NKY Business Journal | May/June 2021 by Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

r o f y Read

g n i d n a t S s n s o n i o t i a t v a v O O

BUSINESS JOURNAL OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF NKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MAY/JUNE 2021 THE HISTORICAL HORSE RACING REJUVENATION P 8 DESTINATION: BOURBON P 12 COMING ATTRACTIONS P 20

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CONTENTS

4 Chair's Letter 8 The Historical Horse Racing Rejuvenation 10 The Arts in Northern Kentucky: What's Next 12 Destination: Bourbon

15 Outstanding Women of NKY 20 Coming Attractions 24 Q&A with the Board of Advisors & Board of Directors 26 GROW NKY in Action 28 Around the Chamber

32 Ribbon Cuttings 34 Member Milestones 34 Remembering & Honoring Ralph Drees 38 Upcoming Events

ON THE COVER: The 2021 Leadership NKY Class tours Newport's brand new, soon-to-beopen Ovation concert venue, developed by Corporex and built by Turner Construction. Photo by Ben Gastright.

TOURISM MAY/JUNE 2021 VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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CHAIR’S LETTER AT HSD METRICS, WE HAVE TEAM members all over the country. One member of my sales team lives in Florida. She told me she was going on vacation, so I asked her where people from Florida go on vacation. It turns out they go to Florida. As I was reflecting on this month’s issue about tourism in our region, I reflected on why Northern Kentucky is turning into a place I need to explore as a travel destination as well as a great place to live, play and work: •

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

— I encourage you to think about how you can be an ambassador of our region after learning more about Northern Kentucky as a tourist destination. PICTURED: Rendering of the new indoor renovations planned for Newport on the Levee, provided by the Levee.

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•

• •

•

The Turfway Park redevelopment is officially underway on the heels of the opening of Newport Racing and Gaming thanks to Churchill Downs. Turner Construction is making great headway building a new entertainment facility to anchor Ovation Pavilion in Newport. Newport on the Levee is getting a facelift. The B-Line will flourish as we continue to position ourselves as the gateway to Bourbon Country. And if sports are your thing, you can enjoy football, baseball and soccer right here—with FC Cincinnati debuting a brand new facility.

This is all great news, but it is still painful to talk about travel right now. There are signs of life. Our theme for the Annual Celebration last year was “Here Comes the Sun” and based on the development, new venues and growing restaurant scene, there is great reason for optimism. In 2019 we were breaking records in tourism, driving over 13,000 jobs and almost $2 billion in spending. Not surprisingly, those numbers dropped precipitously during the pandemic. We are not expected to challenge these highs again for another few years. Still, Americans are becoming more confident in travel safety. They are feeling better about going to sporting events in small venues (49.1%), traveling on an airline (48.25), and staying in a hotel (32%). Just as much of this new development is completed, the tourism industry is expected to flourish again. Northern Kentucky is right on schedule to take advantage of the rise in the market. I get why people from Florida want to go to Florida on vacation. I want to urge people from Northern Kentucky to think the same way. We live in an exciting region with plenty to offer. What we lack in beaches we more than make up for with amenities, activities, and good old-fashioned hospitality. I encourage you to think about how you can be an ambassador of our region after learning more about Northern Kentucky as a tourist destination. NK Y

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The Historical Horse Racing Rejuvenation Staff Contribution SPRINGTIME IN KENTUCKY IS ONE OF THE MOST MAGNIFICENT times of the year. After months of frosty temperatures and snowfall, few things are more welcomed—and more picturesque—than foals frolicking across green pastures and fields teeming with vibrant, colorful flowers. Perhaps the most definitive sign of brighter days to come, however, is the annual running of the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May. Of course, horse racing wouldn’t be one of our state’s signature industries if it was only a one-day event. As Kentuckians know, horse racing—and all that goes into our equine industry—is a year-round, sunup to sundown job. Statewide, the horse industry has a $5.2 billion economic impact, employing approximately 60,000 people directly and indirectly. You don’t have to look far to see the positive impacts of horse racing in our local communities. Here in Northern Kentucky, tourism is a cornerstone of our economic wellbeing. Our region is home to 10 percent of the state’s population but brings in over 20 percent of Kentucky’s tourism revenue, accounting for thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in economic impact each year. And as we begin to move past the COVID-19 pandemic, it is sure to play a prominent role in our economic recovery. In fact, thanks to legislation ensuring the future of Kentucky horse racing that was passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear earlier this year, our region is particularly well-positioned for our workforce, businesses and communities to bounce back following a very difficult year in which tourism and economic development opportunities were put on pause. Senate Bill 120, sponsored by Senator John Schickel of Boone County and carried by Representative Adam Koenig of Erlanger in the House, focused on historical horse racing (HHR) and proved to be one of this session’s landmark issues directly impacting Kentucky’s signature horse industry, as well as businesses across the state, tourism and thousands of existing and future jobs. With the opening of Newport Racing & Gaming in September 2020 and the revitalization of Turfway Park Racing & Gaming currently underway, HHR has become somewhat of a household term here in Northern Kentucky—and rightfully so, considering the significant impact it has had on our region in terms of jobs, revenue, investment and economic growth. Given the many benefits HHR has provided our region, the Northern Kentucky Chamber was proud to support Senate Bill 120 right out of the gate. Over the last ten years, HHR has made the Bluegrass State a world-class horse racing destination for tourists, owners, breeders and trainers alike. When

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

people visit our communities, they’re dining at our restaurants, shopping at our businesses and staying at our hotels. And as more owners and trainers choose to race their horses at tracks in Kentucky over other states, their dollars are coming into our cities and towns. Some industry professionals have even decided to relocate here permanently or set up local operations because they know our racing circuit is one of the best in the world. In Northern Kentucky, the benefits of historical horse racing are all around us. HHR has brought millions of dollars in investment to our region, creating even more opportunities for economic development and growth down the road. Our rich tradition of horse racing and the remarkable industry growth taking place makes us a natural destination for anyone who enjoys the sport, from the most novice of fans to ardent enthusiasts. Historical horse racing is the reason we have Newport Racing & Gaming and why the revitalization of Turfway Park is happening now. It has led to new job opportunities for our

community members, creating 400 permanent jobs and an additional 800 construction jobs, and has kept existing employees working throughout the pandemic. It has made our region more attractive for other economic investment in the form of new hotels, new restaurants and new attractions. That’s why the horse industry, public officials, tourism leaders and the business community, including the Northern Kentucky Chamber, quickly mobilized to protect HHR when the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled against it last year. And while this was certainly an issue affecting real people and their livelihoods in Northern Kentucky, the collaborative effort behind it was truly statewide. In the wake of a challenging and unprecedented year, this spring feels particularly special. Signs of new life and growth are everywhere, not just in our gardens and parks, but across our entire economy as things begin to open back up. And with the future of our signature equine industry secure, brighter days are definitely ahead. NK Y

PICTURED: On the left, top to bottom, from the Turfway groundbreaking ceremony on March 19, 2021: Bill Carstanjen, Governor Andy Beshear & NKY Chamber President Brent Cooper; Senator John Schickel; Representative Adam Koenig; Mayor Diane Whalen. On this page: Renderings of the Turfway redevelopment, provided by R2Architects TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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The Arts in Northern Kentucky: What's Next?

By Tabari McCoy Scooter Media As Executive Director of The Carnegie, Kim Best speaks with pride when asked about her organization. But even for a “small and scrappy institution,” the prospect of surviving a global pandemic was daunting to say the least. PICTURED: The Carnegie's production of Godspell at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton. Photo provided by The Carnegie. PAGE 10

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

“We knew we would be able to shift our programing throughout the course of the pandemic, but it was a challenge not knowing for how long,” said Best in response to a question of whether or not she was worried COVID-19 might force The Carnegie to close permanently. “There were times we were stressed – don’t get me wrong – but we knew we had the support of the community, our staff, our partners and ArtsWave – which all played a role in making sure we would be here at the end.”

ARTISTIC ENDEAVORS A nonprofit founded in 1949, ArtsWave is the nation’s largest community campaign for the arts. President and CEO Alecia Kintner says ArtsWave supports 100-plus organizations around the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region each year via grants, primarily through its annual Community Arts Campaign. The campaign seeks donations from local businesses via payroll deductions and gifts with funding at the state level coming from the respective art councils of Ohio and Kentucky. Kintner says ArtsWave typically raised around $12.5 million prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, an amount which dipped down to $11 million in 2020. As a result of forced closures and/ or reduced capacities, Kintner says earned revenue across the board for the arts as a whole declined throughout the region, a reality in line with the national trend. Both the National Endowment for the Arts and Americans for the Arts have released reports about the pandemic’s impact on the arts sector, the former citing “significant economic setbacks” with the latter calling it “devastating.” Kintner says she and other local leaders advocated diligently to ensure the future of the arts in Northern Kentucky. “We accelerated payments to organizations that had already earned grants and we removed a lot of requirements in order to free up funding throughout the year more quickly … We were (also) able to secure $3.5 million from Hamilton County through their CARES Act allocation for organization relief,” Kintner said. “Since that excluded other organizations not in Hamilton County, we then used our own private resources to make the same scale of awards accessible to organizations (elsewhere). So, if we were giving a grant of $100,000 to the Cincinnati Art Museum, we made that same level of funding available for (programs and individuals) in Kentucky.” The efforts have not gone unnoticed. “We've received amazing letters thanking us,” she said. “I got one recently from a Northern Kentucky artist saying that she was really honored to know that Northern Kentucky artists were being thought about and that of course was really important to us.”

CREATIVELY DISTRUPTING CHAOS Helping local artists was of prime importance to The Carnegie – which received emergency support last year in addition to its $78,000 annual allocation from ArtsWave – which is one of the reasons behind the creation of its “Creative Disruption Committee (The Carnegie CDC)” last year. Best said the committee was a proactive effort to figure out how to keep serving the community and allowing artists to work all within in a socially distanced model.

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

Several new, innovative experiences have been produced under the Carnegie CDC banner. These include the outdoor, roving production of Godspell at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton as well as a tiny concert and free film series inside The Carnegie’s 447-seat theater. Sales from Carnegie CDC events were split 25/75 with a majority of the proceeds going to the artists and performers. Best is quick to note, however, that The Carnegie’s endeavors have not been limited to adults. A multidisciplinary organization, The Carnegie also spent the past year working to continue providing educational arts programming to Covington Independent Schools students, with nearly 100 virtual classes produced since the pandemic began. “Even though we're in a virtual format, not all is lost. It's definitely something that the students look forward to,” she said. “There are still ways to engage, there are still ways to connect with students and provide them with creative experiences.”

BACK IN BUSINESS Best, who says ArtsWave’s financial support and leadership was “absolutely critical” to The Carnegie’s survival over the past year, is confident the arts will continue to thrive in Northern Kentucky. “We have all made necessary changes in order to continue serving our audiences. The arts are important, and each of us will continue to be here to make sure they are accessible to our community,” Best said. While acknowledging that “the reality is that the recovery in the arts is going to take a while,” Kintner agrees. “By supporting the arts and enabling the arts to thrive, we are catalyzing our economic recovery. When The Carnegie has a show going or the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra is playing, you know people are spending money in restaurants, there’s money spent on parking, on babysitters, etc.,” she said. “They will bring us all out and remind us of how nice it is to be together again.”

HOME FOR THE ARTS A longstanding supporter of ArtsWave, The Carnegie and several other cultural institutions throughout the region, Sophia McAllister looks forward to the days of which Best speaks. The spry 80-year-old Clifton resident, who enjoys skiing and 5-8 mile daily walks among other activities, attends “three to four” virtual events weekly due to the pandemic. “I can’t wait to get back to the real thing,” she says. McAlister, who moved to the region “kicking and screaming” from just outside New York City 52 years ago with her late husband Jim, credits the arts for making her proud to call the region her home. “I am a firm believer that art is the best way to communicate with people from all backgrounds of all cultures … And without art, we are bereft. We don't have something to draw us together to bring us viewpoints from other cultures and other people,” said McAllister. “Within two weeks (of living here), I discovered Playhouse in the Park, the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky University’s theater department and some wonderful dance groups. I said to my husband ‘I’m not sure I want to leave here’ and we didn’t.” NK Y

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Destination: Bourbon By Atley Smedley Northern Kentucky University

WHISKEY'S HISTORY IS IMPORTANT, ESPECIALLY FOR us in the Bluegrass State. Not only did we craft the most fabulous drink to touch a person's lips, but the Commonwealth crafts 95 percent of the world's Bourbon supply each year—and 100 percent of what you should drink. Even Capitol Hill agrees. In 1964, Congress declared that Bourbon is America's only native spirit. According to the Kentucky Distillers' Association, Bourbon is an $8.6 billion industry in Kentucky, creating 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll of $1 billion. While many claim you can only experience the heart of Kentucky's iconic distilleries in Louisville and Lexington, the true gateway to the Commonwealth's original Bourbon journey starts right here in NKY. From Florence and Covington to Sparta and Maysville, Bourbon is deeply woven into our legacy and DNA. Boone County was one of the largest distillers in the pre-prohibition era. The Pogue Family from Maysville registered the number three distillery in Kentucky. And Jacob Spears flat boated down the Licking River to make sure New Orleans' whiskey river didn't run dry. MEET YOU AT THE B-LINE Developing Northern Kentucky's Bourbon tourism brand has been no small feat. However, thanks to a few regional partners latching onto the facet of putting the Kentucky in Northern Kentucky, we have a new gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. The first sip begins with The B-Line, a bourbon tour comprised of 15 bourbon-loving spots: five bourbon distilleries, four bourbon-centric restaurants and six Bourbon bars throughout Northern Kentucky. Julie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of meetNKY, developed The B-Line as a connecter for the region's Bourbon history and tourism. "Communities can latch onto the branding, and experiences are the great unifier,” said Kirkpatrick. “What's fascinating are

the stories and chest-thumping moments behind each stop. You get a blistering sense of pride and excitement for what the future holds." Kirkpatrick continued to state that with the success of The B-Line and its partners, more local developers are exploring how they can best bring Bourbon into stories. “Our team is all about making sure everyone knows Kentucky is represented in NKY. Think about the brands Kentucky is known for—horses, bourbon and music. When we start to see the renaissance at the Levee, Bourbon will be a focal point. Churchill Downs is renovating a new horse racetrack at Turfway Park. And there continues to be a vibrant arts community. We will soon have the trifecta, and gems like this are hard to find. NKY can rally around the claim to fame that we are Bourbon.” And to enhance the destination experience, Tour With Us KY's boutique transportation service supports a safe day of sipping responsibly. Randy Frickman, an NKY native and Bourbon enthusiast, wanted to share his passion and create buzz for the Trail. As The B-Line launched, he realized that there was a gap in transportation services. Frickman worked with Keith Daniels, the owner of Executive Services Group (ESG), a transportation company providing personalized black car service for the busy professional. Together the two launched Tour With Us KY. "We see ourselves as a partner in creating the experience for people to take advantage of,” said Frickman. “Many great stories are to be told, and we are all about helping them be heard. What we do is ease the concerns of both distilleries and guests. There is heritage behind each stop. Even if you are not into Bourbon, this is a unique opportunity to get a taste of history." Tour With Us KY offers three B-Line Trails that will take you on a journey of Bourbon tours, tastings, and maybe even wine, moonshine and other craft spirits. Once you get a taste of Bourbon and history, they take you back to the designated location, so you don't have to think about getting there and back. And don’t worry, you can download a B-Line digital guide from theBLine.com to get you started sipping.

PICTURED: B-Line bourbon cocktails, baby! Featured establishments from L to R: Coppins, Bouquet, Rich's Proper, Wiseguy Lounge, Bourbon Haus & The Globe PAGE 12

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Sipping Points

BOTTLED-UP PRIDE The ongoing pandemic has taken its toll on the region's business community. As we surpass the one year later mark, the tourism industry continues to be one of the sectors hit hardest, devastated with restrictions, widespread furloughs and psychological divides on safety nearing the horizon. The distilleries, restaurants and bars are still limited in capacity, but COVID hasn't subsided the appetite for Bourbon and spirit sales haven't suffered as entirely as the tourism side. Distillers aren't just taking care of our bourbon woes, and many bring home the mantle of hometown heroes. According to the Kentucky Distillers' Association, its members produced and donated nearly 125,000 gallons of hand sanitizer to frontline workers, businesses and community members. To further assist the service industry, New Riff Distilling released a 15-year Bourbon with profits going to those employees who lost their jobs. It took only two minutes to sell out of 900 bottles, which raised over $135,000 in donations. “We sprung this extremely limited bottling from our warehouse to support the bar and restaurant community that has supported us from the start,” said Hannah Lowen, vice president of operations. “This is how we can raise a glass — and funds — for our embattled friends.” Even though it's not quite time to be piling into steakhouses or bars once again, there is a growing fear within the industry they will not be able to find enough workers to come back once jobs are available again. Kirkpatrick believes it's getting better and will only continue to do so. “I've experienced the fallout of both 9/11 and the Great Recession of 2008. The one thing that remains true is people crave new experiences and travel always bounces back,” Kirkpatrick says. “Our talent pipeline will be stable, and we will soon be looking to hire for myriad career paths. One of the most significant aspects of tourism is you can start young at the entry-level and spend your career growing and learning across all facets of the industry.” NK Y

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

Boone County Distilling Company Bouquet Restaurant Bourbon Haus 1841 Coppin's at Hotel Covington The Globe Neeley Family Distillery New Riff Distilling Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar The Old Pouge Distillery Prohibition Bourbon Bar The Purple Poulet Rich's Proper Food & Drink Second Sight Spirits Tousey House Tavern Wiseguy Lounge thebline.com

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southern spirit lives here

Feel it. Covington, Ky.

meet NKY.com

2021 Emerging Leader Honoree

Rachel DesRochers CEO, Grateful Grahams/Incubator Kitchen Collective

2021 Outstanding Women of NKY Honorees

Danielle Amrine CEO, Welcome House of Northern Kentucky

Nancy Grayson President, Horizon Community Funds of Northern Kentucky

2021 Helen Carroll Champion of Education Honoree

Irene Encarnación The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Women’s Initiative is proud to recognize the 2021 Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky honorees. Sponsored by St. Elizabeth Healthcare, the awards honor women who exemplify notable achievement, outstanding service in their professions or to the Northern Kentucky community, and the qualities of personal integrity, perseverance and leadership. Originally established in the fall of 1984, by Nancy Boothe, wife of then Northern Kentucky University President Leon E. Boothe, the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards have recognized over 200 women for blazing trails, opening doors, or demonstrating leadership in their homes, their professions, their communities, or their state. Learn about these outstanding women and their work in Northern Kentucky on the following pages. Visit NKYChamber.com/OWNK to learn more about the OWNK awards program.

Awards Celebration Tuesday, June 8 Noon - 1:00 PM NKYChamber.com/OWNK21

Senior Lecturer of Spanish, Northern Kentucky University

2021 Henrietta Cleveland Inspiring Women Honoree presented by St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Lee Ann Ernst Coordinator of Infectious Disease Response Team, St. Elizabeth Healthcare

2021 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Honoree

Susan McDonald Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer, St. Elizabeth Healthcare

2021 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship Recipients

Jean Schirtzinger Gateway Community & Technical College

Chandra Huff Northern Kentucky University

Anissa Bradley Thomas More University TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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2021 OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY RACHEL DESROCHERS EMERGING LEADER HONOREE

NANCY GRAYSON OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF NKY HONOREE

DANIELLE AMRINE OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF NKY HONOREE

More than a decade ago, Rachel DesRochers began her journey as an entrepreneur and has since seen her passion grow into a thriving business that shares encouraging messages of gratitude. When Rachel created her company, Grateful Grahams, in 2010, she was a new mother who had recently been laid off. She stepped up for her family and her hard work paid off. Today, Grateful Grahams bakes more than 14,000 cookies a week and can be found at Kroger among other retailers throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. In 2013, wanting to create a shared kitchen space to support entrepreneurs with an affordable, comprehensive approach, Rachel founded the Incubator Kitchen Collective. To date, the nonprofit organization has grown to three locations and helped more than 120 small businesses flourish. Her goal? To not only provide a kitchen in which food start-ups could rent space, but to build a community where they could learn, share and grow. If that’s not enough, Rachel decided to start podcasting and created the well-followed "Kitchen Convos,” and “In Gratitude” podcasts. In February 2017, the City of Newport dedicated a Proclamation Day – “The Gratitude Collective Day” – to honor all of Rachel’s work.

Nancy Grayson has served as the President of Horizon Community Funds (HCF) since its inception in 2017. Given her long-standing service to the community and commitment to improving the region, her dedication to bettering the lives of others should come as a surprise to no one. Nancy supports several organizations dedicated to improving education, promoting healthy family relationships and preserving both Kentucky’s natural resources and history. She currently serves on the Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky Advisory Council, Endow Kentucky Commission, Kentucky Philanthropy Initiative Board of Directors, United Way Northern Kentucky Action Council and is the chair of the Metropolitan Club Board of Governors. This tireless service has resulted in several awards, including a 2018 Newsmaker Award from the Northern Kentucky Tribune and Cincy Magazine naming her as part of its “Power 100” in 2020 and 2021. The Restaurant Relief Fund, a joint project of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Northern Kentucky Tri-ED and HCF, proved why her work is so worthy of recognition. The fund made a total economic impact of just over $91,500, all of which went directly to local bars and restaurants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Danielle Amrine has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Welcome House of Northern Kentucky since July 2017 and has worked tirelessly to execute her organization’s mission to end homelessness in Northern Kentucky. Her passion to help others has driven her career working in the non-profit sector and has helped her prepare to lead Welcome House in its quest to promote stability, one person at a time. Those who know Danielle are in awe of her energy, passion, honesty and intelligence. Her leadership has had a positive impact on Welcome House. Under Danielle’s guidance, Welcome House has seen significant growth that has increased the number of clients the organization can now serve. It’s no surprise that the pandemic has had a major impact on homelessness in the region. Danielle has not backed down from this challenge; rather, she has marshalled resources to serve the community’s most vulnerable population while strategically planning for the future. Away from the office, Danielle’s community mindedness spills over to include serving as a youth sports coach and volunteering with local animal rescues. She was recognized as a finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier 2020 C-Suite CEO of the Year award and Welcome House captured the 2020 Nonprofit of the Year award from Cincy Magazine.

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

IRENE ENCARNACIÓN HELEN CARROLL CHAMPION OF EDUCATION HONOREE

Irene Encarnación has worked at Northern Kentucky University (NKU) since 1992, where today she is both a Senior Lecturer of Spanish and the Interim Executive Director of the Esperanza Latino Center of Northern Kentucky. Her community involvement includes projects and committees, including serving as a Ready to Read Covington ambassador and member of the NKY Justice and Peace Committee, among others. Irene’s commitment to better the community extends far beyond NKU’s grounds, however. She has assisted in numerous capacities at St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, packing and distributing meals through the Fitting Hunger Outreach Program and serving as an International and Community Hostess/ Interpreter with the IHM Cultural Center Batahola Norte Nicaragua. Additionally, Irene has worked on several projects involving diversity, visiting students from Mexico and honors writing workshops. Her curriculum vitae provides glimpses of how strong her commitment is to higher education—undergrad and graduate studies—and seeing people of all backgrounds have opportunities to improve their lives. All of this has resulted in numerous awards and nominations for Irene throughout the course of her career.

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

LEE ANN ERNST HENRIETTA CLEVELAND INSPIRING WOMEN HONOREE PRESENTED BY ST. ELIZABETH HEALTHCARE

Lee Ann Ernst is the coordinator for the St. Elizabeth Infectious Disease Response Team (IDRT) and a supervising nurse at the hospital’s Ft. Thomas location, where most of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) patients have been treated. Lee Ann has led this multi-disciplinary group since its inception in 2013, which was formed to respond to highly infectious diseases. She first joined St. Elizabeth Healthcare in 1982 and gained invaluable expertise while working in Emergency Department and Nursing Administration. Lee Ann graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Mount St. Joseph University in 2007 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing from NKU in 2011. Lee Ann has earned certifications as both an Emergency Nurse (CEN) and Clinical Research Nurse (CCRC) and is a certified Aerobics and Fitness Instructor from the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). Lee Ann also serves on the board of directors for Care Net Pregnancy Services of Northern Kentucky. She has been nominated for several awards, including the St. Elizabeth’s I Care and Mount St. Joseph’s Leadership in Nursing honors in 2020.

SUSAN MCDONALD JUDITH CLABES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE

With more than 45 years’ worth of experience working in local hospitals, Susan McDonald’s vast knowledge continues to serve all those fortunate enough to come in contact with her. Beginning her career at what was then known as St. Luke Hospital in Fort Thomas, Susan now serves as St. Elizabeth’s Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer. She also maintains a post as an adjunct faculty member at Mount St. Joseph University in its Nursing DNP Program. Susan’s steadfast commitment to serving the community began in 2013 at Brighton Center as a Board member. During her eight years of service, she has held numerous leadership positions at Brighton Center, including secretary, vice chair and chairperson of its Board of Directors. She has also volunteered as a Cor Vitae Society member of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association since 2012. Susan has numerous certifications to her credit. She is an American College of Healthcare Executives Fellow (FACHE) and holds a certification in Executive Nursing Practice by the American Organization of Nurse Executives (CENP). Mount St. Joseph University honored her with the Leadership in Nursing Award in 2018.

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THE NANCY JANES BOOTHE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The OWNK education partners are Toyota, Gateway Community and Technical College, Northern Kentucky University and Thomas More University. Each year, Toyota and the three schools fund one $2,000 scholarship for each recipient. These scholarships are designated for a deserving female college student who exhibits the same qualities as the Outstanding Women honorees. The three financial awards constitute the Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship program, named posthumously in honor of Nancy Janes Boothe, the founder of the awards program and wife of former NKU president, Dr. Leon Boothe. As “first lady” of NKU, she worked tirelessly alongside her husband to build the fledgling institution, championing education, and contributing to the community. Off campus, she served on the boards of the NKY Salvation Army, NKY Heart Association, NKY United Way and Community Chest, and Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church. Shortly before the Boothes moved to NKY, Nancy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She never let her disease slow her down. Her goal, according to her husband, was to ‘’to live life to its fullest and to be with people.’’ Nancy Janes Boothe: a determined leader, a phenomenal volunteer, a gracious friend. Outstanding indeed.

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JEAN SCHIRTZINGER GATEWAY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE

CHANDRA HUFF NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

ANISSA BRADLEY THOMAS MORE UNIVERSITY

Jean Schirtzinger is the 2021 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship recipient for Gateway Community and Technical College. If her dedication to making a difference throughout Northern Kentucky wasn’t enough, her personal journey to overcoming adversity illustrates what being outstanding is all about. A married mother of two, Jean and her family have spent countless hours volunteering their time and resources to Family Promise, an organization that helps homeless families stay together while getting back on their feet. In addition to serving in a leadership role for Family Promise, Jean has volunteered at the Mary Rose Mission, Rose Garden Home Mission, and Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky. She also belongs to a group that creates hand-made prayer shawls for service members. At age 43, Jean overcame her biggest personal challenge to date, beating cancer. She underwent surgery and completed chemotherapy, all while continuing her volunteer work. Now, Jean is following her passion of helping children and is following her dream of becoming a teacher. She is pursuing this dream with distinction carrying a 4.0 grade point average in Gateway’s Early Childhood Education associate degree program. She plans to transfer to Northern Kentucky University for her bachelor’s degree in Education.

Chandra Huff is the 2021 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship Recipient for Northern Kentucky University (NKU). Beginning her college academic career as a Gateway2NKU – a dualadmissions partnership between Gateway Community & Technical College and NKU – student, Chandra is studying to become a social worker. By simply looking at the accolades she has already achieved, it’s easy to see why she is more than deserving of this year’s Boothe Scholarship and is well on her way to achieving her career goals. Earning her Associate of Applied Science in Human Services at Gateway with her Associate of Arts in Dec. 2019 and June 2020, respectively, Chandra utilized her time at the institution to serve others in many ways. She volunteered as a peer mentor to help students in a variety of ways addressing issues such as housing concerns, daycare, and food instability. This is in addition to making the Dean’s List each semester, serving as a member of Gateway’s suicide prevention team Project Care, volunteering at Brighton Center, and interning at the Homeward Bound Shelter in Covington. A mother of three, Chandra is dedicated to ensuring children who have been labeled as having disabilities, be they of a learning or physical nature, have the same opportunities to succeed as everyone else.

Anissa Bradley is the 2021 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship Recipient for Thomas More University. The scholarship is presented in recognition of her outstanding achievement both academically at Thomas More and in recognition of her community service. Graduating the 2021-22 academic year as a double major in English and Communications, Anissa has the respect and admiration of many of her professors. According to her nominator, “Anissa is a young woman with a purpose, not just for herself, but (also) her young son and for the good of society as a whole. She will be an amazing ambassador for Kentucky, for young women, and for Thomas More University.” Anissa’s commitment to helping and making a better life for others extends far beyond her reach as a single parent and college student. While COVID-19 did not allow for many volunteer opportunities in the past year, Anissa has remained steadfast in her mission of giving back. This includes participating in former Ohio State Senator Eric Kearney’s Walk for Children’s Health from Cincinnati to Columbus, launching a service event with the American Breast Cancer Society, delivering meals on wheels to senior citizens during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons and volunteering for Toys for Tots. NK Y

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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Turner Construction Leading the Way in Building Up Regional Tourism By Tabari McCoy Scooter Media WHAT’S NEW IN NEWPORT? OH, NOTHING REALLY, save for the first piece of a 25-acre mixed-use development designed to host 900-plus residential units, hotels, offices, restaurants and retail spaces. Did you happen to look down the street? If so, you likely saw a familiar space with a new outdoor concept box park featuring eight local business ventures in a revitalized space as well as a new market with 10 local concepts right next to it with much more to come … And what’s over on the Cincinnati side of the Ohio River, you ask? A new 12.4-acre, 8,500-tons-of-steel, 26,000-seat new opus featuring the most suites – 59 – in an MLS venue that doesn’t also host a NFL team. What’s the common thread in all three? Turner Construction, the company literally building the attractions many believe are destined to boost tourism – and economics – in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region.

EAT, PLAY, LOVE

PICTURED: The floor-to-ceiling painting on the western wall of the Ovation venue. Photo by Ben Gastright

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

“It's centrally located in the country, we've got a lot of attractions here and we have minimal traffic compared to the rest of the country,” says Kristen Smitherman-Voltaire, Community and Citizenship Manager for Turner’s Cincinnatibased offices when asked why Turner is committed to building up the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. “The same reason that many people moved to Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky is the same reason why it's so important for Turner to be here. It's a community that has so much potential, and there's so much opportunity for growth. We see that reflected in these three projects coming to fruition.” Opportunity – both for the present and into the future – is definitely what Turner hopes it has created in bringing to life the vision of Corporex, the master developer behind the new Ovation concert venue along Route 9 in Newport. In partnership with AEG Presents/PromoWest, Corporex’s $40-million, 38,000-square-foot concert venue is designed to host 180-plus events annually. Given its indoor seating capacity of 2,700, which more than doubles to 7,000 concert goers outdoors during warmer months, this shouldn’t be a problem for the venue, to which Corporex hopes to attract 350,000-400,000 annually. Down the road from Ovation sits the second of Turner’s recent efforts, the ongoing revitalization of North American Properties’ (NAP) Newport on the Levee complex. Once a burgeoning hub of restaurants, retail and entertainment, the Levee’s recent struggles prompted NAP to create a familiar yet new vision for the 380,00-square-foot, multi-level development.

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Among the renovations to the Levee are the aforementioned Bridgeview Box Park, an outdoor area with eight local shops and eateries, The Exchange and Exchange Market with 10 additional local concepts. Additionally, the Gallery Building has become home to a reimagined retail experience with permanent storefronts coming soon and a number of exterior upgrades such as new signage and lighting have also been added. With the redevelopment poised to culminate this May, Levee General Manager Justin Otto says all the changes are part of NAP’s mission to give people, locally and beyond, what they need. “We knew the community was looking for a place to discover new experiences in an activated, mixed-use environment and we’re confident that the new Newport on the Levee will draw in not just our surrounding communities, but tourists and visitors from around the region,” he says. “With a dynamic mix of innovative retail experiences, open-air gathering spaces and unobstructed views of the Cincinnati skyline and Ohio River, there is truly nothing else like the Levee, which is a proof point for the future growth of the region.”

REACHING NEW GOALS Local sports fans, however, might be most excited for Turner’s project over in the West End of Cincinnati: TQL Stadium, the new home of Major League Soccer’s FC Cincinnati, is projected to have an economic impact of $64 million based on a 2017 study by Regionomics and The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business.

A total of 380,000 square feet in size, the stadium has a full array of modern features, complete with two ribbon-style boards that literally can light up the neighborhood. The project also provided an opportunity for FC Cincinnati and Turner to go just beyond the wants of sports fans, however, as both enacted several measures to address the concerns of neighborhood residents and local women and minority-owned businesses. FC Cincinnati President Jeff Berding says the team has pledged $200,000 over 30 years to support community building initiatives and youth soccer programs. Additionally, the team created a $250,000 Social Justice Fund to support local organizations addressing racial inequities, and donated $15,000 to West End schools and $250,000 to the Port for Affordable Housing among other measures. Turner also exceeded their own inclusion goals on the project. The stadium’s construction featured 25.3% minority, 14.4 women and 30.6% small business enterprise firms that were contracted for a total of $180,772,114 as of Dec. 30, 2020. “The construction of these attractions created stable and consistent employment opportunities for so many people during a time of deep uncertainty. That's really a testament to our clients and the partners we work with who stayed committed to their vision,” says Smitherman-Voltaire. "Turner is always committed to being a community builder with whatever project we’re working on and it's always our intent to make sure that we are engaging in a way that makes us an asset in that community.”

“With a dynamic mix of innovative retail experiences, open-air gathering spaces and unobstructed views of the Cincinnati skyline and Ohio River, there is truly nothing else like the Levee..." Justin Otto, General Manager, Newport on the Levee

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

WORLD CLASS DESTINATIONS RIGHT AT HOME Calling Turner Construction an “incredible partner in transforming an outdated retail destination into an energized hub of activity,” Otto says Newport’s new “living room” has the potential to become a “true gathering destination” for the community. “Turner Construction has been an essential part of this process, helping us introduce re-energized public spaces and enhanced connectivity to the property, which improves the overall pedestrian and guest experience,” he says. “We’re grateful to have them as a partner and are excited to invite the community to the new Newport on the Levee.” Smitherman-Voltaire believes all those who visit the venues will walk away with a similar sense of pride on both sides of the river. “These three projects really represent kind of the future of our region as a top destination with world-class entertainment and desirable attractions for a wide variety of people with diverse interests,” she says. “Turner is enthusiastic that there will be something for everyone here in the region, especially represented by these three projects and they'll put Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky on the map while helping to drive positive economic growth.” NK Y

PICTURED: On the left: Bridgeview Box Park at Newport on the Levee; photo by Ben Gastright. On the right: TQL Stadium in the snow. Below: TQL Stadium at night; photos by FC Cincinnati.

"Turner is always committed to being a community builder with whatever project we’re working on and it's always our intent to make sure that we are engaging in a way that makes us an asset in that community.” Kristen Smitherman-Voltaire, Community and Citizenship Manager, Turner Construction

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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Q&A

Board of Advisors & Board of Directors

with the

BRAXTON BREWING CO

You have friends visiting from out of town, where would you take them for an ideal day highlighting the region?

CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM

Jacob Brooks Group Vice President, YMCA of Greater Cincinnati BRIANZA GARDENS & WINERY

Paula Harper Manager of Partnership Development, University of Cincinnati

Rhonda Whitaker Hurtt Vice President, Community Relations & Econ. Development, Duke Energy OH/KY PAGE 24

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

MAINSTRASSE

What's your favorite NKY park or landmark you enjoy visiting?

AJ JOLLY PARK

Goebel Park

Hans Philippo CEO, Holland Roofing DEVOU PARK

Steve Pendery Judge Executive, Campbell County Fiscal Court

What is a new business or business innovation that you started to use during the pandemic that you cannot live without going forward?

Paul Meier Mayor, City of Crestview Hills

IGLOO/OUTDOOR/ROOFTOP BARS & RESTAURANTS STAR BIO SOLUTIONS (MICROSHIELD 360)

Covington Yard

Terri Bernstein CEO, BB Riverboats TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

Mindy Kershner Sr. Manager Communications, CVG Airport PAGE 25

Issues of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Fuel Informed Discussion Among Local Leaders Ways to bolster practices among region’s businesses featured as keynote panel during the NKY Chamber's Employer Best Practices Symposium 2021 By Tabari McCoy Scooter Media THE RESPONSIBILITY BEGINS WITH PRESIDENTS, CEOS and leaders of companies to set the tone when it comes to establishing policies and actions regarding the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) throughout Northern Kentucky. That was one of the top takeaways from “The Importance of Embedding Inclusive Leadership in Your Organizational Culture,” one of two keynote panels featured as part of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce (NKY Chamber) Employer Best Practices Symposium 2021: Be a Destination Employer. More than 100 people attended the virtual event, which was curated with the intent of providing employers an opportunity to learn from local and national business leaders about the “competitive advantages of creating superior jobs.” Featured on the event’s final keynote panel were:

Kristen Smitherman-Voltaire Community and Citizenship Manager, Turner Construction

Alieu Nyassi System Director, Diversity & Inclusion, St. Elizabeth Healthcare; and

Scott Koloms President/CEO of FMS pbc (Facilities Management Services); Founder of Canopy

The discussion was moderated by Northern Kentucky University Criminal Justice Professor Dr. Danielle McDonald, author of the 2017 textbook Race, Class, Gender and Criminal Justice: Examining Barriers to Justice.

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ENGAGEMENT, RESPECT KEY THEMES OF BUILDING A DIVERSE WORKFORCE

Asked why DEI is good for business, Koloms said “we are operating in a world that is requiring us to reflect on biases and manifestations of structural racism and the world is changing Engagement and respect would serve as a major theme of around that.” In his view, employers would be wise to do the the panel, each panelist noting just how important both are in same since making someone feel safe “is one of the highest building a diverse workforce. For while the region may have the levels of accomplishment” one can achieve in the workplace. talent, Nyassi, Smitherman-Voltaire and Koloms each explained “We’re also seeing that these folks want to work for isolating or discriminatory practices/work environments will companies that are more enlightened when it comes around result in the region’s loss of talent and opportunities to entice this and they also want to buy from companies that are paying new business. attention to these sorts of things. It’s good for business also Smitherman-Voltaire, a Detroit transplant who moved to because the truth is, our workforces are going to continue to the region nearly a decade ago, said the death of George Floyd diversify,” said Koloms. “To make someone feel safe, we have to and several other African Americans in 2020 forced Turner understand what they fear – that is such an important aspect of Construction to take a “hard look” at its practices. This led to this work.” Smitherman-Voltaire working on several teams to ensure it would Referencing a statement about systematic racism his be an anti-racist company moving forward in an industry with a Louisville-based business FMS issued following the death of “tough” reputation regarding DEI. This included having companyBreonna Taylor, Koloms said he received “Many phone calls and wide “Courageous Conversations” and creating the Ohio emails from workers saying ‘Thank you for doing that. It makes Inclusion Action Team, which has now enacted DEI measures on me feel like I'm working for a company that sees me and hears all job sites and within its corporate offices. me.’” In explaining her company’s actions, Smitherman-Voltaire Nyassi echoed Smitherman-Voltaire and Koloms earlier hoped those in attendance would see how strong leaders set the sentiments in discussing the three things that will make anyone, tone for organizations to move in a positive direction as they regardless of their background, feel safe at work: Respect, value work to establish DEI in their culture. and trust. “Our mission is to develop a culture where all people feel “For us, as an organization to be innovative, you have to they’re part of something extraordinary by managing risk, collaborate and in collaboration, we have to hold ourselves creating a safe environment and demonstrating the highest accountable and hold the people that we collaborate with standard of care for each other, which we define as what a accountable and with that comes respect. You are not going to reasonable person can expect to see or experience,” said be able to respect people if you don't value them and you're not Smitherman-Voltaire. “Because we laid that foundation … That going to value people if you’re not going to trust them,” said created an environment where courageous conversations, Nyassi. “It has to take a leader to say ‘I am going to make this specifically around the topic of race, racial inequity and systemic sustainable for my organization. I’m going to take a stand to racism, were able to flourish a little bit easier.” say everybody that comes here should be respected, should be valued and should be trusted’ … That is the foundation of our FEELING VALUED MATTERS ministry.” He now wants to see the region continue to do the same Responding to a question about tokenism, Nyassi cautioned with each other in having conversations like these. companies against using one minority, female and/or disabled “This is the country that gave me everything that I wanted,” worker as being representative of a larger, nonexistent group in said Nyassi, a native of Gambia who later immigrated to the U.S. their organization. He noted that the need for those people in “We can have conversations where we can agree to disagree and pictures shows the importance of diversity and why more voices even if we disagree, at least we can have that conversation and in a room matter. He then suggested companies conduct exit be civil to each other. This is how it’s going to be sustainable.” NK Y interviews when people of color (POC) leave employers to see if they’re leaving because of, as Koloms mentioned earlier in the symposium, unaddressed needs, better opportunities elsewhere or workplace culture concerns. “We want to be able to find ways that we can help solve that Concluding the symposium, McDonald suggested three things situation for our associates,” Nyassi said. “We also facilitated she hopes everyone in attendance can implement into their lives: some focus groups and brought minority associates into the There is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach to room to talk to them about what environment do you work in, incorporating DEI into your workplace what is triggering (you) that's going to make you want to leave this organization? What is that thing that's going to make you Power and decision making can and should be want to stay with this organization? All those things allow us to shared within an organization develop programs and strategies (to help them).”

3 TA K E AWAYS

Move forward with intentional action so that everyone within your organization/company knows what is valued, expected and why. To learn more about future NKY Chamber events visit nkychamber.com/events. TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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AROUND THE CHAMBER Joni Huffmyer's Retirement Parade

Leadership Northern Kentucky's Community Vibrancy Day - Ovation

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

Community Award presented to the African American Chamber

Community Award presented to Southbank Partners

Leadership Northern Kentucky's Community Vibrancy Day - Devou Park

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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Expanding your network... It’s what we do. #MemberBenefits NKYChamber.com/events

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PICTURED: Shannon Schumacher, HORAN-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Blake Williams, Biggby Coffee; Carrie Williams, Biggby Coffee; Casey Williams, Biggby Coffee Owner; Lauren Williams, Biggby Coffee; Shanna Novosel, Biggby Coffee Area Representative; Chris Reinersman, City of Independence Mayor; Jessica Fette, City of Erlanger Mayor; Mike Cronin, Perry Contracting; Katie Ockerman, Mutual of Omaha Advisors-NKY Chamber Ambassador

HerMD 562 Buttermilk Pike Suite A | Crescent Springs, KY 41017 | 859-349-1515 | hermdhealth.com PICTURED: Christine Ray, Keller Williams Realty Services-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Stephanie Kohls, HerMD; Kathy Lai, HerMD; Dr. Somi Javaid, HerMD; Komel Caruso, HerMD; Stefanie Smith; HerMD; Lori Hazelwood, ChaseTek-NKY Chamber Ambassador

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL THRIFT STORE 3970 Alexandria Pike | Cold Spring, KY 41076 | svdpnky.org PICTURED: Lori Hazelwood, ChaseTek-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Jane Young, Re/Max Affiliates-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Msgr. Gerald Reinersman, St. Joseph Church; Amy Smith, St. Vincent de Paul; Casey Guilfoyle, St. Vincent de Paul Diocesan Council President; Deacon Theis; Jamie Hahn, St. Vincent de Paul; Becca Gerding, St. Vincent de Paul; Laurie Iglesias, St. Vincent de Paul; Karen Zengel, St. Vincent de Paul Executive Director; Sr. Judith Niewahner, St. Vincent de Paul; Joe Schlimm, Heritage Bank-NKY Chamber; Shannon Schumacher, HORAN-NKY Chamber Ambassador

WOOD + LAMPING 1522 Dixie Highway | Park Hills, KY 41011 | 513-852-6000 | woodlamping.com PICTURED: Lori Hazelwood, ChaseTek-NKY Chamber Ambassador; Daniel Cox, Attorney; Jeff Arnzen, Attorney; Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President; Jamie Harrison, Managing Partner; Sue D’Angelo, Real Estate Paralegal; Crystal Saresky, Attorney; Gary Bockelman, COO; Tyler Arnzen, Attorney; Dave Rice, Title Examiner, Barry Henry, The Flottman Company-NKY Chamber Ambassador

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!

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

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MEMBER

MILESTONES

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

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CMIT SOLUTIONS OF CINCINNATI & NKY

We are growing in Northern Kentucky! Steve Gray, owner of CMIT Solutions of Cincinnati & NKY brought Jane Schulte on board as Chief Operating Officer in January of 2021. “We have grown our operation to a point where we needed an additional layer of highlevel management and expertise, and are pleased to have Jane join us to assist with all administrative aspects of our business, as well as client relations, community involvement and recruitment. Jane has decades of experience in growing and running small businesses and will be a great asset for us going forward,” says Steve. “Having previously been a client of CMIT Solutions, I am uniquely positioned to understand the client’s point of view when it comes to all things IT, and I will be able to make the onboarding process smooth and painless, as well as provide ongoing client support,” Jane explained. CMIT Solutions is a locally owned Northern Kentucky IT managed services provider in Florence, with the resources of its large national franchisor. They combine personalized local service with the technical resources of a national firm, delivering enterprise-class solutions at prices that small businesses can afford.

PERFETTI VAN MELLE

Confectioner Perfetti Van Melle announces that Craig Cuchra has been named Vice President, Marketing for Perfetti Van Melle (U.S. and Canada) based in Erlanger, KY. Cuchra started his career with Perfetti Van Melle 15 years ago, with several roles in U.S. Marketing. For the last 6.5 years, he’s served in Perfetti Van Melle’s Amsterdam headquarters, most recently as the International Category Director for Refreshment. Starting March 1, he will add to his current responsibilities the oversight of marketing for all candy, gum and mint brands in the Perfetti Van Melle U.S. and Canada portfolios including Mentos, Airheads, Fruit-tella and Chupa Chups. “With Craig’s strong record of leading global and U.S. brand growth initiatives across new products, with commercial and consumer-facing activities encompassing many brands across our portfolio, we’re happy to welcome him back to the U.S. family of Perfetti Van Melle,” said Sylvia Buxton, President & CEO of Perfetti Van Melle North America. “His unique blend of skills and experience locally and internationally position him superbly to join our leadership team in North America as head of marketing.” Jan Heeling, Chief Commercial Officer for Perfetti Van Melle Group, commented, “Under Craig’s leadership, Perfetti Van Melle’s refreshment category has seen strong growth. As a result of his thoughtful leadership and strategic planning, our Group marketing initiatives have seen tremendous success. We feel confident that Craig’s global insights will be well leveraged by our Perfetti Van Melle U.S. team.” NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

DBL LAW

DBL Law has added three attorneys to its growing Northern Kentucky firm: Emma Gripshover, Rebecca McDonough and Brad Steffen. Emma Gripshover is an attorney in DBL Law’s Northern Kentucky office, practicing Employment Law and Civil Litigation. Emma earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2020. Prior to joining DBL Law, Emma served as a law clerk for TriHealth, Inc., The Kroger Co., The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, and a Cincinnati litigation law firm. Emma graduated from Xavier University in 2017 with a degree in Health Services Administration magna cum laude, and from Covington Latin School in 2013.

TOURISM | VOLUME 40 NUMBER 5

Rebecca McDonough is an attorney in DBL Law’s Northern Kentucky office, practicing in the firm’s Commercial Banking, Real Estate, and Construction groups. Rebecca received her J.D. from Northern Kentucky University Chase College of Law in 2020, where she graduated summa cum laude. While at Chase, Rebecca served as the Executive Editor of the Northern Kentucky Law Review. She received a B.A. in History from Sewanee: The University of the South, where she graduated cum laude. She was a member of the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society, the Order of the Gown, and the University’s crew team.

Brad Steffen is in DBL Law’s Northern Kentucky office and focuses his practice on Civil Litigation, Employment and Labor, and White Collar Criminal Defense. Prior to joining DBL Law, Brad served in the military as an officer in the United States Air Force JAG Corps for almost five years. During this time in the Air Force, Brad served as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. Brad holds a J.D. from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University, where he graduated cum laude. During his time in law school, Brad served as an extern for both the Honorable Michael R. Barrett in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio and the Honorable William O. Bertelsman in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky. Brad also externed at the United States Attorney’s office for the Southern District of Ohio during his entire last year of law school. DBL Law is a full-service law firm, representing businesses, nonprofit entities and individuals. The firm has 49 attorneys and offices in Cincinnati, Louisville and Northern Kentucky. For more information, visit dbllaw.com.

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IN MEMORIUM

REMEMBERING & HONORING RALPH DREES Ralph Drees, former CEO, President and Chairman of the Board for Drees Homes, an award-winning national home builder headquartered in Northern Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Ralph was instrumental in the development of The Drees Company, taking over for his father and founder Theodore Drees in 1965. It was Ralph's philosophy of diversification and industry leadership that took Drees into new markets and spurred an era of exponential growth. Under his leadership, Drees gained national attention and was named "America's Best Builder" by Builder Magazine and "National Builder of the Year" by Professional Builder Magazine. During his tenure, the company also earned the “National Housing Quality Award" from the National Association of Home Builders. In addition to blazing a path in the industry, Ralph was also an influential thread throughout the local community. From 2004 to 2010, he served as Kenton County Judge Executive. He also held positions with the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission, the Kenton County Airport Board, the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Northern Kentucky University and Thomas More University. Ralph has been recognized for his charitable giving on a national level, earning the Hearthstone Builder Humanitarian Award. Additionally, he has been named to the Cincinnati Business Hall of Fame and has been awarded the Carl H. Linder Award for Entrepreneurial and Civic Spirit as well as the Kenton County Pioneer Award. Current President and CEO David Drees shared, “Ralph was a bold innovator, forging the company to new heights, but on the other hand, he was also my father, a loving, devoted family man and an exceptional role model who will be missed by many.” A private memorial service will be held for the family. Memorial contributions can be made to the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky.

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NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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MAY 5/5 5/6 5/11 5/12 5/13 5/13 5/18 5/19 5/20 5/24

JUNE 6/8 6/9 6/15 6/16 6/28

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Save the Date Thursday, September 9

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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.

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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. © 2021, The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and by the individual authors. All rights reserved. CEO/Publisher Brent Cooper | bcooper@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, Tabari McCoy, Kelly Rose, Atley Smedley, Charley Wayman & Casey Williams

Vice President, Public Affairs & Communications Kristin Baldwin | kbaldwin@nkychamber.com

NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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