March 2021 | Volume Xxix, Issue Iii

BUSINESS FOCUS \\\ OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. | MARCH 2021 | VOLUME XXIX, ISSUE III

Full Day of Professional Development Dynamic Keynotes Panel Discussions

OPENING KEYNOTE: Denise Hamilton TUESDAY, MARCH 9th

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Justin Patton www.EmergeLexington.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Legislative Session Update @330 Series Presents “Mindset” Over Matter in Difficult Situations Winner’s Circle Campaign Concludes Member Mixers Help You Make Valuable Connections www.CommerceLexington.com BUSINESS FOCUS March 2021: Volume XXIX, Issue III

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives 4 CLX E.D. Team Tours UK’s Cornerstone Project 2016 Chamber STAT OF THE MONTH: Unemployment Rates of the Year

Business Focus is published once a month for PUBLIC POLICY: a total of 12 issues per year by Commerce Lex- 5-6 Central KY Legislative Day Provides Issue Updates ington Inc., 330 East Main Street, Suite 100, Lexington, KY 40507. Phone: (859) 226-1600. 2021 Kentucky Legislative Session Update 2021 Chair of the Board: Ray Daniels, President EVENTS: Equity Solutions Group Winner’s Circle Campaign Recap 8-11 Publisher: Schedule is Set for 2021 EMERGE on March 9th Robert L. Quick, CCE, President & CEO @330: “Mindset” Over Matter in Difficult Situations Commerce Lexington Inc. Emerging Leaders of the BG: March Lex Leader Talk Editor: Mark E. Turner Melia Realty Group Presents Upcoming Member Mixers Communications Specialist: Liz Bennett Printing: Post Printing Mail Service: SouthEast Printing & Mailing CONNECT: Service, LLC (2610 Palumbo Drive) 12-15 Leadership Central KY Studies Fayette County Issues Subscriptions are available for $12 and are in- Leadership Lexington Health & Human Services Day cluded as a direct benefit of Commerce Lexing- AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Luca Setti ton Inc. membership. Business Focus (USPS Welcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. Members 012-337) periodical postage paid at Lexington, Kentucky. Member Personnel Announcements POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Business Focus, Commerce Lexington Inc., P.O. Box 1968, Lexington, KY 40588-1968. Bob Quick Marks 20 Years At Commerce Lex. Display Rates In February, Bob Quick cele- Over the years, Bob has been For DISPLAY RATES in Business Focus, con- brated 20 years as Commerce Lex- very involved in the Association of tact Kelly Bates at (859) 226-1612 or ington Inc.’s President and CEO. Chamber of Commerce Executives [email protected], and an ac- He arrived in Lexington in 2001 to (ACCE), our industry association. count executive will contact you. lead the Chamber after serving as In 2009, he was one of 34 chamber President and CEO of the Metro- leaders selected for the politan Evansville (IN) Chamber of ACCE/Ford Foundation’s “Re- Personnel Updates Commerce. gional Sustainable Development” Submit your company’s awards and mile- Under Bob’s leadership, the or- initiative. He is also a past chair stones or personnel changes and additions to ganization has seen many positive of ACCE’s Certified Chamber Exec- [email protected]. Person- changes and outcomes, includ- BOB QUICK utive Commission and currently nel news might include promotions, additions, ing the 2004 merger of the PRESIDENT & CEO serves as board chair of ACCE’s awards and milestones, recognitions and cer- Greater Lexington Chamber of COMMERCE LEX. Benefit Trust. tifications and/or appointments. Information Commerce, Lexington United, During Bob’s time at Com- is published only as space permits. and the Lexington Partnership for Workforce merce Lexington, the organization has earned Development, which created the present-day many accolades, including a two-time Mac Commerce Lexington Inc. The merger re- Conway Award recipient for top economic de- sulted in more continuity and enhanced focus velopment agencies and ACCE’s 2016 Cham- in the areas of business, economic develop- ber of the Year Award in the large chamber ment, and workforce development. category.

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326 South Broadway Lexington, KY 40508-2592 (859) 721.2100 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ///

SUBMITTED BY CLX ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION: GINA GREATHOUSE, CHERYL KLEVER & KATIE VANDEGRIFT Economic Development Team Tours University of Kentucky’s Cornerstone In January, the Economic Development team received an invitation to tour the University of Kentucky’s recently announced innovative campus-community partnership located at The Cornerstone, UK’s newest 26,000-square foot facility designed to foster community, creativity, technology, entrepreneurship and equitable economic development. The technology-rich space and esports facilities demonstrate how The Cornerstone will serve as the gateway to an emerging innovative district that will further link the university with the city of Lexington by allowing students, faculty, staff and the community to collaborate through a variety of programing. For years, our team has worked closely with UK’s Coldstream Park Campus to collaborate economic development opportunities in our region. We are optimistic to continue conversations and collectively foster business recruitment projects and retention among students in one of Lexington’s key target industries – the high-tech industry. Additionally, three nonprofits — collectively to be known University of Kentucky’s The Cornerstone (Photo by phebusphotography) as the Campus Community Connection — will focus on inequality, injustices and communities of color in Lexington. The Campus Community Connection plans to address three major community needs, including providing STAT OF THE MONTH: places for youth to express themselves, aiding those experiencing food insecurities and offering mentorship for Lexington’s Unemployment Rate youth. The Campus Community Connection will have an ongoing presence at The Cornerstone to facilitate Remains Among the Lowest in the Nation innovative programming as well as increased community Lexington’s unemployment rate continues to trend below state and national engagement with students and faculty. averages and is one of the lowest in the country compared to cities with For more information about community connections at populations over 300,000. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Cornerstone, please contact Amanda Royer at Lexington’s unemployment rate peaked in April of 2020 at 15.2%, but dropped [email protected] at the UK Center for Service- to 5.0% by the end of the year in December. Historically, Lexington’s

Learning and Civic Engagement. unemployment rate is 1.3 percentage points lower than the national average and 1.6 percentage points lower than the Kentucky average. While the economy NOTE: Information from recent University of Kentucky press was significantly impacted by the pandemic in 2020, unemployment rates release. Full press release posted on-line at continue to trend downward which gives optimism for economic growth in 2021. https://uknow.uky.edu/campus-news/inaugural-cornerstone- community-innovation-partner-selected.

By The Numbers: For 2021 year-to-date, Commerce Lexington’s Economic Development Division has re- 10 Unemployment Rates sponded to calls from: 8 New Business: 8 new prospects interested in 6 finding a new location or expanding in the Lexington area. 4 Client Visits to the Lexington Area: 0 2 Existing Business Visits: 13 Total Active Projects: 33 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Lexington, KY Kentucky National Average

4 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021

\\\ PUBLIC POLICY

Central KY Legislative Day Features Issue Updates From State Leaders Since we couldn’t gather in Frankfort PRESENTED BY this year due to the pandemic, Com- merce Lexington Inc. hosted its annual Central Kentucky Legislative Day via Zoom on February 18. Presented by Charter Communications, the event en- abled participants to gain valuable insight and information from a variety of state legislators and administration of- PLATINUM SPONSOR: ficials, along with some issue-specific updates. Legislative leaders updated members about the state budget, Senate President Robert Stivers COVID-19 economic relief and liability protections, infrastructure investments including broadband, education and workers development funding and support for the equine industry. Speakers included Senate President Robert GOLD SPONSOR: Stivers, House Speaker David Osborne, AT&T Senior Advisor to the Governor Rocky Adkins, Senate Appropriations and Rev- enue Chairman Chris McDaniel, State Representative Matt Koch (equine) and State Representative Sal Santoro (transportation). House Speaker David Osborne

MARCH 2021 BUSINESS FOCUS 5 PUBLIC POLICY: LEGISLATIVE SESSION ///

Historical Horse Wagering Legislation Passes Both House and Senate After a three-week recess period, state legislators returned to Frankfort annually in direct payroll benefits, and it contributes to higher purses and on February 2 for Part II of the 2021 30-day Regular Session of the Ken- a more competitive racing circuit in Kentucky. House leaders also com- tucky General Assembly. As anticipated, the General Assembly overrode mitted to reviewing how historical horse wagering is taxed and continuing gubernatorial vetoes. The Governor quickly filed a lawsuit in Franklin Cir- discussions about adjustments in the taxing structure in the future. cuit Court challenging three bills dealing with COVID-19 restrictions and Commerce Lexington continues to work on legislation to help business executive powers. The Governor’s lawsuit deals with HB 1, which allows avoid costly lawsuits related to COVID-19. Senate President Robert Stivers businesses to operate if they have a COVID-19 safety plan and follow CDC (R-Manchester) is sponsoring legislation (SB 5) to provide meaningful or Healthy-at-Work guidelines (whichever is less restrictive); SB 1, which COVID-19 liability protections for businesses, healthcare providers and limits the Governor’s ability to extend emergency executive orders beyond schools. SB 5 offers premises-based liability protections for entities pro- 30 days without General Assembly approval; and SB 2, which allows for viding essential services and following recommended safety guidelines. more legislative oversight before emergency administrative regulations SB 5 does not protect an entity acting intentionally or grossly negligent. become law. Judge Phillip Shephard issued a temporary stay on HB 1 The House has also taken steps to address the liability issue with the pas- going into effect. As a result, employers are encouraged to continue to sage of HB 10 but there is concern this legislation doesn’t go far enough follow both the CDC and Healthy-at-Work guidelines. to protect essential employers. Legislative leaders have said liability pro- At the time of print, legislative conference committees continue to tection legislation is a priority to address before the session adjourns. work on the budget bills for FY21-22. House and Sente leaders have said Commerce Lexington also is advocating for legislative changes to conform the Executive Branch budget bill is likely to be continuation budget with with federal rules for PPP loans and expense deductions at the state level; little new one-time spending. legislation to modernize and increase investments in transportation infra- In February, Kentucky’s signature equine industry achieved a big leg- structure; and directing some of the federal CARES funding to the Unemploy- islative win with the passage of historical horse racing legislation in the ment Insurance Trust Fund to help more quickly replenish the Trust Fund to House and Senate. SB 120 amends current pari-mutuel statutes. The pre-pandemic levels and lessen the burden on businesses. definition now includes historical horse wagering within a regulatory Commerce Lexington urges its members to stay connected throughout framework consistent with how Kentucky’s Horse Racing Commission 2021 on policy issues. Regular email updates will be provided to members has regulated live racing and historical horse racing for the past ten years. throughout the legislative session and the year to keep business updated on Historical horse racing directly employs over 1,400 Kentuckians. It has what’s happening in Frankfort. If you have questions, need assistance with a generated more than $52 million to the state’s General Fund, $45 million policy issue, or would like to get involved with advocacy efforts, contact Andi Johnson, Chief Policy Officer and Director of Regional Engagement, at [email protected].

Register Now for 2021 Austin Leadership Visit Commerce Lexington Inc. is pleased to an- nounce that the 2021 Leadership Visit presented by Central Bank & Trust Co. will take Central Kentucky leaders to Austin, Texas, November 15-17, 2021. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin’s ability to ‘Keep it Weird’ has created a culture of innovation and creativity that is prevalent across the region. Like Lexington, Austin boasts an educated workforce, a thriving economy and favor- able business climate, excellent schools, scenic landscapes, a top-notch research university, and an overall excellent quality of life. Registration is available now for the 2021 Lead- ership Visit to Austin, Texas. For our accommoda- tions, the group will be staying at the phenomenal Four Seasons Hotel Austin, which sits on the banks of Lady Bird Lake just steps from the city’s central business and entertainment districts. Register on- line at www.commercelexington.com/leadership- visit.html. PRESENTED BY

6 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021 THIS IS WHAT’S POSSIBLE

The logistical lift to vaccinate a community and Vaccines bring with them the promise and countryRSHUDWLQJHIƓFLHQWO\DQGHIIHFWLYHO\LVQRWDQHDV is incredible. Supplies take time to move.\ potential of lives saved and extended. They offer Scheduling multiple doses of vaccines, ensuring a glimpse into a future that we hope is one step volunteers are in place and keeping a large clinic closer to normal – sooner, rather than later. The University of Kentucky plays an important role, process, nor will it be without its inevitable bumps in partnering with the state and Fayette County in the road. meeting this challenge in this moment. At Kroger Field, UK is vaccinating more than 2,000 But we will get there. We are renewing our pledge people a day – a testament to the power of working as partners and as a community to do that together. together. Teams from throughout campus – health care, athletics, emergency operations, health corps, public relations, marketing and brand strategy and That is who we are – the University of, for and many others – as well as hundreds of volunteer students, faculty and staff from our health care with Kentucky. colleges have joined forces to help the state and our community, and we will expand this reach. |

uky.edu An Equal Opportunity University

2020

“When I agreed to chair the 2020 Winner’s Circle we’ll be back to meeting in person and celebrating with Gcampaign,r I hada no ideat whati kindt of yearu it wouldd be e eachG other.azette or what we would face as a community and nation. As I want to take this opportunity to personally thank the pandemic raged on and uncertainty loomed around all of our volunteers, the Commerce Lexington staff for every corner, I was certain of one thing --- I knew that if the flawless pivot and recognize our top-producing in- anyone could come through in a crisis, it would be our dividuals during the 2020 campaign, including Abby wonderful volunteers. Vaughn (Unified Trust Co.), Mark Ruddell (Central Bank The word ‘pivot’ became the mantra for many or- & Trust Co.), and Todd Sallee (Fifth Third Bank). What ganizations, and the same was true for Commerce Lex- our volunteers were able to achieve during the Winner’s ington Inc. Everything changed in the way we conducted Circle campaign was nothing short of amazing, and I events and programs, and modifications were necessary appreciate them working so hard on behalf of Com- for Winner’s Circle as well. Instead of our usual robust merce Lexington. group of 70 to 80 volunteers, we asked our top 25 pro- BECKY REINHOLD Thank you to the many member companies who ducing volunteers to consider participating for the WINNER’S CIRCLE committed to or renewed sponsorships for 2021. Your greater good of the organization and the community. CHAIR support will enable Commerce Lexington to continue With an enthusiastic ‘YES,’ each person stepped up providing quality programming and services to the busi- and made sacrifices with selfless participation. Our typical event ness community, as we all work to get back to a sense of normalcy. gathering for luncheons or fun activities transformed into regular Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve in this role, and stay-at-home get togethers over Zoom. We made the best of a diffi- I appreciate the guidance from the many past Winner’s Circle chairs cult situation, but always had fun along the way, and soon enough, who laid the foundation for the program’s continued success.”

Top-10 Producing Volunteers 2020: Abby Vaughn...... $50,580 Mark Ruddell ...... $39,421 Todd Sallee ...... $26,684 Lisa Smith...... $23,438 Victoria Carling...... $23,423 Houston Hall...... $22,111 Cheryl Eadens...... $20,261 Jeff Koonce...... $18,800 David Kidd ...... $18,764 Kelley Bozeman ...... $18,269

PICTURED TOP LEFT: Winner’s Circle volunteers, campaign leadership and CLX staff were able to gather in-person for a socially-distanced get togther at The Cel- lar Bar & Grille back in September. PICTURED BOTTOM LEFT: Volunteers Kelly Johns, Susan Bunning and Lisa Parke enjoyed the lunch on September 18th at The Cellar Bar & Grille. 8 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021 Thank You Volunteers! #1 #2 Abby Vaughn Mark Ruddell Unified Trust Co. Top 5 Central Bank #3 #4 #5 Todd Sallee Lisa Smith Victoria Carling Fifth Third Bank Columbia Gas City National Bank

Best of the Rest Tony Bonner Kelley Bozeman Kristen Brown Susan Bunning Dinsmore University of UK HealthCare Equine Equity Kentucky Partners

Lisa Deaton Cheryl Eadens Kentucky Greer Utilities Co. Bluegrass Office University of KY Systems

Kathy Edwards Houston Hall Melia Hord Kelly Johns Lexmark Stablemate Forcht Bank Melia Realty International Group Creative

David Kidd Jeff Koonce Maxine Lee PNC Bank WesBanco CHASE/ Bank J.P. Morgan

Tamara McCain Allen McDaniel Lisa Parke Jeannine Petell Advertising Community Trust Republic Bank Lexington Clinic Foundation Specialties Bank

Camden Kaelyn Query Valeria Jeff Zinger Lexington Event Skidmore Swope Company Republic Bank WealthSouth

MARCH 2021 BUSINESS FOCUS 9 EVENTS: EMERGE CONFERENCE ///

TUESDAY, MARCH 9, 2021 | 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. EMERGE 2021 To Offer Full Day of Programming for Emerging Leaders

PRESENTED BY The delivery method may be different for the TO REGISTER: EMERGE Conference presented by Forcht Bank The cost to attend this full day of virtual program- on Tuesday, March 9th, but the full-day of virtual ming is $125 for Commerce Lexington Inc. mem- programming will engage our region’s emerging bers, $150 for non-members. Annual passholders leaders, providing community education and pro- for the Emerging Leaders of the Bluegrass professional development on a variety of topics gram can attend for $75. Registration is available through dynamic speakers and panel discus- on-line at www.commercelexington.com/emerge- sions, as well as fun activities like morning exer- 2021.html. cise and an after-party to conclude the day. PLATINUM SPONSORS KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Headlining this year’s conference will be keynote speaker and award-winning author, Justin Patton, who took the stage a couple of years ago as our opening speaker at EMERGE. During his presentation, entitled YOUR ROADMAP TO TRUST, Patton will guide participants through the four crucial elements of trust, the #1 trait that erodes trust, and how to apply those concepts in your life for better relationships and influence. Trust is your most important competitive advantage, and the best leaders use their presence to earn and keep SPEAKER SPONSOR others’ trust. OPENING KEYNOTE: The opening keynote features nationally recognized diversity and inclusion speaker Denise Hamilton, who will present on How to Be an ALLY at Work. In any organization, there are challenges and opportunities surrounding inclusion. The best just has to be brought out of you. In this talk, participants will be challenged to excavate the underlying beliefs that shape their strongly-held opinions around race and in- BRANDING SPONSOR: tersectionality. Together, Denise will help participants identify shared values and de- Lynn Imaging | Monster Color velop a framework for incorporating different perspectives. The goal of this GOLD SPONSOR: deep-dive conversation is to harness differences within teams to generate creative and innovative solutions to move others to optimal performance. By aligning your Toyota Motor Manufacturing, teams, especially leadership, Denise helps you create a path to competitive excel- Kentucky, Inc. lence, improved morale and increase retention. SILVER SPONSORS: Equity Solutions Group Lexmark International WesBanco Bank SESSION SPEAKER: Lisa Zangari, Vice President at the Leadership Louisville Center and an executive CONFERENCE BOX SPONSOR: coach, will lead a session called Unlocking Collective Genius & Innovation at Work. University of Kentucky - UK Online Innovation is a critical leadership competency for success and survival in the 21st AFTER PARTY SPONSOR: century. Developing your innovation skills and the right behaviors can give you a competitive advantage in an uncertain future. In this high-energy, high-impact ses- Dinsmore sion you will develop the mindset, behaviors and skills of an innovator and walk MENTAL HEALTH MINUTE SPONSOR: away with a practical approach for breakthrough thinking. Lexington Clinic Foundation Scan QR Code With Your Device to Register OTHER EMERGE 2021 SESSIONS:

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Creative Business Practices Achieving Equity & Inclusivity During Crazy Times in Community Engagement

10 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021 \\\ EVENTS: @330 SERIES

MONDAY, MARCH 15, 2021 | 3:30 - 4:30 P.M. | VIA ZOOM Next @330 Series Event: “Mindset” Over Matter in Difficult Situations Learn to Utilize “Mindset” to Navigate Professional & Personal Stumbling Blocks Sometimes careers and personal lives feel nice and easy. velop professionally and personally. Her ultimate goal is for However, many times they feel like the complete opposite! people to achieve clarity, peace, and the confidence to live When difficult situations arise, an individual’s habitual the life they’ve dreamed of as a result of their experience at ways of thinking about them often unknowingly make True North. things worse. During the next Commerce Lexington Inc. Scan QR Code @330 Series event on Monday, March 15, from 3:30 - 4:30, TO REGISTER: to Register via Zoom, Dr. Janelle McNeal from True North Counseling The @330 events feature a topical & Development will present a session entitled “Mindset” presentation that is relevant to the Over Matter: Mindset Tips for Personal and Professional success of entrepreneurs, business Development. DR. JANELLE owners and business profession- She will help participants take back control of their per- McNEAL als. Once you register online at sonal and professional life by teaching them how to utilize www.CommerceLexington.com, a the latest psychological research about mindset to help navigate the Zoom link for the event will be included in the stumbling blocks many people face. This session will present a fresh sign-up confirmation e-mail. perspective and practical tools to increase your odds for successful outcomes. ABOUT THE SPEAKER: April 13th @330: 4 Free Apps Dr. Janelle McNeal is the owner and director of True North Counseling & Development, a psychology private practice in the Hamburg area That Boost Productivity of Lexington. As a licensed psychologist, she works primarily with women entrepreneurs and professionals to help them achieve their Tracy Hardin “unachievable” goals and dreams. She provides counseling services and facilitates masterminds, where ambitious, high-achieving women Next Century Technologies have a space to come together and support one another as they de-

Emerging Leaders of the Bluegrass Continues Effective Programming

PRESENTED BY At last year’s EMERGE Conference, Commerce Lex- • “Lex Talk About Culinary Culture & Diversity,” ington Inc. launched the Emerging Leaders of the part of the Lex Talk About Lex Series Bluegrass (ELBG) program presented by Keeneland. ELBG is designed for professionals UPCOMING PROGRAMMING: striving to improve themselves and become more involved in our community. As its mission states, March (Lex Leader Talk): ELBG aims to expand the capacity of emerging Shannon Bishop Arvin, Keeneland President & CEO leaders to perform in leadership roles within Cen- This series features prominent local leaders inter- tral Kentucky. Since the beginning of the COVID- viewed by emerging leaders. Leadership and learning 19 pandemic, ELBG has taken its events virtual. go hand-in-hand, and our community’s most inter- PLATINUM SPONSOR: Events are monthly and focused around commu- esting leaders have leadership lessons to share on nity education or professional development. pivoting, leading through change and failing forward.

RECENT PROGRAMMING: FOR MORE INFORMATION: • "Leading in the Community" to help people An annual pass gives you access to all Emerging explore opportunities for service to the com- Leaders of the Bluegrass events. For more informa- munity. tion about the program or purchasing annual GOLD SPONSOR: • “Leading in the Community,” part of the Lead- passes, as well as a full list of upcoming events, Central Bank & Trust Co. ing in Lex Series visit www.emergingleadersbg.com. Commonwealth Credit Union

MEDIA SPONSOR: SILVER SPONSORS: Blue & Co., LLC | LG&E & KU PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SPONSOR: ExecuTrain Mahan Multimedia

MARCH 2021 BUSINESS FOCUS 11 CONNECT: LEADERSHIP CENTRAL KY ///

Leadership Central Kentucky Hears About Key Issues in Fayette County PRESENTED BY Commerce Lexington Inc. Staff Report they were hoping to get out of the session, Dr. Virgil The Leadership Central Kentucky 2020-21 class Grant led them through a leadership development presented by LG&E and KU held its Fayette County training focused on the Thinking Wavelength. Day virtually on January 20th. The session began with Next, the class met John Bevington, Director, Busi- greetings from Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton fol- ness and Economic Development, LG&E and KU, lowed by Columbia Gas President & COO Kimra Cole and Gina Greathouse, Executive Vice President, Eco- as the platinum sponsor of the program. After a time nomic Development, Commerce Lexington Inc., for of reconnecting and class members sharing what a viewing of a recorded panel from The Collective, Re- gional Summit called, “Economic Development Panel: Future of Job Creation in the Bluegrass Re- gion.” John and Gina were able to provide additional commentary and answer questions related to economic development as a regional approach for class members. After lunch, VisitLEX joined the class and led the group through a lively trivia game focused on Fayette County. VisitLEX themed prizes were mailed to the winners. Class members were then given an overview of Lexington’s downtown development projects, including the Central Bank Center, the Distillery District and Town Branch Commons. It was exciting to see how projects have moved forward despite the pandemic and learn about the impact they will have on the city and region. The final content block of the virtual session was a Regional Public Policy Panel moderated by Andi Johnson, Chief Policy Officer & Director of Regional Engagement, Commerce Lexington Inc. Panelists included Justin Landon (LBAR), Kim Menke (TMMK) and Aldona Valicenti (LFUCG). They covered topics such as workforce development, broadband, housing affordability and economic development. For the final half hour, class members debriefed on the session’s activities and the topic of regionalism as it related to the topics covered throughout the day.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LCK AT www.leadershipcentralkentucky.com

PLATINUM SPONSORS

A NiSource Company

SILVER SPONSORS: Ale-8-One | Kentucky Bank

12 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021 \\\ CONNECT: LEADERSHIP LEXINGTON

Health & Human Services Day Provides Insight Into Battle With COVID

Recap by Leslie Smart Department of Epidemiology, University of Ken- PRESENTED BY CHI Saint Joseph Health Foundations tucky College of Public Health, provided an insight- Perhaps never in the history of Leadership Lex- ful discussion as special-matter-experts on ington would Health and Human Services Day COVID-19 plans for abatement. been a more anticipated offering. Afterall, we were Dr. Andrew Henderson, CEO of Lexington nearly one year into a global pandemic. The rollout Clinic, complimented the morning session and ORIENTATION SPONSOR of the COVID-19 vaccine impacted a perfect atten- shared an important leadership lesson: understand dance of presenters, but no complaints from our reality, define reality, and then face it to figure out classmates as priorities were spot-on. solutions. That critical lesson segued perfectly into Day Chairs Katrina Howard (Lexington-Fayette a testimonial from Alex Elswick, Co-Founder, Voices County Health Department), Megan Moore (KVC of Hope, who shared his chilling personal journey MEDIA SPONSOR Behavioral HealthCare Kentucky, Inc.), Larry Jack- with addiction. son (Synergy Coach) and Carrie Thayer (Hope Cen- Our cup was full after Alex’s presentation, but ter) led a jam-packed day, and a fully engaged class the afternoon brought continued growth with a welcomed the opportunity to learn from Lexing- deeper understanding of bearers to positive health Mahan Multimedia ton’s leaders who are advancing the health and outcomes. A virtual visit to the Hope Center fol- Where Light Meets Story™ well-being of our neighbors. lowed by a non-profit panel featuring representa- PLATINUM SPONSORS Dr. Kraig E. Humbaugh, Commissioner of tives from CASA, Ampersand, Greenhouse 17 and Health, Lexington-Fayette County Health Depart- KVC Behavioral Health of Kentucky wrapped up a ment, and Dr. Kathleen Winter, Assistant Professor, day of presenters who truly are making a difference.

NAME BADGE SPONSOR: Republic Bank & Trust Co. BOOK SPONSOR: LEX History BRONZE SPONSORS: Lexington Clinic Foundation | LG&E and KU

\\\ AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT

Luca Setti, President, FocalPoint Business Coaching of the Bluegrass E-mail: [email protected] | Phone: (859) 785 0350 | Web: www.CoachLuca.com What Brought Luca Setti to Lexington?: A native of Modena, About His Role With FocalPoint: Luca works with those entre- Italy, Luca found his way to Lexington when Florida Tile, where preneurs who have the desire to find ways to enhance the he was a top executive, moved its corporate office to Lexington value and growth of their business, while making an impact in order to be near its Lawrenceburg plant and distribution in the local community. center. He said, “Commerce Lexington was instrumental in helping my company and my family to move to Kentucky.” He About Being Involved & Serving As An Ambassador: “It is im- has now worked in North America for 19 years, which includes portant for me to be involved, because by helping Commerce 11 years working here in Lexington. Lexington and its members, I feel I can make a direct impact on the people of the community I live in. That’s important to About How He Got Involved in Business Coaching: “The busi- me,” said Luca. “I like to support and promote the many val- LUCA SETTI ness coaching industry is booming all over the world and the ues and benefits that the chamber has to offer to their mem- main reason is because it works. Results are in fact the best bers. Plus, I get to meet with many of the members and offer proof,” he said. He Joined FocalPoint, because he was im- my support and help. Most of the members I have contacted pressed by the exceptional team of business experts that he are very active and engaged, so I really enjoyed getting to know found and because of the tools that they have developed to them as well.” help their clients.

Read More About Our Ambassadors on-line at www.commercelexington.com/volunteer-opportunities.html

MARCH 2021 BUSINESS FOCUS 13 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ///

NEW COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. MEMBERS FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 20 THROUGH FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Adkins Property Management ClearPath Mutual Insurance Lundy's Special Events Studio 34 Productions Real Estate Management Company Caterers Advertising Agencies Main Contact: Jason Adkins Insurance Main Contact: Alissa Tibe Main Contact: Patrick Mahan 4080 Clearwater Way Main Contact: Jeff Borkowski 1385 Pridemore Ct. 1055 Wellington Way, Suite 135 Lexington, KY 40515 9960 Corporate Campus Dr., Lexington, KY 40505 Lexington, KY 40513 Phone: (859) 494-8995 Suite 1400, Louisville, KY 40223 Phone: (859) 253-9408 Phone: (859) 687-0234 www.adkinspm.com Phone: (502) 315-4244 www.lundyscatering.com www.studio34productions.com www.clearpathmutual.com Blue Star Plastics McNee Solutions Verro Cleaning Manufacturers CultureWise Website Developer Cleaning Services Commercial & Main Contact: Mohammed Hamza Business Consultants Main Contact: Bryan McNee Residential 201 W. Louden Avenue Main Contact: Logan Nance 2505 Larkin Road, Suite 103 Main Contact: James Lowry Lexington, KY 40508 115 Coach Station Road Lexington, KY 40503 207 E. Reynolds Rd., Suite 240 Phone: (859) 255-0714 Midway, KY 40347 Phone: (800) 264-7135 Lexington, KY 40517 www.bluestarplastics.com Phone: (859) 618-9324 www.mcneesolutions.com Phone: 859-202-6381 www.culturewise.com www.verrocleaningservice.com Bluegrass Properties Group Pure UV Real Estate Cumberland Foot and Ankle Centers Technology Development Voices of Hope Lex Main Contact: Mary Ann Morris Healthcare Main Contact: Brad Rose Non-Profit Organizations 120 Prosperous Place, Suite 205 Main Contact: Janie Lee 133 N. Locust Hill Drive, Suite 110 Main Contact: Michelle Elswick Lexington, KY 40509 117 Tradepark Drive Lexington, KY 40509 450 Old Vine St., Suite 101 Phone: (859) 619-8888 Somerset, KY 42503 Phone: (844) 451-8555 Lexington, KY 40507 www.bluegrasspropertiesgroup.com Phone: (606) 679-4589 www.pureuv.net Phone: (859) 303-7671 www.myhappyfoot.com www.voicesofhopelex.org Byrne Insurance Group Staffmark Health Insurance Hare, Wynn, Newell & Newton, LLP Employment Services Wheeler Enterprises Inc. Main Contact: Stephen Potter Attorneys Main Contact: Karen Newland Manufacturers-Products 295 Patchen Drive Main Contact: Matthew Minner 1510 Newtown Pike, Suite 134 Main Contact: Raymond Wheeler Lexington, KY 40517 325 W. Main Street, Suite 210 Lexington, KY 40511 2524 Pascoli Place Phone: (859) 619-9887 Lexington, KY 40507 Phone: (859) 254-4011 Lexington, KY 40509 http://byrneinsurancegroup.com Phone: (859) 305-3572 www.staffmark.com Phone: (507) 213-2126 www.hwnninjurylaw.com Central KY Real Estate Realtors John Backman LLC Main Contact: Lana Pennington Real Estate 100 Stone Horse Lane Main Contact: John Backman Georgetown, KY 40324 P.O. Box 386, Aurora, IN 47001 Phone: (859) 983-5262 Phone: (513) 404-7131

MARCH 2, APRIL 7 AND MAY 6 | 10:00 - 11:15 A.M. | VIA ZOOM Member Mixer Helps You Make Valuable Connections, Learn About CLEX Making connections during a pandemic is chal- ways to get the most from their membership. Up- PRESENTED BY lenging to say the least. We know our members miss coming Member Mixers are scheduled for March the networking that comes with our in-person 2nd, April 7th, and May 6th, from 10:00 - 11:15 a.m. events. Since we can’t safely gather in person right Join us for the interaction and referrals you have now, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Member Mixer missed, while staying safe at home. events presented by Melia Realty Group provide an opportunity for participants to network virtually. Par- TO REGISTER: ticipants will have the opportunity to introduce them- There is no cost to participate in this MEMBERS’ selves and their businesses followed by an ONLY event. Reserve your spot at www.Com- opportunity for questions. merceLexington.com. After registering, attendees GOLD SPONSOR: Commerce Lexington Inc. staff will update par- will receive log-in information in the event registra- Next Century Technologies ticipants on upcoming member opportunities and tion confirmation. Space is limited, so register soon.

14 BUSINESS FOCUS MARCH 2021 \\\

PERSONNEL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Besten & Dieruf, PLLC recently welcomed Tara Karen Venis, CEO of Sayre Christian Village, has Bledsoe to the firm as a staff accountant. been named a Kentucky Colonel for her service to older adults in the Bluegrass throughout the Central Bank & Trust Co. announced the recent pandemic and for furthering the mission of hope, promotions of Elaine Fawbush to retail banking housing, and healthcare by expanding the Sayre officer, vice president, David Hake to director of Healthcare Center through the addition of 30 beds information security, senior vice president, and (which will make it the largest skilled nursing facility Betsy Williams to assistant BSA officer. in Fayette County) and by opening the Friendship Towers Assisted Living Expansion. The recent The Central Kentucky American Heart Association expansion at Sayre Healthcare Center and announced that Executive Director Joey Maggard Friendship Towers Assisted Living has led to the has retired after 15 years of service. addition of Executive Chef Matthew Thomas to oversee the culinary experience across campus. Dickinson Wright PLLC recently received a score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Signarama Lexington recently celebrated its 30 year 2021 Corporate Equality Index, the nation’s anniversary, and would like to thank the city of foremost benchmarking survey and report Lexington and the surrounding communities for measuring corporate policies and practices related their past and future business. to LGBTQ workplace equality. Dickinson Wright joins the ranks of 767 major U.S. businesses that Stites & Harbison, PLLC recently welcomed also earned top marks this year. attorney Katherine Moore Donnelly to the firm’s Frankfort office. Dinsmore and Shohl announced the addition of its newest partner, Robert M. (Rob) Duncan, Jr., who WesBanco Bank has again been named to Forbes joins the firm’s commercial litigation group after magazine’s list of the Best Banks in America. The serving as United States attorney for the Eastern 2021 ranking is WesBanco’s eleventh year making District of Kentucky. The firm also named Grahmn the list since its inception in 2010, and the second Morgan as the new Lexington office managing year in a row in the top 15 at No. 12. Forbes ranked partner, taking over for Chauncey Curtz, who led the the 100 largest publicly-traded banks and thrifts by Lexington office for over a decade assets based on ten metrics related to growth, credit quality, and profitability from regulatory filings Bryan Sherwood recently joined Enderle & Romans through September 30, 2020. PLLC as an executive assistant. Leslie Flynn (Central Bank & Trust Co.) has been Kentucky Bank was recently acquired by Stock Yards named the new chair of the YMCA of Central Bank. Current Kentucky Bank President and CEO, Kentucky’s board of directors. Flynn succeeds Al Louis Prichard, will join Stock Yards Bank with the Isaac who continues to serve as an executive title of Central Kentucky Market President. committee member. . The board of directors also announced six new members and two advisory The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced board chairs, including C.M. Gatton Beaumont that Marielle McElmurray has been named its new YMCA Advisory Board Chair Mike Heath (Heath special projects manager. Healthcare Consulting) and YMCA Black Achievers Program Advisory Board Chair Johnnie Johnson LexArts announced that Ame Sweetall has been (Transylvania University). New board members named as president & CEO, after serving as interim include Carla Blanton (Carla Blanton Consulting), president since February 2020. The organization Jonathan Caldwell (Valvoline), Miranda M. Scully also announced the election of eight new board (Fayette County Public Schools), Andrew Smith members: Jessica Berry, YMCA of Central Kentucky; (University of Kentucky), Billy Spears (Lexmark Lauren Case, Fayette County Public Schools; International), and Delaine Thiel (Lexington Michelle Deans, MCM CPA; Bill Farmer, Jr., Catholic). Farmer's Jewelry; Maeve Goodman, Mt. Brilliant Farm; Stefan Hendrickson, Dean Dorton; Kathy Plomin, Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council; SUBMIT PERSONNEL NEWS: and Rachel Ray, Lexington Children's Theatre. Submit your company’s awards, personnel changes, additions, or promotions for Business Focus to McBrayer PLLC recently added seven attorneys [email protected]. Information across its Lexington and Louisville offices, including is published in the order received & as space permits. Alexandria Beto, Addison Lowry, Meryem Kahloon, and Sidney Vieck as associates, Ed Monarch and Louis Winner as members, and Cary Howard as general counsel and ethics counsel.

MARCH 2021 BUSINESS FOCUS 15 3/21

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: UPCOMING EVENTS

MARCH 2021: APRIL 2021: Member Mixer presented by Melia Realty Group, 10:00 - 11:15 Member Mixer presented by Melia Realty Group, 10:00 - 11:15 2 a.m. via Zoom. - SEE PAGE 14 7 a.m. via Zoom. - SEE PAGE 14

SPOTLIGHT Series presented by WealthSouth, 10 - 11 a.m., Leadership Lexington program presented by McBrayer PLLC: 3 features discussion on diversity, inclusion & equity; Register 8 Economic Development Day Session. on-line at www.CommerceLexington.com. @330 Series, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., presents Four Free Apps that 2021 EMERGE Conference presented by Forcht Bank; Full-day 13 Boost Productivity with Tracy Hardin. 9 virtual event. - SEE PAGE 10 Leadership Central Kentucky program presented by LG&E and Leadership Lexington program presented by McBrayer PLLC: 21 KU - PPL companies: Clark County Day. 11 Arts Day Session. @330 Series, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., presents “Mindset” Over Matter MAY 2021: 15 in Difficult Situations with Dr. Janelle McNeal. - SEE PAGE 11 Member Mixer presented by Melia Realty Group, 10:00 - 11:15 6 a.m. via Zoom. - SEE PAGE 14 Leadership Central Kentucky program presented by LG&E and 17 KU - PPL companies at Scott County Day. JULY 2021: Presented by Fifth Third Bank, our pre-eminent networking CLEX TEAM IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS: event and celebration of business, the Annual Dinner, will be For the safety of our staff and the public, Commerce held in July 2021 (date TBD). We can’t wait to see many of you Lexington’s lobby area and meeting spaces will be closed until face-to-face and put 2020 behind us. it is deemed safe to gather in groups once again. Although our offices are closed to the general public, CLEX remains open for business as our team continues to work on behalf of members, answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and communicate NOVEMBER 2021: Leadership Visit to Austin, Texas presented by Central Bank & important resources during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 15-17 Trust Co. - SEE PAGE 6 reopening process. If you have questions or need assistance for your business, access our staff directory at www.CommerceLexington.com.