Hopkinsville Economic Development Council News and Announcements http://www.hopkinsvilleindustry.com/ Amfine Chemical Corporation’s KY Plant Celebrates 10th Anniversary Article Posted on 10/13/2010:

On October 5th, 2010, Amfine Chemical Corporation, a joint venture between ADEKA and Mitsubishi Corporations of Japan, after holding Family Night celebrations the night before, publicly celebrated the Amfine KY Plant’s 10th year in Hopkinsville, Christian County. ADEKA is Japan’s leading plastic additive producer for the high performance specialty plastics industry. The Amfine KY Plant opened in 2000 as a strategically important facility, meeting an increasing demand for their products in North and South America.

Several visitors from Japan, their New Jersey corporate office, and New York City, along with local representatives from Hopkinsville and Christian County governments, past and present Economic Development Councils, the Chamber of Commerce, and local industry helped Amfine celebrate what has been a success story for all involved, both here in the US and in Japan as well, commented Steve Buchanan, Amfine’s VP of Production and KY Plant Manager.

Amfine President & CEO, Koji Tajima, thanked the Amfine team for their hard work the past 10 years while committing to grow the business in the years ahead. Congratulatory speeches by both, Christian County Judge Exec., Steve Tribble and Hopkinsville Mayor, Dan Kemp, spoke of how Amfine has always been an outstanding corporate citizen, working closely over the years to support the community and continued growth efforts of the Hopkinsville – Christian County Economic Development Council.

Don Henderson, representing the EDC, shared one of his wife Terri’s poems commemorating the event. While this was clearly enjoyed by everyone there, the highlight of the day was Amfine’s donation of $10,000 to the community, representing $1,000 for each year in Hopkinsville. Their selection approach utilized both Judge Tribble and Mayor Kemp to decide what organizations would receive donations. Julie Davis, Human Resources Manager for Amfine, noted that Amfine was proud of the fact that all four selections helped the youth of the community. Judge Tribble and Mayor Kemp, along with Amfine representatives, happily presented four $2,500 checks to the Juvenile Drug Court Program, Challenge House, The Boys and Girls Club, and The Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization.





























http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Community Honors Bob Ward’s Contribution Article Posted on 8/16/2010:

This summer, Hopkinsville-Christian County bid farewell to two outstanding leaders in Bob and Antoinette Ward. Bob Ward has been promoted to the position of Director of Manufacturing for Continental Mills. The bad news for Christian County is that he and Antoinette are moving to the headquarters in Seattle. The Wards were honored at an industry appreciation event on July 13th. Judge Steve Tribble presented a joint proclamation between city and county government honoring the Wards’ contribution to the community. Mayor Dan Kemp presented keys to the city. Rich Maddux presented an honorary lifetime membership to the Hopkinsville-Christian County Chamber of Commerce, while John Tilley presented a Kentucky Colonel. The EDC and Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation presented a University of Tennessee print to the Wards, as Bob is a UT graduate.

The Wards have made countless contributions to the community through their work at Continental Mills, as well as through countless hours of volunteering. Bob served as the chair of the Workforce Education Committee and on the United Way board, and was active in First United Methodist Church, as well as countless other organizations.

Their presence will be missed in Hopkinsville Christian County, but, they will be back often. Best of luck to Bob and Antoinette as they move into a new chapter of their life!


CEO of Propulss Rich Maddux presents lifetime membership to Hopkinsville-Christian County Chamber of Commerce.


Christian County Judge Executive Steve Tribble reads proclamation


A farewell gift for Seattle weather.


Wards with Sherry Howell of Continental Mills.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Industry Appreciation with Pat Day Article Posted on 11/23/2009:

The greatest thoroughbred jockey of all time will speak to local manufacturers and business leaders during an industry appreciation event from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, December 2rd in Hopkinsville, KY.

Pat Day, a nine time Triple Crown winner, will share his inspirational message of hope and redemption with the “job makers” in the 3 county region of Trigg, Christian and Todd Counties. The event is free to manufacturers and distribution companies in the area and is $25 for members of the public. In addition, Day will also help raise money for the United Way of the Pennyrile. Day will pose for pictures with attendees of the luncheon for a fee of $20. The proceeds will go to benefit the local charitable organization. The photo session times will be 30 minutes before and after the luncheon.

Eston Glover, the Chairman of the Hopkinsville-Christian County Economic Development Council voiced his support for local manufacturers and distribution companies saying, “this has been a tough year for our business community but we see a bright future ahead. Our manufacturing and distribution companies are vital to the growth of our region and we appreciate the positive impact they make on our communities. We are looking forward to Mr. Day’s inspirational message.”

Event Details
Date: December 2nd, 2009
Time: Photos – 11:00 am, Lunch and speaking – 11:30 am, photos – 1:00pm
Location: James E. Bruce Convention Center

To register for the event email: vgates@hopkinsvilleindustry.com.
For more information about the Hopkinsville-Christian County Economic Development Council call 270.885.1499 or reach us on the web at www.hopkinsvilleindustry.com.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Exciting News....for Call Center Professionals Article Posted on 10/15/2009:

A leading worldwide organization has partnered with CCEDC and West KY Workforce Investment Board to ensure they have enough potential candidates in the Hopkinsville/Clarksville area for: CUSTOMER SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES.

Competitive wages and generous benefits will be available to enthusiastic, service-focused professionals who go the extra mile to satisfy our customers. If you possess a high school diploma and are at least 18 years of age, take advantage of this outstanding opportunity TODAY!

Take our quick survey and apply at http://www.hoptowncallcenter.com

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Linc Government Services Breaks Ground Article Posted on 9/10/2009:

Linc Government Services has announced and broken ground on a 37,000 square foot office building in South Park. This announcement solidifies their presence in Hopkinsville-Christian County and could yield for 50 new jobs locally.

At the ceremony Linc employees were commended by company president, Les Cunningham, stating “Our tremendous employees are an invaluable asset that has enabled our company’s growth. Without you, none of this would be happening”

Eston Glover, Chairman of the Economic Development Council Board said, “This announcement will have a significant economic impact in Hopkinsville and Christian County. In addition to this impact, Linc’s continued presence reinforces the company as a vital partner in the mission of Fort Campbell.”

Linc Government Services provides services to military instillations and various levels of government agencies around the world. This facility will act as the “Government Services Headquarters” for Linc. Linc currently employs 55 people in their Hopkinsville facility and hopes to double that with their expansion.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Siemer Milling Investing $15 Million in Hopkinsville Expansion Article Posted on 3/20/2009:
Siemer Milling, one of Hopkinsville’s “finest corporate citizens” according to Mayor Dan Kemp has announced and broken ground on an expansion of their Pembroke Road mill. The expansion, which will increase production by 45%, is a significant boost for the already prosperous Christian County agriculture economy.
After completion, Siemer Milling will purchase an additional 3.5 million bushels of soft red wheat annually. The company will also purchase nearly 60% of the wheat produced in the state of Kentucky, an astounding rate considering that their only presence is in Christian County.

Siemer has been a vital “value add” partner to the agricultural community in Hopkinsville-Christian County for 14 years. They have helped produce over 1,100 jobs in the state of Kentucky, and nearly 300 in Christian County by providing raw product to Continental Mills. The expansion will increase Siemer’s direct jobs up to 75 and create the opportunity for more expansion within the food industry by increasing their capacity.

Judge Executive Steve Tribble expressed his commitment to the project by saying, “we made a promise to not only help you get a start here, but to also help you expand. We’re happy we were able to keep that promise.”

“Hopkinsville is a great place to do business and has always been ready when we have called,” commented Rick Siemer. Governor Steve Beshear added, “We’re happy that Siemer Milling has made another commitment to the bread-basket of Kentucky by expanding their Christian County facility."
http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Business and Industry Day Article Posted on 2/19/2009:

The Hopkinsville – Christian County Economic Development Council coordinated Business and Industry Day for 35 junior and senior high school students participating in this year's Youth Leadership Program.

The day began with overview of our community's economic development program and the current branding efforts. Part of the day was spent touring local manufacturing facilities learning about the manufacturing processes, product information, and career opportunities. The day ended with a group of young professionals talking about what they have experienced growing up in Hopkinsville, going away to college, but deciding to come back to their hometown and build their careers.

A special thank you goes to the participating industries - Amfine Chemical and FP International, and to the panelists - James Adams-Thomas & Arvin, Megan Conrad - Heritage Bank, Spencer Kilijan - The Center of Insurance, and Roxanne Standard - Martinrea.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Almost Nashville, KY Chosen to Participate in the Valley Targeted and Prepared (TaP) Community Program Article Posted on 1/20/2009:
Hopkinsville, KY -- The “Almost Nashville, KY” region in Southwest Kentucky, an economic development partnership between Christian, Todd and Trigg Counties, has been chosen to participate in the prestigious Valley Targeted and Prepared (TaP) Community Program.
The Valley TaP Program will feature a planning process that includes an in-depth evaluation of “Almost Nashville, KY’s” resources and strengths to target and recruit specific industry segments, which could result in additional jobs and investments for the region. The program also will help “Almost Nashville, KY” identify key targeted sectors and actively recruit them.
TVA has retained the services of the well respected Boyette Levy consultants head-quartered in Atlanta, GA to implement the program. Boyette Levy is an economic development, public policy and communication strategy firm that helps communities, organizations and governments accomplish their strategic aims.
“The Valley TaP planning process gives communities the tools they need to enhance their competitiveness for new jobs and investments,” said Del Boyette of Boyette Levy. “The communities selected to participate in the program this year have already demonstrated strong local leadership and a sound commitment to supporting economic and community development efforts.”
There will be eight steps in the TaP Valley process.
1. Secure buy-in.
2. Conduct a leadership audit and make assessments related to the existing economic development structure.
3. Perform a comprehensive analysis of the community/region’s economic strengths and weaknesses.
4. Identify the community/region’s core competencies and areas of development.
5. Assess the fit with certain attractive industry sectors and determine up to three target industries for the community/region.
6. Identify up to ten target companies for each community/region.
7. Develop and present an Economic Development Strategy to TVA ED and the community/region.
8. Set periodic checkpoints and measuring tools to assess success of the strategy.
The process of developing and implementing the plan will begin in February.
Eston Glover, President of Pennyrile Electric and the Chairman of the Hopkinsville-Christian County Economic Development Council said, “I am very excited about the inclusion of our regional partnership, ‘Almost Nashville, KY’, in TVA’s TaP program. This is a great opportunity for our region and will provide the tools for us to grow our economic development efforts in this region. I commend the leadership of Christian, Todd, and Trigg counties for recognizing a need, and aggressively pursuing this opportunity.”
“Valley communities that completed the planning process offered by The Valley TaP Program have been very pleased with the assistance it has provided,”said TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development John Bradley. “We believe ‘Almost Nashville, KY’ will also enjoy great benefits with their economic development efforts as a result of this program.”
Almost Nashville, KY is a regional economic development partnership between Todd, Trigg, and Christian Counties. The three Kentucky counties border Tennessee and lie within an hour’s drive of Nashville.
http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM EDC Delivers Holiday Cheer Article Posted on 12/18/2008:

Continuing a Holiday tradition, the Economic Development Council has finished their 2008 deliveries of Rum Cakes. The Rum Cakes have become a famous and anticipated Holiday tradition within the industrial community in Hopkinsville.

http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Careers in Manufacturing Article Posted on 11/13/2008:

During the month of November, 40 middle school and high school students participated in an event called Careers in Manufacturing.

Students skilled and talented in math and science were invited to participate. Throughout the day they explored a multitude of career opportunities available in engineering and science related fields available within our local community.

T.RAD, Meritor, Ebonite, Continental Mills, and FP International skillfully showcased their first class operations and the wonderful products they make. The day was enjoyed by all.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM 4th Annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon Article Posted on 11/5/2008:

John Cessna - PIMA President, Judge Steve Tribble,
John Crenshaw - HIF Chairman, Phillip Van Hooser,
Eston Glover - EDC Chairman, Julie Davis - SHRM President,
Mayor Dan Kemp.

“Local manufacturing and distribution companies are key to the success of our community”, Eston Glover, EDC Chairman commented at the event. “Everyday their influence is felt in many ways – ranging from the numbers of jobs provided, to a strong tax base for the city and county, to the volunteer spirit and financial support given back to the community.”

A crowd of more than 175 gathered at the Bruce Convention Center to recognize the value and impact of nearly 50 manufacturing and distribution companies that make their home in Hopkinsville.

Those attending enjoyed a motivational keynote address by Phillip Van Hooser.
A special "Thank You" goes to event sponsor - the Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation.

http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Kirkman’s Celebrates Grand Opening of Manufacturing Facility Article Posted on 10/30/2008:
Kirkman’s Hardware has a long history of adapting to changing markets. Starting as a small grocery store in 1948, Kirkman’s has evolved into a full service hardware and construction supply company. Their retail inventory consists of building supplies; including windows, doors, cabinets, vinyl siding, metal siding and metal roofs.
Now Kirkman’s has taken the leap into the manufacturing business by starting a rolled steel business. The product used in buildings, barns, and for metal roofs is in high demand. According to Kevin Cavanah, the President of Kirkman’s, “metal roofing is becoming more and more cost effective because of insulation. By having a metal roof, instead of a traditional shingle roof, you can save quite a bit of money on heating and cooling bills.” Cavanah added that Kirkman’s metal roofing holds a forty year warranty.
Economic Development Council Chairman and Pennyrile Electric General Manager Eston Glover expressed his appreciation for Kirkman’s investment in Hopkinsville. Glover shared his admiration for Mr. Cavanah and his foresight to meet the market demands and manufacture the product.
Christian County Judge Executive Steve Tribble also expressed his appreciation for Kirkman’s continued investment in Christian County. “Kirkman’s has been a part of Christian County for a long time and we appreciate them continuing their investment here.” Tribble presented Kevin Cavanah and Rob McCormick, Plant Manager with a framed painting commemoration the Ribbon Cutting.
http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Congratulations: Carolyn Balthrop and Bev Thomson Article Posted on 6/26/2008:

June 2008 brought about the retirement of Carolyn Balthrop and Bev Thomson - two citizens of Hopkinsville-Christian County who have spent many years of dedication and service to the community.

Carolyn retired as District Manager for the Office of Employment and Training with 28 years of service. Bev Thomson retired as Coordinator of the Christian County Adult Education Program after 22 years.

Both Carolyn and Bev were awarded Kentucky Colonels, the highest honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Brazeway Expansion Announcement Article Posted on 6/13/2008:

Brazeway, a manufacturer of heat transfer products, announced to its employees today that the Company is expanding its Hopkinsville Kentucky Manufacturing Operations as the result of a transfer of operations from its Adrian Michigan facility. The Company will invest up to $42 Million and add 75,000 square feet of manufacturing space as well as significant new jobs over the next few years.

Leaders celeberate Brazeway's expansion

“It was an incredibly difficult decision to choose to close our founding plant in Michigan,” Boyse said, “but we’re certain that Kentucky is the right place to enhance service to our customers. We have tremendous confidence in the workforce here, and the State and Local Partnerships made it clear that Kentucky is committed to support our business and help us become more competitive.”

In response to the announcement several key officials offered their comments.

Mayor Dan Kemp - "Brazeway is one of our best local industrial partners and I am delighted that the plant will be expanding here and adding a significant number of new good paying jobs. The City will be partnering with the State to provide incentives which will pay off over the long run by growing our local economy."

County Judge Executive Steve Tribble- “We’re so proud to support one of our local industries as they continue to grow in our County. We’ve obviously got the right mix of hardworking people and great infrastructure to make this expansion possible. We hope for many more expansions from this fine company.”

EDC Chairman Don Henderson – “We are excited that Brazeway has the confidence in our community to expand here. This is a great time for Hopkinsville and Christian County.”

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM Continental Mills Expansion Article Posted on 4/17/2008:

Continental Mills recently opened their new 215,000 square foot distribution center in Hopkinsville, KY. The expansion allows the Seattle based company to consolidate several Eastern US distribution points into one location.

Continental Mills is a manufacturer of dry bakery products such as pancake mix, muffin mix and brownie mix.

“The official opening of this distribution center marks a major milestone in our organization's growth and development. Several locations were considered and the combination of proximity to our customers as well as the solid results from this organization over its history made Hopkinsville the right place to invest in our continued growth,” said Bob Ward, Plant Manager.

John Heily, President of Continental Mills, stated that “Continental Mills has enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the Hopkinsville community and our neighbors at Siemer Milling over the last 10 years. These relationships have been critical ingredients supporting our growth and we are proud to celebrate this event with our friends and partner in Hopkinsville.”

Local, state and federal officials were also on hand to join in grand opening event.

Mayor Dan Kemp said, “Continental Mills is one of our most outstanding local corporate citizens and we are very fortunate to have a company of its quality located in Hopkinsville. We look forward to their continued growth and success”.

County Judge Executive Steve Tribble expressed his appreciation for the great impact that Continental Mills has on our agriculture community starting with their purchase of wheat from Siemer Milling. “This is the perfect example of agriculture and manufacturing creating the best benefit for everyone.

 http://www.hopkinsvilleIndustry.com/QNAMii/index.asp en-us Copyright (c) 2008. All rights reserved. 10/26/2010 3:30:16 PM