Chamber Business Connection Feb 2022

BUSINESS CHAMBER

FEBRUARY 2022 | VOL. 7, ISSUE 1

CONNECTION

A Look back at 2021 in “Chamber by the Numbers”

Library receives gift of a Remington sculpture

Chamber News

Letter from the Director Member Spotlight Member Anniversaries

American Nitrile launches U.S.-based nitrile glove manufacturing business in Grove City, Ohio

New Column: HR Essentials!

Annual Meeting 2022 is February 23rd!

GROVE CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GCCHAMBER.ORG

2 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

BEGINS AT 7:30

IN THIS ISSUE: Chamber By the Numbers 2021

04

Local Non Profit Spotlight

15

Recognizing Members

08

Resources for Businesses

16

Program News

10

HR Essentials

20

Chamber Events

12

Power Hour

21

National Business News

14

Member News

22

CHAMBER DESK

CITY DEMOGRAPHICS Population: 42,400 Median Age: 39.7 Population Over 18: 79% Population Over 65: 17% Number of Households: 16,197 Average Home Price: $189,268 Median Income Per Household: $74,451 Want to learn more about the demographics of Grove City?

Visit: GroveCityOhio.Gov/about-us-and-tourism/community-information

5

Letter from the Director

Encouraging note from Director, Shawn Conrad.

9

Member Recognition

11

Local Chamber News

Welcome new and celebrate current members.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 3

Chamber by the Numbers Seamlessly continued to link the community with local businesses and resources

Moved fully back to live events and programs Welcomed

Represent

The GCACC not only maintained business as usual, but grew by throughout the pandemic

86 new member businesses

11,794

local employees from over 725 businesses!

12%

to the GCACC family

Multiple vans stuffed to the brim and delivered to SWCSD with items donated by member businesses through our Chamber Gives Back Project

$17,700 in scholarship

awarded in 2021 through the Chamber Foundation

Once again, tens of thousands of dollars were saved by GCACC business members participating in GCACC Insurance, Workers’ Comp, member to member discounts and other savings programs

6

Published inspiring issues of Chamber Business Connection magazine and 5 professional business issues of Grove City Living newspaper Celebrated 32 years of our multi award winning Farmers’ Market drawing and average of 1,000 visitors each week to shop at our 50+ farmers and vendors

of Chamber Weekly Connections published Through the HomeTown Dollars Program and financial support from the City of Grove City; The GCACC filtered over into our local economy!

Held the 9th annual WE:LEAD Women’s Business Forum with an amazing keynote speaker, 4 breakout sessions and nearly 100 attendees!

Expanded Arts in the Alley to include a packed Friday evening filled with activities, food, shows, games and thousand of visitors

52 issues

$300,000

Presented our members with over

97

unique and varied sponsorship opportunities

Thousands of spectators lined the streets to celebrate the 32nd annual Arts in the Alley Community Parade with bands, CANDY, fabulous floats, CANDY, the Shriners, vehicles, CANDY, horses, walkers, tumblers, dancers and more…

The Voice of Grove City brought the largest crowd to date introducing incredible talent to thousands of spectators and to our panel of judges

Nearly 100

Featuring the Ghost Busters and over 45 local business vendors along with a parade of 150 incredibly adorable, costumed entries, The Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce presented its first ever Boo Off Broadway event to a crowd of 5,000!

The 42nd Annual Arts in the Alley Festival drew over

35,000 visitors over the 2½ day event

2021 Annual Meeting celebrated the 2020 Award winners Business of the Year - Terra Michelle & Co. Artisan Hair Boutique Heartland Bank Heart of the Chamber - KatBro Spirit of the Chamber – Bill Fenner of Bill’s PC Repair

golfers and golfer wannabes, hit the links for a full day of golf, fun, food, and charity at our Annual Chamber Open

Hosted our first ever month-long Taste of Grove City featuring over

40 local eateries!

Well over

4,500 volunteer

hours were generously donated by local GCACC volunteers in 2021

Letter from the Director

YOUR CHAMBER Chamber Business Connections is published monthly by the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce with revenue from member dues, advertising, and sponsorship. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the content in this publication, by any method or purpose whatsoever, without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Only chamber members can advertise in Chamber Business Connection. To plan advertising contact the chamber.

As a GCACC member we are truly excited to be able to offer you all of the opportunities that accompany our events and program – hosting, attending & networking, presenting, sponsorship, marketing, advertising, volunteering and more.

Your Board Lisa Zeigler President

Kay Anderson

Shelley Davis 2023 President Elect

Wayne Coakley

Nick Connaughton VP Finance

Lisa Graves

Ed Fleming Immediate Past President

Chris Moscato

Rachel Kutay VP at large

It’s February and that means that your Chamber staff, committees, board, and marketing team are all in high planning and preparation mode for 2022 events and programs.

You can’t grow if you don’t get involved – take the first step and call us at 614-875-9762 and we’ll help you get plugged in.

Katie Antry

Here are a few upcoming events that we don’t want you to miss… call the office to see how you can get involved and as always you can register to attend or sponsor right on our website www.gcchamber.org

Greg Dawkins Heather Miller

• Feb 2nd GCACC POWER HOUR at the GCACC office ‘Workplace Violence’ • Feb 23rd Annual Meeting and Awards Celebration at the Ballroom at Pinnacle • Mar 20th WE:LEAD Sip & Pour at The Chandler • Mar 23rd Chamber 101 at Franklin County Banking Center • Apr 6th GCACC POWER HOUR at the GCACC office ‘TBD’ • May 1st Taste of Grove City MONTH begins with Burger Week/Pizza Week/Eat Local Week/Sweet Treat Week • May 14th GCACC Farmers’ Market begins in the Town Center • May 18th WE:LEAD Annual Women’s Business Forum at the Shriners Event Center • May 25th Chamber 101 at Franklin County Banking Center

Lynn Weita Trent Soles Dylon Sparks

Staff Executive Director Shawn Conrad

I’m looking forward to seeing you at some of these great events and programs!

- Shawn

Events Manager Marilyn Reiner Administrative and Events Coordinator Heather Brokaw Marketing and Communications KatBro Consulting Ltd.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 5

Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Sedgwick to help you lower your Ohio workers’ compensation premium.

Ready to learn how much you can save? Complete our online evaluation form at: sedgwick.com/ac3/grovecity Taking care of people is at the heart of everything we do.

At Sedgwick, caring counts. ®

For additional questions, contact Julia Bowling at: P. 513.218.4062 E. julia.bowling@sedgwick.com

sedgwick.com/ohiotpa | 800.825.6755

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 7

Celebrating Anniversaries

RECOGNIZING MEMBERS

ONE YEAR: Nevaeh Insurance Solutions Wayne Coakley Creative Tool & Die CareSource 72Travel Co. Zest Juice Co. Success by Sprite Grove Sheek Boutique LMD Management

FIVE YEARS: Rider+Reinke Financial Group

State Senator Stephanie Kunze Healthcare Revenue Services and Consulting Impact Countertops American Eagle Mortgage Ohio State Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at Grove City YMCA Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center Marco’s Pizza

TEN YEARS: Grove City Food Pantry & Emergency Services Smoothie King HER Realtors/ The Evans Group

FIFTEEN YEARS: Grant J Miller, CLTC Donatos Pizza-Stringtown Rd. Cowans’ Racing

8 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MUSIC MAKERS PIANO STUDIO Music Makers Piano Studio provides piano lessons that foster a love of music, helping each student develop to their fullest potential and achieve their personal music goals.

Private piano lessons are offered to students of all ages and are tailored to each student’s age and level of experience.

All students are taught the principles of musicianship, music theory, music history, and performance skills. The studio is now located in Grove City after time as an Orient location.

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2943 Dennis Ln, Grove City 614-406-7058 musicmakerspianostudio.com

BRECK’S PAVING

FAMILY PRACTICE WESTCARE

Breck’s Paving has been serving Central Ohio for over 60 years with top-notch paving services. In fact, they have repeat customers and are now into the second or third generations of serving the same families or companies. Their loyal customers are served by equally loyal employees of the Breck’s team. They are committed to quick, trustworthy, quality, and affordable service as they work all phases of a paving job. Breck’s can complete both residential and commercial paving jobs, and can quickly provide estimates.

Family Practice WestCare began serving the community in 2018 (with a 2020 move to Grove City) to fit the need of an independently-owned practice that could provide quality primary care with knowledge and compassion. They take pride in being part of the community, and tailoring care to each individual who seeks their care. Telemedicine options are available depending on circumstances.

Most public and private insurances are accepted, and a self-pay option is also available.

¾ Õ Ô

¾ Õ Ô

1367 Frank Rd. Columbus 614-276-6002 breckspaving.com

3421 Farm Bank Way, Grove City 614-878-7285 familypracticewestcarellc.com

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS G and R Holdings Al Washington Insurance Bee Known Social Colonial American Development Corporation Law Office of John G. Galasso Pouka Art & Photography Thompson Solutions World Leaders Academy Title Connect Agency Music Makers Piano Studio Grove City Corral (Golden Corral)

Dollar Shave Club Ed Fleming Family Practice WestCare WrightPatt Credit Union Elford, Inc. Holleywood Lawn and Landscape The Sunshine House Cherokee Stables Nancy’s Blankets LLC Erosion Control Blankets Cruise Planners MOZ Corp Logistics

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 9

PROGRAM NEWS

Our Chamber Foundation is ready to support educational needs for another year!

Can you believe the Foundation is approaching its tenth birthday in 2013? We can’t wait to see what kind of impact the Foundation will have made by its big 1-0, but until then read on below to check out some important dates and thank yous.

Wreath It Thanks The Foundation wants to thank everyone who made the second annual Wreath It holiday décor sale a success! Many local businesses and members made, and then purchased, decorated wreaths for the holidays. A big thank you goes to two of our special project partners: StoryPoint who served as a point of drop off and pick up for décor items, and The Chandler who created and donated specialty candles to be a new and exciting addition to the holiday store. We hope everyone was able to take a little comfort and joy from the holiday store no matter the role. Funds raised go directly to scholarships in 2022, which, speaking of 2022 scholarships…

2022 Scholarship Deadlines The first of the 2022 deadlines will be here next month, and it’s a big one! Friday March 18 is the deadline for our Class of 2022 High School Scholarships and the first deadline for our Chamber Affiliate Scholarship. Eligibility for each is below: High School Scholarship: The applicant should either be graduating from a school in the Southwestern City School Attendance area (public or private) or be graduating from a school outside that attendance area but reside in Grove City.

Chamber Affiliate Scholarship: The applicant should be a current employee of a Chamber member-company, a current individual Chamber member, or an immediate family member of such an employee or individual Chamber member. If applying the scholarship toward a masters degree (or higher), the applicant must be an employee of the member-company.

To apply for the above two scholarships, or to learn more about future deadlines, follow this link: https://gcchamberfoundation.org/scholarships/ Continued Support of the Foundation We’re grateful for the support we receive for our annual fundraiser event, Wreath It and other fundraisers along the way. There are yet more ways to support the Foundation year-round and one is by setting the Foundation as your Amazon Smile organization. Your Amazon purchases made through Amazon Smile will benefit the Chamber Foundation. Follow this link to connect your Amazon account: https://tinyurl.com/gccfsmile

Upcoming WELEAD Events The WE:LEAD program is excited to kick off the year with a full slate of programming to foster networking and socializing amongst area women in business. Check out what’s coming soon: February 9: Book Club Discussion for First Quarter Currently, the group is reading Little Fires Everywhere and will gather on the 9th at Carriage Court to discuss it.

Visit this link to learn more: https://tinyurl.com/WELEADBookFeb2022 March 10: Sip & Pour at The Chandler Enjoy social time with WE:LEAD and the experience of candle pouring at The Chandler next month. Visit this link to learn more and to RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/WELEADSipPour22 Save the date for May 18!

Join us for what will be another fantastic WE:LEAD Women in Business Forum. We’re excited to once again host you in person at the Aladdin Shrine Center here in Grove City for a full agenda that will recharge and refocus your business life and even work-life balance. Final arrangements are underway, so stay tuned to the newsletter and social media for registration information. There is plenty of room, so plan to bring all of the wonderful women of your workplace!

10 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

LOCAL NEWS

Library receives gift of Remington sculpture in honor of retired Director and Assistant Director In December, the Grove City Library of Southwest Public Libraries accepted a limitededition statue from a local benefactor. Below is the press release from SPL which has been edited to reflect the past tense.

Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) has gratefully accepted the gift of a limited edition cast of Frederic Remington’s iconic sculpture Mountain Man. Cast in pure silver and standing approximately 28” tall, the sculpture depicts a buckskin-clad trapper descending a steep slope on horseback and is characterized by Remington’s hallmark attention to textures and detail. It was issued by the Frederic Remington Museum of Art and Liberty Mint in 1994 and will be on permanent display at the library after the dedication in a custom case sponsored by the Friends.

Longtime SPL benefactor and Friends President Emeritus Laurina “Laura” M. Harper gifted the sculpture in honor of former SPL Director Mark M. Shaw and former Grove City Library Assistant Director Bethanne Gibboney Johnson, who both retired in recent months, each after more than 35 years of dedication to the library. The three share decades of mutual friendship and respect and a deep love of SPL. Laura, who turned 99 in December, has displayed Mountain Man in her home for over 25 years until now. “I’m coming down the other side of the mountain of my life, and I knew I needed to find it a new home.” “I wanted to find a place where it could be seen by many and enjoyed by many” and to honor Mark and Bethanne because “they did so much to bring the Grove City Library to where it is today.”

Laura and her late husband John Harper’s ties to SPL run deep. John’s aunt, Irene Harper, was SPL’s first librarian, serving from 1924 to 1934. Laura established the Harper Scholarship for staff continuing higher education in the library field and sponsored the early literacy area at the new Grove City Library in John and Irene’s honor. The library named the area “Harper’s Grove.”

Laura and Mark Shaw have shared a friendship since first meeting when Shaw started at SPL in 1986, and Laura was active in the Friends.

Shaw served first as Treasurer, then as Operations Manager, and finally as Director from 2002 until his retirement in January 2021. Under his tenure, SPL weathered several economic downturns, passed its first-ever successful levy, constructed the new Grove City Library, and expanded the Westland Area Library.

“There were a couple of serious financial crises during my first ten years as director, and Laura would frequently stop by my office to encourage me to keep fighting on. We talked often of her plan to donate money to the Grove City Library for “something special,” and even though a new Grove City Library seemed like an unattainable dream during those dreary years, Laura never lost hope or her vision of how to make the Grove City Library special.” Both held on to hope, and that vision became reality when the new Grove City Library and Harper’s Grove opened in 2016.

Johnson joined SPL in 1985 as a Reference Assistant, later becoming the head of Reference and Adult Services at Grove City, and finally Assistant Director at Grove City in 2015. Johnson retired in fall of 2020. She, like Laura and Mark, firmly believes libraries are more than just books. “Libraries are only incidentally about books and materials. Libraries are really about people: the people who need, love, and support them and those who work in them,” a philosophy that characterized all facets of her tenure, from her warmth, knowledge, and professionalism to her skillful orchestration of the monumental move of the Grove City Library from Park Street to Broadway.

ABOUT FREDERIC REMINGTON Frederic Remington (1861–1909) was an American painter, sculptor, illustrator, and author well-known for his depictions of the American Old West. “His subject matter offered a nostalgic, even mythic, look at a rapidly disappearing western frontier,” and he enjoyed high popularity and commercial success during his lifetime (metmuseum.org). His works continue to be popular today. A museum of his art is located in Ogdensburg, New York. Learn more on the websites of the Metropolitan Museum of Art or Frederic Remington Art Museum.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 11

CHAMBER EVENTS

Our 2022 Annual Meeting to celebrate our members is coming this month on February 23.

As in years past, the event will take place at the ballroom at The Pinnacle beginning at 7 am with breakfast; we will wrap up by 9 am.

In between, we will share our accomplishments from the past year, recognize members of our boards, and recognize various members including our awards.

We look forward to gathering again to celebrate and hope you and members of your team will join us that morning. Follow this link to register: https://tinyurl.com/GCACCAM22 We want to recognize our sponsors who are on board to support us: OhioHealth, Sanderson Automotive Repair, and Sedgwick.

The awards we’ll present include the Spirit of the Chamber, Heartland Heart of the Chamber, Volunteer of the Year (a new award this year), the Ambassador of the Year, and Business of the Year. The first two awards are determined by the Chamber and presented to members who have essentially gone above and beyond to serve the Chamber and their fellow members in that year. Award winners will be announced at the Annual Meeting but read on to learn a little about each award and some great comments for Business of the Year nominees.

Spirit of the Chamber is described as “an annual award given to the person or company that best exemplifies the mission and values of the GCACC and has in some way improved the Business Community in Grove City.”

Heartland Bank Heart of the Chamber is described as “an annual award given to the company that has made a generous contribution to the work of the Chamber; that being the contribution of time, resources, volunteers or finances.”

Business of the Year differs in that it is voted on by you—members of the Chamber and members of our community, to celebrate our local businesses. We’ve had another great voter turn out which means like last time we’ve received some wonderful comments that were included with votes.

12 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

ANNUAL MEETING Like before, to maintain the surprise we’re excluding names from the comments though same might be “guess-able” in terms of the industry or perhaps general location. But if you ask us, many of these comments can apply to multiple Grove City area businesses!

“The staff has an unmatched work ethic. The minute you walk in you are a friend. They serve delicious, affordable food with a side of a sense of community.”

“Best atmosphere in Downtown Grove City. Employees are the best!”

“This business has done a tremendous throughout the pandemic and is worthy of this award for the great work they are doing for those in community that need support.”

“Very professional and excellent customer service and experience.”

“I like what they represent. We need more businesses like them to thrive in GC.” “This a homegrown business which brings a touch of urban hipness to Grove City. It allows our young people a trendy, fun place to work.”

“This business is quickly becoming a staple in the GC community. It is family owned, operated and oriented. The store is delightful and supports the community 100%.”

“Family business that treats its customers like family and has been part of our lives for over 50 years.”

“Fun relaxing place to meet and make friends. Owner is amazing and friendly.”

We hope to see you on Wednesday February 23 at the Annual Meeting where we’ll announce winners and celebrate another successful year!

Our Condolences We received many heartfelt comments from Business of the Year voters, and one struck us as ‘the’ one to not only reveal the business it was for (China Bell) but how to also honor the memory of Gary Shyu, who passed away in late December 2021. Gary was the owner of, and chef at, China Bell since 1988. He was a staple of the Grove City community in providing fantastic food, hospitality, and friendship.

We send our love to the Shyu family and the China Bell team and close with this Business of the Year voter comment left in honor of Gary: “Gary & Family always stepped up to help people and whatever cause they are passionate about. Grove City has lost a Super Star.”

Shyu, Gary 1958 - 2021

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 13

NATIONAL BUSINESS NEWS

Covid At-Home/Rapid Tests: Where to Get Them In March 2020, toilet paper and hand sanitizer were hard-to-find items, and now almost two years later everyone seems to be in search of the at-home Covid tests to help answer the question of “Flu, cold, or Covid?”

We may still have more questions than answers at times, but the at-home tests have become a handy tool as we navigate the latest leg of the pandemic. Because one of our many goals is to help you keep yourself, employees and families healthy and safe, we want to share some of the latest information in acquiring and paying for these tests.

Please note that what we share is what we know as of our ‘press time’ which is prior to this e-magazine’s February 1 publication date. With that in mind, we advise visiting the links provided where we anticipate the most up-to-date information can be found.

• In late January the website covidtests.gov went live as place for Americans to request rapid tests free of charge. There is some fine print— this is currently limited to four tests per address and could take close to two weeks to ship. If interested in this option, visit www.covidtests. gov for the most current details and any additional fine print.

• On January 15, private insurers became required to reimburse rapid Covid tests purchased at locations such as pharmacies. Considered over-the-counter tests (as opposed to a test ordered by a healthcare provider), insurance providers will reimburse either the cost of the test, or up to $12 toward covering the test. There is a limit of eight tests per person, per month. There is no retroactive reimbursement for tests purchased prior to January 15, such as any purchased out of precaution for the holidays. It would be advisable to double check the process with your insurance provider before purchasing as the coverage/reimbursement process will likely vary by provider.

• Franklin County Public Health is doing all they can to meet rapid test demands. As of writing this, there were no updates to share (aka, no tests in stock to distribute), but their website devoted to rapid tests is full of information on the tests and plans for distribution: https://vax2normal.org/at-home-rapid-test-kits/ Again, we stress visiting the above links, and others, along with researching insurance providers to make sure you have the most accurate information that is also specific to your situation.

Additional sources: https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-free-rapid-covid-19-test-federal-government-2021-12 https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/shopping/2022/01/14/covid-tests-insurance-reimbursement/6518277001/ 14 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

LOCAL NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT We wanted to start highlighting some of our non-profit or civic organization members in our e-magazine so that you can learn about them and see how you (or your family, or your employees!) can become involved with them and our community.

Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce

Did you know we’re a non-profit? We are! We love having you as a member, but also want to make sure you’re aware of some of the volunteer opportunities available throughout the year—it’s never too early in the year to plan! Sign ups will be open when we get closer to the events, but we always need volunteers for our Farmers’ Market Saturdays, the Chamber Open golf outing in July, and Arts in the Alley in September. Keep an eye on the newsletter to see when the sign-up sheets are live, or give the office a call (614-875-9762) to learn more.

Mid Ohio Food Collective

MOFC has the task of feeding thousands of Ohioans, which means they need many volunteers to make that mission possible! Volunteer shifts are small windows of time and different shifts can be suited to different sizes of groups or personal interest or ability. A variety of volunteer times and locations are available and sure to fit almost any schedule. Not sure about the ‘experience’? MOFC follows health and safety guidelines to the letter, and a shift is even considered a good time as it has regularly been voted the top volunteer opportunity in the Columbus area. Learn more about them here: https://mofc.org/

Grove City Community Club

The Grove City Community Club has a proud history that dates back to 1917 when community women came together to support the US troops in World War I. This means they’ll celebrate 105 years as an organization this year. Through various fundraisers, such as noodle sales, and outreach efforts they are able to support countless other organizations in the community, including but not limited to: Grove City Food Pantry, MASH, Relay for Life, Friends of the Library, and the Jackson Township Fire Department. They also have a scholarship program for high school seniors. Learn more about them here: https://www.grovecitycommunityclub.org/

Little Theatre off Broadway It’s not just NYC’s Broadway that has seen a return of live theatre… our own Little Theatre off Broadway, located on Broadway in Grove City’s Town Center, is back with a full schedule of shows for 2022!

The current season began in September 2021 and will run through July 2022.

Each season consists of six shows—two comedies, two dramas, and two musicals.

Shows already completed for the season are: The Odd Couple, All Together Now, and Dearly Departed. To enjoy the full season, and support the theatre all season, season ticket/membership opportunities are available: https://ltob171907520. wpcomstaging.com/season-ticket-information/ Beginning at the month is a musical favorite of many—Grease. The production will run from Feb. 25-March 13. This should be an exciting opportunity for all involved, and a wonderful opportunity for the community to come out and enjoy an in-person show again with lots of familiar music.

After Grease’s run, still to come shows are: Bonnie and Clyde (a musical), and Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express (a drama/ mystery). After a spring construction break, Bonnie and Clyde will run from mid-May to the end of May. Murder on the Orient Express will conclude the 2022 season with a mid-June through early-July run.

For ticket information for the upcoming production of Grease, or any other show, visit: https://ltob171907520.wpcomstaging.com/season/ Ticketing has gone digital, but LTOB is happy to assist patrons with ticketing needs—feel free to reach out to them via their website, or also their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LTOBGroveCity/ The Little Theatre off Broadway has countless ways to become involved, as well! As mentioned, the season ticket holder and membership is one way to show support of the productions throughout the season. Those interested in being involved in a production are encouraged to visit the auditions web site: https://ltob171907520.wpcomstaging.com/auditions/ The Theatre also looks for other volunteers to assist on show night. Those opportunities will be found on their Facebook page (@LTOBGroveCity) Using the same handle/username, the Theatre is also on Instagram where behind-the-scene peeks are given.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 15

EXCLUSIVE offer for members of the Grove City Chamber of Commerce Get noticed with an ad in both print and digital advertising, in the new Grove City Chamber Community Guide!

Dear Chamber Member: The Grove City Chamber of Commerce and chamber member, NovoPrint USA, Inc., will be collaborating on a new community guide publication for 2022-2023.

The 2022-2023 community guide will reflect our growth and showcase our beautiful, progressive community! We are on the leading edge of business, education, health care, transportation and economic development. This guide is a great tool to communicate information about your business to residents, other businesses and visitors to our community.

As an advertiser, your business will reach thousands through a low-cost-per-view advertising and will be positioned as a community leader and a community supporter.

In addition to printed distribution, this guide will also be available in digital form, hosted online by NovoPrint. It will also be showcased on the Chamber’s website. This digital copy will give your business added views, more exposure and further extending your advertising message. View the previous publication here: http://www.novoprint.com/grovecityohezbook.html Lori DeLaus will begin sales in person in March 2022, however if you want to reserve space now please call Lori at 585-7373655 or email her at lori@novoprint.com. Save the date and get your business noticed and keep it successful!

Thank you for your continued Chamber support.

Warm Regards,

Shawn Conrad

Executive Director • Grove City Chamber of Commerce

Lori DeLaus,Vice President of Business Development (585) 737-3655 : lori@novoprint.com

RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES

SWACO 2022 Grant Program We want to make sure you are as informed as possible about the many opportunities we share with you across our variety of platforms. Below is more information about the 2022 SWACO Grant Program, which was recently mentioned in our email newsletter.

SWACO is now accepting applications for the 2022 Event Waste Reduction Grant (EWRG) program.

Grant applications will be accepted until Friday, August 5, 2022, before 5:00 p.m SWACO continues to support state and local government orders and advisories and encourages safe social distancing at all gatherings to reduce and prevent the spread of COVID. We understand the uncertainty that some events may still be experiencing during this time. Therefore, we are continuing to offer a modified Event Waste Reduction Grant (EWRG) program to help Franklin County events reduce waste and increase diversion at public gatherings.

The modified grant application cycle provides a flexible application submission timeline. Submitted applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis for in-person events occurring in 2022 that are open to the public. Funding is available to help support the establishment or expansion of waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and diversion-related outreach, promotion, and education activities.

Interested event planners are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to contact Kristi Higginbotham, SWACO Programs Administrator at: grants@swaco.org before drafting an application to discuss the timeline and proposed activities.

Please visit SWACO’s EWRG webpage at https://www.swaco.org/190/Event-Waste-Reduction to download the 2022 application today!

The Rest of the Story: Further Details on Newsletter Opportunities Ever see an item in our Chamber Weekly Connection newsletter and you’re just not sure if it’s for you? Then keep reading because in the next so-many paragraphs we’re going to expand on some of the common business resources shared in our newsletter issues.

First up, if you or a colleague need to subscribe or otherwise update your email in order to receive the weekly newsletter, reach out to our office so we can best accommodate this.

TechCred What is it?

In its own words, “TechCred helps Ohioans learn new skills and helps employers build a stronger workforce with the skills needed in a technology-infused economy. Many of these trainings can be completed online! These technology-focused credentials take a year or less to complete and prepare current and future employees for the technology jobs Ohio employers need.” TechCred puts your employees in touch with the continuing education they need to best perform their duties, and then reimburses you (the employer) for the course(s).

Who is it for?

Just about anyone in some sort of technical job could be involved—the employee as the one seeking the training, and the employer making the connection and eventually being reimbursed. This link shows the fields and industries that offer credentials: https://techcred.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ techcred/about/credential-list Important upcoming dates: As we write this, TechCred Round #12 will have closed in January and no set schedule has been provided yet for additional rounds. We encourage you to keep an eye on our newsletters for future application rounds, or follow along on TechCred’s website: https://techcred.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ techcred/home

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 17

RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES CORRE Virtual Hiring Event What is it?

This virtual hiring event is essentially as it describes itself on the website: The Central Ohio ReEmployment & Resource Virtual Hiring Event was designed to provide you an opportunity to connect with businesses that have available positions and are ready to hire all without leaving the comfort of your home.

Who is it for?

Not just for those seeking employment, the CORRE Virtual Hiring Event is always seeking employers who are hiring and looking for new ways to share their jobs and find their next great employees.

Important upcoming dates: February’s event will occur toward the end of the month, Thursday Feb. 24- Saturday Feb. 26. Registration for job seekers will begin Tuesday Feb. 22. Registration for those looking to hire does not have an exact deadline.

Employers should email businessservices@omjcfc.org Anyone seeking additional information should visit: https://www.omjcfc.org/corre

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation What is it?

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is Ohio’s workers’ compensation providing medical and compensation benefits, but also education and resources to promote workplace health and safety.

The materials from BWC most commonly included in our weekly newsletters are their various safety updates, continuing education opportunities, and information on the Better You Better Ohio—a health and wellness program.

Who is it for?

Anyone whose job responsibilities include workers’ compensation, employee safety, or employee health and wellness will want to pay special attention to items we send from BWC. Important upcoming dates: As of writing this, BWC has not released February (or further out) dates for webinars or other educational events. Keep up with our newsletter where we’ll share these specifics.

Sedgwick What is it?

Sedgwick is the GCACC’s partner in Workers’ Compensation needs. In short, they are able to save you money and headaches when it comes to many of your worker compensation needs.

In addition to coverage, Sedgwick also provides a variety of health and safety educational items.

This includes webinars and also informative PDFs and newsletters.

Who is it for?

Like BWC, anyone whose job responsibilities include workers’ compensation, employee safety, or employee health and wellness will want to view items from Sedgwick. We also encourage the decision makers of a business to view everything Sedgwick can offer so that you can make the most of your Chamber membership and the discounts that come with it.

Important upcoming dates: Enrollment deadlines will be very important for those looking to utilize Sedgwick’s services. We will share those dates in future newsletters when they become available or closer. In the meantime, we encourage anyone interested in learning more about Sedgwick and what they can do for their business to contact our rep Julia Bowling via email at julia.bowling@sedgwick.com Additional Information: Occasionally we will also share details of programs or webinars offered through Ohio’s Department of Development. They have many programs and initiatives operating, but we do our best to share in the newsletter what looks to be of most importance to our members. We do encourage you to check out the Department of Development’s website to get a feel for what they offer: https://development.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ development/home 18 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

VOTING OPENS: MARCH 1

H E A LTH C A R E Achievement Awards 2022

The Best of Business poll shines a light on the insurance companies, restaurants, law firms, dentists, florists, educational institutions, orthopedists and so many more who have earned the admiration of the Columbus community.

It’s the magazine's longest-running and most far-reaching recognition program, as well as the only one in which readers get the final say. We salute the top three vote-getters in each of more than 80 categories Voting closes: April 30, 2022

Every year, we celebrate the people at the heart of our health care institutions with the Healthcare Achievement Awards. In this program, we honor outstanding medical providers, dedicated health care administrators, innovative medical research projects, unique wellness initiatives and selfless volunteers. To learn about our 2022 award winners, visit columbusceo.com/awards

Leaderboards

We rank the region’s companies and organizations Online Degree Programs (March issue) Family Law Firms (April issue)

For advertising information call Columbus CEO at

614-888-4567 or email advertise@ColumbusCEO.com.

To subscribe visit ColumbusCEO.com.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 19

HR ESSENTIALS

Recruiting Best Practices

by Rachel Kutay from My Business Resource

The process of recruiting has had many shifts over the years. We’ve come a long way from taking out a classified ad and waiting for resumes to be mailed. Despite the technology available to both candidates and employers, recruiting seems harder than ever! Why? We’re currently living in the time period called The Great Resignation. Beginning in 2018, a period of massive job switching began, especially affecting women, tech and healthcare industries, and management. Month after month in 2021, record numbers of workers handed in their resignations. And even those who haven’t quit are thinking about it. In one recent study, 57% of workers responded that they were thinking about leaving their jobs in the next year.

What does all of that mean? It’s time for a reality check: there are simply not enough candidates to fill our open positions.

As an employer, if you’re “winging it” in today’s job market, you’re losing. Successful recruiting is much more than posting a position and praying that the right person applies for it. It requires a combination of human connection, communication skills, intuition, and technology to be successful.

How do we bring a human connection to recruiting? First, remember that resumes are not people. They often don’t tell us the whole story.

The “rules” some of us are using to screen resumes are no longer applicable. Resumes don’t have to be just one page. A gap in someone’s work history doesn’t mean they’re a job hopper. Take the time to get to know the person on the other side of the resume and hear their story.

Applicant tracking systems allow us to customize our hiring processes and save time and money by integrating with job boards, career sites, and social media. Having this technology alone though doesn’t automatically result in filling open positions. If your system isn’t mobile friendly, candidates quickly abandon the application process. Nothing is worse as a job seeker than uploading a resume and then having to re-type all of the same information again. Apply to one of your own jobs to really understand the point of view of a candidate. Ask yourself: How long did it take? Were you able to apply on your phone? Did you get a response when you finished? How did it feel? You might be surprised at the answers!

Finally, remember that recruiting is a team sport! When recruiting falls just on one person the process and experience can suffer. Develop a recruiting process for your company with your team, and train everyone involved on what kind of questions to ask and how to objectively evaluate candidates. Refresh yourself on what questions are legal to ask in an interview or on an application. Collaboration internally will pay off with better hires that take less time!

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Rachel will presenting at our March 2nd breakfast Power Hour on the topic of Recruiting Best Practices. Come prepared to discuss and gain practical solutions that will work for today’s workforce.

POWER HOUR

We’re putting the power behind educating and exchanging ideas, which is why we’re launching the Power Hour session this year.

In these one-hour sessions, members will come together for education, information, and the exchange of ideas. Topics will be a variety of areas but ultimately support the growth and development of your business.

Our first for 2022 is February 2 where we will welcome Gary Sigrist to present “Types of Workplace Harassment and Employee Bullying”. Gary is a nationally-recognized speaker on the topic of workplace violence and similar matters. He is local to the Grove City area and has over 30 years of experience in the fields of safety, security, and education. As a presenter, he is now able to blend all of those areas together to give others the tools to operate in a safe environment.

We look forward to what Gary shares in this first Power Hour and what unique questions and perspectives our members will bring for him to address. We want all in attendance, whether this Power Hour session or another, to leave with tools, tips, and resources to best serve them, their employees, and businesses.

Future topics will be announced on our website, in the newsletter, and even on our social platforms. If you have a topic you’d like to learn about, or would like to present, the Chamber would love to hear from you. Reach out to the office at (614) 875-9762, or email Executive Director Shawn Conrad, shawn@ gcchamber.org

Continued from page (11)... Library receives gift of Remington sculpture in honor of retired Director and Assistant Director ABOUT FRIENDS OF SOUTHWEST PUBLIC LIBRARIES The Friends of Southwest Public Libraries is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that supports the mission of Southwest Public Libraries through conducting fundraising, volunteer work, and public awareness efforts in the community on behalf of the library. Connect with the Friends through their website friendsofswpl.org or Facebook page.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST PUBLIC LIBRARIES Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) serves southwest Franklin County and surrounding areas through its two branches, Grove City Library and Westland Area Library. SPL seeks to serve as the community’s center for lifelong learning by connecting visitors with resources, technology, and programs to educate and inspire. The library system provides access to millions of items through a consortium partnership with 17 central Ohio libraries and is currently offering an array of both in-building and no-contact services to serve the community safely and innovatively.

Visit www.swpl.org for more information or connect with SPL on social media: Facebook @SPLFranklinCountyOH and Instagram @ southwestpl.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 21

LOCAL MEMBER NEWS

American Nitrile launches U.S.-based nitrile glove manufacturing business in Grove City, Ohio Last fall, American Nitrile launched right here in Grove City and produced the following release for the occasion. We look forward to watching their progress and welcoming them, and other manufacturing jobs, into our community and Chamber.

To help meet the surging demand for medical and non-medical latex-free nitrile gloves, American Nitrile, a newly launched Columbus, Ohio-based company, is building the most advanced U.S. manufacturing facility dedicated to producing nitrile gloves for healthcare, government and industrial use. Production at the 527,000-square-foot industrial facility in Grove City, OH, a southwest suburb of Columbus, is expected to begin early 2022, creating 400 new jobs.

“American Nitrile is fulfilling a critical and rapidly growing need for medical and non-medical nitrile gloves made in the United States, while reducing our country’s vulnerability to the supply chain disruptions experienced during the pandemic. COVID-19 was a catalyst, but demand for nitrile gloves extends far beyond immediate needs,” said Jacob Block, founder and chief executive officer of American Nitrile.

“American Nitrile’s launch of its new manufacturing facility in Columbus is an example of enterprising Ohioans seizing the unprecedented opportunity to on-shore PPE production and rebuild the U.S. supply chain here at home,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “This cutting-edge facility will create hundreds of new advanced manufacturing jobs and produce essential medical gloves stateside with homegrown Ohio talent.”

High demand for nitrile gloves.

“Our research shows that demand for nitrile gloves will continue to grow post-COVID-19 not only in healthcare but also in hospitality, retail and other sectors. We have multi-year customer contracts in place and look forward to being the supplier of choice for healthcare, government and industrial,” Block said.

Demand for surgical gloves continues to grow By material, the global medical nitrile gloves market dominates with 54.6% market share, primarily due to its increased usage in medical applica-

22 | CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021

tions, according to a report by Research and Markets. The global nitrile gloves market was valued at $5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.1% through 2027 reaching $9.4 billion, according to a report by Grand View Research.

Nitrile is made from Nitrile Butadiene Rubber, a synthetic substance with an allergy-safe compound and similar feel to latex. Nitrile gloves are more cost-effective, provide superior comfort, and are up to three times more puncture-resistant than latex gloves.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased global glove demand, resulting in critical shortages. U.S. medical facilities and businesses across industries are dependent on foreign suppliers. Most glove manufacturing occurs in Malaysia with other suppliers based in the Asia Pacific region. Less than one percent of U.S. demand for nitrile gloves is produced domestically according to IndustryWeek.

Advanced and sustainable manufacturing To streamline and kickstart production, American Nitrile has secured an exclusive North America partnership with Luster Industries (LTER.KL), a publicly listed, global industry leading OEM with responsibility for sourcing, manufacturing, installing, and maintaining the product lines. American Nitrile has strong partner relationships in place for sourcing raw materials and other production requirements.

American Nitrile’s manufacturing facility will leverage Industry 4.0 principles, including machine-to-machine communication, to increase automation and self-diagnosis. In addition to reducing carbon footprint by eliminating the need for transpacific vessels for shipping, the American Nitrile facility will also employ sustainable manufacturing processes that will revolutionize industry sustainability standards, including a state-ofthe-art water reclamation process that recycles 50% of wastewater.

Funding for Phase One operations secured American Nitrile has raised capital from strategic investors and is proceeding with retrofitting its Grove City production facility, which was formerly a warehouse, and upgrading utilities for advanced machinery. The company expects to have all 12 lines of Phase One running in 2022, with additional phases planned over the next three years. Phase One production is expected to yield up to 40,000 gloves per hour per line, or approximately 3.6 billion gloves per year. This will be more than any other domestic nitrile glove production facility.

American Nitrile has also secured assistance from JobsOhio in the form of a $3.5 million Economic Development Grant for fixed asset investments and infrastructure and is participating in a Talent Acquisition Services program managed by JobsOhio on behalf of the company. JobsOhio is a private nonprofit corporation designed to drive job creation and new capital investment in Ohio through business attraction, retention and expansion.

“Ohio is the ideal location for our first manufacturing facility, with its talented and educated workforce. Columbus has national prominence as a distribution and logistics hub. I’m originally from Columbus and proud to be bringing jobs back to the United States and particularly to the Midwest,” Block said.

“We are truly pleased to welcome American Nitrile to our community. Grove City supports the mission to reduce reliance on imported PPE,” said Grove City Mayor Richard L. “Ike” Stage. “Our long-standing partnership with the Governor, JobsOhio, One Columbus and now American Nitrile, is one we respect and value.”

About American Nitrile American Nitrile is a Columbus, Ohio-based privately held company focused on manufacturing medical and non-medical latex-free gloves for healthcare, government and industrial use. The company will manufacture approximately 3.6 billion nitrile gloves per year when fully functional in 2022. For more information, visit our website at www.americannitrile.com.

CHAMBER BUSINESS CONNECTION OCT 2021 | 23

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