A Message from Our Executive Director
Springtime activities in Ohio are as variable as the weather.
The chill of winter and holiday breaks for Ohio’s General Assembly gave way to inaugurations, state budget work and new relationships. Governor Mike DeWine moved his family into the stately Bexley home, breathing new life into the residence. As First Dog Teddy greets visitors,
First Lady Fran DeWine works her culinary magic in countless gatherings where her husband builds rapport with old and new legislators.
Our work here at OhioBev never stops, and spring of 2019 gave us another successful Legislative Day, and purpose around forging relationships with scores of new legislators. And just as our new Governor is leading with collaboration and simple, but powerful connections around statewide goals and breakfast treats, our members introduced our leadership story. That story begins and ends with our employees. How we go to business is never as important as who accompanies us on that ride. Hiring, training and retaining good employees is the essential ingredient to everyone’s favorite beverages reaching retailers and customers. My w
ork in the Ohio General Assembly and with our statewide executive offices is organized around giving our members a predictable climate in which to do business. It all adds up—tax policy, environmental regulations, workforce development help and overall “tone” of government actions towards our industry and products. So Spring is a great time to plant seeds—literally and figuratively for good work that will add beauty, secure jobs and keep Ohio a great place to live, work and play. Kimberly McConville, CAE Executive Director
#OhBevDay 2019 A Success
Beyond Earth Day
My work with Ohio’s non-alcoholic beverage industry takes me to some interesting places. I love touring our production facilities (yep, seeing soda made is as fun as it sounds) sampling new beverages, chatting with warehouse managers about their challenges and witnessing our members’ dedication to conserving vital resources.
On Board: Get to Know Ben Karacia
Plant Manager, PepsiCo Beverages North America Cincinnati
Q: How long have you worked in the industry? A: In September, I’ll have 24 years with Pepsi. Q: What led you to the industry? A: I was working as an Assistant Manager in my hometown grocery store, and while in the role, I had developed relationships with many of our vendors, one of them being the Pepsi sales rep. One day he mentioned a job opening in the Dayton production facility for an Inventory Control position. As a young man who was just starting a family, the opportunity to work with such a well-known company that could offer tremendous growth opportunity, was appealing.
A Very Happy Birthday
On Wednesday, May 8th, OhioBev VP Jim Ellison surprised Congressman Dave Joyce's Deputy Chief of Staff (and mega Dr Pepper fan) Nick Ciofani with the exclusive #drpepperbdaygift. Inside was the limited edition Birthday Cake flavor! Want to see more stories like this? Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter!
Ohio Scholars Get Awesome Grad Present
Five graduates of Ohio high schools are among 150 Coca-Cola Scholars recently announced. These accomplished students each received a $20,000 scholarship and attended an immersive weekend leadership program. Ohio winners hail from hometowns of Mason (two recipients!), Jackson, Cincinnati and Columbus. Congratulations! Photo: Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation