The Chamber
Chatter
Member News & Information September/October 2012
Providing Leadership and Opportunity for business
2012 Officers Scott Mayes, Chairman
Going the Extra Mile Leads to Success Business of the Year 2012
Comcast Spotlight
By Dorothy Kennedy
Timothy R. Jefferis, Chairman-Elect TD Bank
Chris Tolsdorf, Vice Chairman Tolsdorf Oil Lube Express
Rob Partridge, Secretary WC Area School District
Donna Urian, Treasurer Fischer Cunnane & Associates, Ltd.
Mike Brown, Past Chairman KMRD Partners, Inc
Board of Directors Mary Bigham WCDish.com
Bryan Brockson EDiS Construction & Development
Thomas Ciccarone Parkway Dry Cleaners
John J. Cunningham, IV Lamb McErlane PC
Ronald K. DellaVecchia DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc.
In addition to working on over 550 cars a month, Dave, Laura and Jonathan Aloisio and the staff of Dave’s Automotive Repair Enterprise (DARE), West Chester go above and beyond when it comes to providing customer service and being involved in the community. This ability to cover all the bases when it comes to customer satisfaction is the reason the business has been successful for over 35 years. It’s also the reason the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce
Guy T. Dunn 1-800-905-GEEK / Geeks on Call
Mark Ernest Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union
Thomas Gavin
For the Love of West Chester Volunteer of the Year 2012
The Chester County Hospital
Liz Golding 1N Bank
Nicole Grebloskie Arthur Hall Insurance
Bruce Griffin YMCA – West Chester Area
Frank Jacquette Jacquette Consulting, Inc.
Mell Josephs Student Services, Inc. West Chester University
Jeannie McGinn McGinn Marketing Works
Arlene McGranaghan Daily Local News
Patrick McKenna, Esq. Gawthrop Greenwood, PC
Andrew McMenamin DNB First
Brian Miller Mars Drinks North America, LLC
Marisa Powell Pietro’s/Nonna’s Restaurants
www.greaterwestchester.com
(GWCC) named DARE its 2012 Business of the Year. The award, presented annually to a Chamber member for outstanding achievement in the business community and the Greater West Chester community-at-large, will be presented at a luncheon to be held Oct. 16, 2012 at Penn Oaks Golf Club. “DARE is an outstanding business in so many ways,’’ said Mark Yoder, GWCC president. “The Aloisio Family knows how to do it all from taking care of cars, to taking care of customers, to caring about the community. They do it all and do it all well. The Chamber is proud to recognize them for their ongoing continued to page 11
If you’re searching for a definition of “labor of love,” look no further than Todd Marcocci and Amy Walp, of Under the Sun Productions and the MARS Drinks Old Fashioned Christmas Parade. Todd and Amy began volunteering in 2005 to make the annual parade a must-see event in downtown West Chester as a way to give back to the community. First, they focused on the Christmas tree. Then, it was new floats, including a breathtaking ride for Santa. In 2006,
By Dorothy Kennedy Under the Sun Productions began producing the parade itself all on a volunteer basis. Since then, attendance at the parade has grown from about 5,000 spectators to over 20,000. In 2009, USA Today listed the parade as one of the Top 10 Holiday events in the nation. For their ongoing efforts on behalf of West Chester and the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, Todd and Amy will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award for 2012. The award will be presented at a luncheon on Oct. 16, 2012 at Penn Oaks Golf Club. In nominating the pair, Chamber continued to page 13
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Binder & Canno Bret M. Binder 803 W. Market St. West Chester, PA 19382 484-648-1814; Fax 610-480-8479 info@bindercanno.com www.bindercanno.com Attorney
Jay Gundel & Associates, Inc. Mr. Jay Gundel 300 Foulk Rd., Suite 1A Wilmington, DE 19803 302-658-1674; Fax 302-658-4079 jay@jaygundel.com www.jaygundel.com Advertising
Clothes Mentor Chris Barnett 1369 Wilmington Pike West Chester, PA 19382 610-455-1500 cmwestchester@gmail.com www.facebook.com/clothesmentorwestchesterpa Consignment
Hotel Warner Ms. Lisa Stephens 120 N. High St. West Chester, PA 19380 610-692-6920 gm@hotelwarner.com www.hotelwarner.com Lodging
Delaware Valley Business Referral Group Mr. Tom Mann c/o Penn Office Products 510 E. Barnard St., #24 West Chester, PA 19382 917-834-4104 info@TheDVBRG.com www.TheDVBRG.com Membership Organization
New York Life Mr. Zachary Jardine 555 E. City Ave., Suite 800 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 610-660-7600 zrjardine@ft.newyorklife.com Insurance
Devon Financial Partners, LLC Mr. Billy Muldowney 744 W. Lancaster Ave., Ste. 235 Wayne, PA 19087 610-293-8319; Fax 610-293-8399 billy_muldowney@devon-financial.com www.devon-financial.com Financial Services Fieldhouse Wellness Mr. Frank Brady 255 Great Valley Pkwy., Suite 140 Malvern, PA 19355 610-981-6400; Fax 610-981-6402 info@fieldhousewellness.com www.fieldhousewellness.com Chiropractor Fig West Chester / Moxie House LLC Ms. Deborah Brandt 153 E. King St., Suite 212 Lancaster, PA 17602 717-394-7737 deborah@moxiehouse.com www.figwestchester.com Publishers (Print or Online) Four Seasons Lawn Management Mr. Joe Fanning 200 W. Hilltop Rd. West Chester, PA 19382 610-306-8730 4Csonsmgt@gmail.com Lawn Service Ms. Danielle Friel 400 Devon Dr. Exton, PA 19341 610-620-5928 daniellefriel@gmail.com Marketing/Public Relations
Massage Envy Spa, West Chester Ms. Kate Diffenderfer 1107 West Chester Pike West Chester, PA 19382 610-701-4300; Fax 484-905-5090 kate.diffenderfer@massageenvy.com www.massageenvy.com Massage Therapy Service Roots Cafe Mr. Daniel Cellucci 8 W. Gay Street West Chester, PA 19380 484-887-8290 info@rootscafewc.com www.rootscafewc.com Restaurant/Cafe Take Shape For Life / Medifast Ms. Tina O'Brien 1007 Shiloh Rd. West Chester, PA 19382 610-389-3499 healthyhabits4life@verizon.net www.truenorth.tsfl.com Health Services & Products Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Mr. Gus Laserna 999 West Chester Pike West Chester, PA 19382 610-732-1078; Fax 866-967-4138 gus.laserna@wellsfargo.com www.guslaserna.com Mortgage Companies Chamber Staff Mark J. Yoder President
Dave Fairman Director of Membership
Maggie O’Neill Office Operations Director Bethany Henry Member Services Coordinator Chamber of Commerce of Greater West Chester 119 North High Street t: 610.696.4046 West Chester, PA 19380 f: 610.696.9110 www.greaterwestchester.com
September/October 2012
www.greaterwestchester.com
3
20 12
SUPER LAWYERS & RISING STARS
.BD&MSFF )BSWFZ JT QSPVE UP BOOPVODF UIBU TFWFO MBXZFST IBWF CFFO OBNFE BT ²4VQFS -BXZFST³ CZ 4VQFS -BXZFS NBHB[JOF BOE 1IJMBEFMQIJB .BHB[JOF *O BEEJUJPO UXP PG UIF ¾SNµT BUUPSOFZT IBWF CFFO OBNFE BT ²3JTJOH 4UBST³ JO UIF TBNF QVCMJDBUJPOT 8F XPVME MJLF UP DPOHSBUVMBUF UIF GPMMPXJOH .BD&MSFF )BSWFZ MBXZFST GPS UIFJS PVUTUBOEJOH SFDPHOJUJPO
#"$, 308 -&'5 50 3*()5
5JNPUIZ ' 3BZOF 4VQFS -BXZFS 5PQ 1IJMBEFMQIJB 5PQ 1FOOTZMWBOJB 1FSTPOBM *OKVSZ 1MBJOUJGG -BODF + /FMTPO 4VQFS -BXZFS 'BNJMZ -BX )BSSZ + %J%POBUP 4VQFS -BXZFS #VTJOFTT $PSQPSBUF 8JMMJBN 5 8JMTPO 4VQFS -BXZFS &NQMPZNFOU -BCPS
'30/5 308 -&'5 50 3*()5
,SJTUJO " .PMBWPRVF 3JTJOH 4UBS 'BNJMZ -BX .BSZ "OO 3PTTJ 4VQFS -BXZFS -BOE 6TF ;POJOH 8JMMJBN + (BMMBHIFS 4VQFS -BXZFS (FOFSBM -JUJHBUJPO -PVJT / 5FUJ 4VQFS -BXZFS &TUBUF 1-BOOJOH 1SPCBUF </PU 1JDUVSFE #SJBO - /BHMF 3JTJOH 4UBS -BOE 6TF ;POJOH >
²5IF PCKFDUJWF PG UIF 4VQFS -BXZFS EFTJHOBUJPO JT UP DSFBUF B DSFEJCMF DPNQSFIFOTJWF BOE EJWFSTF MJTUJOH PG PVUTUBOEJOH BUUPSOFZT UIBU DBO CF VTFE BT B SFTPVSDF GPS BUUPSOFZT BOE DPOTVNFST TFBSDIJOH GPS MFHBM DPVOTFM ³
Initiative in Practice®
4
www.greaterwestchester.com
8FTU $IFTUFS 8 .JOFS 4USFFU 8FTU $IFTUFS 1"
,FOOFUU 4RVBSF &BTU 4UBUF 4USFFU ,FOOFUU 4RVBSF 1"
%FMBXBSF ,FOOFUU 1JLF $FOUSFWJMMF %&
www.macelree.com
September/October 2012
Upselling and Maximizing Revenue By Steve Coscia On a recent business trip to Ohio, I drove across our beautiful state via the Pennsylvania Turnpike. During my first rest stop, on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I decided to buy a fresh cup of coffee. The woman who worked the food counter had a great sense of energy and enthusiasm – she was obviously a morning person. “How may I help you?� The pervasive aroma of brewing coffee, fresh-baked pastries, sizzling bacon and fried eggs filled the room and created an appetizing ambiance. When it was my turn I ordered my coffee, pulled a five dollar bill out of my wallet and as I handed over the money to the woman, she asked, “Would you like a breakfast sandwich - they’re fresh?� So there I stood cash in hand, in the presence of an upbeat person who invited me to taste the food which filled the room with its enticing aroma. A positive response added $2.50 to my total. After she handed me the coffee and breakfast sandwich, along with a nice “thank you,� I stepped to the side to add a little milk to my coffee. I overheard the next transaction in which a customer ordered a cup of coffee and sure enough, this woman made the same suggestion which resulted in another breakfast sandwich sale. This added another $2.50 to her cash register. Being curious, I waited in the lobby, ate my breakfast sandwich, and watched this counter person serve more customers. She sold an additional four breakfast sandwiches in about five minutes. This woman’s sense of timing was outstanding. She waited until a customer’s wallet or purse was out,
with cash in hand and then she asked her upselling question along with the value proposition, “They’re fresh.� Wow, I thought – that’s an additional $10.00 every five minutes which could translate into $120.00 an hour. As I walked back to my car, I remarked to myself that this woman understood how to upsell. For many professionals upselling is one of the least understood business behaviors, which can have a most dramatic impact on revenue and profitability. Opportunities to upsell abound in every business segment. When executed with courtesy and skill along with a good sense of timing, upselling can add significant revenue to orders. The key to upselling success is management’s reinforcement of the correct upselling behaviors. Steve Coscia (steve@coscia.com) of Coscia Communications writes, speaks and consults about customer service. His books, tapes and television appearances have helped thousands of business professionals.
(-"$ 3 +(25 $& + $04("$1 .0 (-%.0, 2(." ++
.0 4(1(2 !3"*+$5++/ ".,
'$12$0 300.3-#(-& .3-2($1
3-("(/ + 7 .-(-& -# 1$ 7 -4(0.-,$-2 + 7 ,(+5 (4.0"$ 7 12 2$ + --(-& #,(-(120 2(.- (++1 03121 7 $01.- + -)305 $#(" + +/0 "2("$ 7 ,,(&0 2(.- 230 +(6 2(.- 7 $2$0 -1 %% (01 7 (2(& 2(.- 7 0 -1 "2(.- + $& + 22$01
19 S. High St., West Chester, PA 19382 Fax: 610.436.0117 e:mrody@brandywineinsurance.com
0*$2 20$$2 3(2$ $12 '$12$0
September/October 2012
www.greaterwestchester.com
5
Educate.Enrrich.Empow Educate.Enrich.Empower p err Women dM Men the W omen o n and en of
Chester Chest err County! y
A unique way to market market your your presence presence in n tthe he ccommunity ommunity and and reach reach a targeted targeted consumer group. group.
In the next few months you will begin to see an exciting and dynamic new Chamber campaign Think.Shop.Buy.Local This valuable program will directly connect Chamber member businesses with customers and the community. Set to launch in early 2013, you will begin to see the Think.Shop.Buy.Local logo on a plethora of Chamber communications. If you would like to learn more about this exciting opportunity, please call the Chamber at 610-696-4046. Special thanks to the enthusiastic members of the Chamber's Marketing Committee for their hard work and dedication to creating this new offering from the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.
7KH :RPHQ¡ 7KH :RPHQ¡ R ¡VV -RXUQDO RɲHUV D SODWIRUP -RXU R UQDO RɲHUV D SOD Q DWIRUP WR PDUNHW \RXU EXVLQHVV WKURXJK WR PDUNHW \ RXU EXVLQHVV WKURXJK D KLJKO\ IRFXVHG HGXFDWLRQDO DQG D KLJKO\ IRFXVHG HGXF DWLRQDO DQGG LQIRUPDWLRQDO DSSURDFK LQIRUPDWLRQDO DSSURDFK K
Call 610.563.8644 toda today ay to share your eexpertise xpertisse County in this new Chester Co ounty publication. &KDPEHU PHPEHUV HQMR\ D Äą GGLVFRXQW RQ DQG IXOO SDJH DGV &KDPEHU PHPEHUV HQMR\ D Äą GLVFRXQW RQ DQG IXOO SDJH DGV ÄŤ LVVXH PLQLPXP UHTXLUHGÄŹ ÄŤ LVVXH PLQLPXP UHTXLUHGÄŹ
www.womensjournalcc.com www .women nsjournalcc.co om
Chamber Chatter Radio Show Every Tuesday @ Noon Listen At: www.brandywineradio.com
Family Owned Since 1976
Do you want to be on the radio? Let us know!
Chamber President, Mark Yoder
DAREAUTO.COM
Sponsored By:
301 S. Bolmar Street West Chester, PA 19382 /UR 3ERVICES )NCLUDE 0! 3TATE %MISSIONS )NSPECTION s (EATING !IR #ONDITIONING s /IL ,UBE &ILTER #HANGES "RAKES 4UNE 5PS s !LIGNMENTS s 0REVENTATIVE -AINTENANCE s &OREIGN $OMESTIC #ARS 3AME $AY 3ERVICE s ,OCAL 3HUTTLE 3ERVICE s "ELTS (OSES s #OMPLETE %NGINE !SSEMBLY %NGINE $IAGNOSTICS s 3USPENSION 3YSTEMS s 4IRE 3ERVICES s &ULL 3ERVICE -ACHINE 3HOP
6
www.greaterwestchester.com
September/October 2012
GOLF MEMBERSHIP WINNERS The Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with Applecross Country Club to offer renewing members an opportunity to win a Casual Golf Membership at Talamore and Applecross Country Clubs. All current members are eligible to win during the month they renew their membership. The drawings will continue each month through December 2012. CONGRATULATIONS to the following businesses who were picked in a lottery drawing of Chamber businesses that renewed their memberships in June and July 2012: Ms. Jane Antley, CPA Ms. Megan Breen Aquaterra Technologies, Inc. Mr. Ross Weidman Barclay Friends Mr. Frank Herron Barnaby's West Chester Dr. Mary Harris Cabrini College Mrs. Laura Carlino Carlino's Market Mr. Kevin Kelly Chester County Running Store Mr. Glenn D'Ascenzo D'Ascenzo's Gelato Mr. Sean Kerchner Fed Ex Ground Mr. Richard Stiebritz Fischer Cunnane & Associates, Ltd.
September/October 2012
Ms. Brigette Milligan Fox Chase Bank Mr. Jack Enright Fred Beans Ford Lincoln Mercury of West Chester Mr. Mike Trotman The Goddard School / West Chester Mr. Ian McGann I.M. Construction Ltd. Mr. Marty Gruszka Legacy Wealth Management Mr. JB Braun Main Line Today Ms. Dana Brown National Penn Bank Mr. Joe Stratton Stratton's Wynnorr Farm Ms. Mary Bigham WC Dish LLC Mr. Rob Partridge West Chester Area School District
www.greaterwestchester.com
7
Audit planning for businesses and non-profits Audit planning is not just for accountants. It is important that our clients understand and participate in the planning and performance of the audit. We plan the audit to use our time efficiently and to minimize the disruption to your employees and office processes. I have outlined below ways to help us perform an efficient audit. • The attitude at the top is key. If leadership see’s the audit as a waste of time or inconvenience, it can be more difficult to obtain information we need. Employees should identify the audit not only as a necessary process, but one that can benefit the growth and development of the entity. • Take the time to meet with the lead auditor to discuss any changes since the prior year. This allows us to take into account any changes that need to be made to the audit plan before we arrive at your office. Changes in personnel, software changes or business process can all cause changes in the planned audit. • Let us know if you have any specific concerns. Much of our work depends on small samples and analysis. If we are aware of something that concerns you, we can direct extra attention to that area. • Review the item request list we provide. Make sure that the materials requested are available. If for
By Kathy Wileczek some reason something won’t be ready, let us know so we can plan around it and not have to duplicate or redo work. • Make sure the employees we need to work with will be available during our time at your office. This may mean coordinating vacations and other time off. If a key person is not available, it could cause wasted time for everyone. • Please give us adequate work space. It can be difficult to supervise the work of several staff while working in the middle of a busy office. Many of the documents we use are confidential and shouldn’t be in the open. • Informal conversations as the work progresses can be helpful to your existing processes. As outside observers, we notice the office environment, moral and work loads. We work with a variety industries, client sizes and software packages. The annual audit can be an expensive undertaking, in both your time and your company's money. However, the audit can be more of an investment than an expense if auditors are free to analyze and evaluate accounts and procedures, rather than preparing accounting-type schedules. This can be achieved only through preparation, coordination and cooperation among the teams involved in the audit. Kathy Wileczek, CPA (kwileczek@maillie.com) is with Maillie, Falconiero & Company, LLP. We are one of the leading regional accounting, tax and advisory firms in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Our client service philosophy has helped forge an excellent working relationship with our diverse client base.
Discover The Energy Savings With A Geothermal System Geothermal Experts
24/7 Emergency Service Available
Radiant Heat Instalation
Voted Best HVAC Company by DLN Readers
Mr. Slim Ductless AC by Mitsubishi NATETM Certified Technicians TRANE Comfort Specialist Preventative Maintenance Agreements
610-692-3900 8
www.greaterwestchester.com
www.bvhvac.com
PA031124
September/October 2012
Every part of the Harmony House, from the land it sits on to the landscaping in the yard has been donated by businesses in our community. The home is currently for sale and 100% of the proceeds from this sale will be divided between two West Chester homeless shelters ʹ Safe Harbor and Friends Association. We hope you will stop by and join us as we celebrate . RSVP: Glenda (610) 4313598 X219 (g.brion@friendsassoc.org) Your donation to Harmony House Project is greatly appreciated.
Thank you Jack Loew, Eli Kahn, Gary Toll and everyone who donated materials, labor and talents:
For more information about the sale of Harmony House and this project: DŝŬĞ DĐ ĂŝĚ͗ ͙͘͘ Mailto:Mike@MikeMcDaid.com www.MikeMcDaid.com Direct: 610.363.4869 www.harmonyhousewc.com
September/October 2012
www.greaterwestchester.com
9
How Self-Appraisals Help the Performance Review Experience By Peter R. Johnson of Peter R. Johnson & Company It’s that dreaded time of year again for supervisors and employees: time to complete Performance Appraisals. A performance appraisal is a constructive and uniform tool used to evaluate an employee’s performance and ability to meet pre-set goals. The appraisal is a two-way conversation between a supervisor and employee that results in an understanding of where the employee fits into the larger organization, what the employee has achieved, and a set of specific goals for the coming year that will enhance the organization and the employee’s role in it. The performance appraisal consists of mini-reviews, culminating in a larger discussion between the supervisor and employee. What is a simple way to facilitate this shared conversation? Many organizations utilize an Employee Self-Appraisal, which has pros and cons. The self-appraisal helps the employee prepare for the performance review by allowing the employee to self assess his/her accomplishments, critically evaluate his/her own performance, and help manage expectations, which may reduce the potential for conflict. Furthermore, the self-appraisal assists in making the performance review an open conversation. The supervisor and employee can discuss the similarities and differences between the two appraisals, facilitating a healthy discussion that motivates the employee and forms new common goals for the coming year. The Self-Appraisal System does have drawbacks. For example, the supervisor may use the self-appraisal, and only make small changes or not complete a separate performance appraisal. Another negative is the self-appraisal creates a potential misunderstanding between the employee and supervisor because the employee may believe the official performance appraisal represents a common agreement. However, the performance appraisal is the supervisor’s opinion on the employee’s quality of work, and the self-appraisal is an additional tool to qualify that opinion. Furthermore, employees with unrealistic expectations or inflated sense of performance will have an opportunity to exaggerate his/her opinion in writing. A report by the Beacon Group found that employees tend to overrate their abilities. From an anecdotal standpoint, however, in my personal experience, employees tend to be tougher on themselves when rating their performance. 10
www.greaterwestchester.com
Based on our experience, supervisors and employees should utilize a Self-Appraisal System. The employee should submit the self-appraisal in advance of the formal review meeting so the supervisor can refer to it, and use the similarities and differences as talking points during the discussion. The self-appraisal should have a space for the employee to make an informal list of accomplishments during the appraisal period. Finally, the supervisor must be trained on how to complete performance appraisals, and effectively communicate expectations, performance information, and consequences to the employee. The training will provide the supervisor with confidence in handling a potentially stressful situation, and allow the supervisor to help the employee create realistic goals and development plans for the next appraisal period. With these recommendations, the performance appraisal process need not be so terrifying. Peter R. Johnson & Company is a West Chester based compensation consulting firm that provides total compensation plan design and program management. Our experienced staff of compensation consultants enables Peter R. Johnson & Company to provide plan design, implementation support, and ongoing administrative services for all phases of a client’s total compensation program. For more information on this topic, reach us at www.prjandco.com or 610-436-6114.
September/October 2012
Going the Extra Mile Leads to Success continued page 1 success and commitment to the greater West Chester community.’’ A native of Brooklyn, NY, Dave Alosio grew up in Newark, NJ where his earliest ambition was to race cars. He joined the Marine Corps eight days after turning 17. While stationed in North Carolina he met his first wife, Linda, who was from Kennett Square. Trained as an architectural draftsman in the Marines, Dave worked for an architectural firm in Wilm., DE after moving to Chester County after getting out of the service. He ended up working in the racing world where he learned to fix cars by being around them. In 1976, he began repairing cars and rebuilding engines in his one-man automotive shop on Gay Street next to the D-K Diner. The business grew quickly and within eight months DARE moved to its current location on Bolmar and Union Streets. Dave’s son, Jonathan, started in the shop as a mechanic in 1987, working after class while he was still in high school. Daughter Laura came on board in 1998 to manage the business. Today, the family-owned and operated business includes 8 fulltime and 2 part-time employees. “We pride ourselves on personal service and customer satisfaction,” said Laura. “From oil changes to
complete engine overhauls, our skilled technicians are versed in all types of diagnostic and automotive repair. Our goal is to have all our customers feel like they are an extended part of our family.” DARE has always taken an active role in supporting local schools and organizations in particular the West Chester YMCA, where Dave now serves on the Board of Directors. DARE joined GWCC in 2009 and quickly began participating in a variety of events and programs including the Chamber’s Education Foundation, Golf Outing, Christmas Parade, $10Grand event and hosting and attending networking events. After learning of the award, Dave said he couldn’t have been more surprised or delighted. “It is an honor to be chosen as Business of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce,” he said. “Having Laura and Jonathan taking over the business has afforded me the time to do the things I always wanted to do as far as getting involved in the community and helping out. To me success is measured by what a company does for the community. I am truly honored to win this award and proud to be able to help out especially after being in the community for 37 years.”
Eric N. Shelly DMD Margaret Lee DMD Eric A. Fort DMD
-----------------------------------FREE EXAM & FREE X-RAYS Please mention this coupon when scheduling For new patients only ~ Offer Code: CCGWC
------------------------------------
~ Let our Family Serve Yours ~ Same Day/Early Morning/Late Evening Appointments! *Free Nitrous *Implants *Veneers * Root Canals *Invisalign *Dentures *Teeth Whitening * Same Day Cerec Crowns
www.WCDentalArts.com 403 N. Five Points Road September/October 2012
West Chester, PA 19380
610~696~3371 www.greaterwestchester.com
11
Thank You to Our Renewing Members in June & July 2012 Our members are the foundation of our organization. To honor them we would like to congratulate and thank those who renewed their membership in June and July 2012. Thank you for your ongoing support of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.
Members between 30 years or more West Chester Area School District Bliss & Company, Ltd., CPA'
20 - 29 years National Penn Bank William M. Dunleavy and Company Inc.
10 - 19 years Barclay Friends Radley Run Country Club Stratton's Wynnorr Farm RE/MAX Main Line - K. Galese Christian Science Reading Room Cape May Creations Delaware County Community College Maulo & Company, Ltd., CPA's The Hickman Main Line Today Jane Antley, CPA Internet Research and Development Charles A. Dulin Inc. Fred Beans Ford Lincoln Mercury of West Chester
John S. Clayton, D.O. Applecross Country Club Cabrini College First Liberty Partners, LLC Fed Ex Ground Timlyn Vaughan Photography
1 - 2 years Cakes and Candies by Maryellen Lisa Wolfe Music, LLC D'Ascenzo's Gelato Legacy Wealth Management The Honorable Dan Truitt Bridge of Hope / Lancaster & Chester Co. WC Dish LLC
3 - 9 years Giunta Enterprises, Inc. Jester & Saldivar Associates The West Goshen Goddard School Brandywine Ballet Company The Goddard School / West Chester Aquaterra Technologies, Inc. Connections Program, Elwyn, Inc. Fischer Cunnane & Associates, Ltd. Chester County Running Store Bonefish Grill Fox Chase Bank Back Office Thinking M&T Bank Barnaby's West Chester Carlino's Market AVE Downingtown Law Offices of David M. Melchiorre, LLC Sharples Works Apartments Jones Termite & Pest Control, Inc. I.M. Construction Ltd. 12
www.greaterwestchester.com
Cleaners
More –Šƒ� Œ—•– ”› Ž‡ƒ�‹�‰ x x x x x
—Ž–‹’Ž‡ ‘…ƒ–‹‘Â?• ‹…Â? Â’ ĆŹ ‡Ž‹˜‡”› ƒ‹Ž‘”‹Â?‰Ȁ Ž–‡”ƒ–‹‘Â? ‡”˜‹…‡• ƒ•Š ĆŹ ‘Ž† ƒ—Â?†”› ‡”˜‹…‡ And More...
September/October 2012
For the Love of West Chester continued page 1 Board member Mell Josephs highlighted their yearround volunteer commitment of time and talent to the event and the community. “What it takes to assemble an exciting and diverse representation of our community with a focus on audience reaction is extensive, year after year including the preplanning, the organizing and the set-up,” she said. “They do this not only as a labor of love for parades but for the love of this community.” “Under the Sun utilizes its own supplies and assembles an experienced team to operate/direct the parade itself,” Josephs continued. “Their contact with 6 ABC and the ABC celebrities is amazing. Todd and Amy have really put this event in the spotlight.” Marcocci, president of Under the Sun, is a native of Dudley, PA. He made West Chester his home after graduating from West Chester University in 1987. In 1998, he founded Under the Sun Productions, Inc. a full-service production company serving the special events, marching band, and color guard industries. Walp, a native of Dallas, PA, also came to WCU and never left. After working in an environmental science lab for several years and spending all her vacation days helping Todd with events, she came to work for Under the Sun in 1999 and is now its parade associate producer/project manager. Since it was established, Under the Sun has produced, co-produced or has assisted in coordinating various aspects of events near and far including the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade, National Cherry Blossom Parade, National Memorial Day Parade, National Independence Day Parade, Magnificent Mile Light’s Festival, Philadelphia’s Independence Day Parade, Hershey Centennial Parade, National Boy Scouts Centennial Parade, Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show,
Welcome America, Penn’s Landing New Year Fireworks, Disney Christmas Parade, Marian Anderson Award procession, Ridge and Rendell Gubernatorial Parades, and the Phillies’ World Champion-World Series Parade. Todd also served as segment producer for the Nicholas Cage Film “Lord of War” and also a Snapple commercial with famed director Spike Lee. Todd’s expertise in the marching band and color guard industry has been on display around the world in over 800 choreographed performances. Winning the award from the Chamber came as a complete surprise to Amy and Todd. "It has always been our intent to give back to the community with a huge gift of entertainment and excitement,” Marcocci said. "Each year, as we have witnessed the attendance grow, it certainly has been gratifying knowing our gift is unwrapped before so many eyes." “Giving back to our community was the driving force in assisting with the parade and tree lighting,” Walp said. “I consider it our gift to the town in which we live and work. It means so much to see people stop and take their picture by the tree or to see the endless rows of smiles on the kids’ faces at the parade each year.”
Local and accessible. Just like your small business. UÊ «Ài i à ÛiÊv > V > ÊÌ ÃÊÊÊÊ UÊ V> Ê`iV Ã Ê > }ÊÊ Ê ÊÊ UÊ* ÜiÀvÕ ÊÀià ÕÀViÃ Ê ÊÊ
Ask what we can do for YOUR small business! 9 convenient Chester & Delaware County Locations including our newest location in Exton!
$79 Tune-Up Special 835 Lincoln Ave. Unit A-1, West Chester 610.701.9020
fultonbank.com/SmallBiz
Fulton Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Member of the Fulton Financial Family.
*With this coupon only. Excludes oil systems. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 12/31/2012
13
www.greaterwestchester.com
September/October 2012
Drop the Dead Weight-- Fire the Slugs Never burn out your best people. It’s one of the most important things I’ve learned in business, and the one dirty little secret your employees won’t tell you—they’re tired of carrying dead weight co-workers who don’t produce, who drag down morale, and otherwise derail bottom line productivity. Work is hard enough, and frankly, they’ve been wondering when you would act. Firing the slugs is good for productivity, good for retention and, contrary to what some might believe, it’s also good turnover. Bad turnover is when key performers leave and your organization is left with a huge void that affects the performance of your entire organization, and your bottom line. This is not to say that ‘extra’ isn’t required of everyone these days, but you know who is an asset to your business and carrying a fair load, and who is not. Turnover is costly, and firing people is never fun. But sometimes it must be done for the good of the entire organization. Depending on which study you read, the impact of (bad) turnover ranges from three months of salary for low level employees, to as high as 400 percent of the annual salary of a senior person. That’s a lot of money—and a lot of experience—that walks out your door. To maximize your organization’s performance, make a conscious commitment to good retention practices. Here are five actions you can take to retain your best people and keep performance and morale high: 1. Fire the Slugs. Hold people accountable for their performance, and if that doesn’t solve the problem, terminate them with respect and dignity. Bonus: Your good performers will love you.
By Donna Saul 3. Clean House: Once you’ve identified the non-performers, and poor managers, make sure they are responding to training and showing significant improvement. If not, remove them and replace them with someone who does what is truly required for that position. If they are not responding, and there’s not another slot where they can be effective, remove them from your organization in a kind, professional manner. 4. Be Visible: Visibility drives retention, so walk around. Talk to your people, your customers, your suppliers, visit with supervisors, help your delivery trucks load and unload. You get the point. See what’s really going on, and be honest with yourself about what you hear and observe. Let your people know you are there and that you care. The point here is to lead by example. If your employees like you, they are less likely to leave you. 5. Care About Your People: Sounds simple but it doesn’t always happen. If you don’t care about your people, your bottom line will reflect that. Caring is the reason people stay. If you don’t, they won’t. It’s that simple. Donna Saul is a business strategist and consultant with a proven track record of success in working with business owners to increase sales, make more money, improve productivity and build a better bottom line. She can be reached at donna@donnasaul.com, or via the web at www.donnasaul.com.
2. Start Top-Down: Assess your supervisory and management team. More than 70 percent of employees say one of the worst things about their job is their boss, so find out what’s wrong and fix it. Identify the prima donnas, the untrustworthy, the micromanaging control freaks, the whiners, complainers, and blamers. Provide basic supervisory training and a plan to improve their performance continuously. As the one in charge, take ownership of this process and make it happen. Besides increasing sales, having the right employees in the right jobs doing the right things is fundamental to success.
September/October 2012
www.greaterwestchester.com
14
Longwood Goes Wireless! Supplied by Dorset Connects Have you been to Longwood Gardens recently? If not, what are you waiting for?!! There is a fabulous installation by British artist and light designer Bruce Munro. It only lasts through September 29th, so don’t put it off any longer! Be sure to call ahead as they have instituted timed ticketing and tickets can be limited during the evenings. You’ll want to go at dusk and be there in time as the sunlight fades and the lights come to life. There are several separate installations with different effects beginning near the Italian Water Garden to the right after you exit the visitor center. After the initial flower walk display, proceed to the meadow where you will come upon a dramatic field of “towers” made of hundreds of liter bottles filled with liquid and fiber optic cables that carry light, creating a wonderful panorama of colors. Mood music magically fills the air as you walk around, or sit along the meadow foliage soaking in the lights, music, and stars. Don’t forget to walk up toward the original du Pont house and check out the tree house and woods filled with a sea of 20,000 fixtures. As you walk along the exhibit, you may notice little signs that describe what you are seeing, and there may be a QR code – one of those new crazy squares that look like a small crossword puzzle. If you have a smartphone, you can download a free QR reader application and point it at the QR code on the sign to take you to a download link for the Longwood application for the Bruce Munro exhibit. My advice is to download the application BEFORE you go to the show. You don’t want to miss part of the show because you are fiddling with a download to your smartphone! Go to the app store now and search for “Longwood Gardens”. You will see the free “Light” application. Get it now and check it out! Then you can focus on the show while you are there instead of figuring out how to get the app on your phone. If you must play with your phone, you can get on the public wireless which is called “GardenWIFI”. Longwood is just starting to roll out wireless features, such as iPads for Docent use to enhance their ability to share information about the exhibits. You can also get iPods for rent. I’m sure you will see new creative 15
www.greaterwestchester.com
technology features for the wireless network coming out over time as more mobile devices are incorpo rated into the customer experience. Dorset Connects provided the wireless network and it was an extraordinary pleasure to work at this location. If you have any questions about wireless technology to enhance business operations, please let us know. There are many exciting applications available. PRE-HALLOWEEN BUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE AT DORSET CONNECTS OCTOBER 30, TUESDAY, 5:30-7:30PM Catered by Ted Pace's Brandywine Catering The Dorset House is haunted, cobwebs hanging Tombstones are rattling, rocking and clanging. Chamber members will shriek with scary delight When they see the surprises on this eve of fright night! 6 Station Way Road Chadds Ford, PA 19317 Dorset Connects office 484-845-1600 Follow the signs to the office because of one way streets. Office is behind the gas station across the street from Hank's Place at Rt. 1/100. 15 mins. from Chamber office robert.sparre@dorsetconnects.com. Dorset Connects offers complete IT and telecommunication management solutions that take the hassles out of managing and maintaining your critical IT systems. We’ll customize a support plan that is tailored to your environment and exceeds your support expectations. www.dorsetconnects.com
Briar photography When image counts.
610-296-8323 briarphotography.com
September/October 2012
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
BUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
,I \RX GRQ·W NQRZ DERXW WKH $UF of Chester County² I suggest you attend!
8
Labor Day
900 Lawrence Dr., West Chester
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
Rosh Hashanah
23
24
Wednesday, September 12 FREE for members $10 for non-members 5:30pm ~ 7:30pm
First Day of Autumn
25
26
27
28
29
30
7KHUH·V QR EXWWV DERXW LW Come be apart of ALN and help us clean up the cigarette butts that pollute downtown followed up by a happy hour.
COFFEE CONNECTION New facility³but not new to dentistry! Dr. Bekyan welcomes you to her office for coffee, light breakfast, and to meet other members.
1558 McDaniel Dr., West Chester Thursday, September 27 3:00pm³5:00pm
(located in Westtown Medical Plaza off of Route 3)
Thursday, September 20 7:45am ~ 9:00am MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON Tuesday, September 25
Congressman Jim Gerlach and Congressman Pat Meehan will join the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce at our September Luncheon to give us a federal legislative update. This is our opportunity to hear from the United States Congressmen from our area and ask them questions on what affects us and our businesses.
16
www.greaterwestchester.com
Concord Country Club 1601 Wilmington Pike, West Chester 11:45am ³ 1:00pm $25 for Members $35 for Non-Members
September/October 2012
Sun
Mon 1
7
Tue 2
8
9
Wed 3
10
Thu 4
11
Fri 5
12
Sat 6
GALLERY WALK
13
Friday, October 5 Downtown West Chester 5:00pm ~ 9:00pm
Columbus Day
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Come experience the West Chester Arts
COFFEE CONNECTION Come view this beautiful facility located right in Downtown.
28
29
30
31
Membership Luncheon Business and Volunteer of the Year This year we honor two recipients who have shown dedication to their business and community. Business of the Year
Volunteers of the Year Todd Marcocci & Amy Walp
400 N. Walnut St., West Chester Thursday, October 4 7:45am ~ 9:00am FREE for members $10 for General
BUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE The house is haunted, cobwebs hanging, tombstones are rattling, rocking , and clanging. Chamber members will shriek with scary delight when they see this eve of fright night. 6 Station Way Road, Chadds Ford
Tuesday, Oct. 16 Penn Oaks Golf Club 150 Penn Oaks Dr., West Chester 11:45am ~ 1:00pm $25 for Members $35 for General
September/October 2012
Tuesday, October 30 5:30pm続7:30pm FREE for members; $10 for General
www.greaterwestchester.com
17
We Mean Business.
Gawthrop Greenwood, PC Attorneys at Law
Call 610.696.8225 or visit us www.gawthrop.com
Business Law Banking & Finance Maritime Law Commercial Litigation
Legal services for businesses, governmental entities and individuals. 17 E. Gay Street Suite 100 P.O. Box 562 West Chester, PA 19381-0562 Phone: 610.696.8225 Fax: 610.344.0922 www.gawthrop.com 18
www.greaterwestchester.com
September/October 2012
Making a Difference For 60 Years! For 60 dedicated years, The Arc of Chester County has been the premier provider of programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As an integral part of the community and loyal Chamber member, The Arc serves more than 3,000 families every year. The organization proudly offers a wide arrange of services that support and empower individuals in each phase of their life, even preparing them to join the workforce. There are many powerful reasons why a Chamber member should consider hiring individuals with disabilities. Since 1985, The Arc has been opening doors to help adults with disabilities find jobs in the community through Comprehensive Employment Services (CES). These are real jobs in the hospitality, retail, automotive and other industries. CES is currently supporting more than 60 workers in the community, and last year, 32 adults were placed in new jobs. Carol Huyett, The Arc’s CES Director, shares a little about this unique partnership, “We seek to meet the needs of both the employees and employers by linking businesses with qualified, dedicated workers. Employers tell me that they are thrilled with the low turn-over rate they experience. CES has an impressive 98% job retention rate. Sam’s Club and Barclay Friends are two local businesses who
September/October 2012
actively support this employment opportunity. The big secret employers share with us is these individuals have great attendance and truly look forward to work. Employers also benefit from significant tax credit and deduction opportunities.” October is National Disability Awareness Month, but for The Arc of Chester County, employment for individuals with disabilities is a year-round focus. Hiring an individual with a disability can transform a workplace, give it a try. Call 610-696-8090 to learn more about The Arc’s services, or visit arcofchestercounty.org/getinvolved and find out how you can make a difference. GWCC CHAMBER BUSINESS CARD EXCHANGE It’s a Birthday Party! Enjoy catered food by Arianna’s, Beer & Wine & More Surprises Wed., Sept. 13 from 5:30-7:30pm At The Arc of Chester County 900 Lawrence Drive, West Chester, PA 19380, 610-6968090 RSVP to Bethany at 610-696-4046 or Bethany@gwcc.org
www.greaterwestchester.com
19
AN INTERNET CONNECTED DEVICE IN EVERY ROOM??? Since the early 1990’s the introduction of internet has continued to drastically impact varying modes of communication. In fact, it’s hard to believe what life was like prior to Google and Yahoo and, if you ask any teenager, the thought of not having internet is mind boggling. Studies conduced by iYogi Insights revealed that an average household of more than two members has as many as eleven internet connected devices! A number which will more than likely increase as new interconnected devices are introduced to the digital landscape. According to Phoenixville Chamber of Commerce member Guy Dunn, “an increase in technology will undoubtedly lead to an increased dependence on professional and reliable technology support.” The 5th largest franchise owner of Geeks on Call, Guy is an expert in technology and definitely knows what he is talking about, further stating that “there will be a heightened need for computer/network monitoring and remote support.” For this reason, consumers will undoubtedly benefit from a comprehensive suite of tech support options such as: remote support calls, preventive maintenance and monitoring. This approach allows for a more preventive approach in that common issues are identified and diffused; a solution Geeks on Call currently offers. Aside from his franchise business, Guy is also an accomplished author who has recently penned two books. The first, a self-help reference manual to help navigate
September/October 2012
some not so complicated technical issues on your own is entitled, “Maybe You CAN Do It Yourself— Quick Computer Fixes For The Non-Geek.” His second book, “Networking For Business In Good Times and Bad,” provides tools necessary for networking in a more effective and efficient manner. With Guy in your corner, having interconnected devices doesn’t have to be a headache! Plus, always a consummate networker, Guy can teach you how to build beneficial and long lasting business relationships. About Guy Dunn—A Geeks on Call franchise owner since 2006, Guy has 8 territories within the Philadelphia and New York Metro Areas. His books, “Maybe You CAN Do It Yourself—Quick Computer Fixes For The NonGeek,” and “Networking For Business in Good Times and Bad are available on Amazon and Kindle or by visiting http://www.maybeyoucandoityourself.com or http://networkingforbusiness.com For more information on Geeks on Call visit www.geeksoncall.com or contact Guy at guy.dunn@geeksoncall
www.greaterwestchester.com
20
Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce participates in budget, policy discussion with Gov. Tom Corbett HARRISBURG, PA Mark Yoder, President and Tim Jefferis, ChairmanElect of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, along with representatives Mark Yoder, President GWCC; Gov. Tom Corbett; Tim Jefferis, Chairman-Elect of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry and other local chamber leaders from across the Commonwealth, attended a breakfast policy discussion with Gov. Tom Corbett on Thursday, July 12 at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg. The program was organized by the PA Chamber and the Governor’s Office, and welcomed the presidents/executive directors of numerous statewide local chamber partners. The agenda included opening remarks by the governor, followed by a discussion on the newly adopted state budget and policy issues of concern to job creators. “As governor, my top priority is private sector job creation,” Gov. Tom Corbett said. “I am committed to creating an economic environment where state govern-
21
www.greaterwestchester.com
ment and business can work together to ensure job growth across the commonwealth.” PA Chamber President Gene Barr applauded the governor for his ongoing efforts to make Pennsylvania a state that is more inviting to business growth and job creation, pointing to a state budget that continues to right-size state government; injects innovation and new efficiencies into the delivery of government services; helps the private sector hire workers and grow; and ensures a greater quality of education for more Pennsylvania students. Barr also thanked Corbett for taking time to meet personally with Pennsylvania’s local chamber of commerce leaders. “Local chamber officials are on the front lines of economic development and job creation within their respective communities,” Barr said. “While we share the collective mission to improve the Commonwelath’s overall business climate, local officials also brings diverse and unique concerns and prospective to the table. The event was a great opportunity to discuss the progress being made to foster job creation and business growth, as well as share ideas about what is still needed to continue moving Pennsylvania forward.
September/October 2012
Addd some som me color color o r to to yo yyour o day our dy with flowers. flow l wers e s.
!"# $ %" $ & & !! ' & $ & ( ( " )* + *,*-%.. ///0/ 0 1#!0
P HYSICAL THERAPY & Human Performance Center At Kinetic Physical Therapy we offer every patient: Direct Access... There is no need for a doctors referral to be treated
One-On-One Treatment... With the same physical therapist each visit
Early Morning and Evening Hours... To fit your schedule
Video Analysis... To latest technical tools to accelerate your healing
And that is why Kinetic Physical Therapy is...
The Area’s ONLY Choice for Physical Therapy...
$ ( &
( & ( 2 & 3 22
www.greaterwestchester.com
www.kineticptpa.com September/October 2012
Chamber Chatter Bi-Monthly Advertising Rates
YOUR BUSINESS DESERVES
Eighth Page/Business Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$85
THE SAME RESPECT YOU GIVE YOUR CUSTOMERS.
3.75” (w) x 2.25” (h)
At Edward Jones, you’ll get more than respect. We’ll help your business gain a financial advantage. Together, we can design an individual program for your business, with the kinds of tools and options you’ll really use, such as:
Quarter Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$150 3.75” (w) x 4.875” (h)
Half Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$260 horizontal 7.5” (w) x 4.875” (h) vertical 3.75” (w) x 10” (h)
T Business Credit Card with Rewards T 401(k)s and Other Retirement Plans
Full Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$415
T Insurance Programs
7.5” (w) x 10” (h)
T Business Continuation Planning
Online ad is free with any print ad. Please provide web site address to link your ad. 10% discount on full annual run of any size ad. Space reservation is due by the 1st of the month prior to publication (i.e. March/April edition- reservation due by Feb. 1, and the ad itself is due Feb. 8)
T Wide Range of Investment Options and Strategies
Call your local financial advisor today.
Jeff Kitchen, AAMS® Financial Advisor .
The Chamber Chatter is a bi-monthly publication with a circulation of 1100. It is free to members of the Chamber. Editorial Content and advertising is limited to Chamber members. Editorial coverage does not imply or indicate Chamber endorsement of members business, product or services.
105 South High Street West Chester, PA 19382 610-430-1320
Eric S Smith, AAMS®
Randall S Evans, AAMS® Financial Advisor .
105 South High Street West Chester, PA 19382 610-430-1320
www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
Financial Advisor .
704 West Nields Street Suite G West Chester, PA 19382 610-436-4101
USI Affinity is the trusted source and insurance administrator for the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce. Our portfolio of endorsed products designed for businesses and individuals includes:
Don’t wait. The time to review your Insurance premiums and coverage is NOW.
• • • •
Medical Dental Vision Voluntary Insurance
These plans reflect our commitment to provide your association with one of the best member benefit programs around.
Find out more. USI Affinity. Phone: 1.800.265.2876 ext.6 E-mail: Benefits.Philly@usiaffinity.com Web: www.usiaffinity.com
September/October 2012
www.greaterwestchester.com
23
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PA I D West Chester, PA Permit #177
119 North High Street West Chester, PA 19380
Things To Rent For Every Event!
Tents - All Sizes Tables/Chairs/Beautiful Linens China/Glassware/Chafing Dishes Silverware & Utensils Food Warmers & Convection Ovens
Tailgating Fall Weddings & Showers Halloween Parties Family Celebrations Thanksgiving Christmas New Year’s Festivals Corporate Functions
888-892-RENT Al l EventPartyRental.com
Outdoor Heaters & Porta Potties Bars/Grills/Music Popcorn & Slush Machines Roll-Away Beds & High Chairs
LIKE US ON
A Division of Taylor Rental Media