It’s going to be an exciting season for the Cincinnati Reds this year. Karen Forgus, Reds Senior Vice President of Operations spoke at the CBC luncheon on March 12, held at The Radisson. Attendees were photographed with mascot Mr. Redlegs, who also provided hand sanitizer to keep a healthy atmosphere.
In addition to the $164 million spent on free agent ball players this off season, Forgus mentioned there will be more consistent coaching strategies to better develop minor league players. There’s also big news in marketing. Fans will notice new images of players expressing the raw emotional thrill of the sport. She also stated that the Reds make money five ways and three are directly tied to attendance. Outside of a winning team and good weather to determine ticket drivers, bobble heads and theme nights will also be prominent in 2020. A new repurpose media room will include a new press box, new suites, a boardroom and the new Press Club, a partnership with Boone County Distillery for a bourbon themed private seating area directly behind home plate. An expanded family fun zone with swinging benches and new eateries will also cultivate excitement for attendees. Overall, Forgus stated that the Reds want to “win a championship and bring pride to Reds Country”.
In other news, Pat Frew, CBC Executive Director, provided the economic update report for the City of Covington. In addition to last month’s big news, the City will announce a very visible project in the downtown that will bring an additional 27,000 square feet of cool vibe office space online. Commission is expected to approve the local payroll incentives for the two companies moving to RiverCenter, Step CG and Gentis Solutions. Work will continue on the Neighborhood Development Code to focus on ways to streamline the processes for approvals of zoning permits and certificates of appropriateness. The Economic Development Department continues to focus on helping developers create more inventory of office space. In the past month or so, the city has announced over $50 million in projects, nearly 500 new jobs.
We’d also like to thank our title sponsor St. Elizabeth Healthcare, event sponsor C-Forward Inc. and coffee and dessert sponsor, Vision Technologies Roofing and Siding.