BUSINESS JOURNAL OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MAY/JUNE 2020
NAVIGATING THE CURVE CONNECTED AS A COMMUNITY 8 GROW NKY PARTNERS RISE UP 14 GOVERNING THE CURVE 16
Celebrating Over 70 Years of Honoring Commitments to Our Clients What matters most, each and every day, is helping our clients address three of life’s greatest challenges. We provide access to quality, affordable health care through the bridge of insurance. We provide planning and investment guidance to build wealth for your retirement and ultimately the next generation. We design insurance products and services to mitigate the risk of living too long, dying too soon or becoming disabled. HORAN is proud to deliver legendary service, achieve great outcomes for Kentucky clients and support the continued growth and enrichment of the region. For more information about how HORAN can provide innovative solutions and healthier outcomes for your business, contact Shannon Schumacher at 859.572.4500 or ShannonS@horanassoc.com.
8
CONTENTS
4 Chair's Letter 8 Connected as a Community 12 GROW NKY Partners Rise Up During COVID-19
12
14 Promoting Civility and Effective Communication in the Virtual Workplace 16 Governing the Curve 22 Around the Chamber 26 Ribbon Cuttings 29 Member Milestones 30 Upcoming Events
16
ON THE COVER: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine
GOVERNING THE CURVE MAY/JUNE 2020 VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 3
CHAIR’S LETTER
DAN CAHILL
Chair, NKY Chamber President & CEO, HSD Metrics
"Business owners are resilient. Any one of us can take it on the chin from time to time: a large client leaves, vendors disappoint us, taxes go up or new ideas fail. We are a tough bunch. This latest punch has been brutal."
AS THE OWNER OF A SMALL business, I have been asked one question a lot over the last few weeks: How are you doing? I have always gotten asked that question, but lately it comes with much more genuine concern. I always say I am doing well, but the truth is, it depends when you ask me. Some days I do really well. I am optimistic. Some days I am really down. I get worried about payroll, revenue, etc. But I am always worried about those things. Business owners are resilient. Any one of us can take it on the chin from time to time: a large client leaves, vendors disappoint us, taxes go up or new ideas fail. We are a tough bunch. This latest punch has been brutal. It would be easier at times to stay down and wait out the 10 count. I wouldn’t blame any business owner who considers it. I have a lot of contingency plans for my business, but even my business continuity plan doesn’t cover a global pandemic. In my search for a direction, I came across a researcher from the Harvard Business Review who studied what successful companies do during the low times to spring forward as markets normalize. First, they focused on operational efficiencies versus total cuts. I interpret this as they don’t panic. It might be scary to think of taking the federal CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) dollars and rehiring employees without knowing how to keep them busy, but the companies who come out of poor financial times think for the long term. Never have time to innovate? Want to re-build your staffing model from the ground up? Now’s the time.
"What can you do to bring something new to the market?" The other thing successful companies do during a recession to generate longterm success is innovate during the lows. We are in development of a new product. We are speaking to clients about their needs. We are offering no cost programs to create long-term clients loyalty. What can you do to bring something new to the market? These are the exact principles at work at the NKY Chamber. Our team has called every one of our over 1,600 members to check in. We are discovering new ways to offer programs, including our NKY Restaurant Relief Fund. We are reviewing every process and expense to ensure we are operating at maximum efficiency. We hope you have seen our on-going communications and have benefited from the connectivity we have with other community stakeholders and municipalities. I recognize that for many of our members this crisis has been a total disaster, but we are a resilient bunch. The NKY Chamber shares your pain and looks forward to watching you rise up. We will continue to do all we can to help. As Einstein shared: Life is like riding a bicycle. In order to keep your balance, you’ve got to keep moving. NK Y BE WELL AND KEEP MOVING.
Life is like riding a bicycle. In order to keep your balance, you've got to keep moving. - Albert Einstein PAGE 4
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
40% 40% NKY Chamber is partnering with Humana to help businesses with one of their largest expenses: health insurance. NKY Chamber HealthSolutions is a new health insurance association exclusively for NKY Chamber members with 2+ employees With HealthSolutions, many NKY Chamber members will see savings between 5-40% on health insurance premiums .* NKY Chamber is partnering with Humana to help businesses with one of their largest expenses: health insurance. NKY Chamber HealthSolutions is a new health insurance association exclusively for NKY Chamber members with 2+ employees
Contact your NKY Chamber Broker to start saving
Thanks to our participation in the NKY Chamber Health With Solutions Program, Granite World can offer HealthSolutions, many NKY Chamber excellent employee benefits are5-40% generally members will see savings which between unaffordable for small businesses like .* ours. This is a on health insurance premiums huge advantage in a competitive labor market.
Health Contact your Solutions NKY Chamber Broker
Joe & Holly Nienaber Custom Cabinetry & Countertops Granite World
Health Solutions
to start saving
Thank YOU to our Sponsors Presenting Sponsor
Nurturing Families Sponsor
Champion for Children Sponsor
Inspiring Individuals Sponsor Fifth Third Insurance Thrive Village Mutual of America Furlong Building Enterprises Cincinnati Bell CVG Airport Turner Construction 4C for Children
Nehemiah Manufacturing KW Mechanical, Inc. Schone Kitchen Design Forcht Bank Roeding Insurance Group Brandicorp Republic Bank
Caring Contributor Sponsor The Model Group Schneller & Knochelmann Heating Zalla Companies Commonwealth Bank & Trust Co. Frost Brown Todd, LLC Anne M. Maxfield, LLC PCA Architecture US Bank Centennial Corinthian Baptist Church Talent Magnet Mission Tool & Machine, LLC T& W Printing Greater Cincinnati Foundation Earl Franks Sons & Daughters
YOU nurture Lifelong Success!
74 YEARS OF SERVING KENTUCKY.
CRESTVIEW HILLS • FT. MITCHELL • FLORENCE • UNION CENTRALBANK.COM • 859-905-5502
Member FDIC
centralbank.com
EFFECTIVE EFFICIENT
DRIVING RESULTS SCOOTER MEDIA PUBLIC RELATIONS covington, ky | www.scootermedia.com | (859) 414-6882 Cincinnati PRSA 2019 Small/Mid-Sized PR Agency of the Year
CENTRAL TO YOU
Connected as a Community
By: Candace McGraw CEO, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
PAGE 8
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
THE EMOTIONAL AND FINANCIAL TOLL THAT THIS PANDEMIC has inflicted on our families, friends and businesses can be overwhelming. But amid a crisis, it is necessary to remain calm, assess the situation, and dig in even deeper to care for our corner of the world. I remain resolute that we will manage through this crisis, and, eventually, all will be well. Ours is a community of good neighbors; our ability to connect matters. Our airport operations personnel are working on-site daily to make sure CVG is operational so our cargo partners can keep supply chains moving and our terminals open for the emergency trip to care for a sick loved one. DHL and Amazon team members are working at peak holiday season pace to ensure badly needed medical supplies get into the hands of our frontline medical workers. Northern Kentucky residents have stepped up to help restaurant workers who have lost their jobs. Our homeless have been housed with showers and are receiving nourishing meals. Hardworking people, though recently let go from a job, are sewing masks so first responders have some protection in this fight. There are myriad examples of the ways we are connecting to care for our neighbors, uniting for the common good of our corner of the world—working together as a community. In the last two decades at CVG, we have dealt with the Comair strike, the terror attacks of 9/11, the dehubbing of a major carrier, and then many years of rebuilding, improving, and diversifying the airport business. Each time, the challenges we confronted strengthened our resolve and made us more resilient, and I hope, a little wiser. We tried to rebuild in a manner that made us stronger and more capable of handling the next challenge. We were able to make these improvements and to achieve our most recent successes because of the support provided by our community. I know once we can travel and connect with each other once more, this community will again support CVG. The months ahead will not be easy for many of our families and local businesses. However, as we have done in the past and will continue to do in the future, we will come together and act as a community of good neighbors. I have confidence in our region and its willingness to help and work hard. Yes, our economy—both regional and global—will likely shrink because of this pandemic. But every member of this Chamber, every citizen of our region, is now offered the opportunity to reflect on what matters and become better because of it. This region has grit, and these are the times that we should renew our focus on success. I have been privileged to lead CVG for almost 10 years, to work with a dedicated team as we faced trying times together, and to be adopted as part of this community. I have spent my career in the airport business because aviation is awe-inspiring, innovative, and, most importantly, it provides connections that strengthen our relationships and businesses. While I would welcome you to travel through CVG again once we can do so, it has become clear to me that this community has the resolve to remain connected even through this pandemic because we are a community of good neighbors. NK Y
COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 9
Employer Best Practices Symposium
The Future of Work Thursday, August 6 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM Receptions Banquet & Conference Center 1379 Donaldson Road, Erlanger, KY
→
Scan to Register
Title Sponsor:
Host Sponsor:
Event Sponsors:
Innovation Sponsor:
Presenting Sponsors:
Breakfast Sponsor:
An amazing event begins with a spectacular view...
and ends as a truly memorable experience. Private Dining with a View! • Corporate Meetings • Fundraisers • Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners • Holiday Parties • Birthday & Anniversary Celebrations • And More! Mention this ad and we’ll waive your room rental fee! Contact The Metropolitan Club for information: Melanie Sandy, Director of Catering: 859-392-2462, msandy@metropolitanclub.net Sydney Meyer, Catering Sales Manager: 859-392-2466, smeyer@metropolitanclub.net
859-491-2400
•
www.metropolitanclub.net
QUALITY ASSURANCE The quality of your education directly impacts the quality of your life. Xavier University has been providing the highest quality business education since 1831. We offer several pathways to a MBA that will fit with your lifestyle. The value of the curriculum, faculty, students, and alumni provides a return on your educational investment that is unmatched in the region. We are positive the experience will enhance your life and career for the better. CHOOSE FROM: • Executive MBA • Full-time MBA • Online MBA • Part-time MBA
READY TO MAKE THE MOVE? Let us improve your quality of life.
xavier.edu/mba
NORTHERN KENTUCKY COOPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI & LEARNING GROVE In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, parents transitioned to home offices while orders were made to shut down thousands of childcare locations across the region. As early childhood education providers were forced to make difficult decisions, partners such as the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati and Learning Grove were granted special pandemic child care licenses to operate and provide care to emergency personnel and essential workers. To learn more about Learning Grove’s pandemic childcare services for emergency personnel, visit www.learninggrove.org. To learn more about YMCA of Greater Cincinnati’s response to COVID-19 visit www.myy.org. PAGE 12
"Our teachers and students have worked harder and longer with more creativity and grit than ever before to make online learning as convenient and valuable as possible. Their adaptability and positivity in these unprecedented circumstances has been nothing short of heroic.”
"I am optimistic that the 48-hour period School districts quickly pivoted beginning around and shifted from in-person school to noon on March 11 will nontraditional instruction (NTI) as the new forever be etched in my normal for K-12 students across Northern memory as the time Kentucky. In three days, schools changed frame that changed how public education was delivered in NKY. public education,” (See the timeline graphic below.) Dr. Robb Smith said Dr. Robb Smith, Superintendent of Bellevue Independent “We were on the Schools. “I want to someday reflect on front lines of moving that moment when educators across our learning online,” state found their voice in the face of the says Fort Thomas greatest crisis we could imagine." Independent Schools Superintendent Dr. Karen Cheser. “The Boone County speed at which we Schools Superintendent, Dr. Karen Cheser moved and adapted Dr. Randy Poe, shared and the quality of the systems and his thoughts on curriculum we put into place is a educating students testament to the courageous leadership during and beyond of our administration team, faculty, staff, the pandemic with students and families. the NKY Tribune, "NTI (Non-Traditional Instruction) Dr. Randy Poe noting, “These times was created to ensure students could are unprecedented but I have confidence learn through snow days or inclement this generation will set a NEW precedent weather. No one anticipated the program for how to use this community’s skills of would need to be employed for a global kindness, hope, and compassion from what pandemic and used for such an extended we’ve experienced to continue Achieving period of time. Excellence Together.” To read the article, visit www.nkytribune.com and search “Randy Poe.”
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
KENTUCKY CAREER CENTER - NKY / BRIGHTON CENTER
GREATER CINCINNATI COLLEGIATE CONNECTION (GC3)
ULIMI & MARCUS MANAGEMENT
Upon realizing they could no longer serve job seekers and employers in person, the Kentucky Career Center-NKY moved to an online system to address and navigate the overwhelming number of individuals seeking Unemployment Insurance benefits and companies seeking resources for their employees and hiring needs. The Kentucky Unemployment Insurance Employer Handbook for COVID-19 was created by the KY Education & Workforce Development Cabinet to help employers and employees navigate Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in light of COVID-19. The guide provides information on e-claim filing, policy updates, and clarity on the subject of furloughs, layoffs and work share. Visit www.kcc.ky.gov to download the guide.
With the impact to post-secondary students with internships and co-ops throughout the region, the Greater Cincinnati Collegiate Connection (GC3), the Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati USA Regional Chambers collaborated in an effort to assess the current status of internship opportunities in the region and asked businesses to provide input on how they are approaching their internship programs for Summer 2020. To learn more about the Internship Initiative, visit www.gccollegiateconnection.org.
Technology company Ulimi, and property management company Marcus Management came together and produced a piece, titled “Promoting Civility and Effective Communication in the Virtual Workplace,” as a guide for employers as they navigate remote workplaces and the impact this has on company culture. Read the full article on the following pages. →
CINCINNATI RECOGNIZED AS TOP CITY FOR COLLEGE GRADS The financial website SmartAsset ranked Cincinnati #1 in its ranking of best cities for new college grads in 2020. The website analyzed data for the 115 largest U.S. cities, looking specifically at 10 metrics including average earnings, number of jobs and affordability. To learn more about the rankings, visit www.smartasset.com.
COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 13
By: Debbie Curl-Nagy, Managing Partner, Marcus Management Consultants, LLC Doug Goodwin, VP Strategic Partnerships, Ulimi We have seen a lot of great tips for this new normal of remote working. Best practices and recommendations for technology, workspace, monitoring employee work performance and implementing new employment policies are critical information in helping us be successful in this virtual work world. However, having a good technical solution is only part of the equation for achieving success. It is important that we also consider how we continue to promote a respectful and effective work culture for our now distant employees.
Workplace Civility Workplace civility is behavior that helps to establish norms for mutual respect at work. It comprises behaviors that are fundamental to positively connecting with one another by building relationships and empathizing with others. Workplace civility is locally defined, and context makes a difference. Even if teams have worked well together in the past, the changing context from in-person to virtual will impact how behaviors are defined and interpreted, i.e. civil vs uncivil. Take for example a delayed response from a colleague to an email – I may be more likely to interpret this delay as disrespectful when working remotely than when we’re in the same building and I can just walk by your office to follow up. Additionally, we know that stress can exacerbate incivility and its impacts. The additional stress of the COVID-19 situation could be a precipitator of uncivil workplace behaviors. We know from the research that incivility and civility are contagious. If I perceive your behavior as uncivil, I am more likely to respond in kind. The spiraling nature of uncivil behavior will negatively impact productivity, work performance, job satisfaction and your bottom line. Conversely, civil behavior will promote further respectful behaviors and positively impact these same outcomes. So, how do you promote a civil and respectful culture in a virtual world? Here are some tips to help leaders promote workplace civility:
PAGE 14
•
• • •
• •
Consistently communicate to employees the importance of maintaining respect and civility in their interactions with their colleagues and customers Model respect in your communications and interactions Check in and touch base with employees – not just task focused, but ask how things are going Encourage virtual teams to set their ground rules for meetings and define what is and is not acceptable behavior when conducting their work Encourage open dialog about how things are going and how to improve team effectiveness Communicate policies for reporting or discussing concerns that cannot be handled within the team or rise to the level of harassment
What's most important is that we continue to connect with one another - yes, to accomplish our work, but also to continue being human. A little respect and human connection will go a long way in helping us all to come out on the other end of this crisis okay.
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
So, don't get too stressed about the technology, dogs barking, kids interrupting, or using the perfect remote facilitation techniques. What's most important is that we continue to connect with one another - yes, to accomplish our work, but also to continue being human. A little respect and human connection will go a long way in helping us all to come out on the other end of this crisis okay.
So the question is how exactly do we effectively convey tone digitally? A good model is the CARE approach.
Effective Communication
In a physical context, our brains are designed to connect with the brains of others. But so much of that happens on a sub-concious level that comes from our gestures, facial expressions, posture, proximity to the listener, eye movement, physical contact, and our dress and appearance. When speaking remotely we must be aware and in control of our pitch, the speed of our speech, and the volume of our voice. In a video call facial expressions matter even more, wandering eyes can convey disinterest. Make sure you smile and maintain a good facial expression. You are at work so dress appropriately. Ask questions with the intent to understand. And as you ask a brilliant open-ended question, allow time for the other person to answer it! Then ask follow up questions. Be aware that the gap between a person’s intention and another’s perception is where misunderstanding occurs. As we ask our follow up questions, reiterate your perception to clarify the intention of the person you are speaking with. The benefits of active listening include getting people to open up and avoid misunderstandings but adding empathy can help to resolve conflict and build trust. Being an empathic listener will earn respect, reduce tensions, encourage additional information to be added, and create a safe environment that is conducive to collaborative problem solving. One final tip, if you have the option to assume intent, and you almost always do in remote communication. Assume postive intent, then procede to CARE. NK Y
Strong communication skills can help to promote workplace civility and are an integral skill to working remotely. In over 20 years of working and managing remote teams we’ve learned that communicating effectively with a team you seldom, if ever, actually see is definitely a skill. The good news is these skills can be learned fairly quickly and benefit everyone who puts in the time and effort to improve. The first thing we need to keep in mind is that communication is only 7% about the verbal language we use. Non-verbal communication conveys 93% of the message. In a remote conversation you have to modify your approach to be clear and impactful. Not paying attention to this detail, you risk finding yourself dealing with issues that you never intended and can become a real distraction. In the absence of body language, you have to understand that digital tone matters. This includes taking a pause to think carefully before you respond. Make sure you listen intently to what is being said. And when on video conference be concientious of you posture, your appearance, and especially your face.
• • • •
Connect Ask Reiterate Empathize
GROW NKY is a strategic workforce collective comprised of leaders across key industries, educational institutions and community organizations working collaboratively to leverage the region’s assets to grow, attract and retain a globally competitive workforce. By leveraging a collective impact strategy, GROW NKY allows partners to align strategic efforts, resources and utilize data to inform decisions and measure progress toward regional workforce outcomes. The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is the backbone organization leading the strategic workforce collective. GROW NKY focuses on five key areas of workforce development, including: kindergarten readiness; college and career readiness; adult career readiness and lifelong learning; talent retention and attraction; and employer policies and practices. The GROW NKY strategic workforce collective is comprised of more than 70 partners who serve as subject matter experts and industry leaders dedicated to unifying workforce development efforts in Northern Kentucky.
COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 15
Governing the Curve Governors Beshear and DeWine Combat Coronavirus PAGE 16
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
In the midst of a crisis unlike anything seen in at least a century, two unlikely heroes have emerged onto the world stage. One, a Republican, is a former United States Senator with nearly 50 years of public service. The other, a Democrat, is 30-plus years his counterpart’s junior less than six months into his first term in his state’s highest office. They are men of different generations, different ideologies and political parties, yet both are receiving praise worldwide for leadership with their similar yet unique responses to a global pandemic. By: Tabari McCoy, Scooter Media
COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 17
Mike DeWine (R-OH) may never have intended to be a COVID-19 pandemic response trailblazer, but that’s exactly what has happened – leading the BBC to recently dub him as “The U.S. Governor who saw it coming early.” The 70th governor of Ohio, the 73 year-old DeWine shut down the Arnold Classic, an international bodybuilding showcase named for bodybuilderturned-actor-turned former governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger, on March 5 out of COVID-19 fears. Ohio did not have a confirmed case of COVID-19 at the time DeWine made the decision, which economists estimate cost the City of Columbus $53 million in revenue. Many were critical of DeWine’s move at the time … Only to see leaders in other states take similar actions within a week’s time as COVID-19 cases began to be confirmed nationwide. DeWine continued to take similar decisive actions in the following weeks, being among the first to close in-person academic instruction, non-essential stores and exploring unemployment options for affected workers.
Explaining his COVID-19 response in an interview with The Washington Post, DeWine said his biggest past regrets, “stem from not digging deeply enough into the facts and trusting the experts.” This explains his reliance upon and deference to Dr. Amy Acton, Director of the Ohio Department of Health, in regards to answering questions about the spread of the virus and all other related medical and scientific topics. At no point throughout the proceedings has DeWine come across bombastic, self-promoting or insensitive to public concerns, instead coming off as an understated yet confident decision maker guided by the best resources available. Instead of being reactionary, DeWine and his team have looked for emerging trends that would aid in flattening Ohio’s curve as best possible. DeWine has seemingly filled the role of a calm, quiet focused expertise whose emotions stay at home in his response; in contrast, his counterpart across the Ohio River has seemingly brought a personal, emotionally invested – and as many see it, positive and reassuring – one in his to great success based on his state’s numbers, compared to many others.
PICTURED: (Clockwise from top left) Governor Beshear and sign language interpreter Virginia Moore; Dr. Amy Acton and Governor Mike DeWine; Gov. Beshear talks about flattening the curve of COVID-19, in comparison with the effects of social distancing on 1918 influenza deaths; Gov. DeWine dons a mask.
PAGE 18
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
e
RE/MAX Affiliates
Moving in? moving out? moving up? Bringing buyers & sellers together for 24 years John Lorms | Realtor RE/MAX Affiliates 859.486.0060 john@JohnLormsRealEstate.com
During WesBanco’s 150 years, we have maintained strong community banking roots, as well as a commitment to the success of the communities in which we live and do business. We pride ourselves on delivering large bank capabilities with a community bank feel. WesBanco is honored to be a part of your community and we look forward to serving you in the years to come. TRUST STRENGTH
COMMUNITY SUPPORT STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
wesbanco.com
WesBanco Bank, Inc. is a Member FDIC
“In Governor Beshear and Governor DeWine, you have two men on opposite sides of the same coin united in the fight against a common enemy in COVID-19...
They have shown that when you think about and act on behalf of the greater good, you can inspire the world to watch and follow your lead.” Brent Cooper, CEO, NKY Chamber
PAGE 20
A Democrat in a traditionally red state that became governor by just 5,000 votes, Andy Beshear (D-Kentucky), has been thrust into the national spotlight not just because of what he’s done as governor, but how he’s done it. Following nearly the same timeline as DeWine in terms of COVID-19 related executive orders (sometimes beating him to the punch), Beshear’s demeanor and candor has made him the talk of social media and must-see TV for many. His 5 p.m. daily updates have inspired “Beers with Beshear” drinking games as his constituents wait to see the day’s selected inspiring Twitter posts or images and hear his catchphrases – his two most popular being “We will get through this; we will get through this together” and “We can’t be doing that.” Championing his state, Beshear constantly tells Kentuckians how proud he is of their efforts to flatten the curve, their generous donations and how he, as both a husband and a father, understands and appreciates their sacrifices. Likewise, wearing his heart on his sleeve has revealed his frustrations with people hosting mass gatherings, working with an admittedly outdated unemployment system, businesses trying to skirt restrictions and his own limitations. The effect? A modern Mister Rogers-style everyman more concerned with the well-being of others than himself. Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brent Cooper finds both an inspired study of leadership the region will need to endure the pandemic and thrive in the future. “In Governor Beshear and Governor DeWine, you have two men on opposite sides of the same coin united in the fight against a common enemy in COVID-19,” said Cooper. “They have shown that when you think about and act on behalf of the greater good, you can inspire the world to watch and follow your lead.” The honesty, transparency, integrity and humility of Governor Beshear and Governor DeWine has strengthened public trust – even as incredibly difficult (and sometimes unpopular) decisions are made. As they prepare to re-open the economy, their actions have become the model for leadership in times of crisis to ensure the public’s safety, well-being and ensure the people they serve emerge from this the way that they have worked: together, united and hopeful of a safer – and better – future. NK Y
Check out the selection of Beshear-related swag at KYforKY.com
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
Trusted Solutions. Focused on You. You can count on Civista Bank to bring creative, customized solutions and prompt answers to your business and personal banking needs. Our experienced team is focused on your ongoing success and the growth of the communities we call home. Whether you want to finance a project, purchase new inventory or buy a new home, our primary goal is to help you achieve yours.
Zachery Bailey Private Banking NMLS# 869670
Greg Corsmeier Mortgage Lending NMLS# 643600
859.320.1254
859.320.1252
Kevin Garrett
David Stringer
859.320.1253
859.320.1251
Over
$1
billion
in loans outstanding to commercial businesses. Commercial Banking Commercial Banking
Learn more at civista.bank
Mark Sams
300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 103 Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 800.604.9368
Regional Market Executive
812.496.0704
Member FDIC NMLS# 412766
19CZN69 CommBankAd_7x4.875_r1.indd 1
11/18/19 4:17 PM
WE’RE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US. WE ENCOURAGE OUR TRAVELERS TO STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY. WE’LL SEE YOU SOON. VisitCVGairport.com/FlyHealthy for more information
AROUND THE CHAMBER
Gravity Diagnostics, with help from NKY Tri-ED, CTI Clinical Trials and others, has greatly expanded their lab services and is working largely with hospitals in Kentucky and first responder groups to process tests for COVID-19.
Donna Salyers’ Fabulous Furs has shifted from making faux fur coats, jackets, clothing and accessories, to making surgical masks for St. Elizabeth Hospital, Christ Hospital and others.
Aquisense and Mazak are working together to develop a new device to disinfect masks being used by hospital workers, allowing their usage to be extended, called the PearlSurface. Photo by Debby Shipp.
The Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services launched #InspireNKY to build community and promote positive stories during this challenging time. Join by using #InspireNKY on social media and share your story of how you've connected with a regional school through your company or at home during COVID-19. Visit sites.google. com/nkces.org/inspirenky/home for more information.
PAGE 22
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
In step with their ongoing #heartthecity efforts, 7 Hills Church launched the COVID-19 HTC Response Team to meet the needs of the community by providing GoPacks (food and hygiene supplies) to struggling families, elderly and shut-ins; resourcing first responders, hospitals and essential workers with PPE; making care kits for nursing home residents; and donating $12,500 to Welcome House.
Our sweet friends at Perfetti van Melle have been busy delivering some candy care package deliveries to area first responders, such as the Erlanger Police Department (top), the Point Pleasant Fire Department (middle) and the Independence Fire Department (bottom), among many others.
The YMCA has opened facilities only to health care workers and first responders needing access to child care. They are also making wellness calls, “porch visits� when possible and safe, and deliveries of shelf stable foods and toiletries to homebound seniors, as well as offering meals and food access to children, seniors and families in close proximity to some Y facilities.
All photos are member-provided, unless otherwise noted. COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 23
Title Sponsor 2020 Outstanding Women Honorees
Lisa Cooper Executive Director, NKY Area Development District
Wafa Nasser, M.D. Owner/President, The Whole Child Pediatrics, PSC
Teri VonHandorf, Ed.D. Vice President of Academic Affairs, Gateway Community & Technical College
Kim M. Webb
2 0 2 0 AWA R D S
Executive Director, Emergency Shelter of NKY
Please join us as we come together as a community to celebrate these outstanding women who have made a difference in Northern Kentucky.
Register at:
NKYChamber.com/OWNK Sponsorships still available. Contact Diana McGlade at dmcglade@NKYChamber.com. For additional information contact Gina Bath at gbath@NKYChamber.com.
2020 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship Recipients
Savannah Buck
Barbie Watkins
Holly Jenkins
Gateway Community & Technical College
Northern Kentucky University
Thomas More University
Si l ver Sp on sors
Laura S. Menge Senior Philanthropic Advisor, Greater Cincinnati Foundation
2020 Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Honoree presented by St. Elizabeth Healthcare
Kristi P. Nelson Vice President Global Human Resources & General Counsel, Multi-Color Corporation
Tuesday, June 23 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Presente d by
2020 Emerging Leader Honoree
Ed u ca t ion Pa r t n ers
2020 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Honoree
Tammy Weidinger President & CEO, Brighton Center, Inc.
A great goal is to promote growth in our communities, and in your organization. Steve Brunson Market President
Congratulations to Steve Brunson, new Market President of Northern Kentucky. We would like to congratulate Steve Brunson and formally introduce him as the new Market President of Northern Kentucky. “We’re optimistic that Steve will not only continue to help us grow our market share, but serve as a leader in the local community,” said Tucker Ballinger, President & CEO of Forcht Bank.
Northern Kentucky | Cincinnati Member FDIC | forchtbank.com
Show the World You Still Exist We’re here to help. Stay connected with your audience through video storytelling. www.spottedyeti.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS THE POINT/ARC - ZEMBRODT EDUCATION CENTER 104 West Pike Street | Covington, Kentucky 41011 | (859) 491-9191 | zembrodteducationcenter.org PICTURED: Joseph Meyer, Mayor of Covington; John Hodge, President Century Construction; Kevin Hemmer, President Kevin Hemmer Construction; Bruce Updike, Superintendent, Century Construction; Gerry & Tony Zembrodt, Honorees; Judi Gerding, President The Point; Chris Meyer, Architect, Hub & Weber; Brent Cooper, President NKY Chamber; Jeffrey Gehrig, Area VP, Spectrum; Jennifer Wells, VP Zembrodt Education Center
LET US HELP YOU PROMOTE!
We want to help you promote and celebrate your ribbon cutting ceremony During WesBanco’s 150 years, we have maintained strong community banking for your new facility, expansion, anniversary celebration or open house! We’ll roots, as well as a commitment to the success of the communities in which we bring our trademark giant blue scissors, a group of Chamber ambassadors, live and do business. We pride ourselves on delivering large bank capabilities with a community bank feel. and a camera to capture the excitement of your special day. Call Lynn Abeln is honored to be a part of your at (859) 578-6390 to schedule your FREE ribbon cutting today!WesBanco community and we look forward to serving
Ribbon Cuttings Sponsored by:
you in the years to come.
TRUST STRENGTH
COMMUNITY SUPPORT STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
wesbanco.com
WesBanco Bank, Inc. is a Member FDIC
Support small businesses. Complete the census. The 2020 Census will provide data to small businesses that is essential to help them grow and succeed. This data can help businesses better understand how to serve their customers, where to open new locations, and where to find a skilled workforce. Respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail for a complete and accurate census.
2020CENSUS.GOV D-HP-BZ-EN-452
X-XX-XX-XX-XXX
A LICENSE TO DISTILL? The world is changing, moving faster, and demanding more than ever. At the University of Kentucky, we’re inspiring your path forward. You can earn a Distillation, Wine and Brewing Studies undergraduate certificate online at UK. With more than 95% of the world’s bourbon produced in Kentucky, there’s no better place to learn about distilling spirits than at the state’s flagship university – home of the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits. Our commitment doesn’t stop there, with more than 40 degrees available 100% online, you’ll discover that everything is achievable and nothing is out of reach. This is what we make possible.
uky.edu/ukonline An Equal Opportunity University
PEI Supplying SOLUTIONS in the Supply Chain for over 25 years
Premier Expediters Inc. is a full service, domestic & international freight forwarder headquartered in Stockbridge, GA. Anything over 100lbs moving anywhere on the globe, we can handle. By offering superior customer service & giving the best shipment visibility we save companies money in labor cost by reducing back office administration which leads to a better experience for you & your customer. A happy customer equals a return customer. Just ask some of ours...
Truckloads–Local & Long Hauls
Flatbeds/ Special Equipment
LTL & Partials
Ground Expedite
Local Cartage
Reverse Logistics/ RMA Trade Show Services
Intl Airfreight
Air Charters
Ocean Freight Warehousing & Cross-docking
White Glove Delivery
Domestic Airfreight
Packaging/ Crating
10K sqft Warehouse
Dynamic Supply Chain Solutions an exclusive agent of PEI
859-331-SHIP cvgops@shippei.com
At the NKY Chamber
When your business experiences problems, we provide SOLUTIONS.
Our mission is to promote and support the development of strong businesses and a vibrant economy. We care about all businesses, small or large, and how this crisis affects them. Our number one priority is to help our members navigate these uncertain times. As an organization, we have worked side-by-side with local businesses for 50 years, and we’ll continue to be here to encourage your success and provide you with valuable resources to aid you through this difficult time.
FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS
SALES & MARKETINGS SOLUTIONS
OPERATIONAL SOLUTIONS
Maximize Profitability!
Bring in More Clients!
Streamline Operations!
Specializing in BEST PRACTICES Documentation and Metrics!
www.ParkPlaceBIS.com | 859-581-5178
MEMBER MILESTONES
FORCHT BANK
HEARTLAND BANK
NKY TRI-ED
Forcht Bank announced that Steve Brunson, former senior vice president of commercial banking, has been named market president in Northern Kentucky. Brunson has been with Forcht Bank since 2015 and has over 30 years of banking experience. “Steve has done a fantastic job of growing our Northern Kentucky Market,” said Tucker Ballinger, Forcht Bank president & CEO. “We’re optimistic that Steve will not only continue to help us grow our market share, but serve as a leader in the local community.” Brunson, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, is an active member of the community serving on the KYCTC Foundation Board, the Covington Business Council and the Kentucky Housing Corp. Brunson lives with his wife Dr. Kelly Brunson, and three children.
Welcome new NKY Chamber member Heartland Bank! Founded in 1911, Heartland Bank is a community bank offering full-service commercial, small business and consumer financial services; investment planning; title services through TransCounty Title Agency; and other financial products and services. In addition to 16 branches in Central Ohio, Heartland will have Kentucky branches in Ft. Mitchell, Ft. Thomas and Union beginning in early April. “We are proud to welcome these new locations into the Heartland family,” said Brian T. Mauntel, President & COO. “As we embrace the opportunities inherent with expanded service locations, we are relying on our new relationship with the NKY Chamber to contribute to our success in serving the people of this Northern Kentucky area.” Pamela D. Goetting will serve as Director of the Northern Kentucky Region. Learn more about Heartland Bank at www.Heartland.Bank
The Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development Corporation (TriED) announced Allison Murcia has been hired as Manager of Research. “Research and data are critical to Tri-ED as we build our strategy and metrics for success for the next five years,” shared Lee Crume, President & CEO of Northern Kentucky Tri-ED. “We will leverage Allison’s research knowledge to collect the data we need to market Northern Kentucky and move the region forward.” Allison Murica was previously Assistant Director of the DCED at Clermont County, Ohio where she worked to attract new companies to the Cincinnati region. Her responsibilities included writing grant applications, administering incentive programs, maintaining property databases, and analyzing statistical data. “With a deep understanding of economic development and the data that site selectors and growing companies need, Allison has the skills to interpret the information and also the experience to craft it into a compelling story,” shared Christine Russell, Vice President of Strategy. “Tri-ED will use these datadriven stories to advance our strategic plan.”
— SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!
All NKY Chamber members are invited to share announcements & personal achievements in the Milestones column. Send Milestones to bgastright@nkychamber.com COVID -19 2020 | VOLUME 39 NUMBER 4
PAGE 29
EVENTS MAY 5/12 5/20 5/20 5/26
Eggs ‘N Issues: CVG Development (Virtual) | 8:00 — 9:00 AM Workplace Safety Livestream: Preparing For Your Employees To Return To Work After COVID-19 | 11:00 — 11:30 AM Pints & Perspectives: Wild Places to Visit (Virtual) | 4:00 — 5:00 PM Webinar: Business Essential's - How To Use Social Media To Boost Sales | 10:00 — 11:00 AM
JUNE 6/11 6/16 6/23 6/23 6/30
Getting the Most from Your Chamber Membership | 10:00 — 11:00 AM Eggs ‘N Issues: Smart Cities Initiative | 8:00 — 9:00 AM Business Essentials Series: Does My Small to Medium Sized Organization Need a Dedicated HR Professional? | 10:00 — 11:00 AM Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky | 11:30 AM — 1:30 PM Eggs ‘N Issues: International Trade’s Impact on NKY | 8:00 — 9:00 AM
JULY 7/16 7/21 7/28
NKYP Next Generation Leader Awards Eggs ‘N Issues: Talent Attraction & Retention Strategies | 8:00 — 9:00 AM Business Essentials Series: Technology - Grow Your Own or Shop? | 10:00 — 11:00 AM
NKYP
Next Generation Leader Awards Thursday, July 16 | Summit Hills Country Club NKYP Presenting Sponsor:
NGLA Presenting Sponsor:
NKYP Presenting Sponsors:
2020 NGLA Fb Header Noms.indd 1
5/5/20 11:08 AM
LOOKING FOR MORE EVENTS? NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS
Northern Kentucky Business Journal is published bi-monthly by:
Periodicals Postage Paid USPS-548630 at Covington, KY.
CEO/Publisher Brent Cooper | bcooper@nkychamber.com
Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. 300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330 P.O. Box 17416 Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017 859-578-8800 NKYChamber.com
Postmaster: Please send address changes to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 330, P.O. Box 17416 , Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017-0416.
Vice President, Public Affairs & Communications Kristin Baldwin | kbaldwin@nkychamber.com
The Business Journal is a benefit of membership and included in membership fees. Annual subscription rate for nonmembers is $24.
Subscribers: Please send address changes by e-mail to info@nkychamber.com. © 2020, The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and by the individual authors. All rights reserved.
Marketing / Communications Director Jeremy Schrand | jschrand@nkychamber.com Design & Photography Ben Gastright | bgastright@nkychamber.com Vice President Membership – Sponsorship Sales Lynn Abeln | labeln@nkychamber.com Director, Sponsor Investments Diana McGlade | dmcglade@nkychamber.com Chamber Communications Committee Jamie Glavic, Katie Louis, William Powell, Kelly Rose, Charley Wayman & Casey Williams
PAGE 30
NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL
We are waiving all member cost-sharing related to COVID-19 for our members To help ease burdens as much as we can and continue to champion the health of our members, we will be waiving all out-of-pocket costs related to treatment for COVID-19—including inpatient hospital admissions. These waived costs are for Individual and Group Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Medicaid, and fully insured commercial plan members. This will also apply to FDA-approved medications or vaccines when they become available. Learn more and get answers to questions you may have at Humana.com/ coronavirus/coverage-faqs. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務 。請致電 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Y0040_GHHKRWREN_C
I’m Right Here. Founded in Covington more than 150 years ago, St. Elizabeth’s roots run deep within Northern Kentucky. We are a proud community partner and support the pursuit of excellence in the classroom and beyond for the people we serve right here in our home. St. Elizabeth - Leading a Healthier Northern Kentucky
stelizabeth.com