said, “It is indeed an honor to be named a finalist for the Best Places to Work in Kentucky, but to be named 10 years in a row is an accomplishment few can say. Independence Bank shares and celebrates this award with each and every employee because each employee contributes to our success. The Bank has received numerous state and national accolades and the common denominator in each one is the great team of dedicated banking professionals that serve our clients and community with what we call Everyday Excellence. For a decade now, everyone knows what the Bank has known all along— it takes great employees to make a great bank!”

For more details about Best Places to Work in Kentucky, visit bestplacestoworkky.com.

Independence Bank is a locally owned and operated community bank with 24 locations in Calloway, Daviess, Franklin, Graves, Hancock, Henderson, Hopkins, Jefferson, McCracken, McLean, Warren and Webster counties with assets over $2.1 billion.

FIRST SECURITY BANK MAKES NEW HIRES Joe Berry, former Executive Vice President of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, has been named the new Vice President of Community Development for First Security Bank.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

“Joe has a passion for Owensboro, and its business community, that aligns perfectly with the culture and why at First Security Bank,” said Michael F. Beckwith, President and CEO of First Security Bank. “We can’t wait to integrate his talents, connections and passion with our strategic plan as our new Community Development Officer.”

born and raised here,

Berry has been with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) since 2011. Berry is a 2005 graduate of Transylvania University, and received his Masters of Public Administration from Western Kentucky University in 2009.

Willis comes to First Security Bank with a

Jackie Pyland-Tipmore has been named Assistant Vice President – Banking Center Manager at First Security Bank. She will be managing the South Frederica Branch, located at 3560 Frederica Street.

“I am so excited to have Jackie join our First Security Bank team.

To have someone with 35 years of banking experience, knowledge in lending and deposits and her leadership skills is definitely a WIN for our clients and our bank,” said Krista Niehaus, Senior Vice President – Sales and Service Manager.

Pyland-Tipmore joins First Security Bank with an extensive banking background.

Most recently, she spent 11 years working as a Sales & Service Manager. She also worked as a Relationship Banker for 24 years.

Matt Willis has been named the new Banking Center Manager at First Security Bank. He will be managing the Downtown Branch in Owensboro located at 313 Frederica Street.

“I am very excited to have Matt join the First Security Team. He is a dynamic leader that is thrilled to be back in Owensboro, working for a community bank that can really help him add value to his hometown. He was

and is ready to invest in the community where his family resides and his children will grow up,” said Krista Niehaus, Senior VicePresident, Sales and Service Manager.

banking background as a Financial Center Manager and Personal Banker. He excels in customer service and building valuable relationships with his customers and his team. Currently, he volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and the Relay for Life.

Jamie Roby Johnson has been named the new Marketing Specialist at First Security Bank. The position will be located at corporate headquarters in Owensboro, Kentucky and will coordinate advertising, promotions and public relations for all the markets the bank serves: Owensboro, Bowling Green, Franklin and Lexington, Kentucky, as well as Evansville and Newburgh, Indiana.

“Jamie’s passion for Owensboro, as well as her understanding of entrepreneurship and marketing, will provide the bank new ideas and new capacity to grow our business. She brings us skills that align with meeting our strategic goals of growth for our bank,” said Amy Jackson, Executive Vice President – Chief Operating Officer.

Johnson had been with Marshall Ventures in the role of Fund Administrator since 2015. Johnson graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate and Organizational Communication. She is currently on the Board of Directors at Girls Incorporated and the Owensboro Dance Theatre.

BY THE NUMBERS First Security Bank, with $600 million in assets and more than 125 employees, has 11 banking centers in four major markets including Owensboro, Bowling Green and Lexington, Kentucky and Evansville, Indiana.

BB&T HONORED AS TOP PERFORMER Chuck Brown, Market Leader of the BB&T Owensboro Main Branch, attended BB&T’s 2018 Sterling Performance Club and Best of the Best Gala, which was recently held in Boca Raton, FL. This annual event honors the top 5% of BB&T’s Branches. BB&T has more than 2,100 branches across its footprint, and this marks the third consecutive year the Owensboro Main Branch Team was recognized as being one of BB&T’s top Branches locations. Chuck has been with BB&T for 25 years.

INFINTECH AGENT WINS AWARD FOR FOURTH TIME Every year the Chamber’s payment processing partner, Infintech, recognizes their top sales team members. For the fourth year, Owensboro’s dedicated Infintech advisor, Matt Valego, took top honors as Agent of the Year. We want to congratulate Matt on his accomplishment and thank him for his continued hard work and dedication to provide the best payment processing solutions to the Owensboro community.

PACKAGES PLUS NAMED A TOP UPS SHIPPER Packages Plus of Owensboro was named one of the top three UPS shippers out of almost 500 stores in attendance at the recent Retail Shipping Associates national convention. Pat Osborne, owner of Packages Plus, accepted the award.

OWENSBORO RISING 17TH – BEST PLACES TO WORK IN MANUFACTURING -Smart Asset 2017

OWENSBORO RIVERPORT AUTHORITY IS THE HIGHESTVOLUME PUBLIC AUTHORITY OF THE EIGHT PUBLIC PORTS IN KENTUCKY. -The Lane Report 2017

TOP 11 CITIES FOR MILLENNIAL HOMEBUYERS -USA Today, 2017

30 students

will graduate from high school in Owensboro/Daviess County in 2018 while earning an Associate degree from Owensboro Community and Technical College and a high school diploma simultaneously.

TOP CITIES FOR MILLENNIALS -Business Insider, 2017

T H E G R E AT E R O W E N S B O R O REGION IS WITHIN

600 miles

OWENSBORO AMONG

top 5

TIER 3 METROS -Site Selection Magazine 2018

BEST SMALL CITY -Milkin Institute, 2016

48%

OF HOME BUYERS ARE MILLENNIALS “Big cities and their big employers have always attracted young workers, and that’s still true. But a combination of factors — sky-high home prices chief among them — have sent Millennials across the country looking for alternatives.

Older Millennials (aged 25 to 34) make up 13.6% of the US population but 30% of the current population of existing-home buyers, according to Realtor.com.

Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Owensboro doesn’t have an interstate highway, but it is within a few hours’ drive of Louisville, Nashville, and St. Louis. The town counts U.S. Bank among its largest employers — the firm’s national mortgaging service center is located there. A downtown makeover has also made this river city a nice place to live and work.”

-USA Today

of

2/3

of America’s population.

ALL-AMERICAN CITY

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE RUNNING BUDDIES

By Melody Ann Wallace

T HE UNOFF I C I AL M AL E F I T N ESS W E LC O M I N G C O M M I T T E E O F OW E N S B O R O

16

What started out with four guys running trails together at

hospital employees, and does not take into account doctors who

Ben Hawes State Park a little more than five years ago has now

have moved to the area in other capacities. When these physicians

turned into a brotherhood of men who would literally give you

relocate, they are often uprooting spouses and children, and

the shirt off of their back if you needed it. “The Running Buddies”

leaving behind an established network of friends and a feeling

are a group of seriously intelligent, and well-skilled professional

of community. With internist Dr. Adrian Yeiser serving as

men who are not only value-centered and family-focused,

an unofficial activity coordinator for the group, the Running

but are the first ones to offer help to someone in need. On any

Buddies have turned into a somewhat of an informal welcoming

given morning, there could be as many as 20 guys, including: an

committee for the hospital. When Dr. Yeiser participates in

internist, a school teacher, a dentist, a firefighter, an entrepreneur,

recruiting new physicians, he often asks if they are interested in

and a medical equipment specialist. While their occupations

leading a healthy lifestyle. The group believes this is what “sealed

may vary, their core value system is what binds them together.

the deal” for radiation oncologist Ryan Abel when he flew in

These men are also adept with a shovel to help a neighbor dig a

from California to interview for a new position with the hospital.

ditch, available to knock down a wall for a much-needed home

Dr. Ryan Fought invited Dr. Abel to take part in a trail run at

renovation, and willing to donate generously to a local disabled

5:15 a.m. with the Buddies, and they have been working, and

child in need of wheelchair-accessible housing.

running, together ever since.

While the group is by no means physician-exclusive, there

Opthamologist Dan McCormack and his wife, neurologist

are several doctors who participate. Each year approximately 25

Jeanie McCormack, can speak to how integral this group has

new physicians join Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, with

been to their lives. Four years ago, newlyweds Dan and Jeanie

the last year seeing an increase to 29. This number only reflects

selected Owensboro as the area they wanted to work in and raise

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

their family because it was a great midway point between their two hometowns. Dan says, “As soon as we visited, we fell in love with the people.” Shortly after making the move, Dan was struck by a car one morning while running alone.

“THEY ARE A GROUP OF GENUINE, HELPFUL, HONORABLE MEN THAT GET TO SPEND TIME TOGETHER EVERY MORNING.” – Annie Laurie Yeiser

With a new concern for her husband’s safety, Jeanie set out to find Dan someone to run with. Dr. Yeiser and the Buddies welcomed Dan, who appreciated his newfound group of friends and the inspiration they provided. However, after about a year and a half, and the birth of their daughter Lilly, they moved back to Dan’s hometown of Bloomington, Indiana where they were closer to family and grandparents.

“It should have been perfect, but we felt like we were missing home,” Dan said of Bloomington. Within six months, the two made the decision to move back to Owensboro, admitting that they could not duplicate the sense of community and belonging they had found here.

Dan says while he appreciates the physical benefits of the group, it “isn’t built on athletics, it’s built on core values.” These guys are early risers (although not all by nature) and are up at 4:30 a.m. for their 5:15-6:15 a.m. run, Monday through Saturday. Dr. Yeiser says, “We are all family guys first and foremost, so we need to be home to help get the kids off to school.” While they are always open to newcomers, the guys

“HAVING A NICHE OF LIKE-MINDED MEN TO EXERCISE WITH IS A VERY VALUABLE PIECE OF THE COMMUNITY.” – Luke Alexander, medical equipment specialist

do admit that the one detriment to the group may be that they have been together so long, that they can typically run 5-6 miles at a 7-minute mile pace. Over the years, they have also added biking, basketball, CrossFit, and tennis for times that the weather is poor or they are in need of a change. The Buddies also participate together in a group event or activity annually (such as a Tough Mudder), and look for different opportunities where they can include their families.

The Running Buddies are just a reminder that we sometimes fail to recognize that talent can go far beyond natural God-given ability, and can often be hidden in acts of philanthropy, kindness in the community, and in lending a hand to a neighbor. On the surface these men may appear to display their talents through plastic surgery, dentistry and magazine publishing, but it is more about the core of who they are. The Running Buddies demonstrate talent not just by trade, but also by displaying character through their work friends. Every town should have a welcoming committee

“I WOULD HAVE A HARD TIME LEAVING OWENSBORO BECAUSE I THINK IT WOULD BE HARD TO DUPLICATE THIS GROUP.”

like this.

- Robert Williams, special education teacher

as supportive husbands, involved fathers and encouraging

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

COLLEGE GRADUATES TURN OWENSBORO INTO THEIR

NEW HOME .

BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

B

eing a college graduate can be a wonderful, but scary thing. Finding your footing in post-grad life can be hard, but two recent graduates left

college with a diploma and a new place to call home.

Paige Dixon, a 22-year old Kentucky Wesleyan College graduate from Elizabethtown, was introduced to the school and the city of Owensboro when she was very young.

“My grandfather, father, and cousin each graduated from there,” she said. “Throughout high school when all of my friends were searching for a college to attend, I was already sure that I was going to Kentucky Wesleyan.”

While she explored a couple of different majors before graduating with a psychology degree, she joined several clubs and organizations on campus and got involved in the community.

Even though staying in Owensboro after graduation was not Dixon’s original plan, she said after completing her practicum at OASIS, a local non-profit that serves victims of domestic violence, she decided to stay when they created a position just for her—dating violence advocate.

“The few months that I have spent there so far have taught me many things, but the most important is to fight for the people that cannot fight for themselves so that one day they can do the same for others,” she said.

18

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

“It is all about breaking the bad cycles and creating new ones.”

Owensboro,” Dixon said.

With her new job, Dixon will be going out in the community

Another reason Dixon is deciding to stay in Owensboro is

and teaching young people about love, respect, and what

the feeling of community.

healthy relationships look like.

“I have not been able to find this exact feeling anywhere

“I have fallen in love with Owensboro during my years

else,” she said. “Because of this, I think Owensboro is a great

here,” she said. “I have met many amazing people here that

city for people my age to further their education and career.

have impacted my life, which would have made it so hard to

It would be hard for anyone to come here for an extended

leave.”

period of time and not make great personal and professional

Dixon, who plans on joining Chamber Young Professionals

connections.”

after graduation, said she realized there are great opportunities

Like Dixon, Cameron Robinson is a 22-year-old Brescia

that Owensboro has to offer outside of the workforce.

University graduate, and is also making Owensboro more

She said she is excited about CYP because it will give her

than just his “college town.”

a better understanding of the issues that the Owensboro

Originally from White Plains, KY, he came to Brescia

community faces, and it will introduce her to the people that

University to study political science after being awarded

can help bring solutions for these issues.

scholarship money.

“Networking through Chamber Young Professionals

“I was originally going to go to community college for two

will allow me to understand how I can use my passion and

years and then transfer to Louisville and pay out of pocket,” he

talents along with others to meet the needs of the people of

said. “I got a call in late June of 2014 saying I had a good deal of

19

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

scholarships [at Brescia]. I set up a campus visit and was enrolling two weeks later for the fall semester.”

As a student, he was involved with lots of clubs and organizations. His involvement on campus helped ignite his passion for service and giving back to the community around him.

During his junior year, Robinson and his girlfriend created a project called, “Many Languages, One Ummah.”

The pair tutored local Somali children who needed help with learning basic English skills.

The project was a collaboration between Brescia, the International Center of Owensboro, and the Islamic Center of Owensboro.

After graduation, Robinson is staying in Owensboro to become an insurance agent at State Farm.

Like many other Owensboro millennials, Robinson has plans to joins Chamber Young Professionals once he gets settled with his new job.

"I believe that Chamber Young Professionals can really help me build more relationships in the community,” he said. “I am very committed to Owensboro and Daviess County. This area has been very influential in my development during my time at Brescia and I want to do anything I can to give back to it and show my appreciation.”

Robinson said he believes other millennials should choose Owensboro because the city continues to develop and grow.

“With a variety of new business opportunities making their way into the area, Owensboro will need young professionals to take the lead role in establishing them as long term and profitable opportunities for future generations,” Robinson said.

20

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

OCTC GRANT SUPPORTS

GENDER EQUITY IN MANUFACTURING

By: Dr. Scott Williams, President, Owensboro Community & Technical College

A

t Owensboro Community and Technical College

nation. The three-year grant project will officially begin on July 1,

(OCTC) we are continually looking to improve the

2018.

quality of life in our community and bolster our

The ultimate goal of OCTC’s project is to increase the number

regional workforce. It has been well documented that our regional

of females participating in manufacturing training programs and

manufacturing industry has a tremendous shortage of skilled,

careers in the greater Owensboro region. According to Project

multi-craft technicians needed to meet their needs. To enhance

Director, Sheri Plain, currently, 44% of technical students enrolled

our region’s ability to close that gap it is imperative that those in

at OCTC are female. However, only 7.4% of those female students

our community that have traditionally not looked at these highly

are enrolled in manufacturing programs. The grant project will

skilled manufacturing jobs as a career are exposed and educated

focus on increasing the number of females in manufacturing

for this sector so important to our economic vitality. As a result,

programs by 50% of the current enrollment.

OCTC has embarked on a program focused on gender equity in

The project will capitalize on the success of the GO FAME

the manufacturing skilled trades sector.

model and work to increase the number of female students in an

Owensboro Community and Technical College is excited to

apprenticeship-like training model. Students in the program will

have recently been awarded a $523,171 grant from the National

attend college classes two days per week and work at a sponsoring

Science Foundation’s (NSF) Advanced Technological Education

manufacturing company three days per week.

(ATE) program to assist us in this regard. The ATE program

To do this, OCTC will partner with many local manufacturers,

focuses on promoting the improvement of education of science

who are highly involved in the Greater Owensboro chapter of the

and engineering technicians at the undergraduate and secondary

Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (GO FAME).

school levels in support of high-technology fields that drive our

Employer partners include the Kimberly Clark Corporation,

nation’s economy. OCTC’s project entitled, Advancing Female

Omico Plastics, Sun Windows, Precision Roll Grinders, Toyotetsu

Incumbent Workers in the Manufacturing Industry (NSF Award

Mid-America, Unifirst, Metalsa, and Daicel Safety. The Greater

Number: 1800489) will help address this focus by increasing

Owensboro Economic Development Corporation and the Greater

partnerships between academia, industry, and others to advance

Owensboro Alliance for Education are also key partners for this

gender equity in the manufacturing industry, thus promoting

project.

a diverse, globally competitive workforce in Kentucky and the

I am thrilled we will be able to support this program through

22

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

the resources provided in this NSF grant. This is another prime

the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Work

example of how our strong regional public/private partnerships

Ready Kentucky Scholarship, Title IV Financial Aid, and other

help to secure federal funds to enhance our workforce. This is a

scholarship programs.

true game changer for our region.

Information sessions will be hosted at OCTC and industry

The next step in the project will be enrolling gender equitable

partner sites in June and July 2018 to recruit the Fall 2018

cohort with a minimum of twelve students who will participate in GO FAME’s Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program. Participants will be recruited from incumbent workers in production positions from within GO FAME member companies, as well as women who may or may not currently be working in the manufacturing field, but who have some previous work experience in a production capacity. It is anticipated that selecting women more familiar with the culture and manufacturing environment will enhance retention and program success.

Coursework is accelerated due to a year-round schedule

semester cohort. Other project strategies will include implementing proven recruitment and retention strategies, such as intensive advising, support services, and mentoring.

The project also seeks to create dialogue between schools, colleges, organizations, and employers through hosting facilitated discussions that promote increased awareness, perceptions, and communication leading to greater gender diversity in our local manufacturing industry. Thus, building on our already strong civic, and business and industry partnerships The grant project will be implemented by OCTC’s Workforce

(without fall, spring, and summer breaks) allowing students

Solutions division under the direction of Sheri Plain. Dean

to complete a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree

Autry, Associate Dean of Manufacturing and Skilled Trades,

in a 20-month period. Students will be assisted in securing

and Shawn Payne, OCTC manufacturing faculty, will also serve

potential financial resources to assist them in participating in

in key roles. For more information, please contact Sheri Plain

postsecondary education, including those available through

at (270) 686-4436 or by email at sheri.plain@kctcs.edu.

23

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

MATTHEW THOMPSON

BROOKLYN MAPLE

LEAD ON

AMANDA OWEN

BY ASHLEY SORCE • PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

DAN REEVES

DR. JEREMY LUCKETT

SHARI HOLZMEYER

BRAD MOORE

SGT. ADAM JOHNSTON

ERIN WALLER

KAREN GLENN

LORI HOAGLAND

WILL HIGDON

Celebrating our 2018 Leadership Owensboro Graduates MARIO VIZUET

DET. BRAD YOUNGMAN

HARRY PEDIGO

RACHAEL FAULKNER

STEVEN CAUDILL

EMILY ZOGLMANN

CHRIS GENDEK

LINDSEY BOONE

SCOTT TUCKER

LAUREN OSOWICZ

TORI MORGAN

LEE UNDERWOOD

MELISSA EVANS

BRITNEY O'BRYAN

SARA FLEISCHMANN

JACLYN GRAVES

TARA BOLING

LAUREN GREENWELL

24

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

L

eadership Owensboro, a program of the Greater Owensboro

day, participants have the opportunity to experience life from a

Chamber of Commerce, began in the 1980s and has grown

different perspective, utilizing the Owensboro Transit System,

an alumni base of more than 1,000 local civic, business and

visiting government agencies and eating at homeless shelters.

education leaders. Each year, individuals are selected through an

application process to be a part of the Leadership Owensboro

said. “We have the honor to walk in their shoes. We have the

program, which consists of 10 full-day sessions from September

privilege to understand their struggles.”

to May.

Executive Director of Leadership Owensboro, Jessica Kirk,

and complete a project as a part of their graduation. In the past,

said this year’s program began with the reinstatement of a kick-

a handful of individual group projects were presented to a panel

off retreat. “It allowed this year’s class to have open and honest

and a winner was chosen. This year Kirk says LO transitioned

conversations from the very beginning,” Kirk said. “Each session

to one project, selected by class members. Class of 2018 selected

was stronger because of the relationships established at the

a sustainable community garden at the Daviess County Public

retreat.”

Library. “One project will allow the class to remain together

through the years to come and will have a greater impact on the

The 10 sessions included the retreat, and a day focused

“What starts as an opportunity becomes an honor,” Kirk

At the end of the program the group is required to present

on human needs/services, education, economy, healthcare,

community,” Kirk said.

government, justice, changing the community and finally,

graduation.

member of the class, according to Kirk, who says it gives citizens

Human Needs and Services Day goes down year after year as

from all different backgrounds and various career paths the

a class favorite for the Leadership Owensboro program. On this

opportunity to dive deeper into learning more about Owensboro.

Leadership Owensboro is truly a special experience for each

25

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

“I believe it gives people more appreciation for our community,” Kirk said. “They discover a multitude of wonderful resources we have and partnerships that have been created throughout the community.

It also gives them knowledge and grows their passion to make changes in areas we need to improve.”

Helen Mountjoy, a Charter Class Member of

Leadership Owensboro and a longtime community leader, presented to the 2018 class on both the opening and closing days, covering topics like leadership and how to move forward after graduation. Mountjoy also discussed recognizable Owensboro institutions like the RiverPark Center, Kentucky Wesleyan College and Wendell Foster, pointing out that all of these began as passion projects by Owensboro community members, not elected officials. “Those people saw a need and got it done,” Mountjoy said.

Mountjoy said she noticed this class, more

than ever, was very engaged, sparked discussion and

showed

interest

in

fostering

change.

“Leadership Owensboro will be a springboard for this class to begin meaningful work in our community,” Mountjoy said. “They have had the opportunity to develop a network of like-minded people and make connections with community members who presented their lessons, which will make them more likely to move forward with their own projects.”

Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent

Dr. Nick Brake, a 2000 graduate of Leadership Owensboro, also presented for the program, noting the same engagement and passion about the 2018 class. He said this class represented a good crosssection of backgrounds, allowing the members to collaborate with people they would not normally work with professionally.

“Community leadership is the heart and

soul of civic engagement,” Brake said. “We need to nurture that and encourage young leaders to develop their leadership capacity. And that’s exactly 26

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

what Leadership Owensboro does.”

Chamber Young Professionals:

BUILDING

COMMUNITY Owensboro has seen a refreshing wave of community involvement from young professionals in the last year. A big part of that involvement is the growth of Chamber Young Professionals (CYP), which provides a great opportunity for professionals 40 years and younger to network and educate themselves on important issues facing the Greater Owensboro area. >>

BY ASHLEY SORCE • PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

27

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce created CYP to allow young people to be involved throughout the community and to grow as future leaders. Through community service projects, social events, corporate tours and professional development, CYP members develop strong ties in Owensboro.

"CYP has played an instrumental role in the talent infrastructure for our community," said Chamber President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake.

Brake attributes the success of the group with the fact that they were given autonomy to chart their own course. "We knew we had talented people who understood the needs here for people in their 20's and 30's. Giving them the reins and getting out of their way was paramount to CYP's great success," Brake said.

The Chamber provides all back office help and staff support. Chamber staff Jessica Kirk serves as the Executive Director of the group.

"Jessica Kirk's energy, creativity and attention to detail have been critical in CYP's growth. The fact that she moved 28

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

here at 22 as a Lexington native has proven invaluable," shared Brake. "The volunteer leadership is some of the best I have seen. It seems like each week, they are coming up with new, fun ways to connect people with one another.

Connections keep people in communities."

CYP Chair Dave Kirk says the biggest accomplishment for CYP was bringing Lyft to Owensboro. “Providing a ride sharing service is essential to economic development, tourism and quality of life for residents,” Kirk said. “It also serves as a nice source of income for drivers. Many people drive for Lyft as a second source of income.”

With membership up to more than 150, Kirk is proud of the direction CYP is moving. “One project we are looking at tackling this fall is increasing voter turnout among millennials,” Kirk said. “We’re still in the planning phase, but expect to host some forums for candidates to come talk to CYP about why they are running for office and what they will do if elected. We will be working closely with the Chamber on events to increase turnout.”

In 2018 CYP provided hands-on service at St. Benedict’s,

where they served dinner; Munday Activity Center’s Meals on Wheels program, baking cookies for homebound seniors; and Junior Achievement, where volunteers taught JA in a Day at Estes Elementary.

The organization strives to have a volunteer opportunity available during most months.

CYP Philanthropy Chair, Hannah Thurman, notes that the The Lunch Box program is a philanthropic component of CYP’s bi-monthly lunch meetings.

“At each lunch meeting, members have the opportunity to support a specific local non-profit by bringing an item from the organization’s needs list,” Thurman said. “So far our members have donated items to support Business for Backpacks, Junior Achievement and CASA of Ohio Valley. This is an opportunity for a larger base of our membership to get involved in CYP’s philanthropic initiatives since not everyone has time to volunteer.”

Erica Yartz, chair-elect of CYP, is not originally from Owensboro and struggled to make friends in her new community. “I’ve spoken to many people who moved here from other cities, and they seemed to experience the same issue,” Erica said. “So, I joined because I wanted to help create a group that would

be welcoming to millennials both from Owensboro and from out of town and would give young professionals an opportunity to meet and socialize with other young professionals in the area. Even though that’s why I joined and agreed to serve on the executive committee, I’ve gotten so much more out of being a member. I would encourage people to join because we have so many opportunities for our members every month, whether it’s a philanthropic event, a lunch meeting with a speaker, a social event, a professional development lunch, or a corporate tour.”

Kirk says CYP is constantly trying different events to reach new members like wine tastings, a recreational softball team, a pig roast on a farm and Yappy Hours, where members are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends.

“Our priority is to be welcoming and open to everyone,” Kirk said. “If you’re 21-40 and work in the greater Owensboro area, we want you.”

CYP Membership is $50 per year if you or your employer is a Chamber member and $100 per year if you or your employer is a non-Chamber member.

(Many employers will cover this fee.)

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

L E A R N TO S E R V E

SERVE TO LEARN THE CLASS OF 2018 HAS BEEN BUSY THIS YEAR, AND THE PARTICIPANTS OF THE WENDELL H. FORD GOVERNMENT EDUCATION CENTER ARE NO DIFFERENT. IN FACT, FROM THE TIME THEY ENTERED HIGH SCHO OL , THIS YEAR’S CLASS HAS BEEN HARD AT WORK.

BY NICHOLAS HARDESTY

T

he Ford Center is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization that helps students to gain an objective understanding of the issues that face their community, state, and nation;

recognize the vital role of government; and embrace the principles of civility, cooperation, and compromise.

Many of this year’s graduating class started out as freshmen in the

EmergeNext program, attending three, one-day sessions throughout the year to learn about the issues that face our community and to meet some of the local leaders who are making a difference.

From there they transitioned to the Statesmanship Academy,

which requires more of a commitment from its participants, but also exposes them to some truly unique community, civic, and governmental activities.

30

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

<< PHOTO BY BRYAN LEAZENBY

As sophomore Academy members, they focused on local

three years of the Statesmanship Academy, they were required

issues and solutions, while visiting local sites and meeting

to attend five sessions (instead of three), and to complete at

with local elected officials. As junior Academy members, they

least two community service projects throughout the year.

focused on statewide issues, and traveled to Frankfort during

They graduate from the program having spent a significant

the legislative session to meet with our local representatives

amount of time out in the community, serving, learning, and

and gain a better understanding of the state legislative process.

growing as responsible and engaged citizens.

Finally, as senior Academy members, they focused on national

issues and solutions, culminating with a trip to Washington,

D.C. was the highlight not only of the year, but of their

D.C. to learn more about our federal government and the

entire four years with the Ford Center. But, it was the

political process.

learning sessions, the deep-dives into the many sides of the

The seniors also participated in discussions concerning

communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most pressing issues, the local people they

the structure of the federal government and the principles

met, and the opportunities to volunteer and serve in the

of leadership necessary for effective government. During all

Owensboro area that made the most lasting impact. For many

For every student interviewed, the trip to Washington,

31

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Hattie Martin, Apollo High School Matheus DaSilva, Owensboro High School

32

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Joseph Gatton, Owensboro High School

Jaclyn Hume, Daviess County High School

PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

of them, their college plans and career paths were shaped and

that I have learned through the Academy,” she said. “Now my

transformed by these experiences.

future does not scare me, it excites me!”

Joseph Gatton, a senior at Owensboro High School,

wants to minor in Political Science because of the Ford Center.

“I’ve had so many discussions with my peers and educators in the Academy about what we can do to make a difference in the community,” he said. “It has given me aspirations to create change in the place I live through civil discourse, cooperation, and compromise.”

Jaclyn Hume, a senior at Daviess County High School,

wants to become a pediatric nurse practitioner because of the Ford Center. “I want to be a nurse solely because of the service I can provide for my community,” she said. “The Ford Center has made volunteering and serving such a huge part of our lives, and I couldn't be more grateful for that. Without it, I would not have half the servant’s heart that I have today.”

Hattie Martin, a senior at Apollo High School, wants to

Matheus DaSilva, a senior at Owensboro High School

who plans to major in international business, credits the Ford Center with expanding his thinking. "I'm a smarter and more well-educated citizen not just of Owensboro, but America and Kentucky," he said. "They don't just talk about it - they take us to Frankfort and Washington D.C. Going behind the scenes helps us want to be more knowledgeable about who we're electing."

In their four years of participation in the programs of

the Ford Center, the Class of 2018 has certainly given back to their community. They’ve volunteered at more places than it would be possible to list here. But, serving and learning within the community has also had a lasting impact on them, shaping their ideals, their aspirations, and their hopes for an

major in marketing because of the Ford Center. “Marketing is

even better Owensboro.

a major that I would have never dreamt for myself without the

lessons of true leadership and effective communication skills

serve.”

As Senator Ford used to say, “Serve to learn. Learn to

TO APPLY FOR THE EMERGENEXT PROGRAM OR THE STATESMANSHIP ACADEMY FOR THE 2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR, VISIT AT FORDGOVCENTER.COM. THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FRIDAY, JUNE 15TH, 2018.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

LEADERS EXPERT ADVICE FROM

GORMAN RECRUITING

Hiring the right people in your company is one of the most important decisions you make. Hiring the right employee can remove a lot of stress in your life and improve the overall health of your business. Of course, hiring the wrong person can make a big impact as well, but in the wrong direction. They can decrease morale among the other employees, lose customer loyalty and cost you thousands in lost revenue and productivity. Don’t feel bad when you recognize a hiring mistake—the latest studies indicate that companies admit to hiring the wrong person nearly 50% of the time. Here are five ways to avoid making one of these costly and stressful mistakes: • Don’t rush to hire someone. The idea that having someone is better than having no one is false. You are much better off waiting for the right person that will be a long-term fit.

• Attract as many candidates as possible. Sometimes your top pick in a list of five candidates is below average in a list of 50 candidates.

• Assess your true NEED. What you want is not always what you really need. Assess your needs so you don’t hire someone only to find out you have just as much work and stress as before.

• Avoid people just like you. One of the most common mistakes is hiring someone just like you. Instead, find someone that complements your weaknesses.

• Interview for personality instead of skillset. Most skills can be taught, so instead focus on determining if your potential employee will fit in with your company culture and values.

One of the challenges we see in our current market is our potential workforce getting smaller. We have continued to see unemployment rates drop, which is great news for our economy.

However, this creates a challenge when trying to identify and hire excellent employees. The good news is, great people are still out there and following a few tips can ensure you find the right employees.

• Do a competitive-analysis. Be sure your compensation model is competitive and attractive to potential candidates.

• Post your job everywhere. This is how you will attract the most candidates. This will require an investment, but finding the right employee is worth it.

• Budget your time. Interviewing and vetting candidates takes time, so block out a few hours per week to invest in this big decision.

• When you find the right person, hire quickly. Good candidates are not in the market long, so when you find “the one,” move quickly to help them feel like part of your team.

KYLE GORMAN OW N E R /G M

(270) 215-1159 // Info@GormanCompanies.com GormonRecruiting.com

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

After nearly five years of business, we have learned the importance of being flexible to the needs of each individual business.

Our experience working with companies of all sizes both locally and nationally has provided experience and knowledge that we want to share with you. We often hear business owners and managers say they cannot afford a recruiter, but much of our advice and assistance costs you nothing. Feel free to use us as a resource for any needs you may have for hiring, recruiting, or workforce development.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CECIL FARMS PRODUCE

SUZANNE CECIL WHITE D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S 9408 Mulligan Rd // Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 929-1445 // cecilfarmspd.com

VISIT OWENSBORO

DAVE KIRK D E S T I N AT I O N M A N AG E M E N T 215 E. 2nd St. // Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1100 // info@visitowensboro.com

Young professionals have a drive to engage in the community in which they live and work, so it’s only natural that they want to instill that same value in their children. Cecil Farms owner, Suzanne Cecil White, is now offering a unique opportunity for children ages 7 to 18 called The Academy.

According to Suzanne, The Academy offers custom-designed lessons with authentic farming experiences, allowing for participants to experience the full cycle of food production from seed-to-sell, exploring all areas of food production in agriculture available within the region. They will incorporate team building and life skills into these sessions, while generating enriching experiences to impact a lifetime, through what truly sustains us all: healthy food and great relationships.

The idea originated when Suzanne traveled to South Africa in 2014, visiting a “school” of sorts, where community members lived and worked on a small farm for about nine months with the objective of learning to grow their own food and sustain themselves upon completion of the program. Suzanne brought that idea back and implemented it with the Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club. Suzanne said it is now time to make this available to the public. “The main objective is to provide some authentic, hands-on experience opportunities to the ‘city-dweller,’” said Suzanne. “It’s a wellrounded program for well-rounded kids. The Academy promises to create a mindshifting, positive experience for participants. Every experience we create, provides the opportunity for “a-ha!” moments and memorable connections.”

Whether it is with The Academy at Cecil Farms or somewhere else within Owensboro-Daviess County, Suzanne encourages young families to connect with others.

“Step outside and do things face-to-face, in-person, with other people,” Suzanne said. “Simply go out and make human-connection. It is something we all need more of. The greatest impact you and I can make in our community is creating relationships with people. At the end of the day, true community is about the people. We are all about providing opportunities to step away from screens, cell phones, social media, and being online to experience the joy and fulfillment of connection to the land and to people.”

Applications for The Academy are now available online at CecilFarmsPD.com.

Visit Owensboro provides a wealth of information on the area to individual visitors as well as many outside convention and meeting planners. With this unique perspective on what may attract others to Owensboro, the Visit Owensboro believes young professionals in Daviess County have a unique opportunity to get involved in their community.

Dave Kirk, in charge of destination management at Visit Owensboro, says you should first join Chamber Young Professionals (CYP). “We offer so many different ways to get involved in the community through social events, philanthropy, advocacy and can connect you with ways to serve on boards,” said Kirk, chair of CYP.

Kirk’s second recommendation is to volunteer for a non-profit, as Owensboro has a wealth to choose from, all of which do important work for the community.

Lastly, Kirk says being civically active is key to a young professional. “Go to a commission meeting and listen to what our political leaders have to say about issues,” Kirk said. “Vote!”

Young leadership is vital to Owensboro. It is the passion and drive of the next generation that will determine Owensboro’s future, which in turn will have a direct impact on tourism.

“Tourism plays a huge role in our lives,” Kirk said. “The more people we can bring to Owensboro for conventions, meetings, tournaments, events and leisure travel, the less tax revenue the people living here have to generate. Tourism also increases the quality of life for residents as it opens the door for new businesses like restaurants and unique spaces.”

Visit Owensboro encourages young professionals to become involved in an organization like CYP or a non-profit, become civically active and engage with each other on meaningful projects, and invest time and commitment into this thriving community.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

LEADERS EXPERT ADVICE FROM

EBELHAR WHITEHEAD PLLC

JOSH MEYER C PA / PA RT N E R

100 West 3rd Street, Suite 200 // Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-2922 // ew-cpa.com

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Over the past year and a half, we’ve heard a lot of promises about simplification of the tax code and tax cuts for the middle class. On December 22, 2017, those promises were delivered with the signing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Well, maybe. Most individuals should see some tax savings starting in 2018, especially those with small businesses, but it’s hard to give any real generalizations without looking at a particular individual’s own circumstances. As for simplifying the tax code, you can forget about filing on a post card; although, several items in the new law will simplify tax filing and planning. Fewer individuals will itemize their deductions due to the cap on state and local taxes and elimination of miscellaneous itemized deduction plus the near doubling of the standard deduction. Finally, for C-corporations, the code has been simplified by eliminating the alternative minimum tax and replacing of the tiered tax structure to a flat 21% rate.

One item in the new law that has been getting increasingly more attention is the 20% deduction on Qualified Business Income (QBI).

This is probably one of the most complex items added to the tax code in the past 30 years. Basically, individuals are allowed a 20% deduction on QBI within certain limitations. QBI includes income Form Schedule C and F, possibly Schedule E (although further guidance is needed on rental properties), and ordinary income from trusts, partnerships and S-corporations. QBI does not include dividends, interests, capital gains, wages or guaranteed payments.

There is no limitation if a taxpayer’s adjusted taxable income is less than $157,000 ($315,000 for a couple). If the taxpayer’s income is greater than these thresholds, the deduction can be limited or reduced based on the business’s wages and/or the cost of qualifying property. For specified service businesses, the 20% QBI deduction is fully deductible for taxpayers with adjusted taxable income of $157,500 ($315,000 per couple), but unlike other nonspecified service business, it is fully phased out at $207,500 for individuals ($415,000 for couples). Specified service businesses include professional services where the principal asset is the reputation or skill of one or more of its employees.

Depending on your circumstances, this is an area where tax planning and a review of your current situation could result in significant tax savings. The first thing to determine is whether your business’s current entity structure is still the most tax advantageous.

Secondly, if you have a business that could qualify for the QBI deduction, review your company’s current wages for shareholders or guaranteed payments to make sure you maximize your QBI while still paying reasonable compensation. Multiple year projections may need to be performed to determine if you need to decrease your taxable income to avoid phase outs of the QBI deduction. Finally, if you’re in a business with multiple activities, some of which may qualify for the QBI deduction, now is the time to start keeping track of those activities separately so that at least you get a partial deduction for the business’s qualified business activities.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HILLIARD LYONS

S AV IN G F OR R E TIR E ME N T A N D A CH ILD' S E D UCATION AT TH E S A ME TIME You want to retire comfortably when the time comes. You also want to help your child go to college.

So how do you juggle the two? Truth is, saving for your retirement and your child's education at the same time can be a challenge. But take heart—you may be able to reach both goals if you make some smart choices now.

SHANNON RAINES M BA , FA , C R P S (C H A RT E R E D RETIREMENT PLAN SPECIALIST)

1035 Frederica St., Suite 100 // Owensboro, KY 42301 270-926-4747 // 800-588-1598 settlegroup.hilliardfc.com

KENTUCKY LEGEND

BROOKLYN MAPLE D I R E C TO R O F M A R K E T I N G

6 Dublin Lane // Owensboro, KY 42301 270- 244-4220 // bmaple@kentuckylegend.com

Help! I can't meet both goals If you find you can’t meet both goals, you'll probably have to make some sacrifices. Here are some suggestions: • Retirement takes priority: While college is important, you should probably focus on your retirement if you have limited funds. Remember, your child can always attend college by taking out loans (or maybe even with scholarships), but there's no such thing as a retirement loan!

• Expect your child to help: Despite your best efforts, your child may need to take out student loans or work part-time.

• Choose a less expensive school: Your child could attend a local college and live at home, enroll in an accelerated program to graduate in three years instead for four, participate in a cooperative education where paid internships alternate with course work, or defer college for a year or two and work to earn money for college.

• Defer retirement: The longer you work, the more money you'll earn and the later you'll need to dip into your retirement savings.

• Work part-time during retirement.

• Reduce your standard of living: You might be able to lower your spending now in order to have money later. Or, you may want to consider cutting back in retirement.

• Increase your earnings now: You might consider increasing your hours at your current job, taking a second job, or having a previously stay-at-home spouse return to the workforce.

Young professionals are often passionate about effecting change, hoping to better the community in which they live and work. But when it comes to starting a passion project, you may find yourself at a loss with where to actually begin.

Brooklyn Maple, Marketing Director for Kentucky Legend, just saw her passion project, Oink for Owensboro, come to fruition and is excited to discuss the process with GO Chamber readers.

The idea all began when Brooklyn noticed the painted horses in Lexington and wanted to bring something similar to Owensboro.

“It made Lexington stand out in my mind and I was hoping that for travelers who came to visit our great city – it would leave a lasting impression and nudge them to come visit us again,” Brooklyn said. “After a few years at Kentucky Legend, I felt I was ready to make a grand attempt at getting our own statues and hopefully leaving a mark on Owensboro. We definitely didn’t know what we were getting ourselves into when we started, but it was well worth the effort.”

Brooklyn sat on her idea for a while, she admits, wondering if it was too crazy to present to her colleagues at Kentucky Legend. But she says as soon as she brought the idea to the table, VP of Sales and Marketing, Ric Herrera, thought it was the perfect community charity project, and Brooklyn says it was Herrera who got the main buy-in from their board and upper executives to allow funding.

The idea behind Oink for Owensboro was simple — a business sponsored a pig by making a $5,000 donation to a local Owensboro non-profit. Kentucky Legend commissioned local artist Austin Casebolt to design and paint the pigs, which are now located throughout the community.

According to Maple, the project took 12 business pitches, four versions of PowerPoint presentations, two trips to Cincinnati, countless planning hours with the City of Owensboro, and unloading 12 pigs out of semi trucks — three times! “Our teams pulled together in such an amazing way and we are so proud of how everything turned out,” Brooklyn said.

“The partnerships are what made the project actually happen,” Brooklyn said. “Without the business leaders taking the time to hear the pitch, work with artists, and coordinate their efforts, I would still be sitting in my office, daydreaming about a pig on a lawn. Our community is amazing and we are all lucky to be a part of it.”

What advice does Brooklyn have for other young leaders hoping to lunch their own project? “Pray, breathe and stay calm,” Brooklyn said. “And expect the unexpected.”

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10

QUESTIONS OLGA MCKISSIC

Executive Director, H.L. Neblett Center

BY BENJAMIN HOAK - PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Olga McKissic is the Executive Director of the H.L.

supervisor, business marketing, corporate trainer,

Neblett Center in Owensboro. She is a native of

sales team manager and more. I couldn’t imagine

Owensboro who moved away to work for BellSouth

staying in one job for 20-25 years. There are so many

for 30 years. After retiring, she served as Operations

opportunities, I would see something and say, “I

Manager of Marshall Capital Management Group

think I can do that,” and I would go do it.

before moving back to Owensboro in 2015. She is also

I transitioned to Operations Manager for my

an associate minister at Fourth Street Baptist Church.

financial advisor—he made me an offer I couldn’t

WHAT WAS I T L I KE GROWING UP IN OWENSBOR O? Six of us grew up at 715 W. 4th Street. We came to the Neblett Center growing up. My grandmother

refuse. I was there five years and learned so much.

That’s how I’m able to teach financial literacy and work up curriculums to help young people understand investing and the importance of savings.

my kids here to West End Day Care when I lived

WHY IS YOUR WORK AT T HE NE BLE T T CE NT E R IMP ORTANT ?

here.

I think that anytime we can educate and support

As we got older, we realized opportunities would

and encourage children and young people, that’s

be better elsewhere. I left in 1982, when I was 28.

what we should do. The position here affords that

I ended up moving to Louisville until 2015. I love

opportunity for me. There is a legacy here at the

Louisville (my three kids all live there). I love

Neblett Center—it’s been around since 1936. A lot

Owensboro even more. I didn’t think I would. You

of children have come through these doors and have

feel that tug, that pull…not really understanding

been so successful because of people here to support

why. If you’re following the plans God has for us,

and encourage them. I want to continue that legacy

Scripture tells us it’s not to harm us, it’s only to help

… the foundation is here, the team is excellent, the

us prosper. It’s the best plan.

teachers are amazing with these children. Whatever

I’m a planner and wanted to plan my life in five-

part I can play in order to take things to the next

was a major part of the Neblett Center, and I brought

year increments … this wasn’t part of the plan. I had

level, I want to do that.

to surrender to get the best for my life. I moved

Our mission statement says we are committed to

in November 2015, and my father passed away

empowering the lives of children and adults through

in April 2016. My mom is still living on 4th

our many programs and activities. I see the Neblett

Street in the same house. I can see her

Center as being a lighthouse in an ocean. It’s a light

house from my office now.

that shines out over the community, and folks can find comfort and shelter and opportunities and be a

WHAT ARE S OME OF YOU R CARE E R HI G HL I GHTS ?

part of the community. I just want to be able to make that light shine brighter and expand it out so others can see it too.

I started with South Central

My values go wherever I go. We even do prayer

Bell in Owensboro at 18 right out

in the mornings and ask for help in supporting our

of high school. I had 14 different

children in the Center through love, faith and hope.

positions dispatching,

at

BellSouth—operator,

residential

marketing,

The workers here know I’m a woman of faith, and they’re all in support of that.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

W H AT ’S AN EXAMPL E OF WHAT YO U T RY TO T E ACH THE KI DS?

movies that need costumes made. I don’t want folks to limit

During a financial literacy workshop I facilitated at the

WHAT IS ONE OF T HE BES T OR MOS T WORT HWHILE INVES T ME NTS YOU HAV E E VE R MADE ?

Center, I asked students, “You have on Nike shoes, do you have any Nike stock? You go to Wal-Mart how many times a week? Do you have any of that stock? You watch Netflix— if you put $100 into it, five years later, this is what your account would look like and, you’d have (more money) and you didn’t do anything.” It’s opening up the world to young eyes, showing them the possibilities and the wonder.

We have about 120 enrolled in day care every day. We have 28 employees and a fully-staffed kitchen that cooks breakfast, lunch and dinner and snacks in-between. This might be the only hot meal some kids receive. have

workshops—for

example,

we’re

Having a Bible study in my home. It had been put on my heart for a while to do that, but I was afraid I wasn’t good enough. Once I stepped into the water, I was held up and able to walk and I have learned so much. The people who attend my Bible study class are phenomenal, and they

H OW D O YOU R EACH THE COMMUNIT Y T H R O U GH THE NEBL ET T CENTER ?

We

themselves.

doing

penmanship with a handwriting coach. There’s a connection to cursive where it engages the brain, supplies cognitive connections and improves memory. Students retain and

are very well-versed in Scripture. We keep each other in line with the Word. We have to not talk about our opinion because it doesn’t matter what we think—it matters what it says. It’s worthwhile—the study is well worth it.

WHAT IS T HE BOOK YOU HAVE GIVE N MOS T AS A GIFT OR RE COMME NDE D? I have given Bibles out—that is the book I’ve given the most to my kids and grandkids. I tell them this is the best book you could ever read.

We want to reintroduce that back into the Center as a

WHAT ’S A HIDDE N OR UNUS UAL TALE NT YOU HAVE ?

stepping stone to other areas.

I act. I’ve been in plays in Louisville through Bunbury

We have Zumba, cardio kickboxing, line dancing and

Repertory Theatre—I was in different musicals there. In

a lot of community organizations come monthly to have

Owensboro I did a stage play at the Neblett Center under

meetings. We’re open for rentals and parties. We have a Fun

the directorship of Paul Jackson. I was also in a play back

Day, a Derby Breakfast and we celebrated Earth Day, where

in the day with Chick Owens, who is now the Recreation

people from the community came and helped us do a total

Director of the Center.

learn new ideas better through handwriting and reading.

makeover with landscaping. It’s beautiful!

W H AT A DV I CE WOUL D YOU G I V E A C O L L E G E G R AD UATE AB OU T TO ENT E R T H E R E A L WOR L D ?

40

WHAT ’S YOUR MOT IVAT ION IN LIFE ?

I like to be a help in the community. My drive is that I don’t stop until it’s done. That’s what they’re learning here at the Neblett. My motivation is to get it done. That came from

There are so many possibilities out there—don’t put

my father. He was the type who taught his girls how to do

yourself in a box that you can only do this one thing. The

things—change tires, change the oil, how to build things,

potential and opportunities are endless. There has to be

how to do some renovations, constantly changing things or

somebody out there that takes pictures of food that goes

doing different things. He was a great motivator, and I have

in magazines, or for someone who likes to sew, there are

that and don’t stop until it’s done.

GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

DID ?

YOU

KNOW

CORRECT ANSWER:

KIRK KIRKPATRICK AND THE RIVERPARK CENTER FROM PAGE 7

As we swing into summer, Friday After Five is heating up downtown. Kirk Kirkpatrick ("That IS good news!") and the RiverPark Center put together Friday After Five in 1996 with a handshake deal for four musical events to draw people downtown. The RiverPark Center did not charge a facility fee, but got to keep revenue from drinks.

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

THE FINAL ANALYSIS JACLYN GRAVES

As the final day of this year’s Leadership

them when needed, is humbling, to say the

Owensboro program came to a close, I

least. We all get in our comfortable little

found myself a little emotional and a lot

bubble of daily life and forget that our petty

proud. When my classmates and I began

inconveniences are nothing compared to

this journey to further understand our

what so many of our neighbors are facing

community, I knew that it would have a

every day.

positive impact on my life, but I didn’t really know just how much.

I call myself an import to this town, but

having been here for the last 12 years, I really thought I had a good idea of what makes Owensboro great. And, while I wasn’t wrong about my initial reasoning, that reasoning has grown immensely over the last eight months through the LO program.

I tend to say that the people within this

community are what really makes it great.

And, man, was I right. From Hager Preschool to my ride-along with the Owensboro Police Department, one thing remains constant… being proud of your work, treating everyone with the respect and love they deserve and

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

Membership Development Manager

But, do you know the main thing we

all learned in this Leadership Owensboro program this year? We learned that we can make a difference in this community, even if it’s one life at a time. We, and that’s all of us, even you, have the power to change our city for the better.

And, can I just say how honored I am

to be a part of this 2018 class? We have all grown in this process of learning what a true leader is, how to motivate ourselves and how to motivate those around us. We know that no matter where we are in life, no matter what our personality type is or what we don’t bring to the table, we all have something to

constantly searching for ways to make those

contribute.

you serve better are things we witnessed

each month.

have been inspired by every member of this

Knowing that our most vulnerable

class. I am so proud to call myself a Leadership

citizens are treated with respect, encouraged

Owensboro graduate. Now, LO Class of 2018,

to be better and have arms wrapped around

let’s go! We’ve got work to do!

I can truly say, at one point or another, I

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

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

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GO CHAMBER . SECOND QUARTER 2018

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO KY 42301 PERMIT NO 420