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www.CommerceLexington.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Bluegrass Region’s Federal PolicyForum is Set for September 8th

@330 Presents Hiring ExtraordinaryEmployees in Extraordinary Times

4 O’Clock Focus Webinar SeriesContinues in August

Emerging Leaders of the BluegrassTransitions to Virtual Events

BUSINESS FOCUSOFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. | AUGUST 2020 | VOLUME XXVIII, ISSUE VIII

2020 Leadership Lexington Class During Public Safety Day Session in November 2019 (Photo by Mark Mahan)

Faced With Pandemic, Loss of Classmate, Leadership Lexington Concludes Difficult Year

2 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

Business Focus is published once a month fora total of 12 issues per year by Commerce Lex-ington Inc., 330 East Main Street, Suite 100, Lex-ington, KY 40507. Phone: (859) 226-1600.

2020 Chair of the Board:Ray Daniels, PresidentEquity Solutions Group

Publisher:Robert L. Quick, CCE, President & CEOCommerce Lexington Inc.

Editor:Mark E. TurnerCommunications Specialist: Liz BennettPrinting: Post PrintingMail Service: SouthEast Printing & MailingService, LLC (2610 Palumbo Drive)

Subscriptions are available for $12 and are in-cluded as a direct benefit of Commerce Lexing-ton Inc. membership. Business Focus (USPS012-337) periodical postage paid at Lexington,Kentucky.

POSTMASTER: Send address corrections toBusiness Focus, Commerce Lexington Inc.,P.O. Box 1968, Lexington, KY 40588-1968.

Display RatesFor DISPLAY RATES in Business Focus, con-tact Kelly Bates at (859) 226-1612 orkbates@CommerceLexington.com, and an ac-count executive will contact you.

Personnel UpdatesSubmit your company’s awards and mile-stones or personnel changes and additions tomturner@CommerceLexington.com. Person-nel news might include promotions, additions,awards and milestones, recognitions and cer-tifications and/or appointments. Informationis published only as space permits.

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

2016 Chamber of the Year

August 2020: Volume XXVIII, Issue VIII

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:Lexington Launches Small Business Stimulus ProgramNEW RANKINGS: Lexington Among Best for College Graduates, Best Run Cities in America

PUBLIC POLICY:Bluegrass Region’s Federal Policy Forum is Sept. 8th

EVENTS:September’s Salute to Small Business Will Feature Virtual Celebration & Recognition of Award Winners

@330 Series: Hiring During Extraordinary Times4 O’Clock Focus Webinar Series Continues in AugustEmerging Leaders of the BG Transitions to Virtual Events

CONNECT:2019-20 Leadership Lexington Program ConcludesAnita Franklin Recognized as Distinguished Leader

Welcome New Commerce Lexington Inc. MembersMember Personnel Announcements

BUSINESS FOCUS

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5

7-11

12-15

Austin Leadership Visit Moved to May 10-12, 2021Due to the uncertainty surrounding the

COVID-19 pandemic, Commerce Lexington Inc.has re-scheduled its Austin Leadership Visit pre-sented by Central Bank to May 10-12, 2021. Aftermuch consideration, there are just too many con-cerns about the progression of the virus by thisfall, current travel restrictions that member com-panies have in place, as well as several venues inAustin unable to commit to hosting our group.

Austin, Texas has been a much anticipateddestination, and this trip will include a dynamicagenda full of learning opportunities and socialfunctions, and we look forward to experiencingAustin to the fullest. If you had already registeredfor the Austin Leadership Visit, it will be auto-matically transferred to the new date. If you needto make an adjustment to your current registra-tion, please contact Angela Carlos atacarlos@commercelexington.com.

PRESENTED BY

NEW DATES:Austin, Texas

Leadership VisitMay 10-12, 2021

For the fifth consecutive year, Lexing-ton has been listed among WalletHub’sTop 10 Best Run Cities, coming in at #6.WalletHub compared the operating effi-ciency of 150 of the largest U.S. cities toreveal which among them are managedbest. They developed a “Quality of Serv-ices” score made up of 38 metricsgrouped into six service categories, whichwere then measured against the city’s per-capita budget. The key categories in-

cluded financial stability, education,health, safety, economy, and infrastruc-ture & pollution. Lexington scored well inthe Education Category (#16) and TotalCity Budget Per Capita (#4).

With a focus on affordability, jobs andfun, SmartAsset’s sixth annual study ofthe best cities for new college graduatescompared the 115 most-populous citiesnationwide. Lexington ranked secondamong the Best Cities for College Gradu-ates, marking three of the last four yearsinside the top ten in this study.

SmartAsset said, “Lexington, Kentuckyhas the seventh-best fun score and the17th-best affordability score in the study.Within the category of fun, Lexingtonplaced seventh overall for average Yelprestaurant rating, at 4.08 out of a total offive stars. Within the affordability index,Lexington placed 10th out of 115 for lowcost of living. The cost of living in Lexing-ton is $19,526, potentially allowing formore opportunities to save or invest.”

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4 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT OF THE BLUEGRASS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP (BBDP)

SUBMITTED BY CLX ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION: GINA GREATHOUSE, CHERYL KLEVER & KATIE VANDEGRIFT

By The Numbers:For 2020 year-to-date, Commerce Lexing-ton’s Economic Development Divisionhas responded to calls from:

New Business: 32 new prospects interested in finding a new location or expanding.Client Visits to the Lexington Area: 13Existing Business Visits: 77Total Active Projects: 46

Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Access Loan Program Contracted by City toHelp Manage Small Business Economic Stimulus Grant Program

NEW RANKINGS: Lexington Among Best for College Grads, Best Run Cities

According to the U.S. Small BusinessAssociation, 5,241 businesses in Lexing-ton received funding from the federalPaycheck Protection Program (PPP).With many of Lexington’s small busi-nesses not receiving PPP funding, theSmall Business Stimulus Program wascreated to help area small businessesthat have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commerce Lexington Inc.’s AccessLoan Program has been contracted tomanage a $2.5 million small businessstimulus program on behalf of the Lex-ington-Fayette Urban County Govern-ment to encourage economicdevelopment in Lexington. The programis available to companies affected by rev-enue losses and incurred expenses from

the coronavirus pandemic. To qualify, small business and/or non-

profits with less than 50 employees orrestaurants with less than 100 employeesmust be located within Fayette County.Organizations must have obtained abusiness license with the city on or beforeJanuary 1, 2020 and be in good standing.The program has a goal of allocating atleast half of the $2.5 million to minority-and women-owned businesses.

NOTE: At press time (July 28), thecity was not accepting any more stimulusgrant applications because of the largevolume already received. For more infor-mation or to check to see if applicationsare again being accepted, visit www.lex-ingtonky.gov/economicdevelopment.

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AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS FOCUS 5

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Coming September 8thNo D.C. Fly-In this year? No problem!Just because we can’t travel to Washington doesn’t mean we can’t connectwith our Congressional delegation from right here in Central KY.

Watch your e-mail inbox for more details about the

Bluegrass Region’s 2020 Federal Policy ForumEngage with issue experts and legislative staffs onregional priorities in a virtual format.

GOLD SPONSORS: Blue Grass Airport | Equity Solutions Group | WesBanco BankEDUCATION PARTNER: Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS)

A NiSource Company

PRESENTED BY

Workplace Posters andGuideline Sheets On-LineWe have had several requests from local busi-nesses for printable pages to post at theirworkplace or building entrances to alert bothcustomers and employees of the require-ments prior to coming into the business. TheLexington-Fayette County Health Departmenthas provided a variety of documents, as wellas guidance sheets to help employers man-age workplace COVID-19 exposure. Visitwww.CommerceLexington.com.

Purchase Personal Protective EquipmentItems From CLX & Other Member BusinessesCommerce Lexington Inc. has compiled a list on-line of member companies who can help supplyyou with personal protective equipment (PPE),safety signage and cleaning services for your facil-ity. You can also purchase PPE items such as facemasks, gloves, and hand sanitizer directly fromCommerce Lexington Inc. Scan the QR code topurchase items on-line from CLX.

Review Sample Client Communicationsand Business Reopening PlansAmong its on-line Return to Work resources, Commerce Lex-ington has posted a variety of sample communications to cus-tomers and clients, as well as sample business reopening plansfor employees, to help you prepare for the day you welcomeyour team back to your facility and/or the public back to yourstore or facility. To review these best practices documents, visitwww.commercelexington.com/return-to-work-resources.html.

Commerce Lexington Provides StarterGuide to Reopening Your BusinessAs businesses and organizationsof all types and sizes work throughthe process of reopening, Com-merce Lexington Inc. has compiledan Introductory Guide to ReopeningYour Business in the Era of COVID-19, aimed at providing some basicpolicies and recommendations forall businesses to consider, as wellas the minimum requirements putforth by Kentucky Governor AndyBeshear. Presented by WesBancoBank, this publication also includes the reopening schedule,frequently asked questions, and recommendations to helpkeep your employees and customers safe.

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6 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

RETURN TO WORK RESOURCES

Variety of On-line Resources Available to Help Your Business Reopen Safely

Scan QR Code to Read BusinessReopening Guide:

AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS FOCUS 7

\\\ SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

PRESENTED BY

GOLD SPONSORS:Central Bank & Trust Co.Columbia Gas of Kentucky

H-L Media (Lexington Herald-Leader & Kentucky.com)

Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance (KEMI)

SILVER SPONSORS:Bankers Title of Central Kentucky

Bryant's Rent-All, Inc.Cumberland Valley National Bank

MCM CPAs & AdvisorsTravelHost of the Bluegrass

U.S. Bank

SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORS:AMR Lexington

BACK ConstructionHurst Business Supply & Office

FurniturePrecision Duplicating Solutions

INVITATION, PROGRAM & SIGNAGE:Stablemate Creative, LLC

PRINT SPONSOR:Lynn Imaging / Monster Color

Small Business of the Year to be Named During September CelebrationIt’s safe to say that the 2020 Salute to Small Business Awards

presented by Forcht Bank will look different from any other Com-merce Lexington Inc. small business awards celebration in thepast. Meanwhile, nothing about this year has been normal forsmall businesses across our community, as they deal with the im-pact of the COVID-19 pandemic. If there ever was a year to recog-nize our small business community, this is it.

Coming in September, we’ll recognize our Salute to Small Busi-ness Category Award winners during a week-long celebration andpromotional campaign, culminating with the naming of a new Com-merce Lexington Inc. Small Business of the Year. Watch your e-mailinbox and the next issue of Business Focus for opportunities to engagewith our award winners and learn more about their success. Youwon’t want to miss the announcement of the newest addition to thelist of past Small Business of the Year winners.

PAST SMALL BUSINESSES OF THE YEAR:2019 - Hallway Feeds2018 - BACK Construction2017 - Omni Architects 2016 - A Cup of Common Wealth2015 - Integrated Engineering, PLLC2014 - LM Communications Broadcast Media Group2013 - Bates Security, LLC2012 - Lynn Imaging2011 - Creative Lodging Solutions2010 - DMD Data Systems2009 - NONE PRESENTED WHILE AWARDS REFORMATTED2008 - Smiley Pete Publishing2007 - Preston-Osborne2006 - LCM Company2005 - Buggies Unlimited2004 - Klausing Group2003 - Images Model & Talent Agency2002 - John's Run/Walk Shop2001 - One Alliance Communications2000 - Great Harvest Bread Co. 1999 - James T. Nash Homes1998 - Monthie Mechanical1997 - Multi-Link1996 - Hammond Design Associates1995 - Lexnet1994 - Progressive Therapy1993 - Avant Travel1992 - Ryker Dental1991 - Sweats Fifth Avenue1990 - James Sweat Moving Co.1989 - Joseph Beth Booksellers1988 - DataBeam1987 - Jenkins Trucking1986 - Career Management Temp Services & Diet Center of Chevy Chase

PICTURED AT RIGHT: Synergy Coach’s LarryJackson and Tim Camp-bell (left & middle)showed off last year’s Mi-nority Business of the YearAward with Forcht Bank’sHouston Hall. (Photo byMark Mahan, MahanMultimedia).

These are indeed unprecedented and challengingtimes around the world. As the saying goes, “thedarker the night, the brighter the stars.” As companiesrestart their operations and/or rethink the way they dobusiness and serve customers, finding the rightemployees may never be more important than it is

right now. For most businesses,recruiting and training talenttakes time and money, so it’simportant to know what to lookfor when evaluating jobcandidates.

During the next CommerceLexington Inc. @330 Seriesevent presented by DistilleryHeights on Tuesday, September8th, beginning at 3:30 p.m.,Everett Bracken from VOLO, anexecutive recruiting company,will help you understand how to hire extraordinaryemployees during these extraordinary times. VOLOhas been finding exceptional talent worldwide forsome time, and continues to support companies’women and diversity recruiting programs.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:Everett Bracken manages VOLO, an executive recruit-ing company, which is engaged in assignmentsthroughout the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe -Middle East - Asia (EMEA) across thirty industries in-cluding but not limited to Aerospace / Defense,Biotechnology, Chemicals, Consumer Goods, HealthCare, Medical Device, Oil / Gas, and Pharmaceutical.Earlier, Everett served in the U.S. Army and worked inmarketing, strategy & sales roles at Kraft Foods, MillerBrewing, and Lexmark. He is married, has three chil-dren, and involved in middle school football in Lexing-ton.

TO REGISTER:The @330 events feature a topical presentation thatis relevant to the success of entrepreneurs, businessowners and business professionals. Register on-lineat www.CommerceLexington.com, and a Zoom eventlink will be sent to you by e-mail prior to the @330 Se-ries event.

8 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

///EVENTS: @330 SERIES

Virtual @330: Hiring Extraordinary Employees During Extraordinary Times

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 | 3:30 - 4:30 P.M. | VIRTUAL MEETING ON ZOOM

PRESENTED BY

GOLD SPONSOR:TravelHost of the Bluegrass

Scan QR Code WithYour Device to Register

EVERETT BRACKENVOLO

In an effort to evolve with the new “ever-changing” businesslandscape, Commerce Lexington Inc. introduced a webinar seriesentitled 4 O’Clock Focus to assist businesses during the reopen-ing of Kentucky’s economy. The webinars have featured a varietyof topics, best practices, and lessons learned presented by localbusiness and community leaders from different economic sec-tors. The series will continue into August. If you missed any of

the previous 4 O’Clock Focus webinars, never fear,the past schedule is listed below, and they are allposted at www.commercelexington.com/return-to-work-resources.html.

PAST 4 O’CLOCK FOCUS:April 29: Human Resources featuring Lyle Hanna(Hanna Resource Group) and Leslie Jarvis (ForchtGroup).

May 6: Legal Guidance and Compliance in the NewWorkplace featuring Adrianne Strong and Faith Whit-taker, both partners with Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP.

May 13: The New Face of Retail & Effective Con-sumer Marketing Strategies with Joshua Sowards(Tempur + Sealy International) and Myron Worley(Fayette Mall).

May 20: Finances and Investment with Peyton Tier-ney and Brandon J. Gaines of Todd & Gaines, Inte-grated Wealth Planning, a division of NorthwesternMutual Wealth Management Company.

June 3: IT Management in a Pandemic featuring BradLovell of Keeneland and Tim Arthur of Alltech .

June 17: Future of Real Estate after COVID-19 withpanelists Melia Hord of Melia Realty Group, a divi-sion of Keller Williams Bluegrass, and Lesli Lawrenceof Block + Lot.

July 1: Health and Wellness during the Pandemic,featuring Dr. Karen Hill (Baptist Health Lexington),Dr. Rachael Hovermale (EKU), and Dr. Dee Beckman(Baptist Health Lexington).

July 15: Guidance on SBA Loan Programs with localfinancial experts Tom Greinke (Bank of the Blue-grass) and Lori Street DeSantis (B2BCFO).

July 29: Accountability and Leading through Crisisfeaturing Nick Rowe (Kentucky American Water),Susan Simmons (Central Bank), Tim Arthur (All-tech), and Jennifer Drennan (Field & Main Bank).

4 O’Clock Focus Webinar SeriesContinues to Help Businesses

Scan to Registerfor Upcoming

4 O’Clock FocusWebinars >>

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10 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

Young professionals and emerging leadershave often indicated the need for more opportu-nities to help them acquire the leadership skills toadvance in their career. In 2014, the EMERGEConference was created, providing a full day ofpersonal and professional growth sessions, alongwith inspirational keynote speakers. However,many people expressed interest in expandingthose professional development opportunities be-yond a one-day event.

Earlier this year at the EMERGE Conference,Commerce Lexington Inc. launched the EmergingLeaders of the Bluegrass (ELBG) program pre-sented by Keeneland. ELBG is designed for profes-sionals striving to improve themselves andbecome more involved in our community. As itsmission states, ELBG aims to expand the capacityof emerging leaders to perform in leadership roleswithin Central Kentucky.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pan-demic, ELBG has taken its events virtual. Eventsare monthly and focused around community edu-cation or professional development. Have youmissed out on these growth opportunities?

“Perseverance” facilitated by Crinda Franke•with ExecuTrain.“Leading Yourself,” part of the Leading in Lex•Series with Dr. Virgil Grant.“Lex Talk About Voting,” part of the Lex Talk•About Lex Series.“Maximizing Productivity” facilitated by Mark•Little with ExecuTrain.“Staying Balanced in a Shifting World” facili-•tated by Nancy Piatt with ExecuTrain.

Upcoming Events in August:“Enneagram Assessment & Workshop” with•Dr. Virgil Grant (August 13).“Leading in the Community,” part of the•Leading in Lex Series (August 31).

FOR MORE INFORMATION:An annual pass gives you access to all EmergingLeaders of the Bluegrass events. For more infor-mation about the program or purchasing annualpasses for a special limited time introductoryprice, as well as a full list of upcoming events, visiton-line at www.emergingleadersbg.com.

Emerging Leaders of the Bluegrass Program Transitions to Virtual Events

\\\ CONNECT: EMERGING LEADERS

AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS FOCUS 11

PRESENTED BY

PLATINUM SPONSOR:

GOLD SPONSOR:Commonwealth Credit Union

SILVER SPONSOR:Blue & Co., LLC

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SPONSOR:ExecuTrain

Commerce Lexington Inc. Staff ReportCommerce Lexington Inc. is proud to celebrate the

40th Year Anniversary of Leadership Lexington andrecognize the graduating class of the 2019-20 pro-gram presented by McBrayer PLLC. Since 1979, thisnationally recognized leadership development pro-gram has been cultivating Lexington leaders, produc-ing more than 1,600 graduates from this highlyinformative, educational, and results-oriented leader-ship development program.

Each class of LeadershipLexington engages in diffi-cult conversations, issuesand topics as participantslearn more about them-selves and others, as well asthe community. However,this year’s class not only hadto evolve on the fly as theCOVID-19 pandemic de-scended upon Kentucky, butalso dealt with the suddenpassing of fellow class member Anita Franklin (Officeof Fayette Sheriff) in late February.

Leadership Lexington Program Director Amy Stoutsaid, “The news of Anita Franklin’s passing shockedus all. She was a passionate leader, adored by herLeadership Lexington classmates. In addition to hertireless work in the community to stop gun violence,Anita wanted to provide education and tools for at-risk students through her proposed class project

called Lex Bank Smart. The project aimed at benefit-ting middle and high school students by teaching fi-nancial literacy partnered with the Audrey GrievousCenter to teach students good money habits early onand prepare for their financial success utilizing JuniorAchievement of the Bluegrass curriculum. The loss ofAnita was felt greatly in the community and by herLeadership Lexington classmates.”

First presented in 1998, the Leadership LexingtonDistinguished Leader Award annually recognizes theclass member who demonstrates strong principlesand dedication to the concept of community service.Members of the 2019-20 class were invited to nomi-nate a fellow class member for the award, and theyoverwhelmingly selected Anita Franklin to be honoredposthumously with the Distinguished Leader Award.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Leadership Lex-ington class members have connected virtually onZoom for four informal class check-ins and two virtualsessions. The final session for the 2019-20 programwas held virtually on July 16 and included a workshopled by Jason Cummins entitled “Building a LearningOrganization,” an after action review where partici-pants provided feedback about the program, classproject presentations, and a breakout group exercise.

Gift baskets were delivered to each class membercourtesy of the Leadership Lexington Alumni Associ-ation, and final remarks were provided by DebbieSmith, Current Chair of the Leadership LexingtonAlumni Association Board, and the 2019-20 SteeringCommittee Chair, Erica Radhakrishnan.

12 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

///CONNECT: LEADERSHIP LEXINGTON

Commerce Lex. Celebrates 2020 Leadership Lexington Graduating ClassClass Member Anita Franklin Recognized Posthumously With Distinguished Leader Award

PLATINUM SPONSORS

PRESENTED BY

Mahan MultimediaWhere L ight Meets Stor y™

NAME BADGE SPONSOR:Republic Bank & Trust Co.

BOOK SPONSOR:LEX History

BRONZE SPONSORS:Hicks & Funfsinn, PLLC

Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance

Kentucky Utilities Co.Lexington Clinic Foundation

ORIENTATION SPONSOR

ANITA FRANKLIN

PICTURED: To wrap up a very unusual 2019-20 programyear, class members were asked to prepare on a white piecepaper one word written boldly that described how each grewas a leader this year through the Leadership Lexington pro-gram. A final class photo was taken of the Zoom screenswith everyone holding up their one word on paper.

Albert CoutureMen's ApparelMain Contact: Albert Lukonga110 West Vine St., Ste. 507Lexington, KY 40507Phone: (859) 433-9328www.albertcouture.com

areaLEX Commercial Real EstateReal Estate CommercialMain Contact: David Allen813 Westchester DriveLexington, KY 40502Phone: (859) 420-3974www.areaLEX.com

Bandido Taqueria MexicanaRestaurantsMain Contact: Gerardo Ochoa535 S. Upper St.Lexington, KY 40508Phone: (859) 317-9721http://bandidotm.com

Charles Schwab IndependentBranchFinancial ServicesMain Contact: Marc Taylor2344 Elkhorn Road, Suite 175Lexington, KY 40509Phone: (859) 629-3460https://client.schwab.com/Pub-lic/BranchLocator/branchdetails.aspx?branchid=1925

Charlie's SeafoodRestaurantsMain Contact: Barry Sissle926 Winchester RoadLexington, KY 40505Phone: (859) 255-6005

Community Montessori SchoolSchools-PrivateMain Contact: Katie Toffey725 Stone RoadLexington, KY 40503Phone: (859) 277-4805www.cmsmontessori.org

CycleYou LexingtonFitness CentersMain Contact: Noelle Dick165 Midland AvenueLexington, KY 40508Phone: (859) 455-3384www.cycleyoulexington.com

The First Assembly of God Churchof Lexington, Kentucky Inc.ChurchesMain Contact: Travis Hewuse2780 Clays Mill Rd.Lexington, KY 40503Phone: (859) 276-1458www.lexingtonfirst.org

HomeWell Care Services of LexingtonPersonal Care ServicesMain Contact: Rob Rister141 N Eagle Creek Dr., Ste. 103Lexington, KY 40509Phone: (859) 303-6018www.homewellcareservices.com

Ientry, Inc.Advertising-OtherMain Contact: Rich OrdP.O. Box 55071Lexington, KY 40555Phone: (859) 514-2720www.ientry.com

Jobbers Exhaust Warehouse, Inc.Auto Parts & Supplies-NewMain Contact: Harold Beard1728 Jaggie Fox WayLexington, KY 40511Phone: (859) 231-8158www.jobbers.qwik-order.com

New Horizons GraphicsGraphic DesignersMain Contact: Scott Kennedy319 Park AvenueSomerset, KY 42503Phone: (606) 451-0848

Oberlander Financial Services,PLLCAccountantsMain Contact: Brad Oberlander, CPA997 Governors Lane, Ste. 150Lexington, KY 40513Phone: (859) 552-3342www.ofscpalex.com

Radiation Oncology of Lexington, PSCHealth ProviderMain Contact: Marta Hayne4069 Palmetto DriveLexington, KY 40513Phone: (859) 230-0512www.bhsi.com

Toastmasters of the BluegrassCoaching-Business & ProfessionalMain Contact: Kevin Vorheis1334 Bethel New Richmond Rd.New Richmond, OH 45157Phone: (513) 410-5545www.bluegrasstoastmasters.org

\\\ WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS FOCUS 13

NEW COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. MEMBERS FOR THE PERIOD OF JUNE 19 THROUGH JULY 20, 2020

PRESENTS

August 18Houston Oaks

Golf Club555 Houston Oaks Dr.

Paris, KY 40361

Cabin FeverGolf Scramble

To register or become a sponsor, scan here ->

www.bluegrasstomorrow.orgKATIE VANDEGRIFT

CLEX Economic DevelopmentTeam’s Katie Vandegrift PromotedCommerce Lexington Inc.’s Katie Vandegrifthas been promoted to Director of Marketingand Research for the economic developmentteam. Katie has served as administrative andmarketing assistant since joining CommerceLexington’s economic development divisionin late September 2019. Contact Katie atkvandegrift@commercelexington.com.

///PERSONNEL ANNOUNCEMENTS

46Solutions recently named Eric Del Valle asbusiness development manager and CrystalNewton as marketing manager.

Ad-Venture Promotions, owned by CathyStafford, has acquired Integrity PremiumAdvertising, and Integrity’s previous owner,Hugh Sims III, will continue to work with Ad-Venture in a consulting capacity.

Sandy Allnutt, broker associate with The Agency,Real Estate Advisors, was featured in a localmagazine called Lexington Real Producers, whichrecognized the top 300 agents by volume in theLexington area. With thousands of agents in thearea, this group is the “cream of the crop.”Additionally, Josh Davis, Luke Holloway, andCourtney Ann Mangold recently joined TheAgency as real estate agents.

The Blue Grass Community Foundationannounced the election of the following officerson its board: Chair - Fran Taylor (LexingtonSilver, LLC); Vice Chair - Andy Reynolds(Ballast); Treasurer - Art Salomon (Salomon &Co.); and Secretary - Travis Musgrave(Musgrave Dunn & Associates). The foundationalso appointed the following board members:Bill Alverson (Traditional Bank, retired); Dr.Tiffany Daniels, D.C., MSC-P (Chiropractic Careof Lexington); and Art Salomon.

Buffalo Trace Distillery was named Tasting PanelMagazine’s Distillery of the Year at the 2020 SanFrancisco World Spirits Competition. Thisprestigious award recognizes the single distillerearning the most points, measured by thenumber and level of awards won in a given year.In 2020, Buffalo Trace garnered 18 medals anda Best in Class designation. This included fiveDouble Gold medals, four Gold medals, sixSilver medals and three Bronze medals, as wellas the title of Best Small Batch Bourbon 11Years and Older for its Eagle Rare 17 Year Old.

Central Bank & Trust Co.’s Glenn Leveridge,Winchester Market President, retired after 50years in banking, including 24 years at CentralBank. During his career, Mr. Leveridge has beenvery involved in Commerce Lexington Inc.,having served as Chair of the organization’ssuccessful Winner’s Circle program in 2005.

Central Bank & Trust Co. announced thefollowing promotions: Shane Anderson to vicepresident, commercial lending; Tim Duncan tosenior market lender in Winchester; BradleySutherland to assistant vice president,mortgage lending; and Benjamin Wilbanks tovice president, credit analysis.

Dean Dorton was recently listed in Chambersand Partners High Net Worth Guide for 2020,which is used by family offices and professionaladvisers to recommend top professional servicefirms to high net worth individuals worldwide.This guide of recommendations is based on in-depth research performed by a team ofspecialist research analysts. Dean Dorton’slisting is made up of anonymousrecommendations provided during theChambers and Partners editorial researchprocess.

Dickinson Wright PLLC recently receivedISO/IEC 27701:2019 certification, becoming thefirst law firm headquartered in Michigan andone of the first law firms in the world to achievethe privacy management certification.Additionally, Will Dorton has joined the firm’sLexington office as Of Counsel.

14 BUSINESS FOCUS AUGUST 2020

\\\ PERSONNEL ANNOUNCEMENTS

AUGUST 2020 BUSINESS FOCUS 15

Dickinson Wright PLLC: Chambers 2020 HighNet Worth (HNW) Guide has named the firm’sPrivate Wealth Law practice in Kentucky as a“Top Ranked” practice. In addition, twoDickinson Wright attorneys in the firm’sLexington office were listed as “Leaders in theirFields,” including Jeffrey L. Gehring and HenryC.T. Richmond, III.

Eastern Kentucky University announced thatDannie Moore has been named as vicepresident for strategic initiatives and chiefdiversity, equity and inclusion officer. He spentthe last nine years at Northern KentuckyUniversity. In addition, Jeff Whitaker was namedas EKU’s chief information officer. He hasserved in a variety of roles with EKU since 2006.

ExecuTrain of Kentucky owner Crinda Franckerecently purchased ExecuTrain US and will serveas the organization’s president and chiefexecutive officer. Francke started as an employeeat ExecuTrain of Lexington in 1994. Then, shepurchased the franchise in 1997, followed by thepurchase of the Louisville franchise location in2000.

First National Bank of Manchester (FNBM)recently named William “Bill” Feltner asLexington Market President. In addition,Alexander Greer Lewis has joined FNBM as acredit underwriter.

Gray Construction is continuing its tradition ofelevating leaders from within through theannouncement of Brian Jones as president andchief executive officer and Patrick McCowan asChief Operating Officer. Stephen Gray remainsPresident and Chief Executive Officer of Gray,Inc., the holding company for GrayConstruction, while Jim Gray will remain in hiscurrent position of Chairman of the Gray, Inc.board of directors. Celebrating its 60-yearanniversary, this transition is part of asuccession plan carefully developed by the Grayfamily with guidance from the Gray, Inc. boardof directors. This is a milestone in thecompany’s history, marking the first time a non-family member will lead Gray Construction.

Highgrove at Tates Creek announced that AbbyeCrowe has been named as executive director.

Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomasonrecently announced he will retire at the end of2020 after a decade with Keeneland Association,including eight years at the helm of the globalracing and sales company. Shannon BishopArvin, who as a partner with Stoll KeenonOgden (SKO) has served as corporate counselto Keeneland since 2008 and as Secretary andAdvisory Member of Keeneland’s Board of

Directors since 2015, has been named by theKeeneland Trustees to succeed Thomason.Arvin will serve as the incoming President-electbeginning September 1 and will officiallytransition to President and CEO on January 1,2021. She becomes Keeneland’s eighthPresident and the first woman to serve in thatposition.

Keeneland announced that Dr. Stuart E. BrownII, who cared for an international clienteleduring his nearly 30-year career with HagyardEquine Medical Institute in Lexington, will joinKeeneland full time as equine safety director.

Kentucky American Water appointed AdamCaswell as director of government affairs.

Jay Kempf joined Kentucky National InsuranceCompany as vice president of productmanagement and analytics.

Founded in 1920, Lexington Clinic celebrated its100th anniversary in July. Although plans tomark the milestone have been put on hold dueto the COVID-19 pandemic, construction of itsnew building on South Broadway continues,with its opening set for early 2021.

McBrayer PLLC recently added three attorneysto its Lexington office, including Keeana SajadiBoarman as a Member, and attorneys David T.Cecil and Cassidy L. Sorrells.

Republic Bank & Trust Company appointedLogan Pichel as president.

Chambers USA selected 19 Stites & Harbison,PLLC attorneys in Kentucky and Tennessee forinclusion in their 2020 guide. The ChambersUSA guide ranks the top law firms and leadingattorneys in the United States based on clientand peer interviews. Stites & Harbison’sKentucky attorneys recognized included W.Thomas Halbleib, Jr., James C. Seiffert, WilliamT. Gorton III, W. Patrick Stallard, Joel T. Beres,Mandy Wilson Decker, Jeffery A. Haeberlin,David W. Nagle, Jr., Terry L. Wright, Philip W.Collier, Robert M. Connolly, Charles J. Cronan IV,Lawrence C. Droege, T. Gregory Ehrhard, andDavid E. Saffer.

Benchmark Litigation recently named Stites &Harbison, PLLC as Litigation Firm of the Year forKentucky at its 2020 Annual Awards Gala.Benchmark Litigation recognizes the country’smost outstanding litigators and their firms forwork completed during the last year. Since 2008,it has been the definitive guide to America’sleading litigation firms and attorneys.

Traditional Bank approved the promotion offour of the bank’s management team members,including Dana Adamson to chief marketingand development officer, Laura Fraley to chiefrisk officer, Asa McCracken to chief operationsofficer, and Buddy Schneider to chief lendingofficer.

Transylvania University announced theadditions of Sarah Rebecca “Becky” Thomas,Ph.D., as vice president for academic affairs anddean of the university, and Deidra Dennie asvice president for diversity and inclusion.Thomas comes to Transy from Earlham Collegein Indiana, while Dennie previously worked atAnne Arundel Community College in Maryland.

TrinSoft has again been named to AccountingToday’s VAR 100 list, which ranks the top NorthAmerican value-added resellers of accountingand accounting-related software.

United Way of the Bluegrass recently announcedthe appointment of Sean Ross as vice president,resource development and Jonathan Kohn asvice president, community impact.

WealthSouth announced that Portfolio ManagerNikolaus Smither has been promoted toassistant vice president. A University ofKentucky graduate, Smither is a CFAcharterholder.

WesBanco Bank recently promoted Elizabeth“Lisbon” Hardy to City President of the Bourbondistrict, which includes Anderson, Franklin andMercer counties.

Windstream Communications announced theaddition of Kie Vanderhorst as a KineticBusiness sales executive in the Lexington area.

Wiser Strategies announced that Luke Florencehas been named as client relations specialist.

Wrigley Media Group named Jay Hall as seniorvice president, business development.

SUBMIT PERSONNEL NEWS:Submit your company’s awards, personnel changes,additions, or promotions for Business Focus tomturner@CommerceLexington.com. Informationis published in the order received & as space permits.

Commerce Lexington Inc.330 East Main Street, Suite 100P.O. Box 1968Lexington, KY 40588-1968

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AUGUST 2020:4 O’Clock Focus Series featuring topics & speakers thataddress the business reopening process, 4:00 p.m., virtuallyon Zoom. Register at www.CommerceLexington.com.

Emerging Leaders of the Bluegrass presented by Keeneland.Virtual event for passholders: “Enneagram Assessment &Workshop” with Dr. Virgil Grant. - SEE PAGE 11

4 O’Clock Focus Series featuring topics & speakers thataddress the business reopening process, 4:00 p.m., virtuallyon Zoom. Register at www.CommerceLexington.com.

Emerging Leaders of the Bluegrass presented by Keeneland.Virtual event for passholders: Session entitled “Leading in theCommunity,” part of Leading in Lex Series. - SEE PAGE 11

SEPTEMBER 2020:Bluegrass Region’s Federal Policy Forum presented byColumbia Gas of Kentucky. - SEE PAGE 5

@330 Series presented by Distillery Heights, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.,virtually on Zoom. - SEE PAGE 8

SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS:Be on the lookout for information in the next issue of BusinessFocus and in your e-mail inbox detailing our celebration andrecognition plans for the 2020 Salute to Small Business Awardspresented by Forcht Bank. - SEE PAGE 7

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CLEX TEAM IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS:For the safety of our staff and the public, CommerceLexington’s lobby area and meeting spaces will be closed untilit is deemed safe to gather in groups once again. Although ouroffices are closed to the general public, CLEX remains open forbusiness as our team continues to work on behalf of members,answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and communicateimportant resources during the COVID-19 pandemic and thereopening process. If you have questions or need assistancefor your business, access our staff directory atwww.CommerceLexington.com.

ON-LINE BUSINESS RESOURCES:There are a lot of resources posted on-line to assist businessesas they work through the reopening process. Here are a few ofthe things you’ll find at www.CommerceLexington.com:

Introductory Business Reopening Guide•Sample customer communications & reopening plans•Find personal protective equipment items to purchase•Business-to-business news•Small business loan assistance•Lexington Health Department COVID notices to use•Find immediate job openings•AND MUCH MORE!•

\\\ COMMERCE LEXINGTON: UPCOMING EVENTS

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