A ready-made reference tool for the Bluegrass business community— the Book of Lists combines a year’s worth of Business Lexington’s most statistically informative feature into one glossy-cover publication, which will be seen by thousands of corporate and community decision makers across the state. This resource o ers a wealth of information reaching a very high percentage of Lexington’s business community, and its year-long shelf life makes it a powerful way to get your message across to potential customers.
SMILEY PETE PUBLISHING
PVAStatistics
The latest statistics on local residential properties PAGE 4
EconomicAnalysis
A monthly look at economic indicators compiled by the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) at the University of Kentucky PAGE 5
WriteStu
A clear and simple approach to writing for a general audience PAGE 5
CraveWorthy Where to try Dubai Chocolate: This tasty, TikTok-endorsed treat is too beautiful to resist PAGE 6
QuickBites
World of Gourmet Debuts, Minton’s and Big Blue Deli Relocate, Publix announces opening date PAGE 7
Who’s Who Employment updates and notable achievements from around the Bluegrass PAGE 16
A Shining Success:
Farmer’s Jewelry, a cornerstone of Chevy Chase, celebrates 75 years of timeless service PAGE 8 PHOTO
Multi-County Authority Formed to Support Regional Growth:
Joint development of a 300-acre industrial park in Berea announced as first project PAGE 9
Xerox to Acquire Lexmark: The $1.5 billion deal, which returns the company to U.S. ownership, is designed to strengthen its global position PAGE 10
Q&A with
of Toyota
Manufacturing Kentucky on the value of continual improvement and community partnerships PAGE 18
BizLex
Kerry Creech: The president
Motor
KERRY CREECH PHOTO FURNISHED BY TMMK
PVAStatistics
These statistics on local residential and commercial property are compiled by the o ce of the Fayette County Property Valuation Administrator. The data reflects the most up-to-date information available at the time of printing for this publication, but monthly figures may be revised as additional public records of property transactions are submitted and become available.
12/2/24 1408 Leestown Road $185,000 Doucoumes, David
12/23/24 121-129 Prosperous Pl. 12B $115,000 BBS Holdings LLC
12/20/24 4614 Georgetown Road $100,000 Oliver, Robert Tyler
Residential Sales Data for December 2024
EconomicAnalysis
A monthly look at economic indicators compiled by the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) at the University of Kentucky. For more on CBER, visit www.cber.uky.edu.
Recent Data Jan. 2024
Payroll emp. MSA****
Manufacturing Employment Durable Goods (KY) ****
Manufacturing: Lexington-Fayette MSA Total Employees**** Unemployment Rate MSA****
Payroll Employment, US
Manufacturing Payroll Employment US Unemployment Rate, US
Consumer Price Index, Southern Region Consumer Price Index, US Producer Price Index, US
Index of Leading Indicators** Fed’s Index of Industrial Production**
Note: In some cases 1 mo. And 1 yr. changes are based on revised data from previous mo./yr/
* Source: The Conference Board Research Group; http://www.conference-board.org/
** Source: Federal Reserve Statistical Release, http://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/G17/
*** Source: Federal Reserve Statistical Release; https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/h15/
**** Source: St. Louis Federal Reserve; https://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/
***** GDP is reported as Real Gross Domestic Product, Chained Dollars [Millions of chained (2012) dollars] Seasonally adjusted at annual rates (Updated numbers as of Jan. 27, 2023); https://apps.bea.gov/histdata/histChildLevels.cfm?HMI=7
WriteStu
By L.J. McAllister
A Clear and Simple Approach to Writing for a General Audience
All day, you’re immersed in your business and its lingo. Maybe you forget that most people aren’t familiar with the software you use daily. Maybe the monikers and acronyms you’ve devised for your processes and products have become part of your everyday lexicon. Maybe you’re in a highly technical field, and jargon feels like your native tongue. And then, just maybe, when you try talking about your company with an outsider, you find them scratching their heads and asking, “Huh?”
When you’re used to writing internal communications for your coworkers, it can become di cult to write about your work for the general public. If your external communications tend to confuse the very people you want to reach, here are a few strategies that may help.
Eliminate the jargon
Print out your writing, grab a permanent marker, and strike through every industryspecific word. What makes those words confusing? What simpler terms could you use instead? If you must keep certain technical terms, can you include their definitions to make them clearer?
Explain it like you would to Grandma
Unless your grandma works in the same industry as you, she probably won’t
understand the nuances of your work. What concepts might be di cult for her to grasp? How would you break things down in simple terms? What additional context would make your explanation easier to understand?
Trim the fat
Sometimes we’re so immersed in the details that we forget the general public is only interested in a fraction of what we do. Start by sketching out the simplest version of your idea. What is absolutely essential to communicate? What can be left out? Removing unnecessary information will make your main points more impactful.
External communications work best when you remember who you’re writing for: a general audience. When you write, keep in mind that your audience doesn’t know everything you know and may not be interested in the minutiae. Clear, concise communication is critical for connecting with your company’s clients and colleagues. BL
L.J. McAllister is a program and registrar associate with the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning, a nonprofit educational center o ering seasonal writing, publishing, and language classes, among other community programming. For more information, visit CarnegieCenterLex.org.
CraveWorthy
Where to Try Dubai Chocolate
This tasty, TikTokendorsed treat is too beautiful to resist
BY SHANNON CLINTON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Social media influencers have helped introduce many food trends, some of which have had their season — here’s looking at you freeze-dried candy, hot cocoa bombs, and pizza toast.
Sensing a sweet opportunity, some local candy makers are capitalizing on another must-try trend that seems to have more staying power — Dubai chocolate.
Rami Wadee, owner/chef at Al Taj Mediterranean Bakery and Sweets in Lexington, described the confection for the uninitiated.
“Dubai chocolate is known for its rich flavors and beautifully crafted presentation,” he said. “It is a chocolate bar with pistachio paste filling and crunchy knafeh.”
Knafeh, also known as kunafa, is a Middle Eastern dessert featuring thin strands of crispy phyllo dough. As TikTokand Instagram-worthy treats, these sweets are often as beautiful as they are delicious.
The chocolates resemble miniature bundt cakes, with intricately molded tops and centers filled with colorful, edible glitter or other festive touches.
Sharline Sawalha, owner and managing partner of Chocomania, says the novelty and multi-sensory appeal of Dubai chocolate is part of its allure. Chocomania makes Dubai chocolate at its flagship location in Georgetown, and will also carry it at another location set to open in February at Fayette Mall.
“It’s not just chocolate — it’s a whole experience,” Sawalha said. “Imagine rich, velvety chocolate paired with flavors like pistachio, rose, or bourbon. Each piece is often beautifully handcrafted — almost too pretty to eat — but once you do, the flavors melt together in the most luxurious way. It’s the kind of treat that feels special, like a little escape in every bite.”
Sawalha said British–Egyptian entrepreneur Sara Hamouda is credited with inventing the chocolate in 2021 as a side business during her pregnancy, crafting a variety of
flavors like baklava, tahini, and peanut butter with caramel.
“We started making Dubai chocolate in July 2024, inspired by its growing popularity on social media platforms,” Sawalha said. “Beyond the buzz, it felt like a natural step for us, as all of us owners of Chocomania share a Middle Eastern heritage. Incorporating those rich flavors and traditions into our chocolate-making journey just felt right.”
Wadee said he also learned about Dubai chocolate from TikTok and the internet, where he discovered that the candy had become popular in the Middle East and was spreading worldwide. Sensing an opportunity, he embraced the trend, which quickly became a bakery staple.
“From the first day we started making Dubai chocolate and posted it on our Facebook and Instagram pages, customers started coming to our bakery and trying it,” he said.
Wadee explained that, like other Arabic sweets, making Dubai chocolate professionally requires effort and high-quality ingredients. His bakery uses homemade pistachio cream from natural pistachios rather than artificial flavorings and colors. The dough is made with natural ghee rather than butter for enhanced taste and quality.
Sawalha agrees that selecting top-tier ingredients is essential for creating the most satisfying Dubai chocolate.
“Any Dubai chocolate stands out because of its balance and high quality,” she said. “It’s not just about fancy flavors — it’s about using the best ingredients like premium chocolate and authentic spices or nuts, and making sure those flavors work harmoniously.”
While many viral trends fade quickly as new ones emerge, Wadee believes Dubai chocolate will keep customers coming back for more.
“I think Dubai chocolate will be a lasting favorite for customers,” he said.
If sales at Chocomania are any indication, Dubai chocolates will continue to delight, with varieties to suit every taste.
“On busy days, especially after someone mentions us online, we can sell out of Dubai chocolate, dark bourbon caramels, and bourbon balls faster than we ever imagined,” Sawalha said. “There’s definitely a challenge in keeping up with demand, but it’s a good problem to have. It keeps us on our toes and inspires us to keep on creating.” BL
PHOTO FURNISHED
Al Taj Mediterranean Bakery and Sweets, located at 4097 Nichols Park Dr. in Lexington, creates its Dubai chocolates using fresh, high-quality ingredients, including homemade pistachio cream and dough prepared with natural ghee.
Dubai chocolates will be on the menu at Chocomania when the Georgetownbased bakery opens a location in Fayette Mall this month.
PHOTO COURTESY
World of Gourmet Debuts, Minton’s and Big Blue Deli Relocate, Publix Announces Opening Date QuickBites
BY SHANNON CLINTON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
World of Gourmet has opened at 543 S. Limestone, with a fusion of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines for lunch and dinner, plus a European bakery and American breakfast. The menu features gourmet coffee, espresso, tea and chai, with entrees that include shawarma, curry of the day, kofta, chicken and beef kebabs, stroopwafel and more.
Two restaurants are on the move, including Minton’s at 760, which is moving from 760 Limestone to the former El Cid location on National Avenue. The other is Big Blue Deli, which is pulling up stakes on North Limestone to move to West Short Street. Both are aiming for a February open date.
The Courier-Journal in Louisville reports that after recently opening in Louisville on Poplar Level Road, popular dirty sodas restaurant Swig is planning to open locations in Lexington, Elizabethtown, and southern Indiana. The franchise offers sodas combined with a customized blend of fresh fruits, purees, and creams, waterbased refreshers and energy drinks, as well as snacks like pretzel bites and cookies.
Restaurante La Bendicion Pupuseria has opened at 2396 Woodhill Dr., serving up pupusas, tortas, soups and more in Honduran and Salvadoran styles.
Though the secret has been out for a bit, Bella Notte Restaurant Group announced a few more details about the March return of Crust at 3195 Beaumont Centre Circle. “For those of you who remember Crust as one of Lexington’s favorite spots, you know how special it was. Now we’re
bringing it back with a fresh twist, serving up the same bold, handcrafted pizzas, unique bites and craft drinks that you loved alongside new exciting flavors that will have you craving more,” the announcement said.
Revolving sushi and ramen restaurant Toku has opened at 127 W. Tiverton Way.
Fresh-made sushi travels on a conveyor past diners who can select what they’d like and be charged accordingly. Those ordering off the menu can look for their order to be delivered via conveyor to their tables.
At press time, Omakase Palomar was poised to open pending final inspections at 3900 Fountain Blue Ln.
Why wait for donuts, when donuts are waiting for you? Jeff’s Donuts, a 24/7 bakery well known in Louisville for its wide variety of handcrafted donuts and coffee, opened in late January at 1080 S. Broadway.
Additional recent restaurant openings include Naz’s Halal at 685 S. Limestone; War Admiral Way’s Chipotle location; Sassy Bleu Fine Southern Dining at 496 E. High St.; a new Bourbon n’ Toulouse location at 1781 Sharkey Way in Townley Center; and Jonathan Lundy’s new downtown establishment 3TEN, which serves up world cuisine, wine and cocktails at 310 W. Short St.
Already holding hiring events in midJanuary, the opening of Publix’s first Lexington location at 1952 Stockton Way at Citation Point is set for March 5.
The BLVD Grill at Hays, 844 Hays Blvd., announced its closure in early January, and there were Big Boy blues as Frisch’s on Harrodsburg Road, in Hamburg and Winchester all closed recently. BL
Have a food and beverage-related update to share with readers?
World of Gourmet, now open at 543 S. Limestone, offers a unique blend of Middle Eastern and Indian dishes, along with European-inspired baked goods and classic American breakfast options.
PHOTO FURNISHED
IndependentBusiness
A Shining Success
Farmer’s Jewelry, a cornerstone of Chevy Chase, celebrates 75 years of timeless service
BY LIZ CAREY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Much like their parents, Emma Lykins Necessary and cousin Will Farmer are accustomed to hearing customers comment on how much they’ve grown.
“That’s the nice part about being a family and having generations here — people come back and they remember you,” Emma said. “It’s really sweet. I like it when people say they remember me. It’s fun that I saw them come in when I was little, and now I get to help them pick out something for their family.”
Emma is the daughter of Kristi Farmer Lykins. Emma and her cousin Will, the son of Bill Farmer Jr., represent the third generation to work at Farmer’s Jewelry on Euclid Avenue in Chevy Chase. Like their parents before them, they grew up in the store, learning every aspect of the business — from sweeping floors to sizing rings to operating an antique cash register that now sits in a corner as a reminder of the past.
While the cash register no longer works, it’s a testament to the staying power of Farmer’s Jewelry, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. With one foot rooted in the traditions and customer service of the 1950s and the other firmly planted in the 21st century — with orders taken by text and webbased sales — the Farmers are eager to see what the next 75 years hold.
“We’ve had customers who bought their engagement rings from us and then came back for their wedding sets,” Bill Farmer Jr. said. “Over the years, they’ve returned for anniversary rings and other pieces. Now, their kids are coming in to buy their engagement rings.”
The store has evolved since it opened in 1950. At that time, Bill Farmer Sr. had just graduated from watchmaking school in Louisville and decided to open a store “on the sunny side of the street” in Lexington. Although the store still has its original neon sign out front, the interior has been renovated and expanded over the years.
The way they do business has also evolved, though some things remain the same. According to Kristi, the website is now a more critical part of advertising than a phone book or newspaper ad. However, the face-to-face interactions and relationships with customers have remained consistent.
For Bill, those relationships are central to the store’s longevity.
“That’s the charm of Chevy Chase,” he said. “There are guys that know they can roll up here, come in, buy something really nice and genuine, have it wrapped, and leave in a relatively short period of time. Trust is a big part of our success.”
Both Bill and Kristi joined the family business after graduating from the University of Kentucky and the Gemological Institute of America. As co-owners since 2019, they are both members of the American Gem Society, certified gemologists, and registered jewelers. Bill is also a certified gemologist appraiser. The siblings take pride in offering high-quality pieces, both new and vintage, through their estate selections.
Emma and Will started working at the store in high school doing things like sweeping floors and running errands. As they grew older, the duties changed and responsibilities grew.
Kristi said they’ve come a long way in terms of incorporating technology into the business.
“Mom would say, ‘Your sister’s playing on her phone all day,’” she said. “That was when social media was just getting started and I was doing Instagram. Now I’ll get text messages from customers that their wife saw something in the window or they need something for a wedding. They won’t be in the store until they come to pick it up. Our parents would not be able to wrap their arms around that.”
These days, Emma and Will also provide valuable input and ideas.
“We like to get their input,” Kristi said. “When I’m working with a vendor on buying things, I ask my daughter, ‘What do young women your age like?’ One of the best things is when people come in and they say they are buying something for their daughter or their granddaughter, I can turn to my daughter, who is 25 and ask what she likes. Customers love that.”
Looking ahead, the Farmer siblings have no plans to retire anytime soon but are confident in their children’s ability to eventually take the reins.
“We like what we do here, and we love being with our family and the family of our customers, but as things change, we know that they will be up to the task,” Kristi said.
For Will and Emma, the continued success of Farmer’s Jewelry is rooted in a continued focus on quality and customer relationships.
“There’s a little pressure [in taking over the store], but we have such a good thing going that it really feels like it’ll continue to run itself as long as we take care of it and our customers,” Will said. “We have such a good foundation. We’re lucky to have generations of families coming in, and now their kids are our age and are starting to buy engagement rings. It’s exciting to see.” BL
Farmer’s Jewelry’s original neon sign, pictured here in the early 1950s, remains a fixture of the Chevy Chase landscape.
From left to right, Emma Lykins Necessary, Bill Farmer Jr., Kristi Farmer Lykins, and Will Farmer.
PHOTOS FURNISHED
PHOTO FURNISHED
Bill Farmer Sr. and wife Jean Farmer opened Farmer’s Jewelry “on the sunny side” of Euclid Avenue in 1950.
Multi-County Authority Formed to Support Regional Growth
Joint development of a 300-acre industrial park in Berea announced as first project
BY DAN DICKSON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Aunique business partnership involving the cities of Lexington and Berea, along with Madison and Scott Counties, will create a 300-acre industrial park serving all entities. The initiative is being hailed as the first public, multi-county economic development project in Central Kentucky.
The industrial park will be located at Menelaus Industrial Park on Menelaus Road in Berea. All city and county government bodies have approved the creation of a joint Regional Business Development Authority to purchase the necessary land and manage the industrial park. Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley said the project could conservatively create between 700 and 1,000 jobs when the park is fully built out. Officials noted that similar regional partnerships have succeeded in North Carolina, Ohio, and Missouri.
The Regional Business Development Authority plan calls for Berea to receive an extra 10 percent “hosting” fee for being the site for the park, with the remaining governments to receive 33 percent of the tax revenues generated by the park. The project is expected to receive $5.5 million in federal funding to be used toward developing the park.
“Regional economic development is a winner for everyone,” said Lexington mayor Linda Gorton. “When Central Kentucky’s economy is strengthened, we all benefit. This project will provide good jobs and tax rev-
enue that will allow the governments to make improvements.”
Gorton’s office highlighted other examples of Lexington partnering with neighboring counties, including workforce development programs, a regional transportation planning group, and efforts to install fiber optics in rural areas. The formation of a Regional Business Development Authority represents a formalized entity to work towards these mutual goals.
“We hope to continue to strengthen our relationships with our neighbors,” mayor Gorton continued. “We can all benefit from a more regional approach to the challenges that local governments face.”
The cities and counties involved in the industrial park project have been meeting for a year and a half, according to Gorton’s office. While decisions about the site design and project timeline are still pending, resurfacing work could begin as early as this fall or spring 2026, said Jordan Haney of Thoroughbred Engineering, a consultant on the proposal. Officials envision selling the industrial park land in 20- to 60-acre lots, attracting light and advanced tech manufacturing companies and potentially auto industry plants as tenants.
Proximity to I-75, one of the nation’s busiest interstates, is expected to be a significant advantage for industrial park occupants. The highway’s location just 1.5 miles away will facilitate the transportation of materials and goods. The park will be 39 miles south of downtown Lexington and 46 miles from Blue Grass Airport.
The cities of Georgetown and Richmond were also invited to join the negotiations about forming a joint regional industrial authority and to purchase 500-acres of land in Georgetown to build a regional business park. However, last October, Georgetown and Richmond opted out of the deal, according to a post about the project on the City of Berea’s website.
Lucas Witt of MWM Consulting, who had been working on the proposal with the
governments, said Berea, Lexington, Madison County and Scott County decided to proceed with the plan anyway when they learned that federal funds were still available to ease the financial investment for the respective local governments.
Berea mayor Fraley called the officials who worked to set up the Regional Business Development Authority “visionary leaders.” “The leaders of our four communities, including both the executive and legislative bodies, understand that our county lines should not be dividing lines, but must be open doors for collaboration
and partnership as we develop the regional economy of the future,” he said.
Madison County Judge Executive Reagan Taylor said he believes that collaboration and innovative ideas are key drivers for long-term prosperity.
“Our region is uniquely positioned to attract businesses, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for our residents,” Taylor said. “We are laying the foundation for sustainable growth.”
In Scott County, Judge Executive Joe Pat Covington also believes Central Kentucky should foster a regional economy. “Our regional partnership will allow our communities to compete with other states in the recruitment of quality businesses and provide citizens with good paying jobs,” he said. BL
WITT
PHOTO FURNISHED
From left to right, Madison County Judge Executive Reagan Taylor, City of Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley, Scott County Judge Executive Joe Pat Covington, and Lexington mayor Linda Gorton.
Xerox to Acquire Lexmark
The $1.5 billion deal, which returns the company to U.S. ownership, is designed to strengthen its global position
BY DAN DICKSON CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Xerox, a globally recognized leader in office and print technology, software, and workplace services, has agreed to acquire Lexmark International, a printer and imaging technology company headquartered in Lexington.
The deal, announced in late December, is valued at $1.5 billion and was unanimously approved by the Xerox board of directors. It is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending approval from United States and Asian regulators. Until then, the two companies will operate independently as decisions are finalized regarding how Xerox will integrate Lexmark’s staff and facilities.
The acquisition is expected to strengthen Xerox’s core print portfolio and expand its global managed print services business, according to the company. Xerox has faced declining sales in recent years, having missed financial analysts’ expectations for seven consecutive quarters as of last fall, according to Xerox Holdings Corporation.
“Our acquisition of Lexmark will bring together two industry-leading companies with shared values, complementary strengths, and a deep commitment to advancing the print industry to create one stronger organization,” Steve Bandrowczak, Xerox’s CEO, said in a
statement. “By combining our capabilities, we will be better positioned to drive longterm profitable growth and serve our clients, furthering our reinvention.”
“Reinvention” refers to Xerox’s strategic shift away from traditional printing and copying services toward expanding its focus on information technology services, workflow automation, and digital solutions.
Lexmark, already a partner and supplier to Xerox, specializes in global imaging solutions and technologies, including printers and multifunction devices.
“Our acquisition by Xerox, another proud American company, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both of us,” Allen Waugerman, Lexmark president and CEO, said in a statement to Business Lexington. “Together, we will harness our strengths to create a powerhouse that will drive growth and innovation, not
just for our business, but for the communities where we live and work.”
The deal positions Xerox for long-term growth and profitability, said Zeus Kerravala, principal analyst for ZK Research based in Acton, Massachusetts. Xerox anticipates annual savings of $200 million in marketing and real estate expenses, among other areas. “That money can be reinvested for the future. Xerox has set itself up for the future,” Kerravala said in a Reuters report.
Business analysts say the world’s workplaces have undergone significant changes in recent years, transforming the print industry. Hybrid work is now the norm, and digital print solutions have become essential to meeting evolving business needs.
Lexmark currently employs approximately 950 people in Lexington, primarily at its New Circle Road/Newtown Pike campus, and about 8,000 employees worldwide. Xerox has not disclosed how the acquisition will impact Lexington, including whether all employees will remain or if Lexington will continue as a major hub for the company.
“As part of our integration efforts, the company will examine how the combined organization is structured globally and identify areas where operations can be streamlined,” said a Lexmark spokesperson.
Xerox plans to finance the acquisition through a combination of cash on hand and debt financing. The combined company will serve over 200,000 clients in 170 countries, with 125 manufacturing and distribution facilities across 16 countries.
Combined, Xerox and Lexmark have a top five global share in various print markets. Major competitors in the industry include HP and Canon.
Lexmark traces its origins to the arrival of International Business Machines, better known as IBM, in Lexington in 1956 to manufacture IBM Selectric typewriters. By 1985, IBM was among the major employers in Lexington, employing 6,000 workers and contributing to the city’s transformation from a college town to an emerging midsized U.S. city.
Lexmark, founded in 1991 through a leveraged buyout of IBM Information Products Corporation, currently employs approximately 950 people in Lexington, primarily at its New Circle Road/Newtown Pike campus.
By 2016, Lexmark was facing challenges retaining corporate clients amid shifting consumer preferences toward mobile devices. That year, the company went private, acquired for $3.6 billion by a consortium of Asian multinational companies, primarily Chinese-owned. The Xerox acquisition will return Lexmark to U.S. ownership.
In addition to its headquarters in Lexington, Lexmark operates research and development facilities in Colorado, Kansas, and California, as well as in India, Germany, Philippines, and Sweden, and has other offices throughout North and South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
“This is not just about growing in size — it is about getting better and stronger.”
ALLEN WAUGERMAN, LEXMARK PRESIDENT AND CEO
Lexmark’s Waugerman reflected on the transaction in a company blog post, writing that more than 30 years ago, he began on the factory floor of the Lexington IBM facility helping to produce typewriters and later keyboards.
“I never imagined that one day I would be leading this great company as president and CEO,” Waugerman wrote. “Today, I am pleased to usher in our company’s next great chapter. Make no mistake. This is not just about growing in size — it is about getting better and stronger. We are combining our expertise to accelerate innovation and deliver faster development cycles, more advanced features, and a world-class printing experience.” BL
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Real estate development; financing and transactions; construction; leasing; mortgage lending; title insurance; zoning and land use
Darren L. Embry, Samantha T. Nance (Managing Partners)/ 2011/ 3 nationally
James H. Frazier, III/ 1978/ 3
Zoning; rezoning; planning; variances; conditional uses; subdivisions and annexation; acquisition; development and disposition; office retail; warehouse and industrial leasing for landlords and tenants; representation of lenders and borrowers in financing real estate transactions; shopping centers; office and industrial parks; planned unit developments; local counsel assistance in multi-state transactions; construction lending; documentation for lenders and representation of borrowers; construction
Real estate; acquisitions and dispositions; development and zoning; financing; leasing and property management; commercial finance
Commercial real estate; commercial construction and development; landlord/tenant/leases; planning and zoning; entity formation and reorganization; tax planning; 1031 transactions, including qualified intermediary services; title insurance; financing, acquisitions and divestures; dispute resolutions
Commercial finance; community development; affordable housing and headquarters relocation; conservation easements; construction; data centers; environmental, energy, and sustainability; gaming; health care - real estate; hemp industry; land use and zoning; manufacturing; public-private partnership (P3); real estate and land use litigation; real estate development and finance; real estate general practice; sports and entertainment
Finance and lending; commercial and industrial development; land use and zoning; commercial and industrial leasing; title insurance claims; real estate and land use disputes and litigation; solar, mineral, limestone/quarry, oil/gas leases and transactions; affordable housing and tax incentive credits; commercial creditors’ rights and foreclosures; commercial leases and evictions
Commercial real estate acquisitions; sales; development; leasing and finance with an emphasis on multi-family, retail, industrial, office, healthcare, and equine properties; obtaining land use and zoning entitlements; issuance of title insurance policies and curing of title defects; prosecuting litigation and other disputes arising from real estate
Commercial real estate transaction; residential real estate transaction; HOA and COA representation; landlord/tenant disputes; foreclosures and receivership; property development and acquisitions; lease negotiations
Partner Managed/ 2015/ 1 W. Craig Robertson III (Partner-in-Charge, Lexington Office), Emily H. Cowles (Partner, Leader of Real Estate and Lending Services Team)/ 1977/ 5 nationally P. Douglas Barr (Managing Director)/ 1897/ 6 nationally
Grahmn Morgan (Lexington Managing Partner)/ 1997/ 30 nationally
Robert C. Stilz, Jr., John S. Talbot, III (Real Estate Practice Leads)/ 1997/ 3 statewide Cassidy Rosenthal (Lexington Office Executive Member)/ 1832/ 12 nationally
Wilmes & Associates Architects 512 E. Main St. Lexington, KY 40508 (859) 233-4989 wilmesarchitects.com
Baron Gibson; Darren Taylor; Vincent Thompson
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Carole Yocum, AIA (Principal)
Pohl, AIA
AIA
Who’sWho
New Hires & Board Selections
The Kentucky Community and Technical College System announced the addition of Jessica Stigall as general counsel and Chris Crumrine as chief external affairs officer.
The Sayre School has named John Carr as its new director of advancement.
Stites & Harbison, PLLC attorney Chrisandrea L. Turner has been appointed as the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce representative to the Ethics Commission of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government.
Stites & Harbison, PLLC announced the promotion of attorneys Alison M. Zeitlin and Trevor T. Graves to member (partner) in its Lexing-
ton office. It was announced that Graves was also recently elected to the Lexington Humane Society’s board of directors.
City National Bank has promoted Zanga Nassem to branch manager of its downtown Versailles location.
Central Bank announced the promotions of William Flowers to officer and retirement plan manager; Melissa McCay to assistant vice president and mortgage underwriter, and James C. Morris to senior vice president and private banking manager. Jennifer Cooper has also joined Central Bank as vice president, SBA lending specialist.
Central Bank has also selected eight new members to its Lexington Advisory Board, including: Ron Johnston (Net Lease Alliance, LLC); Bill Shively (Tower Hill Insurance Group); Kevin Doyle (Congleton Hacker Company); Al Ruggles
(Rood & Riddle);Pam Shepherd (Federated Transportation); Lee Howard (H&W Management); Kenny Schomp (Lexington Truck Sales); and Casey Dunn (DenhamBlythe Company).
Dinsmore has promoted attorney Courtney Ross Samford to partner in its Lexington office.
American Trust Wealth recently announced the promotions of Elizabeth Brown, AAMS®, AIF®, to associate advisor and Andrew Mason, CFP®, AIF®, to fiduciary investment advisor.
Opportunity for Work & Learning (OWL), a Lexington-based nonprofit, has named William Bacon as its interim chief executive officer. OWL also welcomed Nancy Brown as chair of its board of directors, as well as, newly appointed board members Gordon Garrett and August “Gus” Johannsen
Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance elected Stites & Harbison, PLLC
attorney Walter S. Robertson as president of its board of directors.
Commerce Lexington Inc. has appointed Stites & Harbison, PLLC attorney Ken Gish to its board of directors.
The Board of Directors of Equestrian Events, Inc. has welcomed Molly Day as the organization’s new executive director.
Central Bank Center, managed by Oak View Group, has announced Joey Trevino as its new director of booking for Rupp Arena and the Lexington Opera House.
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Airport Board has appointed Brian Wells as chair of its board for 2025. Other appointments also included: Tonya Jackson, vice chair; Marc Mathews, treasurer; and
Shirie Hawkins, secretary. Other members include Clay Angelucci Angela Coleman, Dan Mason, Bengaly “Sav” Savané, Dave Sevigny and Mary-Alicha Weldon
Representative Matt Lockett of Nicholasville has been reappointed as vice chair of the Kentucky House’s Banking and Insurance Committee.
Yuri Boyechko MD, has joined Baptist Health Medical Group Cardiology, and David Redinger MD has joined Baptist Health Medical Group Behavioral Health.
After raising $10.5 million for expansion, CJS Beverage LLC, doing business as Pinhook Bourbon and Rye & Sons, has named John Scarborough to the post of CEO.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass has welcomed Ernie Johnson (Tempur Sealy
N. BROWN GARRETT BACON
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BLOOMER
International), Tony Majors (Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits), and Jeff Pearson (Pearson & Pearson Architects) to its board of directors.
The foundation also announced its 2025 executive board of directors which included: Allison Helsinger president (Moore, Ingram, Johnson, & Steele LLP); Max Smith, immediate past president (Ward, Hocker, & Thornton PLLC); Ryan Graham vice president (Blue and Co., LLC); Austen Bloomer, treasurer (EY); and Hannah Sawyer, secretary (Keeneland Association).
Georgetown College has named Brad Compton as the new vice president for finance, chief financial officer, and treasurer. Professor of Biology Tracy Livingston, Ph.D., was promoted to associate provost for the college. Christy McGuire has been named new human resources director.
Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co. announced that Kali Kincaid has joined its Southland Financial Center location as a universal banker, and Trey Barnes has joined its Romany Road Financial Center also as a universal banker.
Community Trust Bancorp, Inc announced the retirement of Charles J. Baird from its board of directors.
Morning Pointe of Lexington-East Assisted Living and Memory Care has named Netza Mullins as its new executive director.
Lexington Clinic’s recently named its board of directors for 2025. New appointments include: Tharun Karthikeyan, M.D., president; Kimberly Hudson M.D., vice president; Robby K. Hutchinson, M.D., secretary; and Jordan Prendergast D.O., treasurer. Other members of the board include Walaa Ayoub M.D., Jonathan Keeling, M.D., Erin Moore M.D. Brandon Devers M.D., David Kielar, M.D., Nick Rowe, and Paul Rooke
Reed Ryan has been named the president of The Asphalt Institute, a 106-year-old trade association, based in Lexington.
Kudos
The city of Lexington has achieved LEED Silver certification making it the second city in the state to receive that honor.
The Carnegie Center recently announced the Kentucky Writers Hall of Fame inductees for 2025. Those honored include: Naomi Wallace, Frank X Walker Crystal Wilkinson Ronald D. Eller, and David Dick
The 2025 edition of Kentucky Super Lawyers recently honored the following Stites & Harbison, PLLC Lexington attorneys as “Super Lawyers:” W. Blaine Early III, Warren D. Schickli Michael S. Hargis Ashley W. Ward, and Gregory P. Parsons
Community Trust Bank, Inc. has earned the “Gold Lender Award” from the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) as Kentucky’s top volume SBA 7(a) Community Bank lender in federal fiscal year 2023–2024 for the 16th consecutive year.
Lexington Clinic urologist Thomas Slabaugh, Jr., M.D., has been recognized as an expert at treating bladder and bowel dysfunction with innovative Axonics Therapy.
Award winners for An Evening with Commerce Lexington were recently announced. Those honored are as follows: Volunteer of the Year Award – Jordan Parker, Traditional Bank; and Community Impact Award – Lexington’s Transformational Housing Affordability Partnership
Holly Hill Inn has been selected as a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s 2025 Outstanding Hospitality Award. Out of thousands of restaurants across the country, only 20 establishments were recognized in this category.
Lockaby PLLC managing partner Matthew T. Lockaby and co-managing partner Amanda M. Lockaby have both been named 2025 Super Lawyers.
Gatton Park on the Town Branch announced that Lexington-based Triangle Foundation will make
a $2 million gift to the park. The park’s board of directors will commemorate the gift by dedicating and naming the park’s Adventure Playground for the Triangle Foundation.
Team Kentucky recently accepted 28 new artists into its prestigious Kentucky Crafted program, an initiative that supports visual and craft artists with business training, networking, exhibitions and promotional opportunities to help grow their creative enterprises. The new program members include: Pat Buckley, painting, Madison County; Bill Cole, photography, Fayette County; John Cowgill, glass, Jefferson County; James Ellenberger, 2D mixed-media, Madison County; Sheila Fox, 2D mixed-media, Jefferson County; Jeanne Freibert, 2D mixed-media, Jefferson County; Sam Greenwell, sculpture, Fayette County; Kara Hill and Andrew McDonald, wood, Fayette County; Karen Hudson painting, Fayette County; Duane Keaton, 2D mixed-media, Scott County; David Larson, wood and furniture, Fayette County; Frank Leake, 2D mixed-media, Fayette County; Marti Luken, ceramics, Campbell County; Christian Mansfield, photography, Laurel County; Molly Marek, ceramics, Lee County; Stan and Darcy Marohn, wood and glass, McCreary County; Vini Moura, painting, Fayette County; Dana Muhammad, painting, Jefferson County; Linda Raddatz,
painting, Jefferson County; Lesley Rahner, jewelry, Jefferson County; Kathy Reynolds, 2D mixed-media, Jefferson County; April Schweiss, painting, Whitley County; Jennifer Smyth, natural/organic, Fayette County; Wendy Tallis, baskets, Marshall County; Lindsey Ward, 2D mixed-media, Boone County; Laura Weis, photography, Jefferson County; and Mabel Zaglul painting, Fayette County.
Republic Bank & Trust Company has been recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks 2025 by Newsweek and Plant-A-Insights Group.
Lex Grow Trees announced the recipients of its second round of grant funding, awarding a total of $392,985 to six organizations committed to expanding and maintaining Lexington’s tree canopy. Recent recipients included: Andover Neighborhood Association – $100,000; Beaver Creek Hydrology – $80,000; Crawford Middle School PTSA – $9,855; Headley Green Homeowners Association, Inc. – $25,052; Trees Lexington!, Inc. – $91,943; and The University of Kentucky Research Foundation (Arboretum) – $86,134.
Kentucky Farm Bureau was recognized with four Awards of Excellence at American Farm Bureau Federation’s 106th Convention in San Antonio BL
BizLexQ&A
Kerry Creech
The president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky on value of continual improvement and community partnerships
Kerry Creech, who has served as president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky since 2023, has held various management roles with the automaker, including general manager of assembly and positions in quality control and engineering. He started with Toyota Kentucky in 1990 as a powertrain production team member.
BY TOM WILMES BUSINESS LEXINGTON EDITOR
In December, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) announced a $922 million project to build a state-of-theart paint facility on its Georgetown campus. Slated to open in 2027, the facility will add 1 million square feet of capacity, is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 30%, and save 1.5 million gallons of water annually. This initiative, alongside Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in a new battery-electric SUV, represents more than $11 billion in improvements and projects the automaker has invested in its Georgetown site since opening in 1986.
TMMK is Toyota’s largest production facility globally, producing the Camry, Lexus ES 350 (including hybrid versions of both), and RAV4 Hybrid, as well as four-cylinder and V6 engines. The facility employs nearly 9,500 people and has the capacity to produce up to 550,000 vehicles and more than 600,000 engines annually.
Overseeing the $8.5 billion operation at TMMK is Kerry Creech, who has served as president of TMMK since 2023.
Business Lexington spoke with Creech to discuss the need for this facility, its operational and environmental impact, and its significance for the company and the local community.
You started with TMMK in 1990 and have seen many developments not just at Toyota, but within the automobile industry. What are some of the broader trends you’ve observed?
When I first started, we were building very basic four-cylinder engines. I started my career in powertrain, and our ability to machine with much tighter tolerances have allowed us to make engines that are smaller and also more powerful.
The second big trend is electrification. We’ve been building electrified vehicles for 30 years now. While battery-electric vehicles get a lot of attention today, at Toyota, we like to reference a ratio we call 1:6:90. This means that, for every one batteryelectric vehicle that’s produced, we can manufacture six hybrid-vehicle batteries. And every 90 hybridbattery vehicles that we produce will reduce 37 times more carbon emissions over their lifetime compared to one battery-electric vehicle. Which is to say there are more ways to reduce carbon beyond focusing exclusively on battery-electric vehicles.
We’re now on our fifth-generation hybrid system, and with each generation, we’ve been able to supplement more power to the engine. The performance improvements are incredible.
What drove the decision to invest in this new advanced paint facility, and how does it align with Toyota’s broader goals?
The new facility will incorporate the latest and greatest Toyota paint technology, enabling us to paint any vehicle that Toyota produces. It also gives us the flexibility to accommodate new vehicle models and colors as they’re introduced. Some of these colors require three, four, or even five coats, and this facility allows us to handle all of those variations.
In addition to flexibility, the facility will significantly reduce our environmental footprint.
We anticipate a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and a dramatic reduction in paint and water usage, thanks to advanced technology.
Another key benefit is the additional space. At Toyota, we often say that “space is speed.” By building a new paint shop, we free up floor space in the old paint shop, which can then be repurposed for a new assembly line in an existing building, all while maintaining current production levels.
Toyota has long been a cornerstone of Central Kentucky’s manufacturing landscape. How does the company envision its long-term impact on the region?
We aim to be a strong community partner. We maintain close relationships with community leaders and prioritize giving back to the community. Job stability is incredibly important to us — not just for our team members but also for our suppliers.
We view our suppliers as partners, not just vendors. We can’t survive without them and we also can all grow together. That relationship is extremely important.
You recently became chair of the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. What are some of the priorities for manufacturers in the state?
For one, we all need access to a ordable, reliable energy. This is becoming increasingly important as more data centers come online, which require significant energy resources.
Workforce development is another critical priority. At TMMK, we’re fortunate to have the resources to attract talent, but finding skilled tradespeople — like maintenance workers or tool and die specialists — is increasingly challenging. It’s a competitive market across the state. I do believe that Governor Beshear and state representatives are working hard to improve workforce development programs. Across the United States, Toyota is investing heavily in a program called Driving Possibilities. Through this initiative, we recently awarded a $5.7 million grant to further STEM education opportunities in Fayette and Scott counties. The focus is on underrepresented students and preparing students for future opportunities and career pathways. BL
