November 2015 - Commerce Lexington
Transcription
November 2015 - Commerce Lexington
BUSINESS FOCUS OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. NOVEMBER 2015 Good Morning Bluegrass FEATURES Local Business Panel to Discuss Advantages, Challenges to Business in the Bluegrass Moderated by Mayor Jim Gray INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Innovative Mattress Solutions to Locate HQ in Lexington, KY Global Entrepreneurship Week is November 16-22 @330 Series: Cloud Solutions for Small Businesses KEMI Presents CLX Annual Dinner on January 28, 2016 www.CommerceLexington.com VOLUME XXIII, ISSUE XI BUSINESS FOCUS November 2015: Volume XXIII, Issue XI INSIDE THIS ISSUE 4-6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Innovative Mattress Solutions to Locate HQ in Lexington BUSINESS FEATURE: Foam Design Bluegrass Alliance Markets Region to Atlanta Consultants Global Entrepreneurship Week is November 16-22 2015 Chairman of the Board: Herb Miller, President Columbia Gas of Kentucky 7-13 EVENTS: Nov. 12th Good Morning BG Features Business Panel @330 Series: Cloud Solutions for Small Business Kentucky Eagle, Inc. Hosts Holiday Business Link Kentucky Regional Tour Recap and Photos KEMI Presents CLX Annual Dinner January 28, 2016 BOAB Enrollment Event is November 5th at CLX 14-19 Business Focus is published once a month for a total of 12 issues per year by Commerce Lexington Inc., 330 East Main Street, Suite 100, Lexington, KY 40507. Phone: (859) 226-1600 GET CONNECTED: Winner’s Circle Marks Mid-Point of 2015 Campaign Leadership Development Program Recaps Ambassador Spotlight: Catherine Clements, Marriott 2016 Ambassador Applications Due November 6th Welcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. Members Member Personnel Announcements & Awards Publisher: Robert L. Quick, CCE, President & CEO Commerce Lexington Inc. Editor: Mark E. Turner Communications Specialist: Elizabeth Bennett Printing: Post Printing Mail Service: Lexington Herald-Leader Subscriptions are available for $12 and are included as a direct benefit of Commerce Lexington Inc. membership. Business Focus (USPS 012-337) periodical postage paid at Lexington, Kentucky. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Business Focus, Commerce Lexington Inc., P.O. Box 1968, Lexington, KY 40588-1968. Display Rates WHAT 2 WATCH 4 For DISPLAY RATES in Business Focus, contact Dana Zinger at (859) 226-1607 or dzinger@CommerceLexington.com, and an account executive will contact you. Personnel Updates 2 November 10th @330 Series Focuses on Cloud Solutions for Small Business Kentucky Eagle, Inc. Hosts Next Business Link on Thursday, December 10th Lexington’s Global Entrepreneurship Week is November 16-22 November 12th Good Morning BG Features Business Panel Moderated by Mayor Jim Gray BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 Submit your company’s awards and milestones or personnel changes and additions to mturner@CommerceLexington.com. Personnel news might include promotions, additions, awards and milestones, recognitions and certifications and/or appointments. Information is published only as space permits. Kristin Taylor Named Business Development Manager for CLX Commerce Lexington Inc. recently hired Kristin Taylor as business development manager in its membership department. Before coming to Commerce Lexington, she was in the hospitality industry with Musselman Hotels as a sales manager. Prior to that, KRISTIN TAYLOR she worked in the financial industry as a personal banker with Central Bank & Trust Co. Kristin is a 2008 graduate of the University of Kentucky with a degree in Integrated Strategic Communications with focus in Public Relations, and a minor in Business/Marketing. In 2009, she completed the Certified Tourism Ambassador Program through Visitlex and in 2014 was selected as a Hospitality Host, making her knowledgeable about all things Bluegrass. She has been involved with several community organizations and is a member of LYPA. Contact Kristin at (859) 226-1603 or ktaylor@commercelexington.com. Exclusive Marketing Opportunity Available to Members in 2016 Guide to the Bluegrass If you’re looking for a great way to market your business or company to people who are new to the area, you’ll want to consider advertising in our 2016 Guide to the Bluegrass publication. This full-color publication is often the first thing people see while they’re moving to the Bluegrass, or once they arrive here. Lexington-Fayette County has grown by nearly 50,000 residents since 2000, while our region has increased by more than 100,000 people. Most of those families will need to find new services, such as dentists, physicians, pediatricians, insurance, dry cleaners, churches, banks, veterinarians, fitness clubs, and more. You can reach these people first by marketing your business in the Guide to the Bluegrass. If interested, contact Kelly Bates at (859) 226-1612 or kbates@commercelexington.com. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 3 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT A Collaborative Effort of the Bluegrass Business Development Partnership (BBDP): SUBMITTED BY: Gina Greathouse, Hannah Huggins, Kimberly Rossetti & Allison Boyd CLX Economic Development Division Innovative Mattress Solutions to Locate Headquarters in Lexington, KY Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen and Lexington Mayor Jim Gray announced on September 24 that University of Kentucky graduate and Innovative Mattress Solutions CEO Kimberly Brown Knopf will locate her company’s headquarters in Lexington. Innovative Mattress Solutions (IMS), operating in Kentucky as Sleep Outfitters, has mattress stores in six states. IMS will create 52 jobs and invest nearly $2.4 million in the project. “Deciding to locate its headquarters in Lexington is a vote of confidence from Innovative Mattress Solutions in our city’s workforce and quality of life,” Mayor Gray said. “Our unemployment rate is among the lowest in the state. Innovative Mattress Solutions is a welcome addition to Lexington, a university city that embraces talent, ideas and an entrepreneurial spirit.” “We are so excited that Innovative Mattress Solutions has ‘bounced’ into Lexington with its new headquarters, new jobs for our community and an economic investment that will impact our region for many years,” said Bob Quick, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “Our economic development staff is proud to have worked with IMS since 2010, as we explored the opportunity to place its headquarters here. Both UK alumni and headquarter operations are points of emphasis set forth in our economic development strategic plan.” “It’s exciting to bring my company’s headquarters to my home state of Kentucky,” said Knopf. “Lexington’s advantageous proximity to our region and its location to our strategic partner, Tempur Sealy International Inc., make it an ideal location for us. Our connection with my alma mater provides us with opportunities for internships and recruitment. We are grateful for the assistance and support we have received from the state, city and Commerce Lexington.” A Louisville native, Knopf has continued to grow her company, which now operates 155 retail stores in six states as it continues to expand. Additionally, IMS conducts business as Mattress Warehouse and Mattress King. IMS plans to occupy increased office and warehouse distribution space on Jaggie Fox Way, formerly the headquarters for Tempur-Pedic prior to the establishment of Tempur Sealy International Inc. LEFT TO RIGHT: Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen, University of Kentucky President Dr. Eli Capilouto, Lexington Mayor Jim Gray, Innovative Mattress Solutions CEO Kimberly Brown Knopf, and Commerce Lexington Inc. President & CEO Bob Quick. CLX Economic Development Division Tidbits Geeks Night Out On September 23, Commerce Lexington hosted IN2LEX’s Geeks Night Out, a networking event geared toward the innovators, forward thinkers and entrepreneurs in Lexington. Over 70 geeks attended this event at Ethereal Brewing. World Trade Day On October 9th, Commerce Lexington sponsored and participated at the Kentucky World Trade Day in Louisville. This conference is Kentucky’s largest gathering of international business professionals in the state. It offers an oppor- tunity for networking and professional development as well as access to experts in international trade. Bluegrass Alliance Markets Region to Atlanta Consultants In late September, Commerce Lexington, a part of the Bluegrass Alliance, traveled to Atlanta to market Central Kentucky to site selection consultants in Atlanta. This trip entailed an appreciation luncheon for 15 consultants and gave us an opportunity to market Central Kentucky for their next project. www.LocateinLexington.com | www.twitter.com/locateinlex | www.facebook.com/locateinlex 4 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Business Feature: Foam Design Industrial Asset Management Council Fall Forum Our team attended the IAMC Fall Forum September 26-30 in Cleveland, Ohio. The forum attracts major corporations, as well as the country’s top site selection consultants, to an interactive conference. Networking is a large component of the forum and Commerce Lexington has the opportunity to market the Bluegrass Region to the key decision makers to corporations and consultants. Foam Design, a woman-owned business, is an experienced producer of high-quality precision foam products. Specializing in high-tolerance work, they provide a level of knowledgeable service and design expertise. Through their in-house design and consultation department, they can also guide clients through virtually any design challenge. Foam Design works in a variety of industries ranging from commercial to military and aerospace applications. Find out more on Foam Design on-line at www.FoamDesign.com. EDITOR’S NOTE: By The Numbers: In 2015, Commerce Lexington’s Economic Development Division has responded to calls from the following: New Business: 94 new prospects interested in finding a new location or expanding operations Existing Clients & Local Entrepreneurial Companies: 36 companies with potential expansions in Lexington Client Visits: 20 Existing Business Visits: 116 As a part of Commerce Lexington Inc.’s economic development efforts, we visit 150 companies each year to gauge our local business environment, to be a helpful resource and to guide them through incentive programs as they grow in Lexington. As we meet with companies, our team wants to make you aware of some of these great businesses in Lexington that you may not know. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 5 GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP WEEK Lexington’s Global Entrepreneurship Week of Events is November 16-22 The Bluegrass Business Development Partnership (BBDP) is supporting Lexington’s fifth annual Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) from November 16-22, 2015. To celebrate GEW, the BBDP will host informational panels, workshops, networking opportunities, pitch competitions and other events geared toward our entrepreneurial community. For a full schedule of events and details, visit http://gatton.uky.edu/vace. Venture Club’s Entrepreneur Annual Celebration Monday, November 16, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Manchester Music Hall (899 Manchester Street) A celebration and recognition of the region’s entrepreneurs and the presentation of the 2015 eAchievers awards. The cost to attend is $35 per person. Lead sponsor is Commonwealth Seed Capital. Register at: http://2015lvccelebration.eventbrite.com Bluegrass Biotech Regulatory Summit Tuesday, November 17, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Commerce Lexington Inc. (330 E. Main Street) This Summit will be focused on regulatory issues for pharma and medical device companies. Presenters include Elaine Duncan, President of Paladin Medical, and Aimee Cousoulis of GxP Pinch Hitting, Biotech companies from across the Commonwealth will also be presenting during the lunch about their companies and experience with regulatory issues. The Summit's joint presenting sponsors are the Bluegrass Business Developement Partnership and The Lexington Office of the Kentucky Innovation Network. Co-supporting sponsors are Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation, Kentucky Life Sciences Council and DeSalvo Certified Public Accountants. This is a free event, but registration is required. Register at: https://2015-gew-bluegrassbiotechregulatorysummit.eventbrite.com G 6 BUSINESS FOCUS E NOVEMBER 2015 W Launchpad Lex Competition Wednesday, November 18, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Commerce Lexington Inc. (330 E. Main Street) Twelve companies will be selected to compete to win a professionally produced 30-second commercial video, which will be distributed on Red Oak Digital Network’s ten area Shell gas stations for a total of three months during 2016. Up to three winners will be selected based on the strength of the company’s application and five-minute presentation. Winners will also be able to use this professionally-filmed video on their own website and social media sites. Deadline to apply to pitch is November 9th. Competition guidelines and application to be considered to present can be found on-line at www.redoaklex.com. This competition is co-sponsored by the Bluegrass Business Development Partnership and the Red Oak Group. This pitch event is free and open to the public. However, registration to attend and watch the presentations is required. To register, visit: http://2015-gew-launchpad-lex-competition.eventbrite.com Standup for Your Start-Up Pitch Competition Friday, November 20, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Commerce Lexington Inc. (330 E. Main Street) Up to 12 teams will be selected to pitch their company to a panel of business leaders, including Marc Nager, Chief Community Officer of Techstars and CEO of Startup Weekend. The top award – (The Furst Award), will be $1,000, with a second place award of $500. The companies selected to compete will also have an opportunity to exhibit their product, technology, and/or service at a showcase prior to the pitches. The competition guidelines and application may found at http://gatton.uky.edu/vace/ventureMARC NAGER studio/Special-Events.php#pitch. The deadline TECHSTARS to apply to pitch is noon on Friday, November 13. Sponsored by The Lexington Office of the Kentucky Innovation Network, this event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register and attend to watch the pitches, go to: http://2015-gew-5th-annual-standup-for-your-startup.eventbrite.com EVENTS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015 | 8:00 - 9:30 A.M. | HYATT REGENCY LEXINGTON (401 W. HIGH STREET) Local Panel to Discuss Advantages, Challenges to Business in the Bluegrass Panel to Include Amazon, Big Ass Solutions, Blue Star Plastics, Innovative Mattress Solutions PRESENTED BY: GOLD SPONSORS TravelHost of the Bluegrass Waffle House / LexiDan Foods, LLC WUKY 91.3 FM SILVER SPONSORS State Auto Insurance Companies Traditional Bank Windstream Communications SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORS ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES...LLC Breeze Financial, LLC Cumberland Valley National Bank Hurst Business Supply & Furniture Solutions Missing Link Managed I.T., LLC Pinnacle Productions LEXINGTON MAYOR JIM GRAY MOHAMMAD HAMZA BLUE STAR PLASTICS KIM KNOPF INNOVATIVE MATTRESS SOLUTIONS Lexington and its metro area continue to pile up top economic rankings from numerous national sources. In fact, within the last year, Lexington has been named among the top cities for business and careers, college graduates, retirees, young adults, jobs, affordability, veterans, and entrepreneurs. What is it about Lexington and the Bluegrass Region that brings so many global companies and keeps existing companies growing and prospering? During the next Commerce Lexington Inc. interactive Good Morning Bluegrass event presented by Fifth Third Bank on Thursday, November 12, from 8:00 – 9:30 a.m., at the Hyatt Regency Lexington (401 W. High Street), we’ll hear from representatives of four local companies, as they tell their story of doing business and succeeding in the Bluegrass. Lexington Mayor Jim Gray will moderate a panel of speakers that will include Kim Knopf BRAD SHIRK AMAZON ED QUINN BIG ASS SOLUTIONS (Innovative Mattress Solutions), Ed Quinn (Big Ass Solutions), Brad Shirk (Amazon), and Mohammad Hamza (Blue Star Plastics). Panelists will speak about their experiences of running and growing their business in Lexington, what has worked and not worked, what is advantageous for them here and what impediments need addressed to spark further growth. This diverse group of speakers, representing a variety of industries, will discuss why Lexington is THE place for their company, the challenges they face, and the opportunities that exist for their future. TO REGISTER: The cost to attend this Good Morning Bluegrass is $25 for Commerce Lexington Inc. members and $35 for non-members. To register, e-mail to rsvp@commercelexington.com or register online at www.CommerceLexington.com. Stay Connected and Interact: Commerce Lexington Inc. Social Media Guide Social media is an effective way to promote your company or organization, keep tabs on what people are saying about your business, and engage your customers. Here are some of the places you can keep up with Commerce Lexington Inc. on social media. Commerce Lexington Inc. members are permitted to post items about their business to our social media channels. Review the list below to see where you would like to connect. COMMERCE LEXINGTON SOCIAL MEDIA: www.instagram.com/CommerceLex www.facebook.com/groups/CommerceLexington www.facebook.com/LocateInLex www.facebook.com/clmbd www.twitter.com/CommerceLex www.twitter.com/LocateInLex www.youtube.com/commlexingtonky www.linkedin.com/company/commerce-lexington www.linkedin.com/groups/Commerce-Lexington-Inc-3937103 www.commercelexington.com/clx-blog http://news.locateinlexington.com NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 7 EVENTS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015 | 3:30 - 5:00 P.M. | COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. (330 E. MAIN ST. - FIRST FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM) @330 Series: Six Reasons to Use Cloud Solutions for Your Small Business PRESENTED BY: GOLD SPONSORS LexiDan Foods, LLC/Waffle House TravelHost of the Bluegrass University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business & Economics Windstream Communications BEVERAGE SPONSOR Lynn Imaging / Monster Color Utilizing “the cloud” is more than just a fad, and over the last several years, businesses of all types and sizes are turning to cloud-based computing and apps. Moving to the cloud can save substantially on infrastructure, setup and management BRENT COOPER C-FORWARD and utility costs, along with producing far better performance and additional features. During the next Commerce Lexington Inc. @330 series event presented by Manpower of Central Kentucky on Tuesday, November 10, from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. at Commerce Lexington’s first floor conference room, Brent Cooper, president and owner of C-Forward, will discuss how new technology associated with the cloud can provide increased mobility, security and immediate backup. Come and see what technology can do for your small business! ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Brent Cooper is President and Owner of CForward, an I.T. services company. A University of Kentucky graduate, he has over 24 years of experience in computer networking, and has received numerous industry certifications and awards. He currently serves on the Kentucky State Chamber Board. ABOUT THE @330 SERIES: The @330 events provide a topical presentation that is relevant to the success of small business owners and business professionals. They also allow members the opportunity to discuss ideas, share best practices, and work through challenges. TO REGISTER: The @330 events are open to Commerce Lexington Inc. members at no charge. However, please register for the events by contacting Liz Bennett at (859) 226-1615 or lbennett@commercelexington.com. @330 SERIES Tuesday, November 10, 3:30-5:00 p.m. Where: Commerce Lexington Inc. (330 East Main St., First Floor conference room) TO RSVP: @330 events are open to Commerce Lexington Inc. members at no charge. However, please register prior to the event by contacting Liz Bennett at (859) 2261615 or lbennett@CommerceLexington.com. 8 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 EVENTS THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2015 | 4:30 - 6:30 P.M. | KENTUCKY EAGLE, INC. (2440 INNOVATION DRIVE) Kentucky Eagle, Inc. Hosts Holiday Business Link Event December 10th It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Kentucky Eagle, Inc. will help you get the most out of your holiday networking experience when it hosts the next Commerce Lexington Inc. Business Link event on Thursday, December 10, from 4:30-6:30 p.m., at Kentucky Eagle’s location at 2440 Innovation Drive. Bring plenty of business cards, and be ready to wrap up some new leads as you prepare to head into 2015. And, of course, you won’t want to miss the wonderful hospitality and the holiday spirit of Kentucky Eagle, while networking with other business professionals and colleagues. EXHIBIT SPACE: SPONSORED BY: Limited exhibit space is available at this Business Link for Commerce Lexington Inc. members only. The cost to exhibit is $175. Contact Liz Bennett at lbennett@CommerceLexington.com to reserve your exhibit space. TO ATTEND: The cost to attend the Business Link event is $5 for Commerce Lexington members, $10 for nonmembers (payable at the door). ON-LINE REGISTRATION: You can also pre-register for Business Link events on-line at www.CommerceLexington.com. Online registration closes the day before the event. As always, you may still pay at the door. If registering online, pick up your beverage ticket at the registration table on the evening of the event. PLEASE NOTE: NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN FOR ONLINE REGISTRATIONS. Spotlight Organization at Next Business Link is Bluegrass Greensource The next Commerce Lexington Inc. Business Link event on Thursday, December 10, at Kentucky Eagle, Inc. (2440 Innovation Drive), will spotlight Bluegrass Greensource, which is THE source for all things green in central Kentucky, encouraging small steps toward a sustainable future for our communities. Formerly known as Bluegrass PRIDE, Bluegrass Greensource is a non-profit organization that provides education and resources on how we affect our environment. Since 2001, it has provided outreach to schools, community groups, businesses, local governments, and citizens throughout Central Kentucky. Find out more on-line at www.bggreensource.org. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 9 EVENTS Regional Tour Group Visits Elizabethtown, Owensboro, & Henderson PRESENTED BY: PLATINUM SPONSOR KU a PPL Company RECEPTION & DINNER SPONSOR U.S. Bank Coming off an informative and successful trip to the Northern Kentucky Region last year, a Bluegrass delegation of about 40 people participated in the 2015 Kentucky Regional Tour presented by Morgan & Pottinger on September 24-25. This twoday bus tour highlighted some of Kentucky’s key features in Elizabethtown, Owensboro, and Henderson. On day one of the tour, the group made a stop at the Elizabethtown Sports Park to hear from local officials and business leaders from the community. Then, the group headed to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital for lunch and a panel discus- sion, before visiting the Centre for Business and Research and the recently-opened Owensboro Innovation Academy. Later, we got a first-hand look at Owensboro’s riverfront transformation, with the opening day concluding with a reception and dinner at the RiverPark Center, a regional performing arts and civic center. During day two of the Regional Tour, the Bluegrass delegation heard about the importance of the I-69 project from local officials and business leaders in Henderson, followed by afternoon tours of Century Aluminum’s Sebree Plant and Alliance Coal’s River View Mine near Morganfield. LUNCHEON SPONSOR First Security Bank GOLD SPONSORS Central Bank & Trust Co. Gold Shield Transportation Kentucky Coal Association LEFT: Elizabethtown Mayor Edna Berger with CLX Board Chair-Elect Alan Stein at the Elizabethtown Sports Park. RIGHT: Robby Trimble (Kentucky Utilities), far right, talked with Owensboro Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Nick Brake, and one of the teachers from the Owensboro Innovation Academy. LEFT: Owensboro leaders Rodney Berry, Dr. Fred Reeves, and Owensboro Mayor Ron Payne, along with KY State Chamber President Dave Adkisson talked about the riverfront transformation in Owensboro. CENTER: KY State Rep. Suzanne Miles addressed the group in Owensboro. RIGHT: KY State Rep. Tommy Thompson and State Senator Joe Bowen talked about legislative issues at the RiverPark Center. LEFT: KY State Rep. Jim Gooch and State Senator Dorsey Ridley with CLX President & CEO Bob Quick at Century Aluminum’s Sebree Plant. CENTER: Houston Hall (Forcht Bank), left, and Darryl Thompson (FCPS) ready for the mine tour. RIGHT: Regional tour group at River View Mine near Morganfield. 10 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 | 5:30 - 8:30 P.M. | LEXINGTON CENTER’S BLUEGRASS BALLROOM KEMI Presents Commerce Lexington Inc. Annual Dinner on January 28th PRESENTED BY: ® Commerce Lexington Inc.’s 2016 Annual Dinner presented by Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance will be held on Thursday, January 28, at Lexington Center’s Bluegrass Ballroom. The predinner reception is scheduled from 5:30-7:00 p.m., while dinner and the program will run from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Join us for great networking, good food, and a little business, as we take a look back at 2015 and highlight the organization’s focus for 2016. We’ll also present several awards, including the Ambassador of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Public Policy Advocate of the Year, and our Distinguished Leader Awards from our Leadership Lexington youth and adult programs. Alan Stein, President of SteinGroup, LLC, will take over as 2016 Chairman of the Board for Commerce Lexington Inc. and outline his focus areas for the year. TO REGISTER: The cost to attend the 2016 Commerce Lexington Inc. Annual Dinner is $95 per person, or $950 per table of ten. To register, e-mail to rsvp@CommerceLexington.com. PLATINUM SPONSORS Community Trust Bank Keeneland Association, Inc. Kentucky Utilities Co. PNC Bank EVENT DESIGN SPONSOR: Saint Joseph Hospital, a part of KentuckyOne Health RECEPTION SPONSOR: Bingham Greenebaum Doll LLP VIDEO SPONSOR: Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. GOLD SPONSORS: Central Bank & Trust Co. Ingersoll Rand | Kentucky American Water Lexmark International | University of Kentucky SILVER SPONSORS: Ashland, Inc. Congleton-Hacker Co. Kentucky Community & Technical College System Your Community Bank BRONZE SPONSORS: Blue Grass Airport | Fifth Third Bank | GRW, Inc. Hurst Business Supply & Furniture Solutions Lexington Clinic | Rose Camenisch Mains PLLC UBS Financial Services AWARD SPONSORS: Frost Brown Todd LLC Manpower of Central Kentucky McBrayer, McGinnis, Leslie & Kirkland, PLLC Sam’s Club Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC INVITATION & PROGRAM DESIGN SPONSOR: Stablemate Creative LLC INVITATION 12 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 PrintLEX & PROGRAM PRINT SPONSOR: EVENTS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2015 | 7:30 - 9:00 A.M. | COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. (330 EAST MAIN ST.) Are You a Small Business Owner? Are You Looking for Guidance in Today’s Tough Environment? The Business Owners Advisory Boards Can Help If you've ever needed advice or guidance as a business owner and didn't know where to turn, Commerce Lexington Inc. has a valuable, no cost solution for you. Various groups called the Business Owners Advisory Board (BOAB) meet monthly to assist in problem-solving through discussion with other business owners to help in analyzing current or future direction, and also provide an avenue for personal growth. If you're interested in the Business Owners Advisory Board through Commerce Lexington Inc., now is your opportunity to learn more about the program and to become active in one of the groups. In this present business environment, business owners need to know that a support structure exists to help them. An "ENROLLMENT EVENT” presented by DMD Data Systems will be held on Thursday, November 5, from 7:309:00 a.m., at Commerce Lexington Inc.’s first floor conference room (330 East Main Street). Group placements for Commerce Lexington Inc. business members are made twice per year for the various boards. Since the goal is for members to make a long-term commitment to the groups, the twice-a-year placement process helps to facilitate a more effective assimilation of new members into the groups. This upcoming Enrollment Event will enable members to meet other group participants and ask questions, learn more about this free program in general, and even sign up to become a member of a Business Owner Advisory Board. RSVP FOR THIS EVENT: PRESENTED BY: To RSVP, e-mail to Liz Bennett at lbennett@CommerceLexington.com or visit www.CommerceLexington.com. There is no charge to attend this Commerce Lexington Inc. MEMBERS’ ONLY informational event. BOAB Groups Helping Small Business Owners Although interaction with fellow Commerce Lexington Inc. members is always good for business - BOAB is not designed as a networking or leads group. Each board is made up of eight business owners with similar concerns, but who are NOT in direct competition with each other. There is NO CHARGE to participate in this program, which is open only to Commerce Lexington members. Board members commit to meet on a monthly basis for two to three hours per meeting, and each group sets its own agenda. The boards offer encouragement and sound business advice for tackling the day-to-day challenges faced by business owners. Meetings are structured to include speakers on various business topics, guidance on goal setting, marketing planning, as well as assisting with your individual business issues. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 13 CONNECT New Mobile-Friendly Commerce Lexington Web Site Has Strong Traffic Gains When we launched the new mobile-friendly web site for CommerceLexington.com, we were curious to see what, if any, impact there would be. The re-designed site went live right around the time that Google had updated its algorithm that now favors mobilefriendly sites in its search results. What we found were strong increases in most web traffic figures. From May through September, the site saw a 61-percent increase in average monthly page views and a 69-percent increase in average monthly sessions over the months of January through April. We’ve also seen a healthy decrease of 7-percent in the bounce rate (people who visit a page and leave without engaging with the page). In fact, most of the traffic statistics for the site as of October 8th have already surpassed the numbers from all of 2014. We’ve also seen a slight shift in what people use to access the site, with a decrease of about 4-percent from 2014 to 2015 for those who use a desktop and an increase of about 6-percent in those using a mobile device to access the site in 2015 (through September). Also, for the first time since we’ve tracked numbers for the site, Google Chrome has overtaken Internet Explorer as the browser of choice when visiting our site. The most viewed portions of the web site include the business directory, events pages and calendars, the job bank, and of course, the homepage. Below are some statistics from the on-line business directory for top categories viewed in 2015. TOP DIRECTORY CATEGORIES VIEWED 2015: 1. Nonprofit Organizations 2. Manufacturers 3. Insurance 4. Advertising Agencies 5. Health & Wellness 6. Accountants 7. Banks 8. Restaurants 9. Attorneys 10. Hotels / Motels 11. Real Estate - Commercial 12. Real Estate 13. Financial Services 14. Entertainment 15. Business Consultants 16. Construction Commerce Lexington Inc.’s “CLX2Go” Mobile App Nears 900 Downloads Mobile technology is here to stay, and Commerce Lexington Inc. (CLX) has embraced this method of communication not only to add visibility for its members, but to also provide an easy way to keep up with current CLX events, community events, local news, programs, and your favorite businesses while you're on the go! Commerce Lexington Inc.’s CLX2Go mobile app is available FREE for download in the iTunes App Store and Android Marketplace. EVERY COMMERCE LEXINGTON MEMBER has their own basic listing as a benefit of membership, which includes a "click to call" and "click to map" link. Mobile users now have one-touch access to your business contact information and location. As a member of Commerce Lexington, you can now attract more customers by offering mobile coupons, "near me" deals, and special offers to both CLX members and anyone in the Greater Lexington area who downloads this free mobile app. One of the Most Technologically Advanced, Positional Open MRI Units in Kentucky is in LEXINGTON. 14 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP: Text lexington CLX2Go to 80802 OR Scan this QR code with your mobile device. PLATINUM SPONSOR: Women Leading KY’s Fall Roundtable Luncheons Continue on Nov. 19 John W. Gilbert, M.D. 3256 Loch Ness Drive Lexington, KY 40517 859.971.0014 www.sbncmd.com Women Leading Kentucky’s 2015 Fall Roundtable Networking Luncheons will continue in Lexington on Thursday, November 19, starting at noon at Sal's Chophouse (3373 Tates Creek Road) in the Lansdowne Shoppes with Georgia Ella Lyon, Poet Laureate for the state of Kentucky. Roundtables are where prominent Kentuckians are invited to speak and share professional/personal challenges and lessons learned. For more information or to register, visit www.womenleadingky.com. Commerce Lexington Inc. is a proud sponsor of Women Leading Kentucky’s Roundtable Networking Luncheons. CONNECT Business Focus Statement of Ownership *As Required by U.S. Postal Service 2015 Winner’s Circle Surging as Volunteers, Leadership Mark Mid-Point of Campaign Volunteers and campaign leadership marked the mid-point of the 2015 Winner’s Circle program with a Fall Festival luncheon on October 14th at Kentucky Eagle, Inc. The event featured great food, music, networking, and fun games, including Pumpkin Bowling, the Candy Corn-hole Toss, and Witch’s Broom Racing. As of the Mid-Campaign event, volunteers had reached 79-percent of the total production goal, and the top producing teams included Kentucky American Water/Windstream Communications, Central Bank & Trust Co., the University of Kentucky, and the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa, with the Ambassadors team close behind. There are plenty of great sponsorship opportunities still available for 2016 to meet any business’ needs, so if you’re looking for ways to market your company, contact Commerce Lexington Inc. at (859) 254-4447 or visit www.Commerce Lexington.com. Follow the volunteers’ progress or find out more about the Winner’s Circle program on-line at www.CLXWinnersCircle.com or www.facebook.com/CLXWinnersCircle. ABOVE LEFT: Valeria Swope (Kentucky American Water/Windstream Communications team) competed in the Witch’s Broom Race during the Mid-Campaign event. ABOVE RIGHT: Keith Preston (Central Bank & Trust Co.) participated in the Candy Corn-hole Toss. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 15 CONNECT Leadership Central Kentucky Class Members Explore Bourbon County PRESENTED BY: PLATINUM SPONSOR: GOLD SPONSOR: Keeneland SILVER SPONSORS: Ale-8-One Kentucky Bank Excerpts of Article by Josh Hendrix, Hendrix Hemp, LLC The Leadership Central Kentucky class of 2015-2016 started its tour of Central Kentucky counties in Bourbon County last month. The day was filled with history, agriculture, bourbon, and regionalism discussions. For a group of people who are passionate about economic development, regionalism and most importantly the region itself, this was a day full of highlights. The morning started in the Bourbon County Courthouse with a very educational presentation on the history of the county by Buck Pennington, an art historian and a Bourbon County native. After soaking in the story of Bourbon County, a short trip out one of Central Kentucky’s many scenic drives to historic Claiborne Farm started a day in the county. The next stop was at Reed Valley Orchard, where Dana Reed told the story of how the Orchard came to be and how the agri-tourism industry has grown to serve their business model. The class then had the great pleasure of enjoying a lunch prepared by the lovely ladies who work at the Paris Stockyards. After lunch, manager Craig Taylor let the class tour the stockyards and explained all the moving parts that go into this business. Before heading back to Main St. for the evening, the group stopped by Color Point to see the wide array of flowers grown in their amazing facility of computer controlled greenhouse spaces. Ky. Gubernatorial Candidate Jack Conway Speaks to Business Group Commerce Lexington Inc. Public Policy Council Chair Carla Blanton interviewed Kentucky Democrat Gubernatorial Candidate and current Attorney General Jack Conway on October 23rd during the Public Policy Luncheon presented by Kentucky American Water. During the event, Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen also addressed the crowd. Watch for video from this event to be posted soon on the Commerce Lexington Inc. YouTube Channel. (Photo by Mark Turner | CLX Staff ) 16 BUSINESS FOCUS NOVEMBER 2015 Back inside the Paris city limits on Main Street, the class found itself standing in the first Distillery to distill bourbon in Bourbon County since 1919, The Gentleman Distillery (newly renamed Hartfield & Co.). The class finished the day by heading across the street to Rooster Brew for a social hour and discussion with Paris Mayor, Mike Thornton, and Bourbon County Judge Executive, Mike Williams. Read This Full Article On-Line at www.LeadershipCentralKentucky.com Leadership Lexington Youth Program: Ambassadors for Change Day Excerpts of Article by Alison Rickert of Tates Creek High School The theme of the October Leadership PRESENTED BY: Lexington Youth day session was Ambassadors for Change. What does it mean to be an ambassador for change? I kept this question in my mind as I went through my day with my fellow LLYP classmates, and by now I have a fairly good answer for it. We started our day off at the Central Public BRONZE SPONSORS: Library. We got the chance to hear Ann Hammond, Markus Cross, Mark Wiemer, and Target P.G. Peeples speak to us. After that, we visited the Justice House and were fortunate enough to Toyota Motor meet the amazing activist, Tanya Torp. Visiting Manufacturing, her home and meeting her was one of the most Kentucky, Inc. enlightening experiences I’ve ever had. We continued our day by seeing more ways we can make a change in our community. This included touring FoodChain, visiting the Roosevelt Community Seedleaf garden with Ryan Koch, touring God’s Pantry Food Bank with Alice George Rogers, and touring a Habitat for Humanity neighborhood with Jeremiah Meyers. We finished back at the library with a chance to hear from Ericka Shipley, a student at the University of Kentucky. So, what does it mean to be an ambassador for change? An ambassador for change can be anybody. They are courageous and truly care about the cause that they are supporting. They’re empathetic of others and are persistent in carrying out their plans for change. They set reasonable goals, because although they can dream big, they know that making differences on a small scale will always add up in the long run. CONNECT Leadership Lexington Class Experiences Local Arts & Culture Scene Excerpts of Article by Risa K. Richardson, Columbia Gas of Kentucky It’s in the festively colored sculptures at the UK Art Museum and the vibrato of voices at the Lexington Opera House. It’s at creatively designed bus stops and on the walls of painstakingly remodeled shops in a business district on the brink of boom. It’s at the historic Lyric Theatre, where you hear echoes of the lilt and laughter of legends long gone. And it’s in the back halls of the Lexington Children’s Theatre, where artists tinker and toil, sprinkling their magic to bring the stage and costumes to life. Art. It’s everywhere you go in Lexington. And hopefully, art leaders say, it’s where you want to be. Leaders of Lexington’s art scene served as hostesses to members of the 2015-16 class of Leadership Lexington in October, offering the community leaders a teasing taste of the buffet of local options available to whet and develop their artistic appetites. Among the appetizers: r A visit to the UK museum, where Nan Plummer, a member of the class and head of LexArts, Inc. and Stephanie Harris, executive director of Lexington Art League, gave the group an overview of the arts community and efforts to make art accessible and affordable. Museum Director Stuart Horodner gave a tour of the facility and urged arts enthusiasts to visit more often. r A visit to the Living Arts and Sciences Center, where a $5.5 million expansion is underway. The addition will feature a new clay studio, teaching kitchen and garden and a discovery center double the size of the existing one. The renovation is expected to be complete by April. Applications for 2016 Ambassador Committee Due by Friday, Nov. 6th Applications are now being accepted for the 2016 Commerce Lexington Inc. Ambassador Committee. This popular committee consists of volunteers that represent CLX by helping to educate its members on membership benefits, and to serve as a liaison between Commerce Lexington and its members. Ambassadors also represent the organization at community and key Commerce Lexington events. If you have experience with CLX events and services, and want to be more closely involved with CLX, visit www.commercelexington.com/ambassadorprogram.html or contact Dana Zinger at dzinger@ commercelexington.com for more information and to obtain an application. The application deadline is Friday, November 6, with selections made in late November/early December. r A tour of the Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center, where acting director Donald Mason spoke passionately about his vision for the center to recapture the energy and support of its glory days, when greats like Louis Armstrong and Ike and Tina Turner drew large crowds to the area formerly known as Black Wall Street. While at the Lyric, the group was treated to a preview of the upcoming Thriller parade by Teresa Tomb of MECCA Dance Studio. Tomb taught the group a few moves from the famous dance. Members divided into two teams and – lead by one of the Michaels to be featured at the parade on Oct. 25 -- competed for bragging rights and blackmail photos. r A tour of the Lexington Opera House, where Dr. Everett McCorvey, director of the UK Opera Theater, and several of his students performed for the group, rattling the walls of the historic house and promoting the weekend performance of South Pacific. r A tour and performance at Lexington Children’s Museum, where the group was treated to a portion of “Where the Red Fern Grows” and got a behind-thescenes tour of the green room and costume and prop workshops. 2015-16 CLASS PRESENTED BY: PLATINUM SPONSOR: BRONZE SPONSORS: Kentucky Utilities Co. Sleep Outfitters Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. TravelHost of the Bluegrass The day closed with icing on the cake – or rather the tasty ice cream that trumps the cake – at Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge, where the creative force behind the new Pepper Distillery Campus on Manchester Street gave some insights on the development. Currently, the entertainment district includes the craft ice cream shop, owned by Leadership Lexington Alum Toa Green, a brewery, a distillery, a restaurant and a bar. Ambassador Spotlight: Catherine Clements Catherine Clements Marriott International Phone: (859) 221-8747 catherine.clements@ marriott.com About Her Role with Marriott: As a sales executive, Catherine Clements has been with Marriott International for over four years, representing both the Griffin Gate Marriott and Courtyard Lexington North. She said it is very rewarding working with her customers on a national level. About Being Involved with CLX: Catherine said, “I enjoy calling on new members, because their excitement is contagious when they hear about all the programs available to them to help grow their business.” About Serving as an Ambassador: She said, “I enjoy the Ambassador role, because I have been able to forge relationships with members from all sorts of roles and industries. I really enjoy attending ribbon cuttings and learning more about new businesses in the Lexington area. I feel much more connected to my community, because I see firsthand all that Lexington has to offer.” CATHERINE CLEMENTS Read More About Our Ambassadors at www.CommerceLexington.com > Connect > Volunteer Opportunities NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 17 NEW MEMBERS Welcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. members for the period of September 18, through October 19, 2015 Association of Information Management Professionals - Lexington ARMA Chapter Information & Records Management Services Dorothy Delong, Chapter President 3830 High Bridge Rd., Wilmore, KY 40390-9705 Phone: (859) 858-8815 Web: www.lexingtonarma.com Bluegrass Bean Counter Bookkeeping Service Brooks Bailey, CPA 1010 North Dividing Ridge Road Sadieville, KY 40370 Phone: (859) 619-7227 Web: www.bluegrassbeancounter.com Bluegrass Business Network & Welcome Wagon Marketing Consultants/Services Mary Lee, Owner/Marketing Director 3475 Lyon Drive Lexington, KY 40513 Phone: (859) 321-0244 Jack Kain Ford Auto Dealers-New Cars Donna Sturgeon, Marketing Director 3405 Lexington Road Versailles, KY 40383 Phone: (859) 873-6666 Web: www.kainford.com Pro Mortgages Mortgages Martin Blair, Loan Officer 153 Prosperous Place, Suite 2B Lexington, KY 40509 Phone: (859) 200-2709 Web: www.pro-mortgages.com F.Y.E. Retailers Brian Abbott 3401 Nicholasville Road Lexington, KY 40503 Phone: (859) 273-1685 Web: www.fye.com GlobeSil Inc. Renewable Energy & Semiconductor Erin McKune, CEO 2480 Fortune Drive, Suite 100 Lexington, KY 40509 Phone: (859) 303-9530 Web: www.globesil.com Randolph Scott Insurance Agency Insurance - Motorcycle E. Kent Smith, Principal Agent 1025 Dove Run Road, Suite 302 Lexington, KY 40502 Phone: (859) 252-0879 Web: www.randolphscottins.com John S. Roberts - Attorney at Law Government Offices John S. Roberts, Attorney/Fayette County Judge Executive 215 West Short Street, Suite 210 Lexington, KY 40507 Phone: (859) 231-0445 Golden Sunku Gourmet Shops Claudia Cornejo 3600 Winthrop Drive #5202 Lexington, KY 40514 Phone: (859) 693-1256 Web: www.goldensunku.com The Salsa Center Dancing Instruction Reena Reyes, President 730 Allendale Drive Lexington, KY 40503 Phone: (859) 278-8598 Web: www.thesalsacenter.com Dr. Kathrine Greene, DMD Dentists Kathrine Greene 1081 Dove Run Road Lexington, KY 40502 Phone: (859) 269-7135 BUSINESS FOCUS Interior Design + Architecture Inc. Office Furniture Caitlin Neal, Account Executive 155 East Main St., Suite 100 Lexington, KY 40507-1300 Phone: (859) 255-7595 Web: www.id-a.com Logan Sinclair Ltd. Partnership Real Estate Mary Alexander, General Partner 1261 Village Drive #27, Lexington, KY 40504 Phone: (859) 252-4055 Elite Express, LLC Transportation Services Troy Blair, President/Member 5071 Mount Horeb Pike Lexington, KY 40511 Phone: (859) 351-2341 18 HopCat Lexington Restaurants Aaron Crawford, General Manager 410 W. Short Street, Lexington, KY 40507 Phone: (859) 286-6847 Web: www.hopcat.com NOVEMBER 2015 Sam's Club Wholesale Clubs Carol Snider, Assistant Manager 1063 East New Circle Road Lexington, KY 40505 Phone: (859) 253-2885 Web: www.samsclub.com SeaCure Advisors LLC Financial Planning Consultants Carolyn B. Howard, Founder/Managing Member 219 E. High Street Lexington, KY 40507 Phone: (781) 454-8170 Web: www.seacureadvisors.com Wine & Canvas Lexington Entertainment Kirsten Shusteric, Co-Owner/Operator 130 W Tiverton Way, Suite 195 Lexington, KY 40503 Phone: (859) 433-4844 Web: www.wineandcanvas.com Zaxby's Restaurants Bethany Johnson, Marketing Director 104 Sand Lake Drive Lexington, KY 40515 Phone: (859) 317-9929 Web: www.zaxbys.com Zaxby's Restaurants Bethany Johnson, Marketing Director 531 W. New Circle Road Lexington, KY 40511 Phone: (859) 368-0600 Web: www.zaxbys.com Zaxby's Restaurants Bethany Johnson, Marketing Director 435 Redding Road Lexington, KY 40517 Phone: (859) 687-9044 Web: www.zaxbys.com Zaxby's Restaurants Bethany Johnson, Marketing Director 1133 Lexington Road Georgetown, KY 40324 Phone: (502) 370-4066 Web: www.zaxbys.com PERSONNEL ANNOUNCEMENTS For the fifth year in a row, Asbury University has earned a Top-5 slot in the U.S. News & World Report Regional College rankings. Of the colleges and universities in the South, Asbury University ranked No. 3, and is the only school from Kentucky to rank in the Top 10 of its category. Haymaker/Bean Commercial Real Estate welcomed its newest agent, Charlie Must. Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co.: Kim Noble, Vice President, Relationship Manager and Loan Officer, is now specializing in mortgage lending. In addition, Laura Haley was promoted to financial center manager, overseeing the East High Street office. Hospice of the Bluegrass was recognized by IGE Media, publisher of Medical News, at the exclusive MediStar Awards for excellence in the business of healthcare. Hospice of the Bluegrass received the BOK Financial Aging Care Award, which is presented to an organization that has advanced the level of care for the senior community through innovative methods resulting in high value care and improved quality of life. Attorneys Kelly D. Bartley and Timothy W. Dunn recently rejoined Bingham Greenbaum Doll LLP’s Lexington office. Keller Williams Greater Lexington announced the following new agents: Jerry Studdard and Alex Carter. Bingham Greenebaum Doll LLP had a total of 70 attorneys named to the 2016 edition of The Best Lawyers in America, including Lexington attorneys Wendy Bryant Becker, Anne A. Chesnut, Bruce E. Cryder, Phillip D. Scott, Stephen W. Switzer, and Job D. (Darby) Turner. Best Lawyers is considered the oldest and most highly-respected peer review guide to the legal profession worldwide. At-Large Lexington-Fayette Urban County Councilmember Kevin Stinnett and 5th District Councilmember Bill Farmer, Jr. were appointed by Mayor Jim Gray to the Lexington Center Corporation’s Board of Directors to each serve fouryear terms. Additionally, Mayor Gray reappointed current board members Craig Turner and Brent Rice for four-year terms. Brent Rice currently serves as Chairman of the Board. Blue & Co., LLC announced the addition of staff accountants Parker Banta and Monica Youtsey to its Lexington office. Central Bank & Trust Co. announced the promotion of Shelia Plymale and Amy Manning, both to senior vice president of human resources. Linda L. Rumpke recently joined Columbia Gas of Kentucky as director of finance. Dinsmore & Shohl LLP recently welcomed 31 associates to the firm, including Charles Krebs, Sarah Mattingly, and Felix Sharpe in the Lexington office. Mary Moorhouse joined First Security Bank in a newly-created position as corporate in house counsel, serving as the primary contact with banking regulators and assisting in other strategic matters within the company. Fowler Bell PLLC recently welcomed attorney Tyler Adkins to the firm’s Litigation Group. Jonathan D. Sands Wise, Ph.D., has been named as vice president for enrollment management at Georgetown College. The law firm of Gess Mattingly & Atchison announced that the following members of Bowles Rice will join as members of Gess Mattingly on January 1, 2016, including Spencer D. Noe, Richard A. Whitaker, J. Thomas Rawlings and Donald M. Wakefield. Also joining the practice as of counsel are Charles W. Curry and Bernard F. Lovely, Jr. Lexington Habitat for Humanity announced the following new board members: Parashar Joshi (Ashland/Valvoline), Dwain Neeley (PNC Bank), Sean Washington (Fifth Third Bank), and Kevin McGuire (Messer Construction). Shannon Kidd of the Lexington Legends has been named South Atlantic League Female Executive of the Year for 2015. She joined the Legends as director of operations in March 2001, about a month before the team played its first game. The Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center Board of Directors recently appointed Donald Mason as executive director. Mason served as the Lyric’s interim director since March and was previously a member of the Lyric Board of Directors. The following McBrayer, McGinnis, Leslie & Kirkland, PLLC attorneys have been named to the 2016 edition of Best Lawyers in America: James Frazier, Terry McBrayer, Brent Rice, Cecil Dunn, Steve Amato, Jaron Blandford, Rob Maclin, Jon Woodall, Mary Haggin, Lisa Hinkle, Rob Watson, David Guarnieri, Terri Stallard, Chris Westover, Luke Morgan, Doug Logsdon, Chris Shaughnessy, Cindy Effinger, Bill Kirkland and Kembra Sexton Taylor. Midway University recently named Heather Bigard as its chief financial officer, in charge of managing the institution’s finances, facilities, and operations. NAI Isaac Commercial Properties recently added two new employees to its staff team, including Randall Peabody as property manager and Hannah Pfeiffer as administrative assistant. Jesse Kuykendall has moved from the Remote Systems Engineering team to the Lexington System Engineering team at NetGain Technologies. Additionally, Danny Campbell, Senior Systems Engineer, has received both his VMWare Certified Professional – Desktop (VCP5-DT) and his VMWare Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) certifications. Lexington-based architectural firm Omni Architects announced several promotions, including Chad Gallas, AIA, to associate, Wayne Cowan, AIA, to senior associate, and Deborah Cutts to director of marketing and business development. Porter Bancorp, Inc. announced the addition of new members to its board of directors. James M. Parsons was appointed as a board member of Porter Bancorp and PBI Bank, and Dr. Edmond J. Seifried was appointed as a board member of Porter Bancorp. Sayre Christian Village announced the winners of the LeadingAge Kentucky’s Annual Awards Program, including Charletta Wadkins (LeadingAge Kentucky Scholarship Award), Carolyn Colliver (Volunteer of the Year Award), and Greg Cathey (Caring Heart Award). Award nominations were submitted by coworkers, managers, and peers. Sturgill, Turner, Barker & Moloney, PLLC announced that J. Stan Lee and Timothy C. Wills will be joining the firm effective January 2, 2016. Lee has served as a Kentucky State Representative for the 45th District since 2001 and currently holds the leadership position of House Minority Caucus Chairman. Meanwhile, Wills serves as the president of the Fayette County Bar Foundation board of directors and has recently been recognized on the Best Lawyers in America and Kentucky Super Lawyer lists. Traditional Bank announced the promotion of Casilee Kidd to consumer loan officer. Kidd has worked for Traditional Bank since 2012 and has 12 years of banking experience. Transylvania University earned a spot among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges in a U.S. News & World Report list. Transylvania ranked among the country’s best 100 liberal arts schools for a variety of reasons, including its excellent faculty, acceptance rate, alumni giving, financial resources and high school counselor ratings. SUBMIT PERSONNEL NEWS: Submit your company’s awards, personnel changes, additions, or promotions for Business Focus to mturner@CommerceLexington.com. Information is published in the order received and only as space permits. NOVEMBER 2015 BUSINESS FOCUS 19 Periodical Postage PAID at Lexington, Kentucky Commerce Lexington Inc. 330 East Main Street, Suite 100 P.O. Box 1968 Lexington, KY 40588-1968 COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. UPCOMING EVENTS 3 DECEMBER 2015: NOVEMBER 2015: Lexington Youth Program presented by UK 2 Leadership HealthCare: Arts & Media Day. ELECTION DAY - DON’T FORGET TO VOTE! Leadership Lexington Youth Program presented by UK 4 HealthCare: Government & Public Safety Day. Series presented by Manpower of Central Kentucky, 3:30 8 @330 - 5:00 p.m., at CLX 1st floor conference room. Owners Advisory Board Enrollment Event, 7:30 5 Business 9:00 a.m., at CLX 1st floor conference room. - SEE PAGE 13 pitch contest, begins 5:00 p.m. at Awesome Inc. (348 9 5EastAcross Main Street). Admission: $5 per person. Series presented by Manpower of Central Kentucky, 3:30 10 -@330 5:00 p.m., at CLX 1st floor conference room. - SEE PAGE 8 Lexington presented by KentuckyOne Health: 10 Leadership Education Day Session. Morning Bluegrass presented by Fifth Third Bank, 8:00 12 Good - 9:30 a.m., at Hyatt Regency Lexington; Featuring panel of Link sponsored and hosted by Kentucky Eagle, Inc. 10 Business - SEE PAGE 9 (2440 Innovation Dr.), 4:30-6:30 p.m. local business leaders. 12 16-22 - SEE PAGE 7 Leadership Lexington presented by KentuckyOne Health: Public Safety Day Session. Lexington’s Global Entrepreneurship Week; Various events. - SEE PAGE 6 Full list at http://gatton.uky.edu/vace Venture Club meets, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m, at Hyatt 18 Lexington Regency Lexington. RSVP to lgross@commercelexington.com. Leadership Central Kentucky presented by KU - a PPL 18 Company at Jessamine County. Central Kentucky presented by KU - a PPL Company 16 Leadership at Franklin County. Member Luncheon presented by Park Community Credit 17 New Union, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., at CLX 1st Floor conference room.