NKY Business Journal | November/December 2020

BUSINESS JOURNAL OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

SUPPORTING YOUR BUSINESS GRAVITY DIAGNOSTICS RISING HIGH, TAKING ROOTS IN COVINGTON P 11 SWEET SUCCESS IN UNCERTAIN TIMES P 16 FABULOUS FACEMASKS P 20

Shannon Schumacher, CBC Account Executive

Providing Innovation Solutions and Healthier Outcomes for Kentucky Businesses At HORAN, we champion bold innovation backed by data to help employers and individuals thrive.

As an industry thought leader, we explore new horizons in health care, benefits, employee engagement and wellness. We are selfless in this work and determined in our efforts to help you achieve your business and employee benefit goals.

For more information about how HORAN can help with your benefits strategy, contact Shannon Schumacher at 859.572.4500 or ShannonS@horanassoc.com.

Bourbon & Benefits Join us on November 12 at 4:00 p.m. as we mix a delicious fall cocktail and discuss Open Enrollment and technology. Visit www.horanassoc.com for more information and to register.

11

CONTENTS

4 Chair's Letter 6 The Small Business Majority 11 Gravity Diagnostics Rising High, Taking Roots in Covington 16 Sweet Success in Uncertain Times

16

20 Fabulous Facemasks 24 Q&A with the Board of Advisors & Board of Directors 26 GROW NKY in Action 28 Around the Chamber 31 Leadership NKY's Distinguished Alumni 32 Ribbon Cuttings

20

36 Member Milestones 38 Upcoming Chamber Events

ON THE COVER: Headquartered in Covington, Gravity Diagnostics has become one of the most vigilant – and vital – companies in the fight against the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

SUPPORTING YOUR BUSINESS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 3

CHAIR’S LETTER FAITH IS THE REALIZATION OF WHAT IS HOPED FOR AND EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN.

DAN CAHILL Chair, NKY Chamber President & CEO, HSD Metrics

What do we need to do now to ensure that our community continues to grow and thrive 50 years from now?

We need to do exactly what we are doing now: Using this challenging time to thrive by rethinking the way we do business.

PAGE 4

Many of us have heard this quote in some context or another. It speaks to me on many levels. As it relates to our current place in time, I can’t tell you when we will be able to meet as a Board or a community—but I know we will again. I can’t tell how our Chamber members will continue to thrive during an extended pandemic—but they will. I can’t tell you how our Chamber will continue to add value for our members—but we will. I maintain my firm conviction that our future will be incredibly bright because our recent past has awakened my faith in our community, and there is strong evidence that the economic fundamentals of Northern Kentucky remain strong and vibrant.

Over the past year, I have seen the best of us. Our healthcare workers and the leadership of St. Elizabeth has been ahead of the curve on policies and services. Our government officials who have been creative and attentive to their constituents and citizens. Our community leaders and not-for-profit organizations have pivoted and tightened their belts as they continue to offer services. Our business leaders and entrepreneurs have persevered through an unpredictable and challenging market with creativity and grit.

As part of these efforts, our Chamber staff has worked tirelessly to maintain service levels, distribute relevant information and advocate for Northern Kentucky businesses. If you have been a Chamber member this past year, the return on your investment has been notable. Even if you weren’t, we hope you will recognize that the Chamber worked on behalf of all businesses over the last nine months and consider an investment in us this year.

Last year at this time, we were celebrating 50 memorable years of Chamber work. We celebrated the leaders of the past who set us up for the success we now enjoy. We asked: What do we need to do now to ensure that our community continues to grow and thrive 50 years from now? We need to do exactly what we are doing now: Using this challenging time to thrive by re-thinking the way we do business.

The Chamber Board and Board leadership will remain the same for the first time in 50 years. We believe this continuity and experience will allow us to support the work we are doing and become a springboard for the new challenges ahead. We will continue to focus on our three pillars: Expanding Market Share. Generating High Impact Programming. Speaking with Northern Kentucky in One Voice. Please join us in whatever capacity you are able. You will hear a common slogan in our communications this year: “It’s what we do.” Finding solutions for childcare. Increasing voter awareness.

Creating a formidable PAC to ensure a voice in Frankfort for Northern Kentucky. It’s what we do.

Despite the pending uncertainty, we have faith that our efforts will be realized in a better Northern Kentucky.

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

The Small Business Majority

By Atley Smedley Northern Kentucky University

PAGE 6

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC IS unlike anything seen in over 100 years. In an effort to reduce the virus' spread, mandates forced business owners to shut their doors and weather the short-term setbacks. While large companies going bankrupt at a record pace has become mainstream, it only tells half of the story.

Small businesses are disappearing just as quickly, if not quicker.

Economists predict that approximately 15% of all small businesses will close permanently over the next year. For Northern Kentucky, that represents about 900 closures and an estimated 10,000 jobs lost.

The NKY Metro has more than 162,000 jobs. Of those jobs, roughly 42% are among employers with fewer than 500 employees. That doesn't include the 24,000 non-employers, such as sole proprietorships or partnerships. To focus in on why small businesses are essential, the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce sat down with economist Janet Harrah to discuss the importance of making sure these companies survive these highly uncertain economic times.

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 7

"There's not enough stimulus in the world to support small businesses— they need customers.

And at the end of the day, in order for the economy to get back on track, consumers need jobs and steady income, businesses have to be able to open, and customers have to feel safe enough to go shopping, to go out to eat, and to take a trip out of town."

Janet Harrah Senior Director, Center for Economic Analysis and Development, Northern Kentucky University

PAGE 8

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

"When you talk about small businesses disappearing, these closures often go unaccounted.

There's little real-time data, and if a business has little debt, many do not declare bankruptcy," she says.

Harrah told us the scale of impacts varied across industries depending on whether they were ever shutdown and for how long, with some hit harder than others. Convenience stores and gas stations were never shut down, so they shouldn't be expected to have the same closure rate as movie theaters. However, as part of the federal government's coronavirus relief efforts, economic impact payments were sent to stimulate the U.S. economy by giving consumers spending money.

"Most Americans spent stimulus payments and did not save over the summer, boosting growth in the second quarter. Now that it's over, we shouldn't expect to see growth in spending this quarter. There's not enough stimulus in the world to support small businesses—they need customers. And at the end of the day, in order for the economy to get back on track, consumers need jobs and steady income, businesses have to be able to open, and customers have to feel safe enough to go shopping, to go out to eat, and to take a trip out of town."

Kentucky, along with the majority of states, restricted indoor capacity at restaurants. The popularity of outdoor seating skyrocketed during the warm months, increasing their sales and helping many stay afloat. But as the air gets more crisp and weather becomes cooler, business owners anticipate a new wave of problems. So, what needs to be done to support small businesses? Harrah believes we need to find ways to help enterprises open up safely and rebuild consumer confidence.

"Businesses can't be helped if they aren't open.

Even after they re-open their doors, businesses must be willing to innovate, so that seeing a movie, grabbing a bite for dinner or shopping are once again viewed as safe activities," said Harrah. "But customers may still be hesitant to visit establishments in person. That's a real hurdle until we get to whatever the new normal becomes. Businesses have to build an online presence for the foreseeable future. For firms that do not, it's hard to see them surviving moving forward unless they start engaging in e-commerce effectively—whether online ordering and pickup or home delivery."

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

Small businesses don't have to navigate these uncertain times alone, and support is available through community resources. The Commonwealth's health organizations continue sharing updated safety measures and best practices. To help jumpstart the region's economy, Northern Kentucky University launched its Family Business Relief Program to support companies in adapting and growing digital strategies.

The Small Business Development Center at NKU also provides business coaching and consultation.

As businesses continue working through the fragile economic environment, it's more important now than ever that we preserve the business community.

They are part of the many factors that make NKY a welcoming region. When you eat out at a local restaurant, those dollars stay here. And the impact occurs at home.

"Unlike many larger firms, small business owners tend to live and operate their businesses in the same region, they have a vested interest in the local quality of life,” adds Harrah. “That's why you see so much civic engagement—from supporting schools and sports clubs to participating in charitable efforts. That money stays in the local economy. Corporate profits often leave the community."

The Northern Kentucky Chamber encourages businesses and a vibrant economy because we are stronger together. The Chamber brings timely discussions to the community with a monthly Eggs ‘N Issues breakfast forum. At November's event, Harrah will dive into where our regional and national economy is heading in the new year and will discuss the economic factors and trends that will affect businesses in 2021. The Chamber's Eggs ‘N Issues event is free for members, and $15 for future members. Visit nkychamber.com/events to learn more and to register.

NKY

PAGE 9

WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

We’re here for your business, and we’re here for you.

To discuss your business options, give us a call at 859-905-5502 or visit us at centralbank.com.

CRESTVIEW HILLS • FT. MITCHELL • FLORENCE • UNION

EFFECTIVE EFFICIENT

DRIVING RESULTS SCOOTER MEDIA PUBLIC RELATIONS

Covington, KY | www.scootermediaco.com | (859) 414-6882 Cincinnati PRSA 2019 Small/Mid-Sized PR Agency of the Year

Member FDIC

SMALL BUSINESS FEATURE

Gravity Diagnostics Rising High, Taking Roots in Covington

By Tabari McCoy Scooter Media

Gravity Diagnostics was founded in July 2016 following the acquisition of a laboratory the company was representing that, according to its CEO Tony Remington, “was struggling with its assets.” Now that the company is enjoying a breakout year, its biggest challenge going forward may be keeping up with the demand for their services.

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 11

VISIONARY VISION Originally located at 632 Russell Street before expanding and opening a second location a few doors down at 812, Gravity Diagnostics has become one of the most vigilant – and vital – companies in the fight against the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. Operating under “the Gravity Way” of trying to change health care instead of feeling limited like some startups, Remington credits J.P. Canner – Gravity’s Vice President of Regulatory, Clinical and Research Programs – for first taking notice of COVID-19. Staying ahead of the threat, Canner successfully devised a method to test for COVID-19, leading to FDA Emergency Use Authorization approval and meetings with Kentucky Dept. for Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack. That in turn led to meetings with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Kroger, resulting in a partnership with the state and Kroger to conduct drive-thru testing throughout the Commonwealth.

Noting the company would have handled 800,000+ samples by mid-October, Remington is proud of the concerted efforts that have gone into making Kentucky a key player in the COVID-19 fight.

“It’s been an awesome display of the human element where the employees here just absolutely crushed this thing and have done everything they can to help people,” he says.

“I gotta give the state of Kentucky a lot of that credit. I think they stepped up big time in how they addressed this challenge.”

HUMAN RESOURCES The demand for COVID-19 testing has resulted in long hours for Gravity’s staff, especially many of its scientists that are new to the region. This is why Ammie Malsom is appreciative of everything the company has done to show its appreciation of her and her co-workers hard work.

Growing up in Florence, Malsom returned to the region in 2019 before taking a job as one of Gravity’s molecular laboratory managers this March. Gravity has taken several actions to keep employees like Malsom happy and productive (in that order), including assisting with childcare, buying them gifts like Beats headphones and YETI brand tumblers and providing lunch via food trucks on Fridays.

Photo provided by Gravity Diagnostics PAGE 12

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

REGION ON THE RISE

While “it’s definitely been quite a journey,” Malsom – who went from a startup position to her current role as a manager in just a few months – says her experience at Gravity is “one I do not regret.”

“We are one big family … The camaraderie that comes with all of these new employees, all of my coworkers, is that we're all fighting for that same goal: To help the community by helping one patient at a time,” she says. “The boundaries between the upper management and all of the employees are very open … That's been really gratifying because I've been able to help in ways that I've always wanted to and lead a team and watch them grow and be successful.”

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

Despite all Gravity’s success, Malsom understands young professionals may still hesitate when considering Northern Kentucky as an innovative hotbed as to where to begin their career. She is confident, though, they will find their perceptions challenged once they discover all the region has to offer.

“There is so much to do in the Northern Kentucky / Cincinnati area.

It's definitely growing a lot and I feel like when you work for a company like Gravity, who started from just a small startup company, you can see the possibilities are endless,” she says. “I know they would feel valued and that they would love the area as much as I do, so it would definitely be worth their while coming out here.”

Remington, who says Gravity is in the process of signing a seven-year lease and building a 32,000 square foot facility in Covington, agrees.

“This region is a great place to start and build a company. It's going back to the values and the idea of family,” he says. “The culture and the people of Northern Kentucky really make a difference. I couldn’t imagine doing this anywhere else.” NKY

PAGE 13

NKY Chamber

1

Leadership & Volunteer Opportunities As a member, you can become involved in a number of ways - from participating on a committee, engaging in leadership development programs, or serving as an ambassador.

2 Top 10 Reasons 3 to Join 4 5 6 7 8 9

Connecting Through Our Network

Dozens of networking opportunities - from the popular Eggs ‘N Issues to Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hours - give members a chance to expand their referral base and connect on business issues.

Advocacy: Working for You

As the leading business organization in the region, we focus on identifying opportunities via public policy to create greater ease of doing business.

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce invites you to be a part of the largest chamber in Northern Kentucky representing 1,500 members from all industries and of all sizes located throughout the Tri-State area.

Join this dynamic organization that works to promote and support the development of strong businesses and a vibrant economy through leading, connecting and advocating.

Sign up at NKYChamber.com or contact the Membership team Lynn Abeln VP of Membership labeln@nkychamber.com 859.578.6390

Workforce From addressing the need for a robust talent pipeline to the creation of workplace policies, we work to ensure you have the resources you need for your company to be successful.

Discounted Services and Offers Take advantage of savings opportunities on health insurance, credit card processing, office supplies, and more! Many members also offer member to member discounts.

Roundtables Access to unique roundtables that create a forum for discussion and exchange of ideas around issues, challenges, and best practices.

Free Marketing Opportunities Promote company news through the NKY Chamber’s myriad channels - website, email newsletter, social media accounts, podcast, and Business Journal.

Business Assistance

As a member, the NKY Chamber will work with you to facilitate introductions and provide you with direct access to services that help your business.

Education & Professional Development

Attend workshops and programs on topics such as human resources, international trade, legislation, sales, and customer services to help you manage and grow both your business and employees.

10

Specialty Resources Take advantage of diverse offerings focused on networking and professional development for professionals of all ages and stages through Northern Kentucky Young Professionals, Northern Kentucky International Trade & Affairs, and the Women’s Initiative.

C O M ING S O O N T O T H E C A RNEG I E

When your business experiences problems, we provide SOLUTIONS.

T I N Y C ONC E R T S

Tia Seay | Saturday, November 21 R. DeAndre Smith | Friday, December 18

F I L M SC RE E NINGS

Cats | Sunday, November 15 Singing in the Rain | Sunday, December 20

E XH IBIT IONS

October 30, 2020 – December 19, 2020 Same Again Exhibition organized in partnership with The Art Academy of Cincinnati

Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts

Exhibition of selected students from the GSA Visual Arts program

GALLERY HOURS: Saturdays & Sundays: 2 - 4pm Exhibition viewing available throughout the week by appointment

FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

SALES & MARKETINGS SOLUTIONS

OPERATIONAL SOLUTIONS

Maximize Profitability!

Bring in More Clients!

Streamline Operations!

Specializing in BEST PRACTICES Documentation and Metrics!

Exhibitions are sponsored by FotoFocus FOLLOW US:

THE

CARNEGI E GALLERY EDUCATION THEATRE

1028 Scott Blvd, Covington, KY | 859.957.1940 Learn more at thecarnegie.com

www.ParkPlaceBIS.com | 859-581-5178

SMALL BUSINESS FEATURE

Sweet Success in Uncertain Times

By Kelly Rose Welcome House of Northern Kentucky

PAGE 16

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE MILKSHAKES ARE ONE OF THE MANY new menu items that will hit the Bean Haus menu very soon due to a new ice cream machine that was funded through the $1,000 NKY Chamber Restaurant Relief Fund. Bean Haus, which has been a constant in Mainstrasse, Covington for 15 years is what owner Tim Eversole says is a place where everyone knows one another. However, when the pandemic hit in March, just like other fellow small-business owners, Eversole found himself struggling to keep his doors open.

“We just went into survival mode,” Eversole explains. “We had to cut our hours because no one was coming in, they weren’t going to work, and no one was having meetings.”

As the months passed, Eversole contemplated bolstering business by adding alcohol as an option to his menu or he thought about adding ice cream.

“I was worried about adding alcohol, even though I felt it could possibly help, because most of my staff is under 21 and I wanted to create a plan that would help my existing staff,” says Eversole. “That’s when I decided that adding ice cream would not only be advantageous to keeping my current staff, but it could also draw more families in.”

PICTURED: (Above) Dari-Crest patrons enjoy tasty treats on a warm autum afternoon.

(Opposite page) Sprinkles are for winners, and this cone is for you, Northern Kentucky! Photos by Ben Gastright.

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 17

PICTURED: Elsa the canine enjoys the ice cream and dog biscuit combo Dari-Crest offers our four-legged friends. Photo by Ben Gastright

With the $1,000 grant that Bean Haus was awarded through the NKY Chamber Restaurant Relief Fund, Eversole was able to purchase the ice cream equipment several months ahead of schedule. Today, Eversole sees a lot more families during the day and evenings coming in to order ice cream and he’s also seen those same customers now coming in for pastries and coffee in the morning.

“We have a great community rewards program, really tasty ice cream treats and pastries, and we even offer a treat for your furry friends. Oh, and of course, coffee,” laughs Eversole.

“Coffee shops are usually the heart of the community, it’s a meeting space where everyone knows your name, we are proud to have that footprint in Covington.”

Recently, Eversole expanded his reach into Latonia by signing a purchase agreement for the iconic Dari-Crest. He saw it as an opportunity to bring espresso, breakfast, and pastries to another part of Covington, while keeping open a local landmark. He also hopes to open his other Bean Haus location on Greenup Street in early November 2020.

“We started with 17-18 employees and we are growing to have almost 60 now,” he explains.

“We are hopeful that we get to keep growing and serving the community that has helped us so much.”

Eversole advises small business owners during these trying times to stay flexible, reach out to your local government and chambers to maximize benefits and programming available, and to maintain strong relationships with fellow small business owners to bounce ideas off one another. NKY

PAGE 18

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

H O M E

T EAM

Moving in? moving out? moving up?

Bringing buyers & sellers together for 24 years John Lorms | Realtor johncandoit.com 859.486.0060 john@JohnLormsRealEstate.com

If your small business has a lean or no HR department, let us leverage our 25+ years of HR expertise to customize solutions for your toughest HR challenges.

Give us a call today!

Let us support you via our:

Outsourced Recruitment

Outsourced HR Solutions Interim/Contract HR Staff Virtual HR Solutions Info@strategicHRinc.com | 513.697.9855 | Cincinnati | Northern Kentucky | Dayton | Louisville

SMALL BUSINESS FEATURE

Fabulous Facemasks

By Jamie Glavic Scooter Media

For more than 30 years, Donna Salyers’ Fabulous-Furs has been synonymous with luxury and style. What began with a passion for the needle, thread and, most importantly, creating a space for cruelty-free fashion, has become a local success story and internationally-recognized brand.

PAGE 20

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

WHILE DONNA MAY HAVE launched Fabulous-Furs in her basement, the faux fur fashion house has been headquartered at Covington’s historic Wadsworth Electric Manufacturing Building on West 11th St. since 2003. The brand is now accompanied by her second entrepreneurial namesake, Donna Salyers’ Fabulous-Bridal, which moved its showroom in April 2020. Additionally, the Salyers family owns and operates The Madison Event Center, which has operated for nearly 30 years, and Hotel Covington.

“I grew up in NKY and my Cincinnati-born husband began investing in real estate in Covington’s business core about 30 years ago,” said Salyers.

“Nothing makes us happier than to see NKY flourishing and growing today. It’s truly a moment in time that speaks to the efforts of fellow entrepreneurs who risked it all to raise our community from years of suburban flight and urban blight.”

Fabulous-Furs is now one of the largest manufacturers of faux fur coats in the United States.

From making Oprah’s coveted list of “Favorite Things,” to television shows and high fashion magazines, both Donna and her commitment to community has never wavered. While she and her husband Jim have supported numerous nonprofits and other service organizations throughout the years, COVID-19 brought an unanticipated need to the forefront – personal protective equipment (PPE). Within a matter of days, Donna Salyers’ FabulousFurs halted production of its fall line and began sewing facemasks.

PICTURED: Donna Salyers, the designer. Photos provided by Fabulous-Furs.

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 21

The decision to rapidly pivot to PPE production was inspired by an email from a colleague at St. Elizabeth Healthcare searching for facemasks and a timely Forbes article, “Calling All People Who Sew And Make: You Can Help Make Masks For 2020 Healthcare Worker PPE Shortage.” FabulousFurs has a long history of community involvement and Donna knew that they had the equipment and talent needed to combat the shortage. The production team quickly selected a template, created prototypes and presented masks to healthcare workers at St. Elizabeth for review. The masks, compatible with more readily accessible filters than N95 masks, were a success and the team got straight to work on an immediate order of 3,000 masks to support the regional hospital network.

“April was such a stressful time because so little was known about the coronavirus.

Making masks for medical folks and first responders was a noble calling and our 110,000 square-foot building allowed plenty of social distancing among our team,” said Salyers. “For me—and I suspect many of my colleagues—I was grateful to be positively engaged and to be doing something proactive, as opposed to hand-wringing and worrying!”

For weeks, orders continued to come in from other regional hospital networks, corporations and organizations like Graeter’s Ice Cream, Cincinnati Museum Center and more. Donna Salyers Fabulous-Furs also donated 500 facemasks to the City of Covington’s first responders. To date, more than 20,000 facemasks have been ordered.

“We send our deepest gratitude to medical workers, first responders and all those folks who show up every day, day in and day out,” said Salyers. “You inspire us and we can’t wait to celebrate you, and with you, when we reach the other side.” NKY

PAGE 22

PICTURED: Members of the Fabulous-Furs facemark production team taking care of business.

Photos provided by Fabulous-Furs

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Ex

LET US HELP Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Ex YOU GROW! Staffing Expertise

Retaining and hiring a great team

Staffing Expertise

is a challenge for most businesses.

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise

At Eastern, we can help you meet your

Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Ex

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Ex

staffing needs. we are only a phone Staffing Expertise call away.

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Ex Reach us at 513-421-4666 or Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise email: amjones@easternhires.com Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise Staffing Ex Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

Staffing Expertise

Eastern Personnel Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Staffing Ex

Staffing Expertise Staffing Expertise

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

Q&A

Board of Advisors & Board of Directors

with the

GRAETER'S ICE CREAM

What is the one NKY Chamber Small Business member you cannot live without?

ORIENTAL WOK Tracy Hartman Hospitality Manager, Rising Star Casino & Resort

SKYLINE CHILI

Paul Verst CEO, Verst Logistics

Bob Hoffer Managing Director, DBL Law

PAGE 24

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

BOURBON

What is one item made in Kentucky that you cannot live without?

DEWEY'S PIZZA Carrie Taylor VP Employee Benefits, Marsh & McLennan Agency

MOONRISE DOUGHNUTS

Paula Harper Manager of Partnership Development, University of Cincinnati

Brady Jolly President Jolly Enterprises

What are you thankful for as we enter the holiday season?

I am surrounded and supported by amazing people, a wonderful community and an inspiring work family. Every day I wake up knowing I am blessed but use the holiday season as a time to reflect and give back.

Shannon Schumacher Account Executive - Kentucky Market HORAN

I am thankful for the health of family and friends, which is why I am especially grateful to our generous community for their support of the Cancer Center. When the doors opened, so did opportunities for hope and healing.

Carri Chandler Vice President - St. Elizabeth Foundation St. Elizabeth Healthcare

That we have a supportive and collaborative community pulling together to overcome great obstacles together.

Sylvia Buxton President/CEO North America Perfetti van Melle

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PAGE 25

GROW NKY in in in Action Action Action GROW NKY Demonstrates that Partner Collaboration is Key to Meeting Employer Needs From talent attraction to retention and funding opportunities, Northern Kentucky is rich with resources to help employers tackle people challenges. With such an expansive network of resources available, navigating the landscape of workforce development can be difficult and overwhelming for employers. In an effort to alleviate these challenges, GROW NKY has leveraged the power of collaboration among partners in the regional workforce ecosystem to better serve local employers and streamline the process to connect employers with the resources they need most. From connections to early childhood education providers, establishing an NKY College & Career Connector role to centralize access to NKY school districts; to aligning services offered to address an employer’s hiring and/or downsizing needs – GROW NKY partners are working hand-inhand to unify efforts and address the supply and demand side of workforce in the region.

PAGE 26

Employer Resource Guide The Employer Resource Guide is a product of the collective partnership of NKY’s Workforce and Economic Development partners. It was evident to our local Workforce Development providers that the issue of “workforce” is multi-faceted. Our region’s employers recognize “workforce” as one of the biggest factors to their success. Attracting, retaining, and helping incumbent employees advance within the company, are all critical determinants of whether or not an organization will be in a position to thrive. Together, NKY’s workforce partners created the Employer Resource Guide in order to provide our employers a single point of entry into a wealth of workforce-relevant resources, from how to access Labor Market Information to how to harness work support services for incumbent employees in order to improve employee retention rates.

Strategic Workforce Action Team (SWAT) The Strategic Workforce Action Team (SWAT) is a coalition of organizations in Northern Kentucky that come together to provide ease of access for companies in our region.

Employers can meet with representatives from thirteen partner organizations in one sitting to share their current situation and future challenges with the group who then align resources to best serve the company’s needs.

Having met with hundreds of employers over the years, the partners of the SWAT group understand the importance of efficiently and effectively communicating information and providing access to resources to help businesses maximize productivity. Using a customized approach, the SWAT group helps employers solve talent pipeline challenges by bringing workforce partners to the employer to work together to develop a comprehensive strategy to help them grow, attract, and retain a globally competitive workforce.

One company shared, “It was a pleasure to meet everyone and to see first-hand through this team what NKY is doing to address the hiring problem in this area." Another organization said, “The content and organization of the meeting was excellent!" Referring to the customized approach, a business leader said, “Our hiring needs are very specific. They don't fit the cookie cutter standards that most facilities like ours can conform to. It was great to have the SWAT group meet with us to learn about our specific challenges around workforce and offer solutions that are tailored to our organization.”

If you would like to learn more about the SWAT group or if you’d like to schedule a SWAT meeting for your company, please contact Leisa Mulcahy, VP of Workforce and Managing Director of GROW NKY, at lmulcahy@nkychamber.com.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

"

The Employer Resource Guide is a beneficial resource for employers of any size, who are facing any number of workforce-related issues, to help them efficiently connect to the most appropriate program/service without having to navigate the complex system on their own. NKY’s workforce partners are excited to be able to offer this resource to our employers.

SWAT meetings take the work out of the process for employers. Instead of companies trying to identify resources within the community available to them, the partners listen to the company’s needs and do the legwork of aligning available services and funding to meet those needs.

Post Glover is excited to continue our growth in Northern Kentucky.

The region has been a great home for 125 years. We look forward to bringing more customers to Kentucky to introduce them to this great place.

Connecting Northern Kentucky Companies to Business Resources

CORREY EIMER KY Career Center Operator, Brighton Center

CHRISTI GODMAN Gateway Community and Technical College

RICHARD FIELD President, Post Glover

SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

At the Northern Kentucky Tri-County Economic Development Corporation (Tri-ED), Angie Mulberry manages the Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) program, a free service to primary industry businesses and company headquarter locations.

Angie provides the support, business resources, workforce and incentive information companies need to succeed in our region. In 2020, Angie has met with more than 150 companies in business sectors such as manufacturing, supply chain, technology and medical research throughout the three-county region.

The BR&E program provides businesses with a single point of contact for a wide range of assistance that ranges from potential expansions and immediate operational needs to identifying potential tax incentives and workforce grants and making connections with regional partners. Connections are often made with the GROW NKY (Growing Regional Outcomes through Workforce) partners and Strategic Workforce Action Team (SWAT) organizations to address a company’s workforce needs.

Through BR&E visits with companies, Tri-ED often discovers the company is considering expanding and adding new employees. A recent example of how Tri-ED helps companies, Post Glover Resistors, a producer of power resistors, announced it would invest more than $4 million in its existing facility in Boone County and plans to add 15 full-time jobs. Tri-ED worked with Post Glover Resistors, Boone County and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to facilitate the expansion and access to state programs.

Post Glover Resistors took advantage of the state’s signature tax incentive program, the Kentucky Business Investment Program. This is just one example of a tax credit and training program companies can utilize that are coordinated through Tri-ED. Others include the Small Business Tax Credit and workforce training support through the Bluegrass State Skills Training Investment Credit which can provide credit against Kentucky income tax to existing businesses that sponsor occupational or skills upgrade training programs for the benefit of their employees.

Tri-ED enhances the business climate in and fosters regional cooperation among Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties and the communities in the region. Tri-ED’s role is to market and promote Northern Kentucky on a national and international basis as a desirable location for new or expanding businesses, and to assist existing local companies to expand operations and grow their customer base.

The Tri-ED team is here to support the region’s business community through data and research, a database of available buildings and properties and connections. More information about Tri-ED and the BR&E outreach program are available at northernkentuckyusa.com. NKY

PAGE 27

AROUND THE CHAMBER

AquiSense

Celanese

Newport on the Levee

RDI PAGE 28

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Lula's Catering

Fidant Wealth Management

Tri-State Plastics

Cincinnati Bell

Zalla Companies SMALL BUSINESS | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 2

PICTURED: 1. AquiSense Technologies launched a new product to help the reuse of N95 respirators. The product uses UV LEDs to disinfect the masks allowing for multipule reuses of the same mask.

2. Celanese Florence has been active in supporting the community through a variety of PPE donations and community service.

3. Newport on the Levee offered UMC Food Ministry the opportunity to occupy a rent-free space. UMC is currently providing free meals to up to 10,000 kids every day.

4. RDI has fed our first responders twice, participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters STEPUPBIG run/walk fundraiser with matching donations of $10K and had a Virtual Food Drive to support Community Matters.

5. Lula's Catering has been baking with extra love.

6. Fidant Wealth Management donated a car full of disposable containers to Hosea House, and sent puzzles and games purchased from local, small businesses to clients as a pick-me-up.

7. Tri-State Plastics has been manufacturing face shields for healthcare workers and protective barriers/ sneeze guards for schools and other local businesses.

8. Zalla Companies offered socially distant camping spots, complete with provisions, for their employees and their families.

9. Cincinnati Bell partnered with the United Way of Greater Cincinnati to connect families in Northern Kentucky, across 10 school districts, with free internet to support virtual schooling.

PAGE 29

Helping our businesses grow...

It’s what we do. #MemberBenefits

nkychamber.com/joinus

Leadership NKY’s Distinguished Alumni Stephanie Allgeyer Jeffrey Bender Molly Berrens Shannan Boyer Nanette Brames Gary Bricking Mary Lynn Brunemann Patricia Burgess Dianna Caldwell Craig Carlson Helen Carroll Carri Chandler Karen Cheser Corey Clark Damien Cook Brent Cooper Elizabeth Corbett Robert Coughlin Brent Degenhardt Dustin DiChiara John Domaschko Jeff Eger Ruth Eger Greta Elenbaas Katie Enzweiler Troy Fedders Mickey Fritz Shelley Funke Frommeyer Mike Grout Kimberly Halbauer Kimberly Harp Merle Heckman Jude Hehman David Heidrich Simon Heidrich William Hesch Emir Hodzic Keith Jones Watson Jones

Sally Andrew Jane Carla Jana Anthony Gus Laura Leisa Matt Pat Kathy Bob Claire Jason Ryan Thomas Allison Kurt Kerri Jody Jeff Linda Philip Sherri Britton Joni Pamela Terra Tammy Larry Kim Caroline Donna Kevin Kara Vincent Jim Bret

Jordan Kearns Kleier Landon Martin Kemp McCormack McKinley Menge Mulcahy Olliges O'Reagan Papp Parsons Parsons Payne Piper Prewitt Rapp Reiber Richardson Robinson Rosenstiel Schilling Schworer Slavey Smith Soale Thompson Thompson Trimble Warkoczeski Webb Weltzer Wesseler Whelan Williams Williams Willman Witte

Thank you to Leadership NKY’s Distinguished Alumni Members for their willingness to invest in the future of both Leadership Northern Kentucky and Regional Youth Leadership.

Because of their lifetime membership, we can sustain and grow valued programs and provide scholarship funding to participants.

By becoming Distinguished Alumni Members, you give the gift of life long leadership and the promise of strengthening the next generation of leaders in our region.

With a single dues payment of $500, Distinguished Alumni memberships are permanently renewed each year. If you are interested in becoming a Distinguished Alumni Member, please contact Dawn Denham at 859-578-6388 or ddenham@nkychamber.com.

Ribbon Cuttings Sponsored by:

RIBBON CUTTINGS BURKE’S OUTLET 7001 Alexandria Pike | Alexandria, KY 41001 | (859) 448-0161 | stores.burkesoutlet.com/ky/alexandria

PICTURED: Shannon Schumacher, HORAN – NKY Chamber Ambassador; Harvey Wyatt, Burkes Outlet, Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber – President; Kyle Sparks, City of Alexandria; Sue Neltner, City of Alexandria; Jan Johannemann, City of Alexandria; Carol Hofstetter, City of Alexandria; Lucas Cooper, City of AlexandriaPolice Chief; Scott Meyer, Patrice & Associates – NKY Chamber Ambassador

BUTTERFLY'S TOUCH THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2315 Chelsea Drive | Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 | (859) 468-6795 | massagebook.com/biz/butterflystouchtherapeuticmassage PICTURED: Andrew Schierberg, City of Fort Mitchell, Dr. Ron Savignano II; Sherrie Kollmann, Butterfly’s Touch; Mary Burns, City of Ft. Mitchell

DERMALOUNGE 723 Buttermilk Pike | Crescent Springs, KY 41017 | (859) 360-5842 | mydermalounge.com PICTURED: Jon Engelhard, Huntington Bank-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Lou Hartfiel, City of Crescent Springs-Mayor; Jeff Fletcher, dermalounge; Santrina Fletcher, dermalounge; Lara Gastright, Zalla Companies-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Lynn Abeln, NKY Chamber; April Coffee, Wesbanco; Corey Walkup, Wesbanco; Joe Schlimm, Heritage Bank

PAGE 32

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

859.320.1254

Greg Corsmeier Mortgage Lending NMLS# 643600

859.320.1252

Over

$1

billion

in loans outstanding to commercial businesses.

Kevin Garrett

Commercial Banking

859.320.1253

David Stringer

Commercial Banking

859.320.1251

Learn more at civista.bank Mark Sams

300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 103 Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 800.604.9368

Commercial Banking

812.496.0704

Member FDIC NMLS# 412766

19CZN69 CommBankAd_7.75x5.indd 1

11/19/19 9:44 AM

RIBBON CUTTINGS LEE MCNEELY BIRDING TRAIL 5989 Burlington Pike | Burlington, KY 41005 | (859) 743-8173 | thebooneconservancy.org PICTURED: Cathy Stavros, The Boone Conservancy; Gary Moore, Judge Executive Boone County and The Boone Conservancy; Clay Lampl, The Boone Conservancy; Gary Wilmhoff, Heritage Bank; Lynda McNeely; Kelly Niceley, The Boone Conservancy; Greg Larison, The Boone Conservancy ; Christy Noll, The Boone Conservancy; Gary Griesser, Heritage Bank; David Whitehouse, The Boone Conservancy and Boone County Parks; Lynn Abeln, NKY Chamber

POCKET PARK 601 Center View Boulevard | Crestview Hills, KY 41017 | (859) 341-7373 | crestviewhills.com PICTURED: Tim Williams, City of Crestview Hills; George Hope, Towne Properties; Arlene Lubbe, City of Crestview Hills; Tom Torbeck, DB Solutions; Sarah Giolando, St. Elizabeth; Paul Meier, City of Crestview Hills – Mayor; Bill Dorsey, City of Crestview Hills; Jon Hemmer, Paul Hemmer Company Hemmer Management; Joe Roesel, City of Crestview Hills

LET US HELP YOU PROMOTE!

PAGE 34

We want to help you promote and celebrate your ribbon cutting ceremony for your new facility, expansion, anniversary celebration or open house! We’ll bring our trademark giant blue scissors, a group of Chamber ambassadors, and a camera to capture the excitement of your special day. Call Lynn Abeln at (859) 578-6390 to schedule your FREE ribbon cutting today!

Ribbon Cuttings Sponsored by:

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Digital Marketing Handled Local Search Review Marketing Paid Advertising Social Media

Lisa Jones Give Lisa a call for a FREE consultation!

Digital Marketing Consultant 859.743.5124 | LSJones@revlocal.com

Annual Breakfast Inspired Women Lead Save The Date Virtual Event February 2, 2021 Title Sponsor:

Event Sponsors:

MEMBER FIFTH THIRD BANK

MILESTONES

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!

David Kay has been named Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager at Fifth Third Bank. In this role, David will serve as an advisor to middle market clients in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky markets by helping them reach their strategic goals and objectives. NK Y

All NKY Chamber members are invited to share announcements & personal achievements in the Milestones column.

Send Milestones to bgastright@nkychamber.com

PAGE 36

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Annual Celebration

Walter R. Dunlevy/ Frontiersman Award

Donna Salyers Donna Salyers Fabulous-Furs

Walter L. Pieschel (MVP) Award

Marianne Schmidt Hurtt

Presented by

PNC Bank

Northern Kentucky Unity Award

The Northern Kentucky Community

At the NKY Chamber Annual Celebration Presented by Fifth Third Bank we celebrated Northern Kentucky by honoring the accomplishments of community members who have made a lasting impact on our region and highlighted how the business community has come together during the pandemic.

Northern Kentucky ImageMaker Award

Gravity Diagnostics

Thank You and Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

Devou Cup

Chuck and Julie Geisen Scheper

Supporting Business...

It’s what we do.

Wm. T. (Bill) Robinson III Northern Kentucky Economic Development Award

Bill Butler Corporex Companies

The Horizon Award

Will Ziegler Ziegler & Schneider, P.S.C.

Title Sponsor:

Dunlevy Award Sponsor:

Presenting Sponsors:

Unity Award Sponsor:

Robinson Award Sponsor:

Pieschel Award Sponsor:

ImageMaker Award Sponsor:

Devou Cup Presented By:

Horizon Award Presented By

EVENTS

NOVEMBER 11/4 11/5 11/11 11/12 11/16 11/17 11/19 11/19

Leadercast: Positive Disruption Series | Virtual | 8:30 AM (content available for 36 hours) Workforce Safety Forum – COVID-19 Safe Restart | Virtual | 10:00 – 11:00 AM HR 100: Topic TBD | Virtual | 800 – 9:30 AM Annual Celebration Presented by Fifth Third Bank | Virtual | 5:30 – 7:30 PM Women’s Initiative Virtual November CONNECT Hour l Zoom l 4:00 – 5:00 PM Eggs ‘N Issues: Regional Economic Outlook | Zoom | 8:00 – 9:15 AM Business After Hours Sponsored by Frost Brown Todd | Virtual | 4:00 – 5:00 PM NKYP: 3rd Annual Virtual Bourbon & Boards |Virtual | 5:30 – 7:00 PM

DECEMBER 12/1 12/2 12/8 12/9 12/15 12/10

Regional Youth Leadership Applications Available Women's Initiative Winter Professional Series - Reset Your Mindset | Virtual | 8:30 – 9:30 AM Where We Stand 2021 Preview | Virtual | 1:00 – 2:00 PM Getting the Most from YOUR Chamber Membership | Virtual | 9:00 – 10:00 AM Eggs ‘N Issues: Lee Crume, Northern Kentucky Tri-ED | Virtual | 8:00 – 9:00 AM NKYP: Coffee and Conversation | Virtual | 4:30 – 6:30 PM

JANUARY 1/7 1/13 1/19 1/20

Workforce Safety Forum: Cold Stress | Virtual | 10:00 – 11:00 AM HR 100 – Topic TBD | Virtual | 8:30 – 9:30 AM Eggs ‘N Issues: General Assembly Preview | Details TBA Workforce Safety Forum – Topic TBD | Virtual | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

LOOKING FOR MORE EVENTS? NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

Northern Kentucky Business Journal is published bi-monthly by: Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. 300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330 P.O. Box 17416 Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017 859-578-8800 NKYChamber.com The Business Journal is a benefit of membership and included in membership fees. Annual subscription rate for nonmembers is $24.

Periodicals Postage Paid USPS-548630 at Covington, KY.

PAGE 38

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.

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.

CEO/Publisher Brent Cooper | bcooper@nkychamber.com Vice President, Public Affairs & Communications Kristin Baldwin | kbaldwin@nkychamber.com

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, Tabari McCoy, William Powell, Kelly Rose, Atley Smedley, Charley Wayman & Casey Williams

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL