NKY Business Journal Spring 2018

BUSINESS JOURNAL OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SPRING 2018

NURTURING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY

HEALTHCARE FOR THE HOMELESS P. 10 $1 TOBACCO TAX INCREASE P. 18

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF P. 22

Health Benefits

Providing Innovative Solutions and Healthier Outcomes for Kentucky Businesses Dan Cahill, Ph.D.

Vice President Market Leader Kentucky

What matters most, each and every day, is helping our clients address one of life’s greatest challenges – obtaining access to quality, affordable health care. HORAN works with employers across Kentucky to minimize costs and improve health.

As the landscape continues to shift, HORAN will help Kentucky employers develop strategic plans that address financial concerns, plan design and effective communication with their employees. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address health care concerns for new clients while continuing to advise our valued clients in Kentucky.

For more information about how HORAN can help with your benefits strategies, please contact Dan Cahill, at 859.572.4501 or DanC@horanassoc.com.

www.horanassoc.com

CONTENTS SPRING 2018 VOLUME 37, NUMBER 2

FC Cincinnati fans convened at Hofbrauhaus in Newport to show support for building a new soccer stadium in Northern Kentucky.

4 President’s Letter

24 Loy Leverages Chamber Involvement

6 Chair’s Letter

26 Around The Chamber Photos

10 Healthcare for the Homeless

28 Ribbon Cuttings

14 Leadership Starts With You

34 Emerging 30

16 Chamber Health Programs

36 Member Milestones

18 $1 Tobacco Tax Increase

38 Events

22 Taking Care of Yourself

COVER PHOTO: SUN Behavioral Health Ribbon Cutting Festivities

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

PAGE 3

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Brent Cooper President and CEO, NKY Chamber of Commerce

When it comes to the health of our community, we continue to be very engaged.

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THERE IS A LOT HAPPENING AT the Northern Kentucky Chamber these days, as we Lead, Connect and Advocate our way to promoting business growth and improving the Northern Kentucky economy.

Our top issue continues to be workforce, and all the things that impact growing, attracting and retaining talent: transportation, education, and health care.

I’ve been spending the past seven months meeting with chamber members throughout the region, and the cost of health care continues to be top of mind for everyone, regardless of the size of the organization.

In response, we have worked with Humana to create a new insurance offering. We’ve been spreading the word about the potential savings, which in some cases has been 30%-40%!

We’ve also worked with Key Benefit Administrators (KBA) and our local health systems to create a new, customized option for employers with 100 or more employees. This new offering is called “Elite Health.” The Elite program includes 30 different plan designs for employers who prefer selffunded or partially self-funded options.

Other benefits include preferred pricing and 30-day guarantees at certain health systems. The response to Elite Health has been tremendous, and we are excited about the potential benefits to businesses throughout our region.

These new insurance offerings not only save businesses money, they also improve the overall well-being of their employees.

While we’ve been working on chamber benefits, we’ve also been trying to address health costs through state policy changes. We were successful in advocating for peer review legislation which allows for doctor’s to speak freely with peers without fear that what is said could be used against them in a lawsuit.

We’ve also championed a constitutional amendment to allow for limits on lawsuits. Our contention is that both of these approaches will help lead to improved outcomes, and lower health costs for businesses.

You’ve probably heard us talking about a $1 increase on cigarette taxes.

Thirty-one percent of Kentuckians smoke.

The U.S. average is 19%. As a result, we are one of the unhealthiest places in the country to do business. Every area of the country that increased taxes on cigarettes by $1 saw a decrease in children smoking. The tax rate for Kentucky cigarettes is currently $0.60 cents, where it is $1.60 in Ohio. We believe raising taxes on cigarettes will improve the overall health of our citizens in the future, and will reduce our health care costs over time.

— Every area of the country that increased taxes on cigarettes by $1 saw a decrease in children smoking.

We were excited to join with city and county officials last month to celebrate the grand opening of the Northern Kentucky Health Department’s new location in Florence. Our Health Department’s goals of preventing disease, promoting wellness and protecting against health threats is critical to our collective success. They play a key role in ensuring a stable workforce in the region.

Finally, in an effort to foster discussions on community health, we are thrilled to host the U.S. Surgeon General at a special NKY Chamber Government Forum on April 9th at the St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center (SETEC).

This is yet another way for us to interact with local, state, and federal health officials.

As you can see, when it comes to the health of our community, we continue to be very engaged. Please let us know if you need anything to help grow your business. Be well. NKY

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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CHAIR’S LETTER

By Rhonda Whitaker Director of Community and Government Relations, Duke Energy Chair, NKY Chamber of Commerce

I am energized by the strides local businesses are making to create a healthier Northern Kentucky.

PAGE 6

THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF our workforce impacts our workforce participation rate, currently sitting at five percent below the national average, along with the quality of businesses we can attract to our region. As your chamber chair, I have committed my year to focusing on the workforce needs of our region. This is why the Chamber is leading a talent strategy which we’re calling GROW NKY, in partnership with a host of workforce partners. There are many factors that impact our local workforce from transportation to education to childcare to many other items. This is also why this issue of the Business Journal concentrates on health and wellness — because as many businesses have recognized, it’s a key component to ensuring that employees can be productive day in and day out. It greatly impacts our workforce.

According to the latest America’s Health Ranking Report, Kentucky was one of the least healthy states in the country. High rates of smoking, cancer, and preventable hospitalizations contributed to our No. 42 ranking. We can do better.

As we enter the second quarter of the year, I am energized by the strides local businesses are making to create a healthier community here in Northern Kentucky. According to a survey commissioned by our community’s largest employer, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, treatment for mental health issues is the No. 1 need in Northern Kentucky. St. Elizabeth just cut the ribbon on the SUN Behavioral Health Hospital in Erlanger. This flexible facility

was designed to provide mental health and addiction services to patients from throughout Greater Cincinnati. The 197-bed hospital will employ about 400 full-time people and nearly 250 of the positions will be new.

Not content to rest on their laurels, St. Elizabeth Healthcare is planning to build the largest comprehensive cancer center in Greater Cincinnati by 2020.

The building will be able to accommodate 650 workers, including hundreds of new positions.

— As a business leader, think of what your organization can do to make Northern Kentucky and our workforce stronger. The health of our workforces is the health of our region and our future.

Our Kentucky colleges are rising to the challenge and doing their part to ensure the pipeline of physicians stays full. The University of Kentucky College of Medicine is partnering with Northern Kentucky University and St. Elizabeth Healthcare to develop a regional medical school campus at NKU. The program is the third regional medical school campus announced by UK designed to increase the overall number of physicians in the Commonwealth.

As a business leader, think of what your organization can do to make Northern Kentucky and our workforce stronger. The health of our workforce is the health of our region and our future.

Be well. NK Y

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Quality.

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34 Locations in 21 Communities, including

BOONE | CAMPBELL | KENTON

Mark Tranbarger President Riverfront Region NMLS 460528

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859.442.1480

MEMBER FDIC

2018 Outstanding Women Honorees

Dr. Julie Metzger Aubuchon Owner, Metzger Eye Care

Florence Tandy Executive Director, Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission

Alecia Webb-Edgington President, Life Learning Center

2018 Emerging Leader

Kristen SmithermanVoltaire Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement, Gateway Community and Technical College

Please join us

Tuesday, May 1, 2018 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center 3861 Olympic Boulevard • Erlanger, KY

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. • Program begins at 12:00 p.m.

2018 Helen Carroll Champion Of Education

Kathleen Bryant Executive Director of Student and Community Services, Boone County Schools

2018 Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women presented by St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Tickets are $40/person

Register online by April 24 at

NKYChamber.com/OWNK

KY State Representative Kimberly Poore Moser Director, NKY Office of Drug Control Policy

For additional information contact Gina Bath at 859.578.6384 or OWNK@NKYChamber.com.

2018 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship Recipients

2018 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement

Sr. Mary Ethel Parrott, SND Provincial , Sisters of Notre Dame

Marsha White Gateway Community & Technical College

P resented by

Ti t l e S p o nso r

Kimberly Masco Mirtha Vasallo Northern Kentucky University

Thomas More College

Education Par tners

FEATURE STORY

Healthcare for the Homeless

By Kelly Rose Director of Marketing and Development Welcome House of Northern Kentucky

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Jennifer Cline, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, ACNP-BC, a doctorally prepared Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in primary and acute care of adults, works every day to make sure that Northern Kentucky’s homeless population gets the health care they deserve.

“We create relationships with clients built on mutual trust and respect to help them acquire stable housing and regain health. We stay true to our words and we do what we say we are going to do to assist anyone in need.”

– Jennifer Cline.

PICTURED (LEFT TO RIGHT) Street Outreach Service Coordinators Chris Hammann & JP Decker, and Nurse Practitioner Jennifer Cline

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

CLINE COULD WORK ANYWHERE. She could be in a hospital, she could teach future nurses, she could work in primary care—but Cline chooses to work with Northern Kentucky’s most vulnerable population through a mobile homeless street outreach team called Open Door at Welcome House of Northern Kentucky.

“I became a registered nurse in 1985 and a nurse practitioner in 1996,” said Cline. “I have worked in many healthcare areas in various hospitals and clinics as well as charitable healthcare organizations. I have always been drawn to clients’ stories.

When a client presents for a specific health problem, they are usually only treated for the disease, not the social conditions that go along with it. However, it is most often the social conditions that determine if a medical treatment plan will succeed or fail.

I have always tried to holistically address the entire story of each client I serve, recognizing that the social situation and their values are just as important, if not more-so, than their medical issues.”

Operating since the Summer of 2017, Open Door is a new mobile homeless street outreach program through Welcome House where two outreach service coordinators and Cline go visit the homeless literally where they are, which could be under a bridge, by the river banks, in the middle of Mall Road in Florence — you name it they have probably visited someone who is experiencing homelessness in any part of Boone, Kenton and Campbell County.

“The whole premise behind the street outreach is to meet people where they are geographically, and more importantly mentally and spiritually. Each client’s situation is unique and complex. We do not impose a predetermined agenda on them; we instead learn what their needs are and partner with them to develop an action plan.

The key to the outreach team’s success is the fluid interaction of both social and health services simultaneously provided in a collaborative and real-time manner,” said Cline.

Cline continues to explain that it’s easy to think that you can have a plan

for housing, healthcare and other basic needs all wrapped up in a pretty package for people experiencing homelessness, but the reality is you must to be willing to unconditionally accept at any given time what clients are willing and able to do.

“We never ever give up on the people we meet. We create relationships with clients built on mutual trust and respect to help them acquire stable housing and regain health. We stay true to our words and we do what we say we are going to do to assist anyone in need,” said Cline.

THE KEY TO HELPING ANYONE WHO IS street homeless is to creatively problem solve for a short-term intervention, such as coordinating for emergency shelter placement or addressing immediate health needs, while simultaneously working towards long-term, sustainable solutions, which usually consists of some form of stable housing, addiction treatment, and viable physical and/or mental health care.

“It’s incredible to see the progress and life-changing outcomes that happen when we combine our individual expertise and resources. Nothing close to this could happen if we were working alone,” said Cline.

The outreach team has worked tirelessly over the past few months to build relationships with other non-profit agencies in Northern Kentucky, law enforcement from all three counties, all St. Elizabeth Healthcare locations as well as local businesses. When someone is identified as homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, the hope is that they will call Open Door.

The Outreach Service Coordinators and Cline work closely together to identify the housing, social service and health needs of their clients and then facilitate necessary services. Each client is closely followed to ensure that the intended services were indeed accessed and received. Above all else, the outreach team members are tireless advocates for their clients.

“I get a minimum of 6-8 calls a week from social workers and case managers at the three St. Elizabeth hospital locations PAGE 11

and the clinics about people who are homeless. I collaborate with them on discharge planning, case management, care transitions and transitional shelter or rehab placement. Once discharged from the hospital, I continue to follow the client wherever they may be to make sure the discharge plan is carried out and they are recuperating as expected,” explains Cline. “I will also communicate directly with care providers to address new or ongoing issues with the intent to improve health outcomes and prevent unnecessary readmissions to the emergency department or hospital.”

Some clients need a lot more care after discharge, such as recuperative care in a medical respite facility or drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Demand for these services is much higher than the available capacity to meet them.

When not fielding calls from community partners and agencies, Cline is providing health care out on the streets or in shelters. The services provided range from basic nursing care to diagnosing illness or injury and prescribing medications.

“You cannot say that there isn’t a homeless issue in this region,” affirmed Cline. “I see it every day.”

Cline agrees with the premise that the overall health of a community is reflected in the health of its most vulnerable citizens. If a vulnerable group is consistently unable to meet their

— Empathetic public perception and favorable social policies have the capacity to improve not only the health of the homeless, but that of the larger community as well. basic needs, it reflects a community whose policies lack support for resource allocation to address those needs.

Unfavorable social policies toward homelessness has been shown, both in the Northern Kentucky region and nationally, to impose a significant cost burden on the community in terms of health, social service and criminal justice expenses. Empathetic public perception and favorable social policies have the capacity to improve not only the health of the homeless, but that of the larger community as well.

CLINE ADVOCATES AND WORKS to debunk the myths surrounding homelessness. Homelessness is commonly attributed to addiction and mental illness. While these conditions are prevalent, they are more a symptom than a cause. Pyschological, emotional, and/or physical trauma in the absence of social support and meaningful connection

with others is most often the root cause. Alcohol and drugs are commonly used to self-medicate the emotional or physical pain associated with such experiences and can lead to addiction.

This is compounded by economic factors such as a lack of affordable housing and jobs that do not keep pace with cost of living. Cline emphasizes that it’s vital to take the blame and shame away from homelessness in order to empower those who are experiencing it to regain their lives.

The average life expectancy of a chronically street homeless individual is about 50 years old. Although many people who are chronically homeless experience the same health issues as anyone else would, due to late diagnosis, or no diagnosis at all, and lack of access to continued health care, many are past the point of no return when it comes to regaining adequate health. However, there is always hope. Cline and the outreach team see signs of this hope every day when visiting homeless camps and others living on the streets.

“We are the first agency in Northern Kentucky to do mobile homeless street outreach in this manner and the response has been amazing,” says Cline.

“We learn so much from the people who need our help the most. I really feel like it’s making an impact to go to where the people are—it’s a truly fascinating and enlightening experience.” NK Y

If you are interested in helping Cline and the Open Door team, they are eager to show you what an average street outreach day is like.

They are also in need of new or gently used equipment such as walkers, wheel chairs, canes, braces or splints and nebulizers.

For more information call 859-431-8717 or email Kelly Rose at krose@welcomehouseky.org

PAGE 12

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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FEATURE STORY

Leadership Starts With You

By Jamie Holtzapfel Principal Consultant, Core Consulting Group

JOIN US FOR A DAY OF SELF-CARE On a scale of 1–10, how would you rate If you’re looking for an opportunity to retreat and renew your connection with self? Would you this spring, consider saying “yes” to Leadercast on May 4 from give yourself a 10 because you know what 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Receptions in Erlanger. This event supports the best and most effective presents opportunities for personal and professional growth version of yourself? Or would you give by connecting people with powerful messages delivered by yourself a one due to a lack of awareness inspirational speakers. While the live presentations are shared in Atlanta, host sites around the world receive the information of your personal well-being and energy in real-time through a simulcast. In addition to the simulcast, you give off to others? In today’s fastour local event provides many opportunities to connect with paced world, our time is often divided others in the community. Last year’s event attracted more than among family, work, community and self.

300 people from 40+ companies!

It’s no secret that self-care supports all Leadercast carries a powerful slogan, “Be a Leader Worth areas of life, yet it never seems to get the Following.” History has shown that many of the best leaders have the greatest sense of self. This year’s event theme, Lead attention it deserves.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS? Many signs indicate it’s time to hit the personal reset button, including: · · · · · · · ·

Feelings of burn out Physical symptoms of stress Formation of bad habits Irritability Excessive self-management Withdrawing from the world around you Concerns expressed from close family and friends Increased competitiveness

STRATEGIES TO CONNECT TO SELF If you’re experiencing one of these signs, it may be time to invest in yourself. Self-care comes in many forms and is unique to individuals. While some may feel rejuvenated from exercise or a cleaner diet, others find their fill by picking up a hobby, building upon a quality relationship or intentionally creating opportunities to disconnect. Regardless of the approach, selfcare often requires you to say “no” to some things, so you can say “yes” to others.

PAGE 14

Yourself, reflects this notion. The speakers will share their personal journeys in learning to lead themselves.

If investing in yourself, connecting with others and learning from outstanding leaders isn’t enough to say “yes” to the day, a portion of the event proceeds benefit Regional Youth Leadership through the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Join hundreds of others in a day of self-care and selfdiscovery. Tickets are available at nkyleadercast.com. NK Y

LEADERCAST 2018 Friday, May 4 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Receptions Erlanger (Broadcast live from Atlanta) General Admission: $115 Table (Minimum 8): $100

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

1

4

2

5

7

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10

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MEET THIS YEAR’S SPEAKERS 1. JEN BRICKER

4. ANDY STANLEY

7. MICHAEL HYATT

9. MAE JEMISON

2. IAN CRON

5. TRIPP CROSBY

8. CATHERINE HOKE

10. JOE TORRE

Born without legs, she defied all odds when she began her career as an acrobat and aerialist.

Bestselling Author, Psychotherapist, Enneagram Teacher & Speaker

One of the most influential speakers in the U.S., a leadership communicator and best-selling author.

Comedian, Director and Host of Leadercast 2018

3. JIM LOEHR, Ed.D.

6. CAREY LOHRENZ

Bestselling Author and World-Renowned Performance Psychologist

The first female F-14 Tomcat fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

Author, Speaker and CEO of Michael Hyatt & Company

Founder and CEO of Defy Ventures

An engineer, physician and NASA astronaut; the only woman of color from any country in the world to go into space.

A four-time World Series champion as Hall of Fame manager of the New York Yankees and a nine-time All-Star player.

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MEMBER BENEFITS

Chamber Health Programs

By Katie Scoville Louis Account Executive, Scooter Media

One of the largest costs for businesses is also one of the biggest benefits for employees: healthcare. That’s why the Northern Kentucky Chamber is partnering with Humana and Elite Health to help Chamber members provide healthcare to their employees at an affordable rate. The best part? There are options for companies of all sizes, ranging from 2 to 200+ that are headquartered in Kentucky.

HUMANA HEALTHSOLUTIONS

ELITE HEALTH

Companies with 2-100 employees can participate in NKY Chamber HealthSolutions, a new health insurance association exclusively for NKY Chamber Members through Humana.

Members can save up to 40% on insurance premiums while providing high quality coverage to employees. HealthSolutions offers competitive premiums and a full suite of coverage options, making it easy to find the perfect plan for your business. Employees will have access to more than 10,000 physicians in addition to wellness programs like Go365™ and EAP, with health coaching included.

Coverage is available for businesses in the Mining, Construction, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Finance Insurance, Real Estate, and Wholesale and Retail Trade industries. Members must pay an association fee when enrolling in coverage.

“Chamber members who qualify for the HealthSolutions offering would join a sub-association of the NKY Chamber with other employers in their industry,” said Geralyn Isler, Vice President of Finance and Compliance/Benefit Advisor with Business Benefits Insurance Solutions. “By pooling together with other businesses, members and their employees can potentially save significantly on health insurance premiums.”

For companies with more than 100 employees, the NKY Chamber is offering a healthcare option through Elite Health.

Elite Health was developed by local health care systems to provide quality care at the lowest available cost. Employees have access to tier one providers such as St. Elizabeth Healthcare, TriHealth, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, numerous local independent specialty practices, and the national wrap network, First Health, allowing plan participants to seek care at a provider of their choice. Coverage through Elite Health is not restricted by industry.

“The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to ensuring the health of Northern Kentucky employees and their families,” said NKY Chamber Senior Vice President Gene Kirchner. “We know that being able to provide employees affordable health insurance is a priority for our members, and we are excited to be able to launch these new offerings.” NK Y

PAGE 16

Chamber members interested in learning more about the HealthSolutions or Elite Health healthcare options should contact Gene Kirchner, NKY Chamber Sr. Vice President and COO at gkirchner@nkychamber.com or (859) 578-8800.

Additional information is also available on the Member Discounts page at nkychamber.com.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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.*

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HEALTH

$1 Tobacco Tax Increase: Good for Health and Business

By Emily Gresham Wherle Public Information Administrator, Northern Kentucky Health Department

AS KENTUCKY COMPETES FOR economic development projects, one key element holding back Northern Kentucky’s competitiveness is the health of our citizens.

The Commonwealth continues to struggle with high smoking rates. Almost one-quarter of Kentucky adults smoke, which is the second highest in the U.S. In some areas of Northern Kentucky smoking rates are as high as 38%.

Further, Kentucky has the highest lung cancer death rate in the nation.

When the workforce has a higher than average tobacco use rate, businesses pay for it. Kentucky businesses lose nearly $2.8 billion every year in reduced productivity due to smoking. The extra cost of smoking for businesses adds up to an estimated $5,816 per employee every year, according to the Coalition for a SmokeFree Tomorrow.

The 2018 General Assembly is currently debating an increase in the state’s cigarette tax. The current rate for a pack of cigarettes is $0.60 in Kentucky, while advocates are requesting a dollar

PAGE 18

increase in the tax for a total of $1.60 per pack.

Research from National Cancer Institute, the World Health Organization and experiences in Wisconsin, Texas and dozens of other states has shown that when tobacco tax rates go up, smoking rates go down, because current smokers decide to quit and youth don’t start smoking. In 2014, the U.S. Surgeon General endorsed tobacco tax increases as an effective tobacco control intervention.

If fewer Kentucky workers smoke, businesses will see the benefits— productivity will increase and health care costs related to smoking will drop over time. These will in turn make it more attractive to do business in the state.

Thus, the increase in the tobacco tax is supported by business and health care groups, including the Northern Kentucky Chamber, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, the Northern Kentucky Health Department

and the Three Rivers District Health Department.

The measure is also supported by Kentuckians. A poll released by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky in January 2018 found that 72% of Northern Kentucky voters support raising the cigarette tax.

For more information on tobacco and its impact on Kentucky businesses, visit the Coalition for a Smoke-free Tomorrow’s website at smokefreetomorrow.org. NK Y

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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FEATURE STORY

Taking Care of Yourself

By Rachel Folz Director of Digital Marketing, Cerkl

WHEN’S THE LAST TIME YOU HAD A real break? As a business leader, finding time for yourself has never been more difficult. No matter your life stage, a seemingly never-ending pile of stress is waiting for us with every text, phone call, social media post, and email. When a leader is stressed, the effects can trickle down to others in the organization.

Research from Mercer shows that stressed managers are less likely to recognize and praise their direct reports.

According to research from Sirota, less than half of managers feel like they can detach from work. If you need to get away but your vacation is nowhere in sight, a spa break might be what the doctored ordered. Since February 2017, The Woodhouse Day Spa has transported guests into a world of calm restoration.

Although their Crestview Hills location is perfectly central, a step inside their doors transports you to another world.

Owner Jeff Chapman calls that feeling “the bubble” and it’s a big part of the Woodhouse experience. Each touch the spa makes with guests is intentionally designed to encourage relaxation; from the lighting to the comfy robes, and beautiful seating areas.

Rushing is discouraged; you are here to savor.

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“We’re all busy,” said Chapman.

“Even though you are running a thousand miles an hour, you need to give yourself time to relax and enjoy.”

Woodhouse offers a vast catalog of rejuvenating spa treatments and experiences for men and women alike.

For veteran spa-goers and newbies alike, Woodhouse Day Spa Manager Tiffany Kennedy suggests The Woodhouse Escape. This blissful, head-to-toe ritual begins with a dry brush exfoliation followed by a therapeutic stone massage.

Next, a focus on neck and shoulders to release upper body tension, followed by relaxing and renewing acupressure, scalp, hand and arm massage. Your escape ends with the restorative ancient art of reflexology.

Some spa-goers like to fly solo, but if a group event is more your speed, Woodhouse Day Spa is happy to accommodate groups of all types. The spa is outfitted with a private lower level that’s played host to private parties, coaching sessions, networking events, and staff retreats. Chapman says his staff relishes the challenge of finding solutions that fit guests’ vision and budget, “The unofficial motto is ‘the answer is yes.’” NK Y

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SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

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FEATURE STORY

Loy Leverages Chamber Involvement

By Bill Powell Franchise Consultant, FranNet MidAmerica

Jeff Loy, President & CEO of Dynamic Supply Chain Solutions, an exclusive agent for Premier Expediters Inc. (PEI), runs PEI’s regional office in Ft. Mitchell and is all about networking to grow his business and to help others grow theirs.

Not only is it a key way he generates business, but it’s what he regularly practices through the Northern Kentucky Chamber’s Business Referral Network (BRN), a networking program that features groups with one person per business category.

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Soon after joining the chamber in 2011, Loy began chairing a group. He did that until 2015, when he became chairman over all seven BRN groups that meet every other week—mostly at the Chamber. After relinquishing that role to Vince DiMuro of Erlanger Hardware Consultants/Bonded Lock Service, he began forming a new BRN group called The B2B Connections. “I first heard of BRN when I was involved in Legacy in 2006,” Loy said. “It’s been a great growth tool for my business, has expanded my network significantly and enables me to help others get real benefit out of their membership. The program keeps gaining momentum.”

CHAMBER INVOLVEMENT GROWS In 2016, Loy expanded his chamber involvement by becoming an Ambassador. Ambassadors represent the chamber at various events and functions, deliver packets of chamber information to new members and participate in ribbon cuttings for member organizations. Like everything he does, he didn’t do it halfway. He earned “Ambassador of the Year” honors in both 2016 and 2017. “It was great to get invited to a Chamber Board of Directors meeting afterwards,” he said.

Loy is also a regular presenter at the “Getting the Most from Your Chamber Membership” orientations, where he explains how his involvement has helped his business. Part of the proof of that is that his company has been selected for the chamber’s competitive “Emerging 30” list twice (2014 and 2015). The program, which recognizes the success of up-andcoming companies in the region, uses revenue growth as the key measure.

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

— As my business has grown—both in geographic footprint and revenues—I’ve found that chamber involvement gives me a bigger business relationship base to grow from.

“Sometimes I’ve gotten a bit overinvolved,” he said. “But then I see the opportunities and engage more.” For example, he’s exploring an affinity program rebate program for the chamber, and says Leadership NKY is on his radar for 2019. “As my business has grown—both in geographic footprint and revenues—I’ve found that chamber involvement gives me a bigger business relationship base to grow from.”

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS DNA At 40, Loy has been in the transportation/logistics business for 22 years. PEI, a certified womenowned small business, has provided critical shipping solutions to the private sector since 1992. “We’re committed to delivering personalized service, flexibility, options and solutions for every shipment,” he explained. “We deliver 96 percent on time and damage-free at a fair price, and offer services that include truckloads—local and long hauls, LTL and partials, supply chain management, warehousing/distribution management, trade show shipments and expediting.”

PEI’s corporate office is in Stockbridge, Georgia, which is just south of Atlanta, and there are regional offices in Ft. Mitchell, Raleigh, Phoenix and Portland, Maine. Loy’s regional office serves a 500-mile radius, with particular

growth coming out of Atlanta and Nashville. “Approximately 68 percent of the U.S. population can be serviced next day via ground service from our office,” he said. “Our growth is causing us to move to a new larger 12,500 square foot facility (10,000 warehouse; 2,500 office) in April, collocating with our local partner, Logistics Innovations. Currently we have two full-time employees, six part-time employees and two contractors.”

Loy said PEI believes strongly in giving back to its communities. To that end, the PEI Companies formed Paradise Empowers, a privately funded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, to help educate and inspire youths in their local communities. The stated goal is “to improve the quality of life for youth, especially at-risk children, by providing the essential tools and skills necessary for building character, increasing self-esteem, meeting positive friends and making informed choices.” In 2018, Dynamic Supply Chain Solutions and PEI are sharing a portion of their earnings on a monthly basis to help house, feed and educate orphans in Guatemala in partnership with Master Provisions and Ten Fe; they are also seeking sponsorships for the children.

Additionally, Loy participates in annual fundraisers for the Addiction Services Council and Master Provisions.

CALIFORNIA BORN, KENTUCKY ROOTS In 1991, Loy moved from southern California to Burlington, Kentucky, because his father was transferred to this area. He graduated Conner High School in 1996, briefly attended Northern Kentucky University and then launched his transportation/logistics career. He participated in amateur baseball for six years after college and then made the Florence Freedom as a catcher under Coach Tom Browning.

Loy is married and has two children (11 and 16). The couple lives in Union, KY where they just built a house. NK Y

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AROUND THE CHAMBER FC CINCINNATI PINTS & PERSPECTIVES, NEWPORT AQUARIUM

WOMEN’S INITIATIVE ANNUAL BREAKFAST, NKY CONVENTION CENTER

BOURBON INDUSTRY PINTS & PERSPECTIVES, NEW RIFF DISTILLERY

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

AROUND THE CHAMBER LEADERSHIP NKY/LEGACY, FULL THROTTLE

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS, COLONEL DE’S

DON’T MISS OUT! NKYCHAMBER.COM/ EVENTS

WHERE WE STAND, DEVOU GOLF & EVENT CENTER

GOVERNMENT FORUM, METROPOLITAN CLUB

WOMEN’S INITIATIVE CONNECT HOUR, BISCUITS TO BURGERS

DAY IN FRANKFORT

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

CAMPBELL COUNTY LIBRARY - ALEXANDRIA 8333 Alexandria Pike | Alexandria, KY 41001 | (859) 572-7463 | cc-pl.org/alexandria-branch PICTURED: Andy Kelly, Receptions Inc./NKY Chamber Ambassador; Chantelle Phillips, Assistant Director; Paul Johnson, Board Treasurer; Emily Morgan, Library Director’s daughter; Dave Anderson, Cold Spring/Alexandria Branch Manager; Rebecca Kelm, former Board President; Tracy Smith, Board member; Christie Fillhardt, Board Secretary; Noah Bartell, Alexandria Branch Supervisor; Carla Landon, Board member; Mark Barone, Woodmen of the World and Alexandria Community Business Association; Cathy Howard, Board President; JC Morgan, Library Director; Bill Rachford, Mayor of Alexandria; Chris Bischoff, Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President and CEO; Brian Painter, Campbell County Fiscal Court Commissioner; Ron Johnson, former City of Alexandria Council member; Barry Jolly, owner of the building; Jack Fields, Heritage Bank and Alexandria Community Business Association; Jodi Webster, Travel Leaders/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Abby Morgan, Library Director’s daughter

CROWN SERVICES 7711 Ewing Blvd | Florence, KY 41042 | (859) 371-7898 | crownservices.com PICTURED: Jon Engelhard, Huntington/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Connie Flynn, Erigo/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Marcus Napier, Crown Services, General Manager; Diane Whalen, City of Florence Mayor; John McDermond, City of Florence-Police Chief; J. Kelly Huff, Florence City Council; Florence Freedom Y’All Star; Watson Jones, C.K. Ash & Associates/NKY Chamber Ambassador .

DAZZLED BABIES BOUTIQUE 24 N Main Street | Walton, KY 41094 | (859) 485-0079 | dazzledbabiesboutique.com PICTURED: Lance Angle, ATech Training, Inc./NKY Chamber Ambassador; Rachel Russell; Gene Kirchner, NKY Chamber COO; Coni Pilarski, Dazzled Babies Boutique, Owner; Bart Pilarski; Raymond Gariepy; Dianna Gariepy; David Gross; Brenda Gross; Tony Baer, Baer Photgraphy; Rachel Baer, Baer Photgraphy; Tom Reusch, Kerry Nissan/NKY Chamber Ambassador

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

RIBBON CUTTINGS

GRANITE WORLD 1450 Dixie Hwy | Park Hills, KY 41011 | (859) 371-7444 | graniteworldnky.com PICTURED: Gene Kirchner, NKY Chamber COO; Becky Vaughn, Full Throttle/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Amy Beck, Citizens Deposit Bank/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Joe Nienaber, Granite World President; Representitives of L&N Federal Credit Union/Sponsor; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Lisa Jones, Money Mailer/NKY Chamber Ambassador.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS - WILDER 8 Hampton Ln | Wilder, KY 41076 | (859) 815-8855 | hiexpress.com/wilderky PICTURED: First row: Valerie Jones, City of Wilder; Andy Kelly, Receptions Inc./NKY Chamber Ambassador; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Stanley Turner, City of Wilder; Devang Patel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Owner; Chirag Pate, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Owner; Admani Patel, Chirag’s Daughter; Saumya Patel, Devang’s Son; Radaik Patel, Wife of Devang; Jon Engelhard, Huntington/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Second Row: Tim Gilikson, Radio 1; Kevin Richardson, Addiction Services/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Jinel Patel, Brother of Devang and Chirag; Neha Patel, Wife of Chirag; Charmi Patel, David Stitsinger, LNCB Bank

LATONIA COMMUNITY CENTER 3705 Winston Ave | Latonia, KY 41041 PICTURED: Jon Engelhard, Huntington/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Meredith Kaucher; Bill Wells, Covington Commissioner; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Billie McDaniel, LNK Class 2018 President; Tom Mitchell; Molly Berrens, Spotted Yeti Media; Kim Arrasmith-Bradley, Arrasmith Promotions/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Kevin Richardson, Addiction ServicesNKY

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

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RIBBON CUTTINGS MEL’S AUTO GLASS 542 Buttermilk Pike. | Crescent Springs, KY 41017 | (859) 344-0707 | melsautoglass.com PICTURED: Tom Reusch, Kerry Nissan/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Amy Beck, Citizens Deposit Bank/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Jac DeAug, Bengals Cheerleader Sammy Wolf, Bengals Cheerleader; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Mel Wolf, Mel’s Auto Glass Owner; Jacob Himes, Mel’s Auto Glass; Lou Hartfield, City of Crescent Springs Mayor, Rose Williams, Mel’s Auto Glass; Lisa Gabrielle, Mel’s Auto Glass Owner; Gianna Himes; Watson Jones, C.K. Ash & Associates/NKY Chamber Ambassador

MORTENSON FAMILY DENTAL 2052 Harris Pike #54 | Independence, KY 41051 | (859) 898-2255 | mortensondental.com PICTURED: Scott Stewart, Dwyer Insurance/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Amy Beck, Citizens Deposit Bank/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Florence Freedom Mascot; Chris Reinersman, Independence Mayor; Dr. Jinyoung Kim, DMD; Celest Neu, Team Leader; Shelby Staton, RDH; Britney Whitford, EDDA; Chris Moriconi, Independence City Administrator; Andy Johnston, BB&T-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Kevin Richardson, Addiction Services/ NKY Chamber Ambassador.

NORTHERN KENTUCKY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 8001 Veterans Memorial Dr | Florence, KY 41042 | (859) 341-4264 | nkyhealth.org

PICTURED: Chris Hamilton, Addiction Services/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Will Ziegler, NKY District Board of Health; Commissioner Kenner; Tony Kramer, NKY District Board of Health Chair; Lynne M. Saddler, NKY Health Department; Jack Lenihan, NKY District Board of Health; Diane Whalen, City of Florence Mayor; Dr. Connie White, Kentucky Department for Public Health; Judge Gary Moore, Judge Executive-Boone County; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; NKY Health Department Produce Man; Dr. Julie Metzger Aubuchon, NKY District Board of Health; Andy Kelly, Receptions Inc./NKY Chamber Ambassador

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

RIBBON CUTTINGS POSITIVE SOLUTIONS BEHAVIOR GROUP 2167 Chamber Center Drive | Fort Mitchell, KY 41017 | (812) 584-2065 | positivesolutionsbehaviorgroup.com

PICTURED: Scott Stewart, Dwyer Insurance/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Jon Engelhard, Huntington/NKY Chamber Ambassador; Jude Hehman, Ft. Mitchell Mayor; Courtney Brandt, Positive Solutions Behavior Group Executive Director; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Greg Pohlgeers, Associated Management Systems; Ellen Barnet, L&N Federal Credit Union/Sponsor; Amy Beck, Citizens Deposit Bank/NKY Chamber Ambassador.

SOUTHWEST SERVICE TO PHOENIX 3087 Terminal Drive | Hebron, KY 41048 | (859) 767-3151 | southwest.com PICTURED: Mr. Redlegs; Southwest flight crew; Boone County Judge Executive Gary Moore; Candace McGraw, CVG CEO; Justin Jordon, Southwest station leader; and Gapper.

SUN BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 820 Dolwick Drive | Erlanger, KY 41018 | (859) 429-5188 | sunkentucky.com PICTURED: Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Campbell County Judge Executive Steve Pendery; Dr. Chris Lockey , CEO of SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky; Boone County Judge Executive Gary Moore; Steve Page, President & CEO Sun Behavioral Health; Garren Colvin, President & CEO, St. Elizabeth Healthcare; Richard Woodbury, President & CEO of The Woodbury Corporation; Scott Brinkman, Acting Secretary of the Cabinet for Health & Family Services.

LET US HELP YOU PROMOTE!

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!

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

Ribbon Cuttings Sponsored by:

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WORKFORCE

How to Attract Talent in Today’s Job Market

FOCUS ON REQUIRED SKILLS The key to any successful search is effectively defining the job profile before you begin. Think about the specific duties the employee will be responsible for and then focus on the abilities a candidate must have versus those that would be nice to have.

MOVE FASTER With increased competition, it’s important to move quickly when you find a strong candidate. Always be on the lookout for top talent and be open to hiring an employee who would be a strong fit even if you don’t have an obvious opening.

THINK MORE ABOUT COMPENSATION STRUCTURE Make sure you’re priced for the market so your first offer to a candidate is a strong one and consider additional compensation tools like bonuses, commissions, or long-term incentives. You’ll also want to evaluate the salaries of current employees and ensure pay scales align with the market.

IMPROVE THE CANDIDATE EXPERIENCE (AND YOUR EMPLOYER BRAND) Most individuals have high expectations of an organization’s customer service and disgruntled candidates will most certainly share their frustration with others. Ensure every part of the candidate’s journey from the initial job posting to the final offer is clear, respectful, and personal. Respond to emails promptly, keep the candidate updated on progress, and communicate by phone or email rather than with automated messages.

GET EVERYONE INVOLVED

By Tom Gilman Managing Partner and CEO, Gilman Partners

It’s not just HR’s job to recruit; it should be part of everyone’s responsibility. Consider referral bonuses and getting a cross section of employees to help sell your culture and your organization’s advantages.

UTILIZE SOCIAL MEDIA

With the local unemployment rate hovering around 4%, employers are finding it more challenging than it has been in years to recruit and attract talent. Since we don’t anticipate the state of the job market changing anytime soon, we encourage our clients to assume this is the new normal and adjust their hiring processes.

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Job aggregators like Indeed are still a go-to source for job searches, but more companies than ever are utilizing social media to reach potential candidates where they already spend time. In addition to showcasing open positions, social media is a great way to promote your company’s brand and culture so potential employees get a sense of who you are before they even walk in your door.

Because top talent is becoming harder to find, organizations have to look beyond recruiting practices to maintain a strong workforce. Some of the best companies in the region are now focusing on improved employee retention activities, many of them designed to improve employee engagement, including enhanced professional development, structured coaching, more flexible work environments, and increased benefits. NK Y

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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EMERGING 30

Emerging 30 Emerging 30 is composed of local businesses making a significant economic impact on the community based on annual revenue growth. Winners receive public acknowledgment of their achievements and are encouraged to offer their guidance to help other small businesses grow during events tailored specifically to Emerging 30 designees.

BE CREATIVE CATERING earned their fifth Emerging 30 honors last year; their fifth time in the last seven years. Be Creative was formed in the spring of 2007 by founder and president Travis Faris. Their operations are run out of a 3,000 square foot commercial kitchen facility located in Hebron, KY. Faris, 40, along with his wife Michelle, have three children.

Prior to forming Be Creative, Faris worked 11 years with another catering business. Be Creative Catering currently employs two full-time and 30 part-time employees. Since his first Emerging 30 honor in 2011, he has expanded his business operations to include an outdoor wedding venue, the Inn At Oneonta in Melbourne, Kentucky. Faris has also acquired interests in a tent and party rental company, and a trailer rental company.

With the growth and expansion he has kept the following business lessons in mind. First, know your identity and what you are good at; you can’t be all things to all customers.

Second, provide great service at a reasonable price. Third, keep your overhead low. And last, be sure to get things in writing — this benefits you and your customers.

One of his business heroes is Truett Cathy, founder of the Chick-fil-A restaurant chain — where at least one important rule is that any franchisor must work in the restaurant, and not just be a passive investor; on premise owners provide better management and better customer service. Faris indicated that while last year was a good year, this year is shaping up to be even better.

SUBMITTED BY: SCOTT MALOF CPA/PFS MALOF & ASSOCIATES CPA’S, LLC

SCOOTER MEDIA is a communication agency in Covington, Kentucky specializing in public relations, social media and content marketing. The team at Scooter Media thrives on creating specialized communication strategies and employing tactics that drive measurable, long-lasting results for a company’s bottom line and reputation.

Since the company’s inception in 2012, Scooter Media, owned by Shannan Boyer, has grown to become Northern Kentucky’s premier public relations agency, serving clients in a diverse range of industries including professional services, consumer goods, arts & entertainment, and education.

In 2017, the agency was named the Small/Mid-Size Agency of the Year by the Cincinnati chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. The agency has also received numerous awards for its client work, including campaigns for special events, integrated communications, and social media that were recently named some of the best public relations work in the region.

Scooter Media is highly committed to and invested in Northern Kentucky, donating a significant amount of time to pro bono projects along with sponsoring Keep Covington Beautiful’s annual community cleanup event. Team members are actively involved in a variety of committees, boards, and nonprofit organizations, including service on Northern Kentucky University’s College of Informatics Alumni Board and People Working Cooperatively’s ToolBelt Ball committee as well as volunteer work with the Life Learning Center in Covington.

This is the second year in a row that Scooter Media has received the Emerging 30 distinction, and the company looks forward to continued growth in 2018.

SUBMITTED BY: JAY WUEST, SENIOR VP PNC

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

EMERGING 30

ERIGO EMPOLYER SOLUTIONS is a great example of a growing business the Emerging 30 program seeks to recognize. CEO Charlie Vance was the original employee of Erigo seven years ago. Today Erigo has 10 employees and its growth has earned it an Emerging 30 award three years in a row.

Erigo solves problems and issues in the areas of human resources, workers’ compensation, risk management, employee benefits and payroll administration. Erigo’s comprehensive suite of administrative employer solutions helps businesses increase profitability, maximize employee productivity, reduce time spent on transactional HR activities, reduce employment related liability and ultimately lower labor cost. Outsourcing these functions to Erigo allows businesses to focus on their core mission with fewer distractions.

Erigo is 100% locally owned and operated and prides itself on being embedded in this community. Vance is very active in the NKY Chamber serving on the Board of Directors and encourages the employees of Erigo to get involved and give their time to local non-profit organizations.

When asked about keys to the growth and success of Erigo, Vance said ”A core value of Erigo is to do business honestly and with integrity. We believe this serves are our clients, employees and the company better in the long run.”

Vance added, “We hire employees at Erigo that have similar standards of honesty and integrity and that has built a great team for the company.”

SUBMITTED BY: DARYL EVANS, INVESTMENT EXECUTIVE FIFTH THIRD SECURITIES, INC.

CRU CUTTERS is very excited to receive their seventh straight Emerging 30 Award. They have been blessed to experience a substantial amount of growth and change over the past several years. Many challenges and successes have accompanied this growth and they have found that customers appreciate the well-developed reputation that they have gained amongst the community.

Much of the growth has been a result of the increased amount of development in the Northern Kentucky area, which has provided vast opportunities in the industry, allowing them to acquire an impressive resume.

Although the growth has strengthened their presence in the area, it has also presented many challenges. As the company grows, more is expected of the management team, requiring them to manage an additional 20-30% on top of what they did the previous year. Balancing the company’s growth with the abilities of the management team is crucial to running an organized operation, but can be a challenging adjustment for the staff. They have been fortunate enough to employ many reliable individuals who willingly take on more responsibility and develop into the next level of lower management on the team as their company grows. Change is inevitable, especially with rapid growth, and the team’s ability and willingness to adapt has been remarkable.

When faced with the inevitable changes associated with rapid growth, find the courage to accept and embrace them. Trying to grow a business will present many challenges, but how those challenges are faced and the lessons learned as a result, can easily become aid for your future successes.

JENNIFER VORIES AND THE VORIES TEAM at Keller Williams Realty Services in Ft. Mitchell pride themselves on “raving fans” customer service. Striving to give her clients a true stress free real estate transaction has helped her team to sell a property every other day – a No. 1 ranking in the Northern Kentucky residential market.

The company was proud to be a second time Emerging 30 honoree in 2017.

Jennifer attributes most of her team’s success to the extraordinary coaching she has received since starting her business in 2008.

Jennifer pays it forward to her team and continues to invest $2,500 per month on The Core training program. She treats them like family as they all just returned from a celebration cruise! Growth does not come without its challenges as space becomes scarce and team members venture out on their own at times.

Nevertheless, the Vories Team thrives by being well rounded in its real estate expertise with diverse divisions including: Luxury, Farm & Ranch and Commercial. They continually strive to do the right thing and what’s best for the client.

When asked her advice for others starting out in business Jennifer exclaimed, “Find something you love to do and you will never work a day in your life!”

It’s fitting that her dedication to clients and team members never takes a day off: She achieved perfect attendance as an adolescent student.

SUBMITTED BY: RYAN BIHL, RELATIONSHIP MANAGER FIFTH THIRD BUSINESS BANKING

SUBMITTED BY: RYAN BIHL, RELATIONSHIP MANAGER FIFTH THIRD BUSINESS BANKING

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

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EMERGING 30

For most businesses, deciding to deploy Salesforce is a major decision. Helping a business refine its processes and accelerate growth through the use of Salesforce can be a complex process that comes with significant investment.

PROLOCITY is a Covington-based national Salesforce partner that helps businesses and nonprofits simplify the process, while leveraging the full capabilities of the Salesforce Platform.

Prolocity was founded in 2010 by seasoned technology leader, John McKenzie. McKenzie has a passion for bringing a people-first mission to an industry traditionally prone to getting lost in the technical weeds. By taking the time to understand each client’s business needs and goals, the Prolocity team is able to deliver strategic solutions that transform customer experience and drive competitive advantage.

Ask McKenzie how Prolocity delivers transformational results, and he’ll point to his team. With a culture that prizes integrity, transparency, and creativity Prolocity brings a people-centered approach to every project. Prolocity is also committed to giving back through the Salesforce 1-1-1 Philanthropic Model, donating 1% of employee time, 1% of profits, and 1% services through partnerships with regional 501(c)(3) causes.

This is the third year in a row that Prolocity has received the Emerging 30 award and McKenzie sees nothing but growth ahead. Leveraging client centric solutions is no longer optional in today’s competitive environment. By partnering with a firm that understands the why and the how, Prolocity’s clients enjoy affordable, compelling business solutions that deliver results.

SUBMITTED BY: SCOTT MALOF, CPA/PFS MALOF & ASSOCIATES CPA’S, LLC

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In 2005, Tony Lamb started with a simple vision. He took that vision and paired it with his background in marketing to create a company and promote growth through extraordinary web presence. KONA ICE has become a national brand. What started in Northern Kentucky has expanded to 48 states, with 1,009 franchises and 600 franchisees. His philosophy is simple. He wanted to create something with a family feeling that would enrich the lives of others, while ensure that he himself has a job that was fun. That is how Kona brand was born.

The company currently has 45 full time employees, and his five year vision is to have over 2,000 franchises. With 89% of his business partners expressing interest or participating in philanthropy, one can easily understand why the brand has grown so rapidly. Because of his generous heart, Boone County Peewee Football now has a new playground and sports box.

Other wonderful things are happening in the company as well. To eliminate outsourcing, they recently opened their own flavoring company and have a flavoring scientist on staff. This allows Kona Ice to control the amount of sugar and preserves in their flavors. They’ve also created their own maintenance company, allowing company owned trucks to be serviced at their local store.

Tony is blown away from the support and graciousness of the Boone County community, and its love for Kona Ice. He and his company look forward to serving you soon.

SUBMITTED BY: JENNIFER HAUBNER-VORIES, LISTING SPECIALIST THE VORIES TEAM, LLC

The front page of the website for LEGION LOGISTICS boasts “We’re up for any challenge you can throw at us. From fruit to chickens to axes and tanks, we’ll make sure your cargo arrives safely and on time.” For the fifth consecutive year, Legion Logistics has done just that, earning the 2017 Emerging 30 Award. Founded in 2009, Lacy Starling and Tony Coutsoftides have seen changes over the last year that have brought excitement and growth to their company.

Recent in-house technology upgrades have helped Legion Logistics set themselves apart from other logistics companies. The launch of their new proprietary geo-location service LegionTrack, uses driver’s cell phones to track all shipments in real time. Combined with the LegionEMS customer portal, Legion is now able to provide customers with real-time visibility of all shipments. These exciting advances, coupled with recent regulatory changes requiring electronic log books for drivers, have resulted in more efficiency as a company helping to control overhead costs.

When asked about the biggest challenges associated with this type of growth, the answer was an undeniable one, people. With unemployment the lowest it’s been in years, the labor market has been challenging. Legion focuses on bringing on talented, driven staff. From the office mascot, a rescue dog named Chunk, to the 29 dedicated employees, Legion prides itself in having a great work culture with employees who pride themselves on their competitive spirits.

SUBMITTED BY: BECKY VAUGHN, EVENT SALES FULL THROTTLE INDOOR KARTING

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MEMBER MILESTONES

Member Milestones

David M. Dirr has been named a partner at DBL LAW. He is a member of the healthcare and civil litigation practice groups and represents clients in a wide array of healthcare-related issues including Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement, anti-kickback law, the Stark Law, certificate of need, and HIPAA. He also assists clients in a diverse range of litigation issues outside of the healthcare field.

Dirr obtained his B.A. in History from Miami University and graduated summa cum laude from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. He serves as Chair of the Managed Care Contracting Affinity Group of the American Health Lawyers Association.

David volunteers as a faculty member at the Life Learning Center in Covington, Kentucky and is active with the Cincinnati Inn of Court.

Dirr represents clients in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana and has practiced in numerous state and federal courts, including the United States Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.

KENTON CIRCUIT COURT Clerk John Middleton is serving as president of the Kentucky Association of Circuit Court Clerks (KACCC). As president, Middleton represents 116 circuit clerks who are members of the KACCC and over 1,700 deputy clerks throughout the Commonwealth.

Prior to being elected president he served as first vice president, second vice president and secretary of the association. He is currently in his second term as circuit clerk, having first been elected in 2006. Prior to being elected circuit clerk, he was an attorney in private practice and was an assistant Kenton County attorney.

Middleton has been active in his community serving as president of Redwood Rehabilitation Center, president of the Covington Optimist, president of the NKY Board of the American Heart Association and on the Planned Gifts Committee of St. Elizabeth Hospital.

He has a B.A. from the University of Kentucky (1991) and a JD from Chase College of Law (1994). He is a member of the Northern Kentucky Bar Association and is licensed to practice in Kentucky and has been licensed in Ohio.

The National Association of Senior Move Managers® is proud to award the Senior Move Manager~Certified (SMM-C) credential to Amy Wright of RESETTLED LIFE, Union, Ky. The Senior Move Manager~Certified (SMM~C) credential is a three–year designation conferred on individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience in the Senior Move Management profession.

“NASMM’s SMM~C certification is the professional evolution of certification for Senior Move Management® professionals,” said Mary Kay Buysse, NASMM’s Executive Director. “While many certification programs only measure knowledge, the SMM~C requires experience within the profession to demonstrate proficient Senior Move Management service delivery.”

— 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

SPRING 2018 | VOLUME 37 NUMBER 2

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EVENTS APRIL 4/9

4/12 4/12 4/17 4/18 4/19

4/24 4/26 4/30

Government Forum featuring the U.S. Surgeon General - St. Elizabeth Training and Education Center (SETEC): 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

Getting the Most from Your Chamber Membership - NKY Chamber: 3:00 — 4:00 p.m.

LEGACY Coffee and Conversation - NKY Chamber: 7:30 — 8:30 a.m.

Eggs ‘N Issues - NKY is Embracing Automation - Receptions: 7:30 — 9:00 a.m.

Workforce Strategies: A Culture of Wellness Lunch ‘n Learn Series - Mindfulness Matters NKY Chamber: 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

LEGACY CEO Lunch - Kurt Reiber, Freestore Foodbank Rosenthal Community Kitchen: 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

Sales Essential Workshop - TBD: 9:30 — 10:30 a.m.

NKITA BOD - NKY Chamber: 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour - Wiseway Design Center, Florence: 4:30 — 6:30 p.m.

Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky - St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center (SETEC): 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

HR 100 - Community + Vibrancy = Attraction and Retention for the HR Professional - TBD Eggs ‘N Issues: Tourism Business in NKY - Receptions: 7:30— 9:00 a.m.

NKITA Presents - Doing Business with Japan - Kentucky Speedway: 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour - Turn Event Center, Newport: 4:30 — 6:30 p.m.

Sales Essentials Workshop - TBD: 9:30 — 10:30 a.m.

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.

Subscribers: Please send address changes by e-mail to info@nkychamber.com. © 2018, The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and by the individual authors. All rights reserved.

CEO/Publisher Brent Cooper Marketing / Communications Director Jeremy Schrand | jschrand@nkychamber.com Vice President Membership – Sponsorship Sales Lynn Abeln | labeln@nkychamber.com

JUNE 6/12 6/14 6/19 6/28 6/25 6/26

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.

MAY 5/1

5/10 5/15 5/23 5/21 5/22

Northern Kentucky Business Journal is published quarterly by:

Women’s Initiative: Golf Outing - Summit Hills Country Club: 11:00 — 5:30 p.m.

Getting the Most from Your Chamber Membership - NKY Chamber: 3:00 — 4:00 p.m.

Eggs ‘N Issues: Cancer, Care and Community - Receptions: 7:30 — 9:00 a.m.

NKITA BOD - NKY Chamber: 11:30 — 1:00 p.m.

Women’s Initiative Connecting Shore to Shore - Carnegie Hall at Newport: 4:30 — 7:00 p.m.

Sales Essentials Workshop - TBD: 9:30 — 10:30 a.m.

Director, Sponsor Investments Diana McGlade | dmcglade@nkychamber.com Chamber Communications Committee Rachel Folz (Chair), Kristin Baldwin, Jamie Holtzapfel, Mindy Kershner, William Powell, Kelly Rose, Katie Scoville Louis, Emily Gresham Wherle Design Ben Gastright | bgastright@nkychamber.com

Women’s Initiative CONNECT Hour, Biscuits to Burgers

LOOKING FOR MORE EVENTS? NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

PAGE 38

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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