GROVE CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BUSINESS MONTHLY Moving Forward, Making a Difference
December 2011
Issue 7
Darlene Murphy
New Chamber President is ready to get started Incoming president of the Chamber, Darlene Murphy, is ready to get started. Having been a member of the Grove City community for the past 24 years, she has invested herself in the community. After obtaining her real-estate license in 2001 and broker license in 2007, Murphy started her own business,Your Neighborhood Realty, and joined the Chamber. Since then, she has been heavily involved with Chamber programs and even helped begin the Chamber’s current ambassador program. Murphy has spent many hours considering what her new position will look
like and what changes she hopes to see. Here are a few of the goals she has dedicated herself to accomplishing. Her first goal is the establishment of a junior chamber. This will allow students in the area to serve and volunteer in their community. It is going to get young professionals involved and engaged with what is happening in Grove City. The second goal is simply to expose the Chamber to the community. Murphy is dedicated to bringing the Chamber out into the community so they can show what they do, the great path they’re on, and that they’re going to keep going in the right direction. She is excited to develop the idea of progress
through people. Lastly, she wants to express to businesses the importance of a Chamber membership and the benefits it provides. In a statement, Murphy elaborates on her goal to express the importance of the Chamber, “The Chamber has amazing value. Your Chamber membership not only entitles you to a lengthy list of direct benefits for your business, it links you to the community and opens the door to relationships you won’t find anywhere else. From the Business Expo and Taste of Grove City, through Arts in the Alley, and the Annual Auction, the Chamber has been the catalyst for community pride and a quality of life celebrated – and defended – by thou-
Ron Seymour
Chamber performed well during the past year
Roy Seymour
www.gcchamber.org
How did the Chamber perform for its members overall in the past year? I think overall the Chamber performed well. We expanded educational resources for our members, revived the Southwest Leadership program, entered into an agreement with ThisWeek Community Newspapers (The Grove City Record) to add a monthly insert directed specifically toward Grove City businesses. The chamber continues to be an informational and networking resource as well as an advocate for area businesses.
What was the chamber’s greatest accomplishment last year? It’s hard to pick out one shining moment from the previous year, there have been so many. Starting with the Taste of Grove City and Business Expo that allowed over 150 local businesses and restaurants the opportunity to get in front of hundreds of consumers through Arts in The Alley that brings thousands of people into our great downtown area. Personally, the highlight for me was being able to present four See SEYMOUR, page 2
sands of people, generation after generation. I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to serve in 2012 as president, and I look forward to working with the Chamber board and staff on making 2012 a great year for business in Grove City. Won’t you join me?” Members can expect to see a change in community involvement this year. Once again, Murphy is dedicated to the community and wants to press the importance of that to board and Chamber members. Murphy has been impressed with how far the Chamber has come since joining in 2007 and is excited to develop the Chamber even farther in this next year. Darlene Murphy
Inside this issue • Networking Event — Pakmail • Ribbon Cuttings — The Rave Motion Pictures — Panera Bread — Time Warner
— Dannette’s Floral Boutique • Focus on Business: — Willow Park Bakery • Upcoming Chamber events • … And much more
Save the Date! • Merry Christmas! — Dec. 25 • Chamber closed — Dec. 26Jan. 2 • Lunch and Learn: Small
Business GrowNOW at City Hall — 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Jan. 11 • Dannette’s Floral Networking Event — 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17
Visit the Chamber online at ww.gcchamber.org
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
1
Treasurer’s program aids energy savings SEYMOUR In an effort to help save you money and become more energy efficient, State Treasurer Josh Mandel sponsors the Energy Conservation for Ohioans (ECO-Link) program. This program provides reduced-rate financing through partnering banks for Ohioans completing energy-efficient improvements in their homes. Mandel is proud both to serve Ohioans and promote energy efficiency through this program. How can ECO-Link benefit you? • Homeowners receive a 3 percent interest-rate reduction on qualifying loans for five to seven years. • Weatherization projects may reduce energy bills while adding value and comfort to your home. • Many home improvements are also eligible
Continued from page 1
for federal tax credits and rebates,as well as utility companies’ incentive programs, which add to your potential savings. Who is eligible? • MUST be an Ohio resident. • MUST own an existing home or condominium, but additional residential classifications may be eligible. • MUST receive approval for a qualifying loan
through a participating bank. • MUST use 50 percent of the loan proceeds for installation of qualifying energy-efficient products; the other 50 percent of the loan can relate to other home improvement projects. For more information, please contact State Treasurer Josh Mandel’s office at 1-800-228-1102, option #3 or ECOLink@tos.ohio.gov.
Free Internet marketing tools for small business Have you ever seen a TV ad for a local business and wondered “What they were thinking?” Local TV ads can be effective, even if the quality is less that perfect. But what if you w ant to give your brand a professional look? What is a small business to do when budgets are tight, but you need to grow? There is always social media, and
Ryan McManus
hopefully you have star ted to reach your customer s on Facebook and Foursquare. Savvy business owners are leveraging the Internet and open source tools to create dynamic
and effective websites and marketing campaigns. What will I need? A PC or Mac, an Internet connection, ser ver space (hosted or your own), and a website domain. (The links below will tak e you directly to the w ebsite or a download page) • Design: Gimp — Whether you have some Photoshop experience
or this is your fir st attempt at graphic design, GIMP is a great open source software program available for free download. Star t by creating the logos and images that you will use on your website or design a flyer for your storefront. Don’ t worry if you get stuck, just Google your problem and there are many free forums with
See FREE INTERNET, page 8
scholarships to deserving seniors of the South-West City Schools, a strong investment into the future of the Grove City community. Who would you like to thank for the Chamber’s success in 2011? It truly has been my honor to serve the Chamber as its president for the last year. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the board for all of its hard work. Nothing happens without the help of the volunteers, so if you volunteered for anything with the chamber this year, I thank you. The Chamber doesn’t exist in a vacuum; its partnership with the city of Grove City, Jackson Township and the South-Western City School District are important. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of them at this time. Finally, I would like to thank the staff of the Chamber; their non-stop effort is really what makes the chamber go. So, if I haven’t said it enough, thanks Bill Diehl, Executive Director; MarilynReiner, director of Membership Service; and Chris Thompson, Director of Chamber Relations; for all you do. Ron Seymour of Key Bank is the outgoing president of the Chamber board and chair of Arts in Alley & Parade.
BETTER CASH FLOW FOR YOUR BUSINESS Get
300
$
1
when you open a select new PNC Business Checking Account and a new PNC Merchant Services® Account2
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS SPECIAL OFFER AT THE NEW PNC BUCKEYE GROVES BRANCH.
Be sure to stop by.
PNC Buckeye Groves Branch 2814 London-Groveport Road (across from Meijer,® between I-71 & Hoover Road)
Great Hours
Lobby: M-Th 9-5 • F 9-6 • Sat 9-12 Drive-Thru: M-Th 8-5 • F 8-6 • Sat 9-12
Cash flow is one of the most critical aspects of your business. That’s why PNC Business Checking and PNC Merchant Services® working together can make a difference. Cash flow benefits like next-day funding on card transactions will help you put incoming funds to work faster.3 Plus, we’ll give you $300 when you open a select new PNC Business Checking Account and a new PNC Merchant Services Account. Limited time offer.
Grove City
Call: 614-801-7780 1. Offer requires opening a new PNC Bank Business Checking account (Free Business Checking and interest bearing accounts are excluded) as your primary card-processing account in conjunction with a new PNC Merchant Services account by 12/31/11. Activation with an initial sales deposit into the new PNC Merchant Services account is required within 60 days of opening. The $300 cash bonus will be credited to your new PNC Bank Business Checking account within 90 days of the date of meeting the account opening and activation requirements. Businesses currently processing with PNC Merchant Services, former National City Merchant Services customers, existing PNC Business Checking customers, or Elavon customers (associated with the former National City Provident branches in the Cincinnati area) are not eligible for this offer. Limit of one cash bonus per merchant, regardless of the number of business locations. Gift card and cash bonus may be reported to the IRS, as required by law. Offer may be extended, modified or discontinued at any time without notice and may vary by market. Not valid with any other Merchant Services offers. Contact 1-800-762-2108 for more details. 2. Merchant Services provided by PNC Merchant Services Company and are subject to credit approval. PNC Merchant Services is a registered trademark of the PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Offer available at the PNC Bank Buckeye Groves Branch. 3. Next-day funding on card transactions processed by PNC Merchant Services when deposited into your PNC Business Checking account. ©2011 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC [8110] ACHIEVEMENT® is a registered trademark of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
2
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
www.gcchamber.org
Focus on business
COME TRY OUR NEW MENU!
Willow Park Bakery is a local success story In the autumn of 2006, my wife and I had just picked apples at a local orchard in central Ohio. We had more apples than we eat. My wife (Carol) said that we can turn these apples into sauce and use them on other foods. She and her family love apples and use them on a variety of foods, like mac and cheese and pizza. She asked me to create a sauce. After three weeks of research, choosing the proper ingredients, trial and error, we introduced our Apple Sauce to family and friends in November of 2006. We couldn’t call it “apple sauce,” it was much more than that. Our family loved the sauce and asked what other sauces do we have, so we start-
ed to work on more in 2007. In the summer of 2007, Carol and I went to the Grove City Farmers’ Market where I spoke with a vendor about his sauce, he told us where we could get our sauces tested for nutritional value, shelf life and everything else. Earlier in the year we created two more sauces: Pineapple and Orange sauces. Since we were getting requests for our sauces, we thought we would try the local Farmer’s Market
(Grove City) in July 2007. Since we did a variety of things from our fruit based sauces and fruit butters, to our fresh baked goods, smoked and barbecue meats and side dishes, we decided on the name: Willow Park Bakery and Grille. For the 2008 Grove City Farmers’ Market we had three sauces: Apple Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce, Pineapple Oven and Grille Sauce, Sweet Orange Oven and Grill Sauce. The sauces were a hit at the Farmers’ Market and it inspired us to create two more sauces: Peach/Mango and Apricot Glaze! These two sauces went extremely fast! The summer of
1574 Stringtown Rd Located in the Best Buy Center Down From Michael’s
801-0900
Place orders online at: buffalowingsandrings.com
See WILLOW PARK, page 4
CHAMBER MEMBER BENEFIT
VolunteerEnergy VolunteerEnergy More Great Savings through the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce and your Chamber Membership! Lower Your Commercial Electric and Natural Gas Costs! Contact us today for a no obligation quote! All we need is a copy of your recent Electric and Gas bills. Email or Fax information to:
Michael Capuano Volunteer Energy Agent 1.888.506.1574 Office 614.395.6834 Cell • 614.889.6129 Fax mike@strategicenergyservices.com www.strategicenergyservices
Strategic Energy Billing Services, LLC.
www.gcchamber.org
Member of the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce
425 Metro Place N. Ste. #140
Dublin, Ohio 43017
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
1-888-506-1574
3
Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce mission statement Mission: To create a positive environment for the development and success of business. Vision: To be the primary resource for the growth and economic stability of the b usiness community. Objective: To provide and support opportunities for business growth and development. (Left) Rudy Chaffin and Pamela Saviers at the Pakmail networking event. (Above) Pakmail is located at 2167 Stringtown Road.
WILLOW PARK
finally our “Celebrate Local” store at Easton Town Center has 2010 was very exciting, we in- replaced Weiland’s as our fifth troduced our sauces to the Ride’s store. Market in Columbus, Weiland’s Pakmail, located at 2167 Stringtown Road, During the event, there were hot dogs and tended. opened their doors to a successful networking refreshments provided by Hot Dawgs. Come in to Pakmail anytime and speak Gourmet Market, Huffman’s Lloyd Graham owns Willow Park event. The event was enjoyable and filled with with Chris Bernadino or call (614) 801- Market in Upper Arlington, Hill’s Bakery, along with his wife , This event brought in roughly 20 people. great conversation for all of those that at- 1900. Market in North Columbus and Carol.
Pakmail hosts networking event
Continued from page 3
Forklifts:
New, used & rental forklifts • Forklift service and repair • See our online used listing
Batteries & Chargers:
• New & used • Fits all types of electric forklifts • Battery service & repair • Battery wash service • Safety equipment
Warehouse needs:
20-70% OFF IN STOCK MERCHANDISE Valid Through 12/31/11.
4
Call us! 614-877-0037
• Racking & shelving • Dock equipment
9180 US Route 62, Orient, Ohio 43146
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
w w w.bbfork lif t. co m www.gcchamber.org
Plants need water even during holidays By MICHAEL LEACH Have a happy and action-packed holiday season — but don’t forget to water the plants. Most homes are drier than DeathValley, making it tough for poinsettias, mums, Christmas cactus, cyclamen, Norfolk Island pine and most houseplants. Water them thoroughly only when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. First, remove any decorative foil wrapping so the pot won’t sit in water. Slowly pour water into the container until it flows from the bottom. Replace the foil after water finishes draining. Some holiday stars, such as azalea and gardenia, require consistently moist — not sodden — soil for best performance. Check these frequently. You can help them by placing their Michael Leach pots atop a bed of decorative gravel in a shallow tray. Fill the pan with water so it’s just below the pot’s bottom. As water evaporates, humidity rises around the plant. Cut Christmas trees need at least a gallon-size w ater reservoir. Fill it daily. Trees with a burlap-wrapped or potted root ball require consistent moisture. They should stay indoors only a few days to improve chances of survival in the home landscape. Dig the planting hole before the ground freezes and keep the soil in a frost-free place until planting time. Michael Leach is a master gardener and former garden reporter with The Columbus Dispatch. For more help, please visit www.enjoyyourlandscape.com.
Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Board & Staff Hirth, Norris and Garrison — T erm: 2011-2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ron Seymour — President, Chair — Ar ts in Alley Allen Houk — VP Finance & Parade Allen R. Houk CP A CMA — T erm: 2009-2011 Key Bank — T erm: 2011 Rick Louder — VP Member ship, Chair — T aste of Grove City Bob Bright — Vice Chair — P arade O’Char ley’s — T erm: 2009-2011 Morley Parren and Bright — T erm: 2011-2013 John Dunn – Chair — 3 on 3 Bask etball MacIntosh Company — T erm: 2011 Jeff Guminey — Past president Fifth Third Bank — T erm: 2011 Mitch Hall — Vice Chair — Ar ts in Alley WalMart Distribution Center — Term: 2010 – 2012 Robert Halley – VP Communications Heartland Bank – Term: 2010-2012
Charlene McFarland — Co-Chair — Auction Committee WesBanco — T erm: 2011-2013 Grant Miller — VP — Education, Chair — SW Leadership Grant J. Miller, CLTC — T erm: 2010-2012 Darlene Murphy — President-Elect, Vice-Chair Arts in Alley & Parade, Vice-Chair — Auction Committee Your Neighborhood Realty — T erm: 2009-2011
Tim Harris — Chairman of Bylaws and Policy Review
Jerry Sowers, VP — Business De velopment, Golf Chair Key Bank – Term: 2010 – 2012 Scott Vandegrift – Chair – Farmers’ Market & Family Fun Day GAP – Term: 2011-2013 Toni VanHorn — VP Go vernment Affairs, ChairWE: LEAD Program Sound Communications — T erm: 2010-2012 STAFF William H. Diehl — Executive Director Marilyn Reiner — Director of Member ship Services Chris Thompson — Director of Chamber Relations Melissa Sims — Administrative Assistant Lindsay Ossim — Contributing Writer
Year-end tax planning, documentation By ALLEN HOUK By the time you read this article, there will only be a few days left in 2011 to take advantage of potential tax saving strategies. This is a list of items to consider doing by Dec. 31: 1. Make a charitable contribution and obtain a receipt. 2. Sell stocks that have capital losses if you already have taken capital gains. 3. Make a contribution to your Ohio 529 college savings program. 4. Purchase business equipment and/or business vehicles and start using them. 5. Pay your real estate taxes and obtain a
1. File or extend your personal tax returns. 2. Make your 2011 contribution to your Traditional or Roth IRA. 3. Pay federal, state and local income taxes due for 2011. 4. Make your 2011 contribution to your Health Savings Account (HSA). If you are considering changing your tax preparer or using a tax preparer for the first time, you should make that contact as soon Allen R. Houk as possible. Many tax preparers who are Cergle 401(k) plans. tified Public Accountants will not be able to 9. Pay for out-of-pocket medical expens- meet with potential new clients until after es. April 16. 10. Have a tax planning meeting with your Certified Public Accountant. — Allen R. Houk, CPA, CMA By April 16, 2012 you must: 4084 Broadway, (614) 871-1158
receipt. 6. Make your fourth-quarter Ohio and city estimates. 7. Install that new storm door, replacement windows and/or insulation. 8. Small business owners should open their SEP/IRA’s or sin-
Visit the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce online at www.gcchamber.org
Homemade Entree’s Every Day Including Breakfast & Lunch Specials and Soups Catering Available Rental Space & Private Parties 4008 Broadway Downtown (Between Park St. & Columbus St.)
OPEN EVERYDAY 7AM-2PM • 801-0771 www.gcchamber.org
Caroline Cassady Shroyer — Board member Grove City Tree Service — T erm: 20101-2013
DAVID ARGABRIGHT
www.AttictoSidewalk.com davidinspects@sbcglobal.net
• 20+ Years of Construction Experience • 13+ Years of Inspections • Termite Inspections
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
5
BWC board approves credibility changes Boost employee productivity The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board approved a maximum credibility of 53 percent for the July 2012 through June 2013 policy period. As a result, the maximum discount for Ohio’s group rating program will increase from 51 percent to 53 percent over this same policy period. In addition to changing the maximum discount, the BWC board eliminated the “Break Even Factor.” which was previously used in calculating rates for companies in group rating programs. BWC introduced a new employer option called the “Destination: Excellence Program.” This new risk management program is scheduled to become available July 1, 2012, and is intended to provide additional financial rebates and premium discounts to companies for successfully meeting claim management and safety related goals. More details regarding this pro-
and save money
gram will be communicated as they become available. BWC administrator Ste ve Buehrer indicated one of the agency’s goals is to increase the rate of return to work for injured workers. Buehrer said this will be
achieved by identifying process changes within BWC and working with industry partners such as TPAs, MCOs and medical providers. CareWorks Consultants encourages this approach and will continue to manage claims with
Your Grove City Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with Harrison College, will be host a series of Microsoft Office 2010 Workshops designed to enhance office productivity. The PowerPoint workshop is for individuals who have a basic working knowledge of Microsoft 2007 or 2010 products. The Advanced Excel Workshop is for individuals who already have a basic understanding of Excel and are looking to expand their current knowledge of the software. Microsoft 2010 will be used in both workshops. Reserve your spot now as classes are limited to 20 participants! the objective of returning injured Cost will be $60 to attend all workers to work as soon as med- the workshops or $30 to attend ically possible. an individual workshop For more information or questions about these recent changes, Advanced Excel please contact CareWorks Con- 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Jan. 25 sultants, toll-free, at 1-800-837In this workshop, attendees will 3200. learn to:
• use auto filter and advanced filter • filter for unique records • build reports from data using pivot tables • functions and equations PowerPoint 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Feb. 8 In this workshop, attendees will learn how to: • introduction to PowerPoint: Creating a presentation • modify a presentation: Using the outline tab, formatting text, editing and aligning • inserting objects, clip art, text boxes, charts, tables and word art • master slides and templates Workshops will be held at Harrison College, located at 3880 Jackpot Road in Grove City. Reserve your spot today as classes are limited to 20 participants. For more information, contact Grove City Chamber of Commerce at (614) 875-9762.
Wishing You & Yours a i s t m a s & a B le s s e d Ne w Ye a r h C y r r Mer Gift Certificates Available
Michael’s Salon
During the holiday season come to Michael’s ‘Salon to relax and treat yourself to a new look for the New Year. We’re here to make you feel special. Happy Holidays From our Staff, Connie Tiller, Clayton Evans, Catrina Yates, Sherry Pack and Diane Woodring
Open Monday through Saturday "Established since 2000"
4238 S. Broadway, Grove City
875-8660
Peaceful Moment Holiday Special Walk-ins Welcome
Purchase a Deluxe Facial $80 And receive basic manicure free -- $120 value Contact Carol @ 614-312-9559 Gift Certificates Available
From tthe h C Ci City i t off G Grove C City it
Richard L. “Ike” Stage, Mayor
6
4035 Broadway • Grove City, OH 43123 • 614-277-3000 www.grovecityohio.gov www.facebook.com/grovecityohio | twitter.com/grovecityohio
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
www.gcchamber.org
Lynn Myers of FirstMerit Bank, Dannette Krugel (center) with son, Josh, and daughter, Katie, Mayor Ike Stage, Councilman Steven Bennet and Greg Dawkins of Campolo.
Dannette’s Floral has ribbon cutting Dannette’s Floral, at 3538 Broadway, close to Southwest Boulevard, opened their doors to a fun ribbon-cutting event. The event was enjoyable and filled with great conversation for all of those that attended. Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage stopped by to show his support for the floral shop. Come in to Dannette’s Floral anytime and speak with Dannette Krugel or call (614) 9915258. Please welcome Dannette to Grove City’s business community by stopping by. Mayor Ike Stage and Dannette Krugel of Dannette’s Floral
I can help you save money and be better protected. Introducing the Allstate Auto/Life DiscountSM. Now you can save on auto insurance when you protect your family with life insurance. I’ll make it easy to get the quality coverage you need at an affordable price. So why wait? Call me today to put your family in Good Hands®.
Steve Liskany 614-801-2091 2598 Columbus Street Grove City LiskanyAgency@allstate.com Insurance, discounts and savings subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Discount and availability varies by state and product line. Life insurance issued by Allstate Insurance Co., Northbrook, IL, Lincoln Benefit Life Co., Lincoln, NE and American Heritage Life Insurance Co., Jacksonville, FL. © 2011 Allstate Insurance Company
Your Membership in your local chamber can benefit you in ways you may never have imagined. It’s our goal to bring you big solutions for your small business needs. Affordable health care from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is a superb example.
Please call 888-506-1574 to get valuable information that could benefit your business.
Shawan Marquis Agency/Vaughan Insurance Dublin, Ohio • 614-889-0250 www.gcchamber.org
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
7
New Chamber of Commerce members
Member name
Contact name
Phone/website/email
Address
3845 Grove City Road Flexible Imaging Geraldine Baich (614) 305-4654 Grove City, OH 43123 Secure document scanning . Digitize your hard cop y records with low cost ser vice. Ser vice can be done securely on site or at our location. Choose to ha ve digital files saved on CDs or exter nal hard drives. Also, offering digital con versation of VHS and audio cassette tapes. (614) 991-4018 Uppercase Living Julie Basinger www.juliebasinger.uppercaseliving.net (614) 296-4751 At Uppercase Living , we specialize in helping people express their stories and passions. Our vin yl words and images, what we call “expressions, ” have the power to transform your living environment, inspire creativity and enrich your sur roundings. Each Uppercase Living expression is designed and manufactured especially for you (614) 778-4973 Schoonover Transit Inc. Michelle Schoonover schoonovertrans@aol.com Schoono ver Transit Inc. has ten tr ucks that are contracted b y FedEx Ground for long distance hauling . Our company moves freight all across the United States delivering the Purple Promise. (614) 300-0636 Tastefully Simple Julie Basinger juliebasinger@rocketmail.com (614) 296-4751 With Tastefully Simple, every one of our products requires one or two ingredients to mak e. That means that you will spend more t ime enjoying our food and less time preparing it. V isit www.tastefullysimple.com/w eb/jbasinger.
Free Internet marketing tools for small businesses Continued from page 2
tools to create your site. F ind free templates and tutorials to tutorials for how to use GIMP. help you get star ted and launch http:// www.gimp.org/down- your website in no time. http:// loads/ www.joomla.org/download.html • Build: Joomla — Used b y • Distribute: P ommo — It is large brands, like Sprint and OK to use Outlook or Gmail for Porsche, and small businesses your email marketing campaigns alike, Joomla is an open source when your list is small, but start content management system collecting your customer s email (CMS). A fancy term for website addresses and you need a mass builder, but Joomla is one of the email tool that will let you build, most powerful and easy to use send, and track your email mar-
keting campaigns. This will also help keep you CAN-SP AM compliant. http://pommo.org/Download • Test: Five second test — Have you e ver wondered what others thought about your w ebsite, flier, ad or email? Now you can get feedback in exchange for some kar ma (well, online karma points). You review someone else’s work and ear n a karma point so someone will re-
view your site. Just mak e sure you write the questions properly so you get valuable feedback and not just a bunch of ye’ and nos. You can pay to get more reviews, but the free version works great for small business. http://fivesecondtest .com/ • Measure: W ebsitegrader. com — Ever wondered how your website ranked among other s, or specifically your competition? Website Grader is a tool from
Get Your Gift Wines & Ales Here!
871 – 4620
FREE SHIPPING on NEW PRINT ORDERS from when delivered to SHG
Your Custom Framing & Art Source
• Hot Soups • New Wrap Specials • Holiday Treats Team Trivia Wine & Beer Tasting Live Music Call for Information
8
Ryan McManus, Business Development Manager for Kern, works with companies to reduce costs and improve productivity with cloud solutions for information and document management. Read more about Kern’s software solutions for business at www.kerncan.com/edge.
Independent Senior Sales Director
SOMMER HOUSE GALLERY
www.localframer.com/sommerhousegallery
tools will help small business owners create a professionallooking brand.
Margaret Allison Reiser
4038 Broadway ~ In the Historic Town Center 25% off FRAMED GALLERY ART through DECEMBER 31 WITH THIS AD
HubSpot that gives you thousands of dollars of consulting for free. It is web-based and all you do is type in your w ebsite, list any other websites you want to measure, and after a minute or two, you have a detailed repor t about the strengths and w eaknesses of your website. Whether you have created an online presence that you need to measure or you are creating one for the first time, these free
2895 Annabelle Ct. Grove City, OH 43123 614-875-6199 614-975-8820 Mobile
mkldy6613@sbcglobal.net www.marykay.com/mallisonreiser
Shop Online with me
24/7
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
www.gcchamber.org
State to pay half for buildings if SWCS bond issue passes The South-Western City (SWCS) District hopes it will be able to take advantage of more than $120 million from the state of Ohio to help build 13 replacement elementary schools, renovate two elementary schools, and build a new Franklin Heights High School. On Nov. 28, the SWCS Board of Education voted to place a “no new millage” bond issue on the March 6 ballot for school facilities. As a result of retiring debt,the March bond issue would allow the district to do this while keeping current collection rates at or below 2012 collection levels. The state, through the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC), will contribute 50 percent of the funds toward the project, if the bond issue passes to fund the district’s local share. The OSFC construction project would eliminate disparities in elementary buildings across the district, wipe the slate clean on
Central Ohio business resources Small Business Administration: www.sba.go v Ohio Chamber of Commerce: www.ohiochamber.com Small Business Development Centers of Ohio: www.odod. state.oh.us
millions of dollars in maintenance costs for the aging facilities, and provide up-to-date educational technology, learning environments and resources that today’s students need. It also will provide space for optional all-day, everyday kindergarten. SWCS officials said that building replacement and renovated schools would help shave the growing maintenance costs of aging facilities and free those funds for use to benefit students
and other building needs across the district. Currently, the district has about $40 million in deferred maintenance costs associated with the buildings to be replaced. Many of those buildings have obsolete electrical systems that cannot support modern educational technology, They also have inefficient heating and ventilation systems that make it difficult to regulate air quality and temperatures through-
out the buildings. Antiquated security systems and inadequate handicap accessibility limit the district’s ability to provide the necessary safety features for students and staff in today’s world. In addition, the aging schools often have power outages, frozen pipes, and other building failures that distract students and hamper learning. All of the state funds and bond issue funds would be used for new facilities, building renovations
and other permanent improvements. None of it would be used for operating costs, salaries or benefits. For more information on the OSFC project, please visit the district website at www.swcs.us/ Home/AboutSWCS/OSFCProject.htm. A podcast of what new buildings could include can also be found on the district’s website. If you have additional questions, please email info@swcs.us.
Small Business Development Center: www.entrepreneurohio. org Service Corp of Retired Executives: www.scorecolumbus. org The Women’s Business Development Center: (614) 2226700, cascenter@aol.com Conway Center for Family Business: www.familybusiness center.com Central Ohio Better Business Bureau: www.centralohio.cbbb.org
Discover where to recover, when your heart needs extra care. The Only Inpatient Heart Health Center in Central Ohio
We know you can choose any rehab center. We urge you to choose the newest approach to cardiac specialized care from the MacIntosh Heart Health & Rehab Center at Monterey.
3929 Hoover Road • Grove City OH 43123 • 614.875.7700 www.montereycarecenter.com
Personalized. Uncompromised. Healthcare. www.gcchamber.org
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
9
Afternoon lunch planned by state treasurer’s office
Big turnout for new cinema Opening night drew in hundreds at the new Rave Cinemas in Grove City at 4218 Buckeye Parkway, with the Grove City High School marching band playing various songs, and Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage congratulating the cinema for choosing such a thriving community to be a part of. Attending the opening night were: Jim Rouck, Jackson Township trustee; Ron Seymour, Grove City Chamber President; David Cass, CEO Continental Properties; Mayor Ike Stage; Steve Snyder, manager of RAVE, and Rolando Rodriguez, CEO of RAVE. With 14 screens, and an Xtreme Screen, this is Grove City’s largest movie theater, attracting families from all around to check out the ultra-modern new look. The Rave is equipped with digital projection equipment and digital sound in every room, and includes a RaveXtreme auditorium, which is similar to an IMAX-type experience with a floor-to-ceiling, curved-wall screen. Additionally, the theater has five 3D-equipped standard auditoriums. Grove City residents enjoyed free drinks, popcorn and movies on opening night.
The Ohio State Treasurer’s Office is partnering with the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce in providing a lunch and learn on a program that the state treasurer is pro viding to Ohio businesses. The lunch will be held at City Hall from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 11. Topic: Jim, the SE Ohio Regional Representative for State Treasurer Josh Mandel, will be speaking about the updated GrowNOW for small business and a new program that supports small businesses working to improve their energy performance through profit justified upgrades. Both programs provide up to a 3-percent interest rate reduction on new or existing loans. GrowNOW supports job creation and retention in Ohio, while the new program will focus on small businesses making energy-efficient upgrades. Join us at this Lunch and Learn to learn more about how these programs may help your business grow. The Lunch and Learn will be at a cost of $12, to reserve your seat today, please call the Chamber at (614) 875-9762.
Here We Grow Again! MEN’S DRESS SHIRTS TWO FREE!
Laundered/Dry Cleaned and Pressed
AFTER ANY ORDER OF $10.00 OR MORE!
3395 MCDOWELL RD GROVE CITY 614-991-5797
Must Present Coupon. Not valid with any other offer. No Suede Or Leather. Expires 1/19/12.
WE NOW DO COMFORTERS, SUEDE, LEATHER AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS! CALL FOR DETAILS & PRICING!
ur Check Out O Low Prices! EVERYDAY
Mens Dress Shirts
$1.79
Sport Coats & Blazers
$3.99
Coats
$4.99
ALL OTHER CLOTHING
$2.99
10
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
www.gcchamber.org
2011-2012 Grove City Community Profile, Business Directory is now available
Elite Mind and Body Elite Mind and Body Gymnastics teaches all levels and ages. Holding the ribbon and scissors are: Nathan Wray with brother and sister, Alex Franco and Taylor Franco. Elite Mind and Body Gymnastics has something for everyone. Nestled in the heart of Grove City, Elite Mind and Body Gymnastics offer a great location where your children can come train. Elite Mind and Body Gymnastics has classes in gymnastics, tumbling and cheer, as well as hosts birthday parties on the weekend. We are located at 3455 D Center Point Drive; come visit us.
The newest edition of the Grove City Chamber of Commerce Community Profile and Business Directory is currently available at the Chamber of Commerce, 4069 Broadway. This full-color publication promotes the educational,recreational, cultural and business benefits of living and doing business in our community. The Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce businesses have been included in the alphabetical and cate gorical listings. Listings include their location,contact names and numbers and websites (if available). The Community Profile and Business Directory will be distributed to Chamber members, the Grove City Visitors and Convention Bureau, government offices, medical facilities, Realtors and local libraries. You may also come in and pick up a directory if you would like.
Grove City Free Continental Breakfast Free WiFi/Micro/Fridges
$5 OFF
Time Warner holds ribbon-cutting Time Warner opened its first retail store in the Midwest area in Grove City on Nov. 17. Attending were: Ron Seymour, Grove City Chamber President; Mark Dunford; Joe Pearson, director of sales; Mayor Ike Stage; Councilwoman Melissa Alright; Rick Carfagna, and Phil Honsey. The retail store on Buckeye Parkway gives new and existing customers an unique experience into all the products they have: offering Internet, home phone, DVR service and payment options, this store is all-in-one for everything Time Warner has. Please welcome Time Warner by checking it out.
our regular rates with this ad.
(Reg. rates 49.99 + tax / 1 Bed, 56.99 + tax / 2 bed)
CHRIS R O A C H
1/2 OFF FIRST 2 MONTHS RENT
Real Estate • Grove City Home Rentals • Town Center Specialist
• FREE 24 HOUR ACCESS • Free Truck Rental with Move-In • Every Unit Alarmed
3170 Urbancrest Industrial Drive Grove City 539-0930 • www.kramitselfstorage.com
www.gcchamber.org
• Estates and Short Sales
Residential & Commercial Investments
$5.00 OFF Holiday Gift Certificates
3980 Broadway • 539-1234
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
2590 Columbus St. Grove City, Ohio 43123 539-4548
11
Panera opens with ribbon-cutting Grove City residents were overjoyed by the news that Panera was joining the business community of Grove City. On Nov. 22, residents and chamber businesses came together to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of Panera Bread, including Darlene Murphy; Mayor Ike Stage; State Representative Cheryl Grossman; Anup Saha; Councilwoman Melissa Albright with son, Drake Albright; and Chamber President Ron Seymour. Located at 1786 Stringtown Road, Panera offers a variety of lunch options for you to enjoy. Visit Panera today and enjoy one of their famous lunch specials.
Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly is a special adver tising supplement to ThisWeek Community Newspapers. Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly is not responsible for opinions and vie ws expressed in the paid adver tisement in the business profiles. All real estate adver tising herein is subject to the federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to adver tise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familiar status, or national origin, or intention to mak e any such preference, limitation or discrimination. ” We will not knowingly accept an y advertising for real estate which is in violation of the la w. All persons are hereby informed that all d wellings advertised are available on an equal oppor tunity basis.
You’ve just found your business’s
“happy place.”
Protecting your business with us can be a very calming experience. Ask us about Grange’s flexible business insurance options that can be tailored to meet your needs.
614-871-1200
www.mpbins.com 3083 Columbus St. Grove City
2250 Stringtown Road
614-875-8700 *Minimum to open account is $50. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of 11/28/2011. Rate tiers are as follows: 2.75% APY applies to balances of $0.01 - $10,000 and 0.50% APY applies to balances over $10,000 if qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle. 0.10% APY applies to all balances if monthly qualifications are not met. All balances will earn 2.75% APY - 0.50% APY if monthly qualifications are met. Rates may change after the account is opened. Fees may reduce earnings. Qualifying transactions must post and clear to the account during the monthly qualification cycle. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date the transaction was made to post to an account. Intra-bank transfers do not count as qualifying transactions. **ATM FEE refunds provided only if qualifications are met within the monthly qualification cycle.
12
December 2011 | Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce Business Monthly
www.gcchamber.org