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JUNE 2012 Vol. 18 No. 6
INSIDE THIS MONTH Marketing: Are you “The Cat’s Meow?”................ 2 CHAMBER CALENDARS ........ 8
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Marblehead Peninsula
State of the Village From an address earlier this year by Mayor Jacqueline A. Bird Village of Marblehead
On Jan. 2, 1891, the Village of Marblehead IT: Viruses was incorporated by our Waning, Malware fore-fathers who had a Gaining................. 9 dream to establish a municipality as an enduring place to live, Insurance: Driving raise families and work. Personal Cars?.....11 For 121 years this dream has held strong and has grown Utilizing the Historic over generations to sustain the Village of as a prominent Tax Credit...........12 Marblehead commonwealth in the State of Ohio. Though the year 2011 placed most in Well-Booked hard economic times, the village saw Business..............18 growth under the leadership of a strong village administration and dedicated village employees. Converting Savings Our sole utility in the village remains to Retirement our Water Department. Under the fine Income................21 leadership of our Board of Public Affairs, the Water Department completed two waterline replacement projects that Human Resources – covered an area from Clemons Cemetery Staffing................23 to the Cottage Cove area. It is noted these waterline replacement projects were completed on time and under budget. Sales: Additionally, the Water Department is Perspective..........24 implementing a water meter up grade program, which is a touch read system Legal: “I don’t need that will improve efficiency during cycles. to plan”...............26 reading As in the past, our busiest day for the plant was July 3rd with 353,900 gallons produced. It is also noted the busiest month was July with nearly 8 www.ncbj.net production million gallons of water produced. This is
an exceptional amount based on our size and number of employees. The goal of the Water Department remains to provide the customer with the best water available in the county. Our Police Department saw a slight increase of calls for service this past year at 697. In 2011, our Police Department had 188 traffic stops total. Of that number, 53 citations were issued with 135 warnings. Examples of the citations include 23 for speed and 2 operating a vehicle under the influence. During this period, the department also had a total member of 50 criminal arrests. Sadly, I report the majority of the criminal arrests were drug related. In 2011, the administration focused on a department restructuring to aid in several areas. The goal was to reduce our turnover rate of officers, provide 24/7 coverage and reduce budget costs. To assist in meeting the goal, the department retained 2 full time officers and hired 3 part time officers. Additionally, we contracted with the Danbury Township Police for 16 hours week, of which we thank them for their assistance in this area. Overall, a budget reduction was achieved. In early 2012, we will be re-evaluating the restructuring to determine efficiency and ways to improve out current police services available to the public. Our Fire Department continues to provide excellent Fire and EMS services to our community. In 2011, there were 83 fire runs and 332 EMS runs. Additionally, the department is proud to announce that 3 new EMTS Certifications were achieved and 1 Paramedic Certification will be received in 2012. The department logged
391.5 hours of fire training and 66 hours of EMS training. The need for training and updated equipment is ongoing. The goal in 2012 is to purchase a new ambulance and increase membership. In 2011, long time member John Englebeck celebrated 40 years with the department. I commend all members for their ongoing dedication to the public. In the area of Streets and Maintenance, our small department continues to provide excellent coverage for the entire village. Besides the daily routine, this department assisted in the renovation of a police office, put electric in the Radar Park building, expanded the playground area of James Park along with mulching, and the ongoing effort to maintain village streets. This department along with the Street Committee updated our Street
See VILLAGE, Page 5
We’re a proud member of the following: Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce
Elmore Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce Erie County Chamber of Sandusky County of Commerce
Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce
Huron Chamber of Commerce
Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce
Genoa Chamber of Commerce
Huron County Chamber of Commerce
Milan Chamber of Commerce
Oak Harbor Area Put-in-Bay Chamber Chamber of Commerce of Commerce Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce
Seneca Regional
Chamber of Commerce
Vermilion Chamber of Commerce Willard Area Chamber of Commerce
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June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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“23 Skidoo” and “The Cat’s Meow”
Does your brand still have “Moxie” with today’s customers? By Jeffrey H. Bryden Editor When I check out at my local Kroger’s in beautiful Port Clinton each Wednesday, they never ask me for an ID before giving me the “senior” discount. So I guess it’s obvious to them that I’m part of the “older” generation. You know, the generation where you really “dialed” a phone, “sounded like a broken record” when you repeated yourself, where you “typed” a letter and “taped” a TV show. And it’s often funny when our kids, especially our grandkids, look on in confusion when we use phrases or words that really have no context in
today’s world. They forgive us, I hope, for just being “old.” But maybe it’s not so funny when you send customers the signal that you’re not in tune with the times. That your products or services are not contemporary by using words or symbols that have no meaning to them. In addition to my job as Editor of this paper, I have the privilege of teaching my previous vocation of advertising and marketing at Bowling Green State University. While I’ve taught literally thousands of students, I’ve learned a lot from them too. Nothing makes the “generation gap” more apparent than daily contact with young men and women who speak a different language, have different social skills and values and cannot relate to examples and terms that probably, to them, seem to come from the dark ages. Recently, in an advertising class lecture on logotypes, I showed examples of signs and symbols that stand for
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North Coast Business Journal is owned and published monthly by Schaffner Publications, Inc., and is mailed free to chamber of commerce members in a five-county area: Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Seneca counties. The editorial deadline is the 25th of each month, with the advertising deadline the end of each month. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed, written consent of the Publishers. We welcome submissions from readers in the form of letters, articles or photographs, although we reserve the right to edit and condense any articles submitted. Submissions should be sent to the editor at the above address. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like an item returned. We prefer material (copy & photos) to be submitted electronically.
or represent their corporations. The Nike “swoosh” has replaced even the corporate name in most communications, and we looked at the Chevrolet “bowtie,” the Shell “shell”, McDonald’s “golden arches,” the “Big Boy” and many more. Students quickly identified almost all of them – proving the point that logos can be good, legally-protected, and quickly-recognized tools for corporate and retail-level identity. But one stood out. When I showed them the Prudential Insurance symbol, I saw blank faces. Now these were mostly college seniors from all over Ohio and Michigan and yet not one recognized this company symbol. When I told them it was Prudential and asked if they knew what the symbol represented, there was still no reaction. I mentioned that the drawing symbolized the Rock of Gibraltar. Nothing. Told them that in 1896 the slogan which formerly accompanied the symbol used to be
“The Prudential has the strength of Gibraltar,” implying that the company, like the Rock, would be there when you needed it. This changed, in 2007, becoming “Own a Piece of the Rock.” Sixteen college seniors, graduating in a few months. Future prospects for insurance? I would think so. They knew Progressive’s “Flo,” MetLife’s “Snoopy,” and GEICO’s “Gecko.” But Prudential? Nada. When I was an advertising student, my favorite professor told us over and over “You are not the customer. But to succeed, you have to become the customer!” In other words, it’s not what you think, recognize or like…it’s what your prospect thinks, recognizes and likes. Is your company brand identity past its prime? Maybe it is time for a reality check with your next generation of customers? To see if you are sending the right (and recognizable) signals? If you’re not, now is the time to make the change so you can “live happily ever after.”
Small Business Basics Seminars Set for June The Ohio Small Business Development Center at Terra State Community College is offering free, twohour seminars, “Small Business Basics,” that will answer questions about starting, buying or expanding a small business. This seminar will take the confusion out of your efforts and help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary steps. Learn the basics of: name registration, licensing, taxes, zoning, business entities, employees, insurance, financing and business planning. The June schedule is: • Wednesday, June 6 – 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Ottawa County Improvement Corporation (conference room), 8043 W. S.R. 163, Oak Harbor • Wednesday, June 13 – 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tiffin Area Chamber of Commerce (conference room), 19 W. Market St., Tiffin
• Wednesday, June 20 – 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Erie County Chamber of Commerce (conference room), 225 W. Washington Row, Sandusky
• Wednesday, June 27 – 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Terra State Community College (Building B, Room 101), 2830 Napoleon Road, Fremont These events are free and open to the public. To register or for more information, call Bill Auxter, Director of the Ohio Small Business Development Center at Terra Community College, toll-free 800-826-2431 or 419-559-2210. Or contact him by email at bauxter@terra.edu.
North Coast Business Journal
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June 2012
Marblehead Peninsula Chamber Reaches 75th Year By Al Stoss Marblehead Peninsula Chamber President The Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has just celebrated its 75th year of continuing its role in the Marblehead community. The Peninsula is comprised of Marblehead, Lakeside and Danbury Township. Marblehead is a quaint Village nestled on the eastern tip of the Marblehead Peninsula. Here resides about 800 year-round residents, which expands when the season commences. People from all around Ohio and surrounding states come to see the specialty shops, art galleries and the restaurants that form our area. In addition, to the Village, we are also the step stone for visitors to embark by ferry boats to either Kelleys Island, Put-in-Bay or to spend a day at Cedar Point. The Marblehead Lighthouse is the oldest continuing operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Commissioned in 1821, it is one of the most photogenic
sites in Ohio. Visitors are drawn to climb the steps to the top, where the view is breathtaking. Our area is enriched in tradition and history. The Wolcott House, was built by the first lighthouse keeper and is opened to the public. Lakeside is a seasonal community founded in 1873 committed to the Chautauqua experience. Johnson’s Island is a Civil War historical site, where Confederate officers were held. The most famous historical site is Lake Erie near Put-inBay, where the naval battle of 1812 was fought. This was the first engagement our navy won for the United States. Coming up in 2012-13 is the Battle of Lake Erie Bicentennial. Tall ships and celebrations are being planned for one of the most important times in our riched National history. The Chamber is not only looking towards the current year and next, but its role in supporting our members. Continuing the
See CHAMBER, Page 5
Photo by John Schaffner
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Kieth Addy presented the D.S. Kirkpatrick Award to Greg Deerhake and Marblehead Chamber President Al Stoss presented the Business of the Year Award to Mike Long, CEO of Magruder Hospital.
Greg Deerhake, Magruder Honored with Annual Awards By John Schaffner Greg Deerhake, a son of the Marblehead Peninsula, and Magruder Hospital were honored Thursday evening at the 75th annual meeting of the Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce at Catawba Island Club. Deerhake was honored with the
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D.S. Kirkpatrick Award named for one of the original founders of the Chamber and former publisher of the Peninsula News. The award is to honor the dedication and unselfish devotion to the principles of service to the community through the Chamber of Commerce.
See AWARDS, Page 5
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June 2012
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Merchants Add Distinctive Feature to Lakeside Chautauqua Large Group of Merchants Provide Unique Blend of Merchandise, Hospitality and Services to Residents, Guests and Tens of Thousands of Visitors Lakeside, Ohio – The Marblehead Peninsula’s own Lakeside Chautauqua -- a seasonally-gated community of more than 900 cottages and nearly 50 Chautauqua-owned buildings -- has been bustling for weeks in preparation for the Memorial Day weekend opening of its 139th summer season. Hundreds of volunteers, staff and contractors have been hard at work for months preparing miles of gardens, walking paths, playgrounds, historic buildings, shops, restaurants, tennis and shuffleboard courts, the arts center, the newlyrenovated Pavilion, sailing club and other recreational and educational facilities. The rental season is already underway for the Hotel Lakeside, Fountain Inn, eight bed & breakfasts and hundreds of cottage owners. Lakeside has long recognized that nationally more than 25% of vacationers budgets are spent on retail purchases. To meet those visitor expectations, Lakeside has offered a vibrant mix of retail establishments unique to both the region
and the Marblehead Peninsula, as well as among the nation s other 13 Chautauqua communities. Lakeside Chautauqua CEO/President Kevin Sibbring takes pride in the fact that “all of the members of the Lakeside Trade Association have returned for the 2012 season. Their shops are filled with merchandise, the restaurants and other food venues are completing their staff training, our hotels and B&Bs are open for business and the grounds have been ready sooner than previous years.” He added, “We have continued a long trend of facility upgrades. For example, visitors will notice the sizable improvement projects in sound and comfort at our 2600-seat Hoover Auditorium, site of conferences, large meetings and more than 60 performances by entertainers and our own 75-member Lakeside Symphony Orchestra, returning for their 49th season at Lakeside.” Lakeside Trade Association President Tom Winkel,
co-owner with wife Marcy, of the Lakeside Laundromat, indicated, All of our retail spaces are filled, both in the downtown business district as
See LAKESIDE 7
VILLAGE, from Page 1 Repair List and strived to maintain Alexander Pike until a complete resurfacing can be achieved. In 2012, plans are being made for Clemons Street to be repaved along with drainage improvements in this area. Additionally, the village will see the repaving of State Route 163 from Tower Street to Alexander Pike. With this project the culvert system at Lake Point Park is to be replaced. It is the hope of the village to have participation from Danbury Township and La Farge in the culvert replacement project as all entities share an interest in the area. In the area of Zoning, the village did see growth. Village Zoning Administrator Bob Hruska issued 44 zoning permits which included 14 dwellings, 6 house additions, 2 restaurants and 11 accessories including a swimming pool. The Planning Commission additionally assisted in enforcing our Zoning Ordinance through the approval of permits granted for the final phase of the Sunset Cove Subdivision and the Sunset Cove Cluster Housing Community, both located at Bay Point. As you can see, our village continues to change annually and our enforcement of the law is closely monitored as we grow. This is a difficult task, but our goal for compliance is being met by the hard efforts of the committee members who welcome the development and growth. In 2011, our Fiscal Office obtained Rhonda Botti-Sowers as our Fiscal Officer. Ms. Sowers came to the village with a vast knowledge in government finance and is a welcomed member to our village team. With this
CHAMBER, from Page 3 development and promoting the area with tourism entities, along with the Ottawa County Visitors Bureau. The Chamber started off its 75th year anniversary with our annual Spring Banquet. The Magruder Hospital was recognized as the Business of the Year which was richly deserved and long over due. Mr. Greg Deerhake was honored with the D.S. Kirkpatrick award. It has been given for the last 34 years to honor the dedication and unselfish devotion to the principles of service to the community through the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has two other
June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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addition, the fiscal position was evaluated and put in part-time status. Additionally, the part-time Zoning Administrator was given more hours weekly to assist in day to day business operations. This change has proven to be quite efficient and has saved the village funds. Overall, the village is fiscally sound. However, the Administration is ever conscious with our finances based on current economic status and the future planning for our village. Administratively, the Village Council has worked very hard to set the direction for the village. In 2011, the council passed 19 ordinances and 9 resolutions. In addition to this, the Employee Handbook was totally revised and an evaluation process put in place for all employees. The council also gave approval for the Mayor to enter into an agreement with the Coast Management Grant Program to secure funding for the development of a Trail System Master Plan. The Trail System Master Plan will capture the villages’ vision for trails, walkways, and bike paths for our community. This vision is a 10 year plan, but the seed has been planted and is beginning to form. As you can see, the common goal of this administration is to sustain our fine village for future generations. This dedicated group gives 110% for the love of their community with little compensation or praise. I commend this group for their efforts. With 2012 we will see slight change in council membership with the retirement of Councilwoman Mary Glovinsky and the electing of Councilman Duane Myers. I personally thank Councilwoman Glovinsky for her years of dedicated service to the village and
noteworthy events coming up. The first is our annual golf outing on June 1, 2012, which will be held at the Catawba Island Club. Expectations are to have over 25 teams from our members and outside our community. The second event is our 17th annual Lakeside-Marblehead Lighthouse Festival held in Lakeside on Oct. 13. The peninsula-wide event includes a variety of activities for the entire family. The Chamber will gather more than 90 arts and crafts vendors to display quality collectibles and one of a kind merchandise. The festival has grown in the last couple of years bringing very large crowds to the fall event. While there, visit and
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wish her well as she enters a new phase AWARDS, from Page 3 of life. Additionally, I welcome Councilman Myers as he joins our Magruder Hospital was team. As always, our team will move named Business of the Year. forward for the common good of the Chamber President Al Stoss village. noted the more than 60 years Lastly, I commend our Solicitor Jim of history and service Barney for offering sound legal advice provided by Ottawa County’s and keeping the best interest of the community hospital that village at heart. Mr. Barney is always opened in 1940. Magruder’s available and no situation is too small Chief Executive Officer, Mike or large for his review. Mr. Barney is a Long, accepted the award on true professional and a wealth of behalf of the Hospital and knowledge in the legal arena. The staff. village remains fortunate to have him Peter Huston of Put-in-Bay as a member of our administration. and The Perry Group outlined In closing, I assure the residents and the upcoming promotions employees, the administration will planned for the Bicentennial continue to build on past efforts. We Celebration of the Battle of will focus on ongoing infrastructure Lake Erie coming up in 2013. improvements. We will focus on He noted that a number of employee compensation and retention. events will actually take place We will focus on meeting the needs of this summer, including a the village with our continued growth. mock “Declaration of War” This Administration vows to evaluate ceremony and the appearance each situation and act in the most of a U.S. Navy Frigate (Perry viable means for health, safety, and Class) that will be making a welfare of its employees, residents and trek in August from Toledo to visitors. Cleveland. A U.S. Navy Band The goal established with our foreis scheduled to play during fathers in 1891 continues in 2012 as the Historic Weekend at Putwe seek to retain the Village of in-Bay the second weekend in Marblehead as a prominent September. More than 10 tall commonwealth of opportunity for all. ships will be on hand in May the year 2012 be prosperous in September of 2013 to re-enact continuing our goals for our current the battle and will be staying residents and future generations. at different ports throughout May God bless the Village of our area. Marblehead, The Township of Danbury, County of Ottawa, State of Ohio Family Owned and Operated Since 1933 and The United States of America, Serving Commercial & Industrial Accounts now and always.
tour the rich Lakeside history and enjoy the season changing foliage. Visitors will have the opportunity to take in the surrounding Marblehead main shopping area, along with the Festival of the Grapes and the Lighthouse. The Marblehead Peninsula Chamber is extremely pleased to be in partnership with the Lakeside Association in presenting this event which has grown in stature. The Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has been and will always be an active organization promoting our community in the development in tourism and commerce. The Chamber has a saying “Catch a Moment in Time.”
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Danbury Local Schools – Excellent! Submitted by Dan Parent, Superintendent The 2011-12 school year began with an announcement from the Ohio Department of Education that Danbury Local Schools has been awarded an Excellent rating for the first time in the districts history. This recognition comes after many years of hard work from our teachers, administrators, and most of all our students to meet and exceed state standards. As our staff and students work diligently to meet the current standards, the districts “Race to the Top” transformation team is working with staff to prepare them for the new revised state standards which go into effect in the 2013-14 school year. Teaching staff have spent many hours in professional development to begin to align new curriculum to these new standards and get ready to prepare our students for a new rigorous set of national standards in Language Arts and Math and new state standards in
all of the other curriculum areas. Parents and community members will also be introduced to a new state report card which will be introduced next school year. Also on the academic front, our fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grade middle school academic challenge teams received recognition in the Ottawa County Tournament. The fifth, sixth, and seventh grade teams received first place recognition and our eighth grade team received third place recognition. We are very proud
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of these Middle School Students. In the High School, students are finishing up presentations for our Project based learning. This curriculum involves students identifying current or future local, state, or world problems and researching to solve these problems. Presentations are then made to the student body and local officials where student work in critiqued and analyzed. This experience is capped off with community service day on May 22nd when high school students and staff spend the day in the community providing service to local residents, businesses, and agencies. Danbury Elementary has had a past paced year. Staff and students have been working with the PRIDE parents group to incorporate more parental involvement through volunteer work, organization of family fun nights, and a wellness week. The elementary staff is transitioning to a new reading program to meet revised state standards and improve
students reading efficiency. As always, we could not conclude the year without wishing the Class of 2012 our best wishes for their futures. You will certainly be missed.
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LAKESIDE from 4
Victorian, Italianate, American traditional and rustic architectural well as the lakefront shops and food styles spanning the late 19th through venues. Our members are looking the 21st century. forward to another great season at • Nearly 50 Chautauqua-owned this special place for families seeking buildings. fun and relaxation on the shores of • One-square mile of land with Lake Erie. more than nine miles of privatelyBoth Winkel and Sibbring urge owned roads and streets. visitors use of the complimentary • Miles of walking and jogging 90-minute Shopping & Dining pass paths. to experience a taste of this family• The dock, extending 700 feet into friendly community. Lake Erie, is a popular venue for Lakeside retailers continue to receive swimmers, sun bathers, fishers, ‘excellent’ marks in all areas of walkers, joggers and those just customer satisfaction. In fact, 1,150 wanting to rest on the benches and visitors surveyed last season awarded enjoy the sights and sounds of the Lakeside merchants a more than 95% lake and nearby Kelleys Island. overall satisfaction rate. In addition • Large level of golf cart ownership to the coffee shops, restaurants, art eases air pollution, reduces noise and gallery and specialty merchants such saves parking spaces. as a bicycle and golf cart rental shop, • Hotels, bed & breakfasts, Orchestra Hall -- the only movie campground facilities, group guest theatre in Ottawa County -- shows housing and cottage rentals available. family-friendly movies throughout • Several major parks and a wide the summer. variety of specialty clubs and facilities, The exceptionally popular Farmers including sailing, rowing, kayaking, Market returns to Lakeside on Tuesday shuffleboard, tennis, cycling, and Friday mornings from 9 a.m.-12 running, swimming and others. A p.m. each week beginning June 26 fourth park, Chautauqua Park is through August 31, 2012. Offerings under way in 2012. by area farmers include fresh, locally• Site of numerous National and grown produce and herbs, baked International Shuffleboard goods, jams and jellies plus spice competitions. blends and other food complements. • State-of-the-art playground Visit www.lakesideohio.com to read equipment. about retail and service shops, bed & • 2011 Chautauqua programming breakfasts, hotels, education, drew record attendees: 200 adult recreation and entertainment education programs drew more than opportunities, plus a comprehensive 10,000 attendees. season-long calendar of events. • Nearly 6,000 adults and youth Prospective merchants can contact attendees at the C. Kirk Rhein, Jr., guestinfo@lakesideohio.com to Center for the Living Arts programs receive an application to be included in 2011. in the merchant mix next year. • More than 55,000 attendees of Lakeside-sponsored concerts and Interesting Facts about Lakeside performances at Hoover Auditorium, Chautauqua: the Steele Memorial Bandstand and other performance venues. • Founded in 1873 as an educational • Many thousands of children Chautauqua. By the turn of the 20th attended God Squad and Middle century, there were several hundred Grade Ministries programs; plus such institutions in the U.S. and 2,500 attended other youth education Canada – today 14 remain active. programs. • U.S. national register of Historic • Recreation programs for adults Places and Tree City, USA designations. and youth attracted thousands of • Midwest Birding Symposium/Bird participants in events, including the Watchers’ Digest sponsored bird 5k Raccoon Run, adult and youth sanctuary. triathlons, daily/weekly shuffleboard, • Seasonally-gated community (late tennis and swimming lessons, June through Labor Day). miniature golf. • Besides cottage residents, Lakeside • The Lakeside to Kelleys Island Chautauqua annually hosts well over four-mile open-water swim attracts 125,000 guests and visitors each swimmers from all over the country. season. • Dozens of Lakeside Chautauqua • More than 900 privately owned sponsored gardens throughout the cottages ranging from historic community, including an herb
garden and community garden, as well as an annual Beautification Contest for cottage owners and merchants. • Seasonal guided walking tours of the trees and historic walking tours of Lakeside. • Seasonal 45-minute ‘History of Lakeside’ tram tours of the grounds, gardens and historical features of the community; two tours daily, three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) • A unique merchant -- Lorenzo’s Culinary School -- and wellness shop located in the Lakeview Historic Inn. • Hundreds of families attend the seasonal Wednesday Family Picnic nights at Perry Park each Wednesday evening. • Virtually all venues are used to accommodate more than 450 group events staged at Lakeside Chautauqua annually -- most events use the Chautauqua s catering services and many use overnight lodging as well.
• The Lakeside Chautauqua Campground features permanent hook ups for motor homes and RVs as well as spaces for tent camping. Spaces are rented season-long, weekly or daily use. The campground includes public restrooms and on-site laundry for residents. • The entire Lakeside tree population – more than 4,000 trees of 20+ species -- has been inventoried by tree type, approximate dimensions and age. Lakeside Chautauqua is a family destination that has pioneered the act of nurturing mind, body and spirit since 1873. One of the few remaining Chautauquas in the United States, Lakeside offers a variety of spiritual, educational, cultural arts and recreational opportunities. Located between Cleveland and Toledo on Lake Erie’s south shore, Lakeside is a gated community that provides rest and renewal in addition to hundreds of enlightening and entertaining experiences. Shop, dine and stay. For more information on vacationing or living the Lakeside Chautauqua experience, visit www. lakesideohio.com or call (419) 798-4461.
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CHAMBER CALENDARS for June Bellevue Chamber 28-30 10th Annual Community Days Robert Peters Park
Erie County Chamber of Commerce 14
Schmooze Cruise Goodtime 1, 7:30 p.m.; Sponsored by Tandem Media Network. No charge. Reservations a must – 6/12 419.625.6421.
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Annual Meeting Reception at Castaway Bay, 5:30 p.m. RSVP's required. $25.00 per person.
Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce
Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 7
Directors Meeting 7:00 pm @ Danbury Township Hall
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Business After Hours 5 to 7:00 pm Hosted by: African Safari
28
Executive Meeting 10 am, Chamber Office
Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce 21
Board Meeting 7:30am, Chamber Building
23
Downtown Farmers Market 9am-1pm Flat Iron Park
Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce
7
Ribbon Cutting State Farm Insurance Agency, 150 Perry Street
15
Golf Outing committee 1:30, Chamber Office
7
Business After Hours Host: Allstate Agencies (5:00 - 7:00pm)
19
"What's Perkin @ the Chamber" Business Networking Event 7:30-8:30am Location TBD
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Ribbon Cutting Bait House Bar Downtown Port Clinton (behind America’s Best Value) 12:00 pm
Board Meeting Noon Fostoria Community Hospital
11
Chamber Board Meeting 8:30 am, Chamber Office
Golf Committee 1:30, Chamber Office
Main Street Port Clinton Design Committee 3:00 pm, MSPC Office
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Main Street Port Clinton Executive Committee 8:30 am, MSPC Office
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Main Street Port Clinton Economic Restructuring Committee Meeting 8:30 am, MSPC Office
Ribbon Cutting Tranquility Salon and Spa 4:00 pm, Erie Islands Resort
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Huron County Chamber of Commerce 13
Membership Committee, 8am Chamber Office
14
Board of Directors, 4 pm, Chamber Office
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Main Street Port Clinton Board Meeting 8:30 am, MSPC Office
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Main Street Port Clinton Downtown Committee 8:30 am, MSPC Office
Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce
19
Agriculture Meeting, 7:30 a.m., Chamber office
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Chamber Ambassador Meeting, 8:00 a.m., Elmwood Assisted Living
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Chamber Board of Trustees 7:30 a.m., Chamber office
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Beginning of Health & Wellness Committee's 8-week Walk-a-Thon
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18th Five Iron Golf Classic Annual golf tournament Saunders Resort. Five-iron and a putter. $120 per team 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
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Put-in-Bay Pooch Parade Benefits Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church. Registration, 10 a.m. DeRivera Park gazebo, Start at 10:30.
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Downtown Tiffin Farmers Market 9 am to 1 pm. South Washington St. between E. Perry St. and E. Market St.
17
38th Jose DeRivera Founder's Day Kids games, food, vendors, live music, circus. DeRivera Park 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fireworks Saturday at dark.
13
Small Business Basics Seminar 9:30 am to 11:30 am Free, two-hour seminar Community room, Chamber
14
2012 Chamber Golf Outing Mohawk Golf & Country Club. Registration - 8:30 - 10 a.m. Shotgun start at 10 a.m.
15
Ambassador Meeting Noon, Chamber Office RSVP
26
Tiffin Area Safety Council 11:30 am at Moose Lodge 946
22-25 Put-in-Bay Pyrate Fest Fireworks Saturday at dark. Check pyratefest.com for current schedule and times. 24
Return of the Mayfly Songs, crafts and lectures at the Perry Memorial.
25-30
Arts on Erie Week-long arts programs kids learning Perry’s Memorial Visitor Center. Family Night Concert 7 p.m.
Sandusky County Chamber of Commerce 18
Chamber Foundation Board Meeting, 1:30 p.m., Chamber office
Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Services
Vermilion Chamber of Commerce 15-17
Festival of the Fish Parades, boat parades, races, pageants, contests, food, entertainment, markets Father's Day Weekend. Contact Chamber 440-967-4477 email: vermilionchamber@ centurytel.net
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Music, Flowers and a Sunset Downtown Vermilion 6:30pm-Sunset
June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
www.ncbj.net
9
IT
PC Viruses Waning, Malware Gaining! By Don Knaur Most people worry about Viruses on their PCs; however, in reality Viruses cause very few problems on PCs today. The real problem is Malware, which is defined as any malicious software that infects computers, is the cause of 85% of PC repairs needed today. I have read reports that range from hundreds to millions of new pieces of Malware being found each year. I tend to believe the true figures lie in the low millions. However, anti-virus company labs do most of the studies, and it’s possible that they inflate the figures to make us to believe that their products are worth buying. I doubt that there are more than a few totally new pieces of Malware produced each year, but there are millions of new variations of old Malware produced. Even though there are relatively few true viruses making the rounds, I still strongly recommend the use of an up to date anti-virus program at all times. These range in price from Free to $70.00 apiece and price is not an indication of quality. Avast is a free product that I have installed on hundreds of home PCs. If you are a business owner, the developer does not want you to install a free product on your business PC. However, that rule is not enforced in any way that I am aware of. Avast is not the only Free product available, but it appears to be the most effective product that does not strain the resources of your PC. That means that the other products either don’t work or they
slow your PC down to the point that PC doesn’t seem to be working. If you have a good fast processor with lots of RAM (memory), then you might want to consider using AVG anti-virus by Grisoft. These products and more can be downloaded from www.filehippo.com or www.tucows. com. Frankly, protecting your PC from all Malware is next to impossible. However, it is fairly easy to keep it from extensively damaging your system. The first thing you have to do is make sure you have your data backed up. While you can usually fix Malware problems if you catch them early, there are instances where the only fix is a reload of your system. If you don’t have a current back up, then you will need to take the infected PC to a professional and ask them to salvage your data before you reload. There is a free product available that can usually eliminate Malware from your PC and get you back in business without a reload. It is called Malwarebytes and is available at www.malwarebytes.org. Yes, that is correct .org, not .com. It is easier to repair the PC if you already have Malwarebytes installed on your PC, but if you don’t, that’s all right. Assuming your PC is acting up and you did not preload Malwarebytes, you need to do the following: Start your PC up in “Safe Mode with Networking” to do this, simply start tapping the <F8> key as soon as you press the Start Button on your PC, then highlight “Safe Mode with Networking” and hit Enter. Start your Internet Browser and go to www.malwarebytes.org to download Malwarebytes antimalware. As usual, I recommend
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saving the file and then installing it. Install Malwarebytes by running the downloaded file and following the prompts. The program will start when the install is finished and will ask you if you want to update the files. Your answer should be “Yes”. Once the files have been updated, choose the scan option and run a full system scan. Caution: This may take hours to complete. When the scan is complete the program will tell you and assuming it found some infected files, will allow you to choose to “show results”, which you should do. At that point, it will list the infected files found (don’t be surprised if there are hundreds of files listed). It will ask you if you want to apply the action specified and, of course, you
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Don is the CWO (Chief Working Officer) of Help-Desk, Ohio, a complete computer service center, located in Suite A of the Courtlee Interiors’ Building, 2499 W. Market in Tiffin. Don has a degree in Computer Programming from Tiffin University and has been an Information Technology Professional for over 26 years. He started HelpDesk, Ohio in the spring of 1996 and opened his shop in March 2001. Don welcomes calls for advice or information at 419-448-8020.
YOUR COMMUNITY LENDER
ur O ut o es Ab ew Rat ! k N e s g am As a tg ogr r Mo Pr & Huron Office 427 Main St. Huron (419) 433-2437
say, “Yes.” Then restart your PC and it should be as good as new. Following the procedures outlined above should save you a trip to the shop and a pretty healthy bill. Have a great summer!
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10 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
Whirlpool Corporation Honored by Ohio Association of Community Colleges Attending the recognition ceremony were, from left: Sandra Wise (Terra trustee), Dr. Marsha S. Bordner (Terra president), Helene Zielinski (Terra trustee), Carl Koebel (Terra trustee), Jeff Durham and wife, Laurie (Whirlpool, Clyde), Charles Knight (Terra trustee), Don Nalley (Terra trustee), Doug Burns (Whirlpool, Marion), Sandra Berlekamp (Terra trustee), and Dr. Jerome Webster (Terra vice president)
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Mercy Willard — New Hospital’s First Procedure Walter Kilgore is pictured with Dr. David Stanbery and the surgery staff at Mercy Willard Hospital. On Tuesday, May 8, Walter was the first patient to have a procedure at the hospital’s new perioperative services department.
Marblehead Bank Earns 5-Star Rating Marblehead Bank, Marblehead, Ohio is proud to be recognized as a 5-Star Superior bank by the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm, BauerFinancial, Inc. A 5-Star rating indicates that Marblehead Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation. Among other factors, to earn this rating Marblehead Bank must not only report impressive capital levels, but also an enviable loan portfolio with negligible levels of delinquent loans. The fact that Marblehead Bank has earned this 5-Star Superior rating for the last 89 consecutive quarters puts it in an even more elite group of “Sustained Superiority Banks”. Only 5% of the nation’s banks can claim this distinction. Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial, remarked “Under the leadership of Mr. William Tuttamore, President, Marblehead Bank is one of the U.S. banks that evokes an image of a brighter banking future for our communities. That’s good news regardless of your age and income bracket.”
Experience Counts
Want to Improve the Health of Your Business? With 30 years of experience in occupational health, Firelands Corporate Health Center provides a comprehensive package of occupational and safety services to over 800 companies in the region. Dedicated solely to the practice of occupational health, you can find the level of experience you need to control healthcare costs, meet regulations, and keep your workforce healthy and productive. To find out more about Firelands Corporate Health Center, call 419-557-5052. Hours of Operation: 7 am – 5 pm 24/7 coverage for drug & alcohol testing
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Firelands Corporate Health Center staff have specialized training & certifications in many areas of occupational health medicine. Our team of physicians holds specialized certifications in the following areas: Certified Medical Review Officers Specialized Certifications in Occupational Health Certified for Ohio BWC Impairment Exams & Independent Medical Exams Medical Examiner for FAA Pilot Exams Certified Physician Supervisor for OSHA Audiology Review
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Additional Services Case management Educational classes Employment physicals & specialized physical exams Fingerprinting And much more. For timely & accurate reports, call the region’s experienced occupational health provider.
North Coast Business Journal
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June 2012
11
Insurance Driving Personal Cars for Business Use – A Good Idea? Submitted by Mark T. Reilly Diversified Insurance There are many situations in which an employee drives his or her personal auto to perform a business-related task or activity: travel between worksites, client visits, transportation of clients, travel home from workrelated events and even quick stops to pick up food for a meeting. It is important to consider the risk that assumes in these everyday occurrences. Driving a personal auto in lieu of a company-owned vehicle may seem to minimize an employer’s liability, but companies can be held partially liable for damages in the event of an accident, and if an insurer discovers the individual was driving for business it may take action against the employer for subrogation purposes. If the employee is making a workrelated phone call or taking part in any business-related activity, the employer will be held accountable. When employees will be driving their own cars for work, there are several actions you can take as an employer to mitigate risk.
Purchase Hired and Non-owned Coverage Any company that allows or requires employees to use their personal vehicles for business should either purchase hired and non-owned coverage or add it to an existing automobile policy. Hired coverage is
for situations in which autos are not owned by the company or the driver, and non-owned coverage protects the company against liability when vehicles that are owned by employees are used on behalf of the company. In the event of an accident, these policies supplement the driver’s personal auto policy, which is typically activated first. For minimal yearly premiums, these policies generally protect the company only, not the car or the driver.
Use a Company Policy to Reduce Risk According to the National Safety Council, 28 percent of car crashes are attributable to cell phone use while driving. Since distracted driving accidents can have serious implications for companies, a company policy that emphasizes the importance of driving attentively and restricts the use of mobile phones is essential to preventing employee accidents in all vehicles, both personal and company-owned. In addition, the policy should clearly state when the use of a personal vehicle will be expected or allowed, and all employee job descriptions should specify when driving a personal vehicle will be a job function. As a condition to employment and thereafter at least on a yearly basis, those employees driving personal vehicles should be required to provide: Proof of a driver’s license Motor vehicle safety inspection certificates Copy of insurance certificates proving liability coverage at or above an established company limit
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including personal injury and medical limits Proof that the employee has declared the use of the auto for business to his or her insurer Exhaustive lists of all prescribed controlled medications Further, you should reserve the right to check motor vehicle records annually or more frequently.
Enforce
the Policy After the driving policy has been instated, it should be actively communicated and enforced. Managers of employees utilizing personal vehicles should be directed to monitor the safety and maintenance
of those vehicles. Employees found out of compliance with the company policy should be subject to reassignment or termination. It is every employer’s responsibility to ensure its employees’ safety on the job, and those that use personal vehicles on business are no exception.
Contact the insurance professionals at Diversified Insurance Service for help assessing your company’s risk regarding the use of personal vehicles, or to learn more about hired and non-owned coverage. Diversified Insurance Service can be reached at 1-800-848-2788 or visit their website at www.divinsurance.com.
12 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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Taxes Developer's Toolkit - Utilizing the Historic Tax Credit to Close the Financing Gap by John R. Funk, CPA In today’s environment, obtaining financing for a development project is difficult enough. When you add to this challenge the high cost of land acquisition and new construction, penciling out the numbers becomes even more difficult. Many developers have found that renovating an existing structure is more cost effective than constructing a new structure. If your renovation project qualifies, the historic tax credit can help bridge the gap and help bring your project from opportunity to fruition. What is the historic tax credit? The historic tax credit is a tax incentive available to incomeproducing buildings that are determined to be certified historic structures by the Secretary of the Interior. The historic tax credit program provides for the taxpayer to claim a 20% federal tax credit for the cost of qualified rehabilitation expenditures (“QREs”). A tax credit is more valuable than a tax deduction. A tax deduction reduces total taxable income resulting in a decrease in taxes by your marginal rate. For instance, a dollar of tax deduction would be worth about $0.35 to a taxpayer in the 35% marginal tax bracket. On the other hand, a tax credit results in a dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal taxes. What projects qualify for the historic tax credit? There are four factors that can help
you determine if your rehabilitation project would meet the basic requirements for the 20% tax credit: 1. The building to be renovated must be listed on the National Register of Historic Places or located in and contributing to the significance of a registered historic district. The structure must be certified by the Secretary of the Interior as being historically significant. The historic tax credit program is administered by the National Park Service and the Internal Revenue Service. Additionally, your State Historic Preservation Office (“SHPO”) will be integral in the process of registering your building and the application process. You can request to designate your building as a certified historic structure by completing and submitting Part I of the Historic Preservation Application. 2. Your building must be “substantially rehabilitated.” Simply, the cost of the rehabilitation must exceed the pre-rehabilitation cost of the building. Generally, this test must be met within two years (or five years for a phased project). The portion of the rehabilitation available for the 20% credit is based on QREs. Not all rehabilitation expenses will be considered a QRE and thus qualify for the tax credit. Building additions, landscaping and furniture are a few examples of costs that do not qualify. 3. The rehabilitation work must be done according to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Generally, it is a good idea to include an architect and contractor familiar with these standards on your project team.
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4. After the rehabilitation is complete, the historic building must be used for an income-producing purpose for at least five years. Owneroccupied residential properties do not qualify for the federal rehabilitation tax credit. Incomeproducing purposes include commercial, industrial, agricultural, rental residential or apartment use. You may not use the credit to rehabilitate your personal residence. Who Can Make Use of the Historic Tax Credit?
There are other credit programs that are available that can complement the use of the federal historic tax credit as well. Make sure you choose the right professionals to guide you through the process, and enjoy some funding for your project courtesy of the historic tax credit. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the author, John R. Funk, CPA at jrf@barneswendling.com or 800.369.6375. John heads up Barnes Wendling’s Real Estate & Construction Group and has nearly 20 years experience serving the real estate industry. He specializes in providing attest, tax and consulting services with emphasis on the accounting issues inherent in the real estate and construction industries. He is fluent in the “language” of real estate and provides insight to our clients on a number of business issues.
For-profit entities that are not in a tax position to fully utilize the tax credit may structure the transaction to transfer the tax credit to a corporate investor. The investor then uses the tax credit to offset some of their own tax liabilities. Based on the project, the investor may provide cash during construction, as opposed to a project owner waiting for the project to be completed to receive the tax credit. In some instance, individuals may be able to utilize the tax credit. The tax rules often make this difficult, so this is • $4.02 billion in new rehabilitation work not common. approved • 55,458 jobs created Next steps • 937 new projects approved • 7,470 low and moderate income housing Closing the financing units created gap using the federal • 15,651 housing units created or renovated historic tax credit can be overall structured in several Source: Federal Tax Incentives for Rehabilitating ways. For example, Historic Buildings, Statistical Report and Analysis Ohio has a state historic for Fiscal Year 2011 tax credit that can be used in conjunction with the federal credit.
2011 At A Glance
jbryden@ncbj.net
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Bellevue Holds 10th Community Days Festival School is out. The days are turning warmer and our minds turn to family activities that take us outside to eat, play and Festivals which can only mean one thing: The Bellevue Community Days Festival is coming soon. Thursday, June 28, at 5 p.m. will mark the opening of the 10th annual Bellevue Community Days Festival. Located at Robert Peters Park. Family Fun, Mechanical rides, a Zip Line, which is one of only two in the country of its kind, an Extreme Trampoline, four sided climbing wall, entertainment, bands, great food, contests, baseball games, clowns, balloons, a parade and Fireworks. What a way to start the summer and the 4th of July celebration. This family friendly three day festival has something for kids of all ages. The festival takes place June 28, 29 and 30th and will be sure to provide lots of fun and entertainment. There will be several “surprise” activities and contests involving the Bellevue Community Days Festival Collectible Badge. First and foremost will be the 3rd annual Medallion Hunt, sponsored by Jeff Cook. This contest is FREE with a badge and requires a bit of investigation. With a prize of $200.00, it will pay you to keep your eyes and ears open. Watch for more details regarding the Medallion Hunt closer to the festival. The third annual collectible Bellevue Community Days Festival Badge/Raffle drawing will begin at 9pm. Prizes of $1,000, $500, $250 and various retail prizes will be awarded. The evening will conclude with the “Earthquakers” closing the 10th annual Bellevue Community Days Festival. See you at Robert Peters Park, June 28-30 for some great Family Fun!
North Coast Business Journal
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14 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal Now Open at 1100 Neal Zick Road!
The NEW Mercy Willard Hospital
Mercy Willard hospital relocated to the new hospital on May 6, 2012. After years of planning, Mercy Willard’s two-story, 104,000 square foot replacement hospital is now open! The new hospital enhances the patient experience through a variety of improvements, including: · private patient rooms · a helipad outside the emergency department · MRI suite · digital mammography · a greatly expanded and more efficient Surgical Suite · an attractive Outpatient Service area · easy access to care support providers and physician offices The new hospital enables Mercy Willard to continue to introduce advances in technology and services, supporting our commitment to delivering high quality care. Patients and visitors enter Mercy Willard’s new home with ease from U.S. 224 onto Neal Zick Road. Dedicated entrances for the hospital and physician offices are easily accessible, creating a safe campus environment. Easy-to-read signage directs patients to the emergency department entrance, located at the side of the facility.
1100 Neal Zick Road | Willard, Ohio 44890 | 419.964.5000 |
Mercy Primary Care – Willard and Mercy Cardiology Specialists are now located at the new hospital!
All phone numbers have remained the same!
Ample, convenient parking and safer, heated sidewalks.
mercyweb.org
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Danbury Township— A Picture-Perfect Peninsula on Our Great Lake Erie By Dianne Rozak, Danbury Township Board of Trustees www.danburytownship.com Ideal weather and large crowds welcomed the unofficial beginning of summer here in Danbury Township. Amenities and services continue to be a strong focus for this political subdivision’s board of trustees. Ne trail linkages accompanied by wetland boardwalk crossovers now connect the east and west sectors of Meadowbrook Marsh with existing ADA accessible paved trails. This latest enhancement was completed with the assistance of over $160,000 in grant funding from the Recreational Trails Program and the Clean Ohio Trails Fund. Meadowbrook was the hot spot during the 2011 Midwest Birding Symposium when visitors discovered the presence of the rare Red Saddlebags Dragonfly. At 310 Bridge Road, also known as State Route 269 South, a new off-leash dog park is now available. Bark until Dark features fresh drinking water for the animals, separate fencedin areas for both small and large dogs and containers for waste. The park is open year-round 8 a.m. until sunset. A list of park rules is posted at the entrance gate and is also available on the township’s website. Another new and wellreceived service is year-round document shredding for Danbury residents. This secure service is available by appointment at the police station. Contact an officer at (419) 732-2549 for details. Township clean-up weeks are held three times yearly and recycling is available seven days at week at the township hall property. Both of these services continue to be in great demand. Two of our three maintenance personnel became certified for weed spraying which now allows us to spray on demand at a greatly reduced cost. The township trustees are reviewing a
new cemetery software program and will also be pursuing a revised website design. Beautification programs continue at our parks and at township hall. Later in the season watch for the lovely orange cosmos flowers that will enhance the entrance to Sackett Cemetery. Our eight-man police department continues to make a highly visible presence and is responsive to the many needs within the township including the very important regular checks on local businesses. The Lakeside and Marblehead Volunteer Fire Departments are reviewing the potential for a merger. The process of studying this opportunity will continue with all options being explored. The trustees continue to support the township’s safety program with training, safety committee meetings, safe work procedures and upgraded equipment. The township proudly accepted a 100% award from the Bureau of W o r k e r ’ s Compensation for an accidentfree 2011. Zoning activity is running nearly the same as 2011. Over fifty permits have been issued year-to-date and include new dwellings, a commercial building and a commercial addition. Our zoning inspector also functions as Local Business Coordinator to assist new and existing businesses with planning services at no charge. Please take some time this summer to visit our parks. In addition to Meadowbrook, the historic Battlefield Park (site of the first land-based skirmish of the War of 1812), the Keeper’s House and Lake Point Park all feature unique amenities. Behind township hall you will find ball fields, a playground, basketball court and a picnic pavilion. The Danbury Township Board of Trustees wishes you a safe and funfilled summer on our beautiful peninsula. We hope you will take the time to enjoy our spectacular and abundant natural resources!
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North Coast Business Journal
June 2012
15
Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s Emergency/Outpatient Services Facility Ready for Action When experiencing an emergency, it’s important to seek help quickly. Whether it’s a loved one with symptoms of a life-threatening stroke or a child who injured his arm playing baseball, Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s emergency staff provides the community 24/7 care for emergencies great and small. “When faced with emergencies, patients are concerned about their situation, and they want and expect help quickly,” said Dr. John Parente, a board-certified emergency physician at Fisher-Titus. “Our dedicated physicians, physician assistants, nurses and support staff are ready to provide that care.” Beginning early morning June 7, Fisher-Titus Medical Center will open the doors to its new $12.5 million facility which will house Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s emergency, registration/admitting and outpatient laboratory services. This new facility will help Fisher-Titus continue to provide care with a patient-centered focus. “What remains unchanged is the expert care our community has come to expect,” said Lorna Strayer, senior vice president of administration and business development. “Yet, patients and their families will notice some added features during their visit to Fisher-Titus for emergency and outpatient services.” Designed for Patients When designing the space, the overall patient experience was at the forefront of the planning. “This expansion allows Fisher-Titus Medical Center to re-engineer the ER patient process—from admission and registration to the delivery of care— to ensure the best outcomes and the best overall experience for our patients and their families,” said Fisher-Titus President Patrick J. Martin. More space is one feature of the new space. The existing emergency department including registration/ admitting and outpatient laboratory was a little more than 14,500 square feet. The new 29,500 square-foot facility has been equipped with the
right mix of lobby seating, as well as more private areas for patients waiting to be registered for tests. “As you enter the main lobby, you
will notice a registration counter designed with two different types of patients in mind,” Strayer said. “A registration area for the Emergency Department patient is to the left and a registration area for Outpatient Services is to the right. So depending on your needs, our Registration/Admitting staff will direct you either to the left for Emergency Services or to the right for Outpatient Services such as Laboratory or Radiology Services.” The Main Lobby also includes a Children’s Play Area, equipped with a fun interactive gaming system to help occupy the younger crowd while they are waiting.
Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s Emergency Department is specialized for the care of patients with acute illnesses and/or injuries. Fisher-Titus is Huron County’s only hospital certified by the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP) as a Primary Stroke Center and fully accredited as a Chest Pain Center through the Society of Chest Pain Centers, as well as verified as a Level 3 Trauma Center. In 2011, more than 26,000 patients were treated in the Fisher-Titus Emergency Department. “Each of those patients represented a unique case that required our medical professionals in the emergency department to adapt to a wide range of circumstances,” Strayer said. “This new facility takes into account the complexity of the patient ‘mix’ we see in the Emergency Department
and how we can best serve each individual’s needs in a timely manner—whether that need is diagnosing a strep throat or treating a stroke patient. We want to get the patient where he or she needs to be as quickly as possible—whether that is a trauma room, rapid treatment area or an observation area.” The new space has a total of 22 rooms including 11 treatment rooms (including universal rooms and rooms to accommodate women’s health and behavioral health needs), four trauma rooms, a clinical decision unit with a nurses station and four observation rooms, a rapid treatment area with three rooms, a triage area and a blood gas lab. Features that may not be as visible include new technology and enhanced processes that will improve workflow. For patients accessing outpatient services, features include an expanded registration/admitting reception area with four private registration rooms, an updated telecommunications center and a financial counseling office. A new laboratory draw area equipped with four private collection stations also is part of the outpatient services side of the facility. The Next Step… Even after the new facility opens in June, more renovation will be necessary to revamp the old space. That area will make way for renovations of Radiology Services. So as soon as the emergency, registration/ admitting and outpatient lab personnel leave this space, the construction team will begin preparing for the next phase.
The Radiology component of this construction phase will reposition the department to allow for quicker access for emergency patients and more comfortable waiting area and additional privacy for outpatients receiving diagnostic tests. In addition, it will realign the Radiology Department so services are grouped in subunits. For example, women’s health services including mammography, DEXA scan, ultrasound and breast stereotactic will be grouped together. In addition, the MRI Unit will be designed for both claustrophobic and bariatric patients. Fisher-Titus’ Radiology Services Department provides stateof-the-art diagnostic imaging technology for area patients including CT scanning, MRI, a nuclear medicine camera, breast MRI and wireless X-rays. Fisher-Titus is accredited by the American College of Radiology in MRI, mammography, nuclear medicine and CT. In addition, the facility is accredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICVL) for high level of patient care and quality testing for the diagnosis of vascular disease. The expansion project will also include new construction for Preadmission Testing (PAT), an early component of the next phase of surgery construction. This area will be adjacent to the Lab draw area and Radiology waiting room so patients will be able to conveniently receive their X-ray during the PAT process. The PAT area will support infusion therapy patients as well.
16 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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Magruder Hospital Receives National Recognition for Technology Magruder Hospital has been recognized by The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) for achieving Stage 6 of the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Adoption Model. This comes as a result of the hospital’s implementation of the Cerner Millennium Electronic Medical Record. Magruder is the first critical access hospital in the state of Ohio to earn this recognition. Currently, across the United States, only 5.2% of hospitals have reached this level of technology. “What this means for patients is that we have implemented clinical information technology to improve patient safety, quality and efficiency,” says Mike Long, President & CEO of Magruder. “This was, and continues to be, a large undertaking for our organization. Every day we move forward with advancements in how our services and technology are
delivered. The fact that we continue to maintain very high patient satisfaction scores is a testament of our staff’s dedication for putting patients first,” said Long. HIMSS Analytics developed the EMR Adoption Model in 2005 as a methodology for evaluating the progress and impact of electronic medical record systems for hospitals in the HIMSS Analytics Database. Tracking their progress in completing eight stages (0-7), hospitals can review the implementation and utilization of information technology applications with the intent of reaching Stage 7, which represents an advanced electronic patient record environment. “Magruder Hospital is clearly leading the way in EMR adoption,”
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June 2012
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18 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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The Well-Booked Business By Cathy Allen
Recently, I was helping a group of nonprofit board members prepare for a strategic planning retreat when one of them made a plaintive plea: “Please, don’t let the others shoot down my ideas by saying ‘we tried that before.’ Make them tell us exactly what they tried and give me a chance to say why I think we could do better now.” I could empathize. “We tried that before” tends to put my teeth on edge, too. It turns out that this particular conversation stopper is only one of 24 common lines of resistance to new ideas. It is no wonder that the field of Change Management is growing by leaps and bounds, with tons of academic research and piles of real world experience available to those who wish to get better at competing in the marketplace of good ideas. Professor John P. Kotter is a star in the world of Change Management researchers. With his easilyreadable books Leading Change, Our Iceberg is Melting, and A Sense of Urgency he has made a career out of helping us all take responsibility for the success of the new ideas we create and giving us the tools we need to convince others. Buy-In: Saving Your Good Ideas From Getting Shot Down by John P. Kotter and Lorne A. Whitehead. Harvard Business Review Press, 2010. SUMMARY: How often have any of us worked away to invent a solution to a group problem, only to have the idea stopped before we’ve even had a chance to fully explain why or how it would work? It happens all the time. Or maybe we pitch a plan and no one speaks an objection, but later we find that implementation is obstacleridden and full of frustration? Getting others to not just agree with us, but to really buy-in is key to seeing new ideas through. Here’s a how-tobuild-buy-in manual from two of our leading authorities on change management. Kotter and Whitehead call the ability to persuade others a basic life skill and they teach us how to convince people logically while also connecting to their hearts. KEY LEARNINGS: • In the opening fable, our heroes are endeavoring to persuade a library committee to back their idea of bringing in more computers for public use. But members with funny names like Heidi Agenda and Pompous Meani use every trick in the book to derail the project. Some are
sincerely trying to make sure a good decision is made, but others are Twenty-Four Common Idea-Killers manipulative, resistant to change, or angry about something else. Fortunately good 1. We have been successful, so why change? sense - armed with good technique 2. Money (or some other problem the proposal overcomes the attacks and puts the group does not address) is the only real issue. on the path to a successful project. 3. You exaggerate the problem. • While any objection to a good idea 4. You are implying that we have been failing. might sound fresh at first, in reality there 5. What is the hidden agenda here? are really four categories of attack: 6. What about this, and that, and this, and that...? 1. Fear mongering: Simple but 7. Your proposal goes too far/doesn't go far effective, if your opponent can raise the enough. anxiety level of those who are deciding the 8. You have a chicken-and-egg problem. question, you must allay their fears or give 9. Sounds like [something most people dislike] to up. Logic is not an effective tool. me. 2. Delay: Most projects have built-in 10. You're abandoning our core values. timelines. When those who are resistant 11. It's too simplistic to work. to change ask enough questions or make 12. No one else does this. others uncomfortable, they can kill an idea 13. You can't have it both ways. just by slowing it down. 14. Aha! You can't deny this! ("This" being a 3. Confusion: Clever questioners can worrisome thing that the proposers know nothing complicate the simplest of issues. Some about and the attackers keep secret until just the people like to look smart, but don’t be right moment.) sucked in. Make sure your responses are 15. To generate this many questions and concerns, clear, to the point, and consistent. the idea must be flawed. 4. Ridicule (character assassination): 16. We tried it before - didn't work. Proposals live and die on the credibility of 17. It's too difficult [for others] to understand. the proposer. If your challenger can make 18. Good idea, but this is not the right time. an issue of your trustworthiness or 19. It is too much work to do this. competence, you have a problem. Of 20. It won't work here; we're different! course, they can overplay their hand and 21. It puts us on a slippery slope. their own bad behavior can backfire on 22. We can't afford this. them. 23. You'll never convince enough people. • The authors propose a simple five-part strategy for building buy-in for your proposals: 1. Encourage people to attend the meeting and will help you keep your cool when you need and to speak their objections out loud. Plotting it. to keep them away from the meeting may win • Attackers come from three primary the vote but it won’t foster real buy-in for when perspectives: 1) not believing there is a problem it counts most: during implementation. to solve, 2) not believing that your proposed 2. Don’t trot out tons of supporting data or solution will solve an acknowledged problem, meet your opponent’s every attack with proof that they are wrong. These methods put the and 3) not believing your good idea will work audience to sleep. Keep it simple and you’ll get here. With this premise, the authors provide short descriptions of the 24 most common more attention. 3. Showing respect gains respect, so resist attacks and the most effective response to each. • Preparation is key. Spend time thinking the temptation to counterpunch even if your about your proposal, clarifying the message, opponent is mean or ridiculing. You’ll bring anticipating the objections, and planning your more people to your side if you can show responses. Before the meeting, grab this book deference to the views of others - even bullies. 4. Your attacker is not your main audience, off the shelf and review it to make sure you are the undecided decision-makers in the room are. not forgetting something obvious. Ask others to Stay focused on them: watch their faces and help you practice. speak for their attention. Cathy Allen is the owner of Creative Option C, 5. Before making a proposal, think through LLC, a facilitation and organizational the potential lines of attack and prepare your development consulting firm in Marblehead. responses. That alone builds self-confidence
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June 2012
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Nobody likes to talk about chest pain. But you need to have a plan – just in case.
Port Clinton’s Edgewood Manor Team Recognized for Outstanding Achievement Edgewood Manor hosted a celebration for the staff and community to recognize the facility’s achievements of the past year. There were three major awards Edgewood received for outstanding care in their facility. On hand to present the prestigious awards were members of the corporate management team from Covenant Care. In addition to Edgewood Manor, Covenant Care owns and operates 54 skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers across the United States. Kaye Lipstraw, Director of Nursing, and her team of nurses won the award for Clinical Excellence. This award was implemented nine years ago and Edgewood Manor has consecutively been awarded this honor since its inception. To qualify for this award, a facility must meet several clinical standards of excellence to ensure the highest level of quality care for the residents. The Edgewood team, lead by Administrator, Lori Lieb-Opfer and Kaye Lipstraw, DON, was recognized for its Operational Excellence. In addition to the rigorous guidelines to
achieve Clinical Excellence, the team at Edgewood Manor has exceeded all expectations of financial responsibility, excellent Federal and State Survey outcomes, low employee turnover, positive employee relations, and being a valuable resource to their community. Receiving individual recognition for her hard work and dedication to her staff and her residents at Edgewood Manor, is Lori Lieb-Opfer. Opfer who is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and the Executive Director of the facility received CEO Designation. This designation is only awarded to those exceeding all expectations and with a personal recommendation from the corporate staff. Mark Knepper, Director of Operations for the Ohio Covenant Care Facilities presented Lori Opfer with this prestigious Covenant Care designation. He stated, “Lori has received CEO Designation since her tenure at Edgewood has helped it become the employer and provider of choice for the Port Clinton community and surrounding areas.
Sharon Haver began experiencing what she thought was acid reflux. She was leaving to go to the store to get anti-acid medicine when the pain became stronger and she began to sweat. It was then that she realized it wasn’t acid reflux. She began to shake, and knew it was time to call 911.
If you experience chest pain along with any of the following symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 immediately: • Pain and/or squeezing sensation of the chest • Shortness of breath • Sweating • Indigestion • Arm pain or upper back pain • General feeling of illness
The squad arrived quickly. When Sharon arrived at the Mercy Tiffin Hospital’s emergency department, she saw Laura Gaietto and Craig Hepp. She said to them, “Don’t let me die.” Laura and Craig responded, “Not on our shift Sharon.” Sharon said that the entire emergency department staff stayed close to her and knew exactly what to do. They assured her that there was a Chest Pain Accredited team taking great care of her and everything would be okay. Laura Gaietto continued to hold her hand. Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick said that she needed to be transported via Life Flight. Within 40 minutes of her arrival at the emergency department, Sharon was on her way to Mercy St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Sharon credits her remaining life to the treatment she received at Mercy Tiffin’s emergency department. “Laura and Craig are truly angels of Mercy,” said Sharon. “They saved my broken heart.”
“I thought it was acid reflux until I began to sweat.”
Mercy knows
by heart. mercyweb.org
St. Anne
St. Charles
St. Vincent
Children’s
Defiance
Tiffin
Willard
20 June 2012
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Hospice of Memorial Hospital Awarded $5,000
Grant to Fund Hospital's Summer Youth Programs The Sandusky County Communities Foundation and Heinz, NA awarded Memorial Hospital $8,892.96 to purchase items for use during the Memorial Hospital’s summer youth programs, as well as with outpatient services throughout the year. Items purchased included adaptive bicycles, platforms swing systems and iPads. According to Memorial Hospital physical therapy professional Brandi Wammes, P.T.A., who leads some of the summer programs, “We are extremely grateful to the Sandusky County Communities Foundation and Heinz for the generous donation; we can’t wait to see the positive impact this grant will have on the children who participate in our summer programs.”
Pictured L to R: Frank Vanyo, President, Sandusky Communities Foundation; Chasity O’Neill, Director of Development, Memorial Hospital; Brandi Wammes, P.T.A., Memorial Hospital; Cate Knipp, Executive Director, Sandusky Communities Foundation; Mark Egbert, Board of Directors, Sandusky Communities Foundation; Debbie Haberland, O.T.A., Memorial Hospital
The Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) and the Midwest Care Alliance awarded Hospice of Memorial Hospital a grant of $5,000 to enhance their Caregiver Stipend program. According to Vicki Meade, Director of Hospice of Memorial Hospital, “We are extremely grateful to the VFW and Midwest Care Alliance for their generous grant in support of our Caregiver Stipend program. This program will surely continue to improve the quality of life for the people in our community who we have served for 27 years.” If diagnosed with a terminal illness, nine out of ten adults would prefer to be cared for at MEADE home rather than in a hospital or nursing home. The Hospice Caregivers Stipend Fund was established within the Memorial Hospital Foundation to provide the opportunity for Hospice patients to be able to maintain living in their homes during the last stages of life. For those patients who qualify for the program, the fund will reimburse an individual weekly for care rendered to the patient within a six month period. “Our Caregiver Stipend program is designed to maintain each patient’s quality of life, and to help them remain in their homes during their end-of-life,” added Meade. “With this grant, we will be able to bring additional help into the homes of our patients and give the patient’s primary caregivers an occasional break.”
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June 2012
21
Estate Converting Savings to Retirement Income Douglas Gildenmeister Senior Vice President, Investments The Gildenmeister Wealth Management Group of Raymond James
During your working years, you’ve probably set aside funds in retirement accounts such as IRAs, 401(k) s, or other workplace savings plans, as well as in taxable accounts. Your challenge during retirement is to convert those savings into an ongoing income stream that will provide adequate income throughout your retirement years. • Setting a withdrawal rate The retirement lifestyle you can afford will depend not only on your assets and investment choices, but also on how quickly you draw down your retirement portfolio. The annual percentage that you take out of your portfolio, whether from returns or both returns and principal, is known as your withdrawal rate. Figuring out an appropriate initial withdrawal rate is a key issue in retirement planning and presents many challenges. Why? Take out too much too soon, and you might run out of money in your later years. Take out too little, and you might not enjoy your retirement years as much as you could. Your withdrawal rate is especially important in the early years of your retirement, as it will have a lasting impact on how long your savings last. One widely used rule of thumb on withdrawal rates for tax-deferred retirement accounts states that withdrawing slightly more than 4% annually from a balanced portfolio of large-cap equities and bonds would provide inflation-adjusted income for at least 30 years. However, some experts contend that a higher withdrawal rate (closer to 5%) may be possible in the early, active retirement years if later withdrawals grow more slowly than inflation. Others contend that
portfolios can last longer by adding asset classes and freezing the withdrawal amount during years of poor performance. By doing so, they argue, “safe” initial withdrawal rates above 5% might be possible. (Sources: William P. Bengen, “Determining Withdrawal Rates Using Historical Data,” Journal of Financial Planning, October 1994; Jonathan Guyton, “Decision Rules and Portfolio Management for Retirees: Is the ‘Safe’ Initial Withdrawal Rate Too Safe?,” Journal of Financial Planning, October 2004.) Don’t forget that these hypotheses were based on historical data about various types of investments, and past results don’t guarantee future performance. There is no standard rule of thumb that works for everyone--your particular withdrawal rate needs to take into account many factors, including, but not limited to, your asset allocation and projected rate of return, annual income targets (accounting for inflation as desired), and investment horizon. • Which assets should you draw from first? You may have assets in accounts that are taxable (e.g., CDs, mutual funds), tax deferred (e.g., traditional IRAs), and tax free (e.g., Roth IRAs). Given a choice, which type of account should you withdraw from first? The answer is--it depends. For retirees who don’t care about leaving an estate to beneficiaries, the answer is simple in theory: withdraw money from taxable accounts first, then tax-deferred accounts, and lastly, tax-free accounts. By using your taxfavored accounts last, and avoiding taxes as long as possible, you’ll keep more of your retirement dollars working for you. For retirees who intend to leave assets to beneficiaries, the analysis is more complicated. You need to coordinate your retirement planning with your estate plan. For example, if you have appreciated or rapidly appreciating assets, it may be more advantageous for you to withdraw from taxdeferred and tax-free accounts first. This is because these accounts will not receive a step-up in basis at your
death, as many of your other assets will. However, this may not always be the best strategy. For example, if you intend to leave your entire estate to your spouse, it may make sense to withdraw from taxable accounts first. This is because spouses are given preferential tax treatment with regard to retirement plans. A surviving spouse can roll over retirement plan funds to his or her own IRA or retirement plan, or, in some cases, may continue the deceased spouse’s plan as his or her own. The funds in the plan continue to grow tax deferred, and distributions need not begin until the spouse’s own required beginning date. The bottom line is that this decision is also a complicated one. A financial professional can help you determine the best course based on your individual circumstances. • Certain distributions are required In practice, your choice of which assets to draw first may, to some extent, be directed by tax rules. You can’t keep your money in taxdeferred retirement accounts forever. The law requires you to start taking distributions--called “required minimum distributions” or RMDs-from traditional IRAs by April 1 of the year following the year you turn age 70½, whether you need the money or not. For employer plans, RMDs must begin by April 1 of the year following the year you turn 70½ or, if later, the year you retire. Roth IRAs aren’t subject to the lifetime RMD rules. If you have more than one IRA, a required distribution is calculated separately for each IRA. These amounts are then added together to determine your RMD for the year. You can withdraw your RMD from any one or more of your IRAs. (Your traditional IRA trustee or custodian must tell you how much you’re required to take out each year, or offer to calculate it for you.) For employer retirement plans, your plan will calculate the RMD, and distribute it to you. (If you participate in more than one employer plan, your RMD will be determined
separately for each plan.) It’s important to take RMDs into account when contemplating how you’ll withdraw money from your savings. Why? If you withdraw less than your RMD, you will pay a penalty tax equal to 50% of the amount you failed to withdraw. The good news: you can always withdraw more than your RMD amount. Annuity distributions If you’ve used an annuity for part of your retirement savings, at some point you’ll need to consider your options for converting the annuity into income. You can choose to simply withdraw earnings (or earnings and principal) from the annuity. There are several ways of doing this. You can withdraw all of the money in the annuity (both the principal and earnings) in one lump sum. You can also withdraw the money over a period of time through regular or irregular withdrawals. By choosing to make withdrawals from your annuity, you continue to have control over money you have invested in the annuity. However, if you systematically withdraw the principal and the earnings from the annuity, there is no guarantee that the funds in the annuity will last for your entire lifetime, unless you have separately purchased a rider that provides guaranteed minimum income payments for life (without annuitization). In general, your withdrawals will be subject to income tax--on an “income-first” basis--to the extent your cash surrender value exceeds your investment in the contract. The taxable portion of your withdrawal may also be subject to a 10% early distribution penalty if you haven’t reached age 59½, unless an exception applies. A second distribution option is called the guaranteed* income (or annuitization) option. If you select this option, your annuity will be “annuitized,” which means that the current value of your annuity is converted into a stream of payments. This allows you to receive a guaranteed* income stream from the annuity. The annuity issuer
See ESTATE 23
22 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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Elmwood Communities Receive High Ratings From Residents Elmwood Communities, along with other Nursing Homes and Residential Care Facilities across the state recently received The Ohio Department of Aging 2011 Resident Satisfaction Survey results. Residents living at nursing homes and residential facilities, better known as Assisted Living facilities, were interviewed to determine their personal satisfaction with the facility’s overall environment, the administration, direct care/nursing staff, meals, activities, social services and other factors including their general satisfaction of the facility. Elmwood Communities has learned that all of their facilities have received very positive feedback from their residents resulting in “above average”
ratings. This includes: Elmwood Nursing Home at The Springs in Green Springs- East campus, Elmwood Healthcare Center at The Spring’s Skilled Nursing Unit -West campus, Elmwood Assisted Living at The Springs- East campus, Elmwood Assisted Living of Fremont, Elmwood Assisted Living at The Shawhan -Tiffin, and Elmwood Assisted Living of New Bremen. The Ohio Department of Aging reported that the statewide overall satisfaction rating average for resident satisfaction at nursing homes was 87.1% out of a possible 100%. Elmwood’s two nursing facilities located on Elmwood at The Spring’s Healthcare and Senior Residential Living campus in Green Springs each received excellent ratings, achieving 95.26% at the east campus, and 92.63% at the west campus. The average Residential Care Facilities (Assisted Living) rating statewide was 85.9%. Elmwood Assisted Living at The Springs, east campus facility in Green Springs was listed as one of the top 25 residential care facilities in the state, landing an amazing Resident Satisfaction rating of 97.8%. Elmwood Assisted Living
Communities in Tiffin, Fremont, and New Bremen also received above average scores ranging from 93.0% to 96.2%, well above the statewide average. When receiving word of the high scores, Kathy Hunt, Owner and CEO of Elmwood Centers, was not surprised. “I’m so very proud of not only my direct care and nursing staff, but of the entire Elmwood team. From management, to housekeeping, to dining room services... everyone plays an important role to ensure our residents’ health and happiness. They know how passionate I am about our residents’ wellbeing and I am so thankful that they share that passion with me. You have helped us to build Elmwood into what it is today. Thank you, Team Elmwood for helping us to get there. I am so proud of you all!” Since 1974, Elmwood has earned an unparalleled reputation for care and services assisting seniors in each of Elmwood’s residential communities. With the addition of Elmwood Healthcare Center at The Springs in 2009, where adults of all ages receive a variety of health and wellness services, Elmwood now has over 600 healthcare team members throughout their Ohio facilities.
Port Clinton Main Street Awarded OSS Grant The OSS Joint Solid Waste Management District presented a $2400 check to Main Street Port Clinton for the purchase of recycled sandwich board signs. From l to r: Board Members: Lauren Schubach - Operations Manager, Jim Recker, Roseann Hickman, Missy Walker, John Madison, Amy Drummer – OSS Solid Waste Management District, Dawn Zink, Doug Garrett, Laura Schlachter – Program Manager, and Larry Hartlaub.
North Coast Business Journal
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June 2012
23
Human Resources - Staffing Submitted by Steven J. Krisfalusy Managing Partner Human Resource/Business sions SJK Beringer Group, Inc.
Divi-
Q: What to do when the good people are gone? A: Borrow them from a competitor for a decade or two! As a seasoned, s u c c e s s f u l C o r p o r a t e Headhunter for over 20 years, I assure you that the basic strategy behind searches, especially leadership positions, has a primary focus on the competitors of my customer. There are only two solutions when it comes to the current staffing market place: Train or borrow people! Many run ads or try to get referrals but ironically they are typically hoping for someone from a
ESTATE from 21 promises to pay you an amount of money on a periodic basis (e.g., monthly, yearly, etc). If you elect to annuitize, the periodic payments you receive are called annuity payouts. You can elect to receive either a fixed amount for each payment period or a variable amount for each period. You can receive the income stream for your entire lifetime (no matter how long you live), or you can receive the income stream for a specific time period (ten years, for example). You can also elect to receive annuity payouts over your lifetime and the lifetime of another person (called a “joint and survivor annuity”). The amount you receive for each payment period will depend on the cash value of the annuity, how earnings are credited to your account (whether fixed or variable), and the age at which you begin receiving annuity payments. The length of the distribution period will also affect how much you receive. For example, if you are 65 years old and elect to receive annuity payments over your entire lifetime, the amount of each payment you’ll
competitor to go on the market – approach them independently and close the deal. How lucky do you feel? The current Employment Agency business is booming and they are collecting fees to the point they can be selective when accepting a candidate search project. Furthermore, I was recently informed that many have raised their rates (%) due to the extreme demand. Where does that position you? How do you attract that key Supervisor-ManagerDirector or Executive to take your business to the next level? Here are a few tips that will help: • Identify your strengths: This should go well beyond compensation; PTO, benefits & employee costs also have an impact. The hidden secrets are the culture and their future potential. Many will offset compensation today for a long term future career path tomorrow. In a small business that will require some creative organizational development. • Bundle/promote those strengths: To often employers simply rely on a
job description and pay thinking that level people, I charged 30% of the candidates will come running. Today total first year compensation with in this competitive market it is 1/3 due before I started the search. different. Detailing and bundling all Be smart but also don’t hang your of the strengths & positive aspects in hat on being lucky in finding the writing will help convince some of ideal person to help you take your those good people that you may be business to the next level. the one. Using various vehicles to get the • Do a short term test and then go word out over an extended period of to Plan B: How long do you run an time makes the most sense. Starting ad or hope that your efforts may pay and continuing that process well off? In today’s marketplace, it usually before the need becomes critical also falls into 2 catagories: Right away makes sense. within 60 days; or it could take a very A few ways to do that that are Free long time if ever. are: Community Colleges; Tech The good news is that you are not schools, local groups and alone. The bad news is that in today’s organizations often have FREE job competitive marketplace you must be posting opportunities that can also creative & innovative and that can reach out to the local community. cost a substantial amount of money. Good luck hunting! Typically, a contingency agency (you pay when you hire) charges Submitted by Steven J. Krisfalusy, 20%-25% of the first year’s pay. Today Managing Partner, Human Resource/ those percentages are rising to 25%- Business Divisions, SJK Beringer 30% and at an average compensation Group, Inc. , “Managing Business of $67K that can cost you over $16K. and Controlling IT”(440) 356-3636, As a Retained Search Consultant ext.222; www.sjkberinger.com 11:18:48 AM placing ncbj1111AHAC.pdf executive & 11/2/11 management
branding.
receive will be less than if you had elected to receive annuity payouts over five years. Each annuity payment is part nontaxable return of your investment in the contract and part payment of taxable accumulated earnings (until the investment in the contract is exhausted). *Guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. This information was developed by Broadridge, an independent third party. It is general in nature, is not a complete statement of all information necessary for making an investment decision, and is not a recommendation or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Investments and strategies mentioned may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. member New York Stock Exchange/ SIPC does not provide advice on tax, legal or mortgage issues. These matters should be discussed with an appropriate professional. Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC.
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24 June 2012
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Sales
Perspective By Roger Bostdorff Recently I was presenting to a N a t i o n a l Association’s Annual Conference near Las Vegas. The presentation was entitled, “Selling in a Tough Economy.” This presentation discussed the status quo of our economy and then described why some marketing representatives (fancy word for salesman) and companies, in spite of the challenging times, are successful and others are not! While delivering my presentation I had someone in the audience stand up and tell me that he was just like everyone else in the audience. He and his company could not do or make anything any different than the other participants in the room. In fact, the same was true with the folks in his industry that resided in China,
they could just make the product for substantially less $$. He certainly had an interesting perspective! These comments were made after I had already led an interactive discussion on the need to differentiate. How do you think he liked the presentation up to that point? By the way, 21 out or the 24 participants provided feedback that the presentation was either good or excellent. My bet is this person was one of the three that had another opinion. I had to do some fast thinking to save this presentation. However, before I could fully think thru my response I had another participant stand and layout how he differentiated his product from the one he competed with in China. He told the story that he actually made a trip to China to see if he could source his items from China. At least that was the story he told his Chinese competitors. He sought and brought back competitive items to
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Held for Medi-Quip Repairs The Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome a new business into town. Late last month a ribbon cutting was held for MediQuip Repairs. Medi-Quip Repairs is a medical equipment repair/retail shop, and they can repair, modify or perform preventative maintenance on all medical equipment. Medi-Quip Repairs has ten years of experience working on most brand names and types of durable medical equipment. Pictured at right are Paulette Weirich, Oak Harbor Chamber Board Member; Don Douglas, Oak Harbor Chamber Board Member; Chuck Benes, Oak Harbor Chamber Board Member; Valerie Winterfield, Oak Harbor Chamber Executive Director; Don Huffman, owner of Medi-Quip Repairs; Duane Huffman; Sue Betcher; Fred Conley, Mayor of Oak Harbor; and Lester Weatherwax, Oak Harbor Chamber Board Member.
www.ncbj.net what he made here in the states. After he returned he had the metal analyzed and found out that it did NOT meet the specifications of the end user customer. He then took this analysis to his distributor who had already told the manufacturing company that the distributor was going to sell the Chinese sourced product. The conference participant then explained that the distributor could compete with the Chinese product or the ones made here in the US, this was the distributor’s choice. However, if the Distributor decided to go with the Chinese product my participant would be contacting a competitive distributor and be conveying the information in regards to the inferior product. This would obviously lead to a lack of credibility with the end user customer and provide very good odds the distributor to would lose this order and many others in the future. This manufacturer differentiated his product from the low cost alternative. He went the extra mile to do so. By the way, I am not sure the guy that went to China did not have a conversation regarding buying the company of the person who thought his company and products were like everyone else’s!! These two individuals were in the
same industry, competing for the same type of business. They each had their own perspective regarding how their company could be successful. What perspective do you have at the moment? Have you spent any time quantifying your differentiation factors? What makes your product or service unique or special? Or are you the same as everyone else in your marketplace? The economy is tough, no doubt about it. It has been tough for some time. This might be an excellent time to take the temperature of your perspective. Trust me; it matters to you, your employees and to your company’s longevity and success! Good luck and good selling! Roger Bostdorff is the President of B2B Sales Boost. He spent over 30 years with IBM in sales and sales management. B2B Sales Boost is a consulting company helping organizations improve their sales and overall business processes. He is also available for business speaking engagements. You can find more regarding B2B Sales Boost on the web at www.b2bsalesboost.com or calling 419-351-4347. If you would like to receive the B2B Sales Boost Newsletter please send an email to sales@b2bsalesboost.com
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419-732-6673 Healthy Solutions Holds Ribbon Cutting Port Clinton, OH – The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Healthy Solutions located at 104 W. Perry Street was held last month. Pictured left to right: Laura Schlachter, Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Port Clinton; Missy Walker, President of Main Street Port Clinton; Lee Vivod, ViceChair of Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce ; Julie Prescott Independent Distributor; Josh Prescott, owner; and John Coppeler, Board member of the Port Clinton Area Chamber.
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26 June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
Legal “I Don’t Need to Plan” By Jeff Roth In the last several months, I have received calls about individuals with an illness or who have died suddenly. Many of them had no planning and no documents. I know I keep repeating this subject but it is sad to have to go through a long complicated legal process because nothing was done while the individual was healthy.
Unstated Reasons Why I Do Not Have
a Plan 1 — I am in great health and plan to be here many years. 2 — I heard that if I do not do anything, the government would provide for me. 3 — I know that my children will be there and take care of me. 4 — I really do not have much, so it really will not matter when I die. 5 — I WILL DO IT NEXT YEAR WHEN I HAVE MORE TIME. People think you have to be in your eighties to worry about this subject. Here are various types of individuals who have become ill or passed away without any preparation: 1 — YOUNG adults eighteen and above. They have very few assets but the transfer of the car or the one bank account upon unexpected death is just as time consuming and expensive. A simple joint account could have saved this expense. 2 — A SINGLE individual of any age. No transfer of assets will be automatic. Again, the adding of a name on the account or at least a transfer on death designation will prevent extensive probate administration.
Coming
in
Focus
3 — A SECOND marriage or not revisiting your documents after a 3. DIVORCE. Horrendous events occur and transfers to those who you would not want are the result. 4 — Preparing a plan and then NOT UPDATING after many years. The objects of your bounty may be different today than they were twenty years ago. 5 — Having a plan for your CHILDREN only to find out they are going bankrupt or getting a divorce. 6 — Your plan after your SPOUSE DIES. Many times, circumstances change and the plan created by the two of you is vastly different after one is gone. Even if you have your accounts and the vehicle titles correctly passing at death, do you have documents to provide for health care decisions while you are sick or a business power of attorney if you are unable to take care of your day-to-day business? I know that this is repetitious, but the only ones who will gain from your inaction are the attorney and the probate court. As Larry the cable guy would say, “Get’er done.” Jeff Roth is a partner with David Bacon and associate Jessica Moon of the firm ROTH and BACON with offices in Port Clinton, Upper Sandusky, Marion, Ohio and Fort Myers, Florida. All members of the firm are licensed in Ohio and Florida. Mr. Roth’s practice is limited to wealth strategy planning and elder law in both states. Nothing in this article is intended for, nor should be relied upon as individual legal advice. The purpose of this article is to provide information to the public on concepts of law as they pertain to estate and business planning. Jeff Roth can be reached at ohiofloridatrust@aol.com (telephone: 419-732-9994) copyright Jeffrey P. Roth 2012.
July: on
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April Home Sales Make Gains in Ohio Homes sales activity throughout Ohio continued to make gains in April, helping the marketplace post 10 consecutive months of positive sales, according to statistics provided by the state’s Multiple Listing Services. Sales of new and existing homes posted a 11.3 percent jump during the first four months of 2012 compared to the same period a year ago, reaching 30,609 sales compared to the 2011 result of 27,491. “Strong activity in April continued to help push the Ohio real estate marketplace forward on its road to recovery, following the downturn that resulted from the economic collapse of 2008,” said Robert U. Miller, president of the Ohio Association of REALTORS®. “We’re extremely hopeful that achieving 10 consecutive months of sales growth is an indication that growth within Ohio’s housing market is sustainable and that we have built a pretty solid foundation for current and future homeowners. “We remain confident about the Ohio marketplace – as interest rates remain at historic low levels, prices have begun to trend upward, sellers are realistic in their pricing expectations and consumers understand that long-term, owning a home is a tremendous investment.” Not only did sales levels during the first four months exceed the pace of a year ago, the average sales price (January through April) throughout Ohio this year increased 3.8 percent, reaching $122,373 versus the 2011 mark of $117,673. Total dollar volume this year is nearly $3.8 billion, a 15.8 percent increase from last year’s four-month mark of more than $3.2 billion.
“One thing is clear, Ohio’s real estate professionals are certain that the desire to achieve the American Dream of homeownership remains strong throughout Ohio,” Miller said. “The difficult challenges we’ve faced since the economic collapse of 2008 have certainly not completely dissipated, but it’s apparent that the industry is encouraged that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.” Sales in April reached 9,099, an 8.1 percent increase from the 8,420 sales posted during the same period a year ago. The month’s average sales price of $130,003 is a 5 percent increase from the April 2011 mark of $123,544. Total dollar volume in April nearly reached $1.2 billion, a 13.7 percent increase from the $1 million mark posted a year ago. Data provided to OAR by Multiple Listing Services includes residential closings for new and existing single-family homes and condominiums/co-ops. The Ohio Association of REALTORS®, with more than 26,000 members, is the largest professional trade association in Ohio. To view a market by market analysis of sales activity throughout Ohio and local contact information, click on the link below: http://www.ohiorealtors.org/ wp-content/uploads/Stats/ April12MA.pdf {NOTE: There might be a slight variance between the reported number of sales contained in this release and actual activity in the various markets due to OAR’s early reporting requirement. Check with contacts in the particular market.)
Milan & Willard
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Thinking globally and locally A large number of American companies do business with international companies on one level or another, and they re looking for employees who can think locally and globally. EHOVE Career Center will offer a new training program, Global Business Management, in the high school starting next school year. It will provide students with a solid foundation in the world of global business.
EHOVE s new program is designed for students to study business principles with a global cultural mindset, explore real world business management issues, and develop organization and communication skills. Students interested in business, becoming entrepreneurs, or a career as analysts or managers of human resources, finance, marketing, projects or purchasing, will find the program is a good fit. To help prepare students for college and give them a jumpstart on a business management degree, Global Business Management students will
have the opportunity to earn free college credit from BGSU Firelands while enrolled at EHOVE. EHOVE Executive Director Kitty Smith developed the program and has been working out all of the details. Recognizing the shift to a more global environment in business, Smith said that the program also will include a project/problem-based focus with an international capstone field project. Students in the program will have the opportunity to interact with area professionals who work in this expanding business environment,
said Smith. Some program highlights include: Studying business principles with a global cultural mindset, exploring real world business management issues, learning to organize, plan and prioritize work, and developing communication skills to work with others inside and outside the organization. Some unique classroom experiences include: Work-based learning in area businesses (mentoring, shadowing), and earning college credit while finishing senior year of high school in this senior only program.
Law You Can Use: Privacy at Work Q: Is it legal for my employer to read emails I send on my work computer? A: Generally, yes. If your employer has a policy (check the handbook) stating that emails may be monitored and that employees should have no expectation of privacy in their email communications, then you should expect that any email you send or receive on your work computer can and will be read by the employer or by a designated representative. Q: Is it legal for my employer to search my office, desk or locker? A: If you work for a public employer, your employer is not allowed to subject you to “unreasonable searches and seizures” under the U.S. Constitution. The key to whether it is legal for a public (government) employer to search your office, desk or locker is whether you had an expectation of privacy. This answer may differ depending on the circumstances and the job you hold. If you are employed by a private company, it is generally legal for your employer to search your office, desk or locker. Again, notice is the key. If your employer has made you and your fellow employees aware that desks, offices, and lockers are the employer’s property and that they may be searched, you do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy and should expect that your office, desk or locker may be searched by your employer. Some workplace policies go so far as to state that, if an
employee brings personal property (purses, briefcases, lunch containers, etc.) onto the work premises, such property can be searched. Agreement to an employer’s policies is usually a condition of being offered a job or of continuing employment. Q: Can my employer dictate what I can post on my Facebook page? A: Yes and no. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recently issued a report regarding employer policies and disciplinary actions related to postings on social media sites. The NLRB enforces the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) which governs union and non-union workplaces. Certain provisions of the NLRA protect employees who engage in “concerted activity” regarding workplace conditions. This means that you and your fellow employees are free, for example, to talk about office policies, and your employer cannot try to prevent you from doing so or take disciplinary action against you and your fellow employees for such a discussion. The NLRB report also says it will initiate action against employers who prohibit employees from talking about working conditions (supervisors, salaries, hours, etc.) online. Because the NLRB enforces the NLRA, you are generally permitted to talk about your working conditions on your Facebook page without worrying that your employer will take any action against you for doing so. However, you should be aware
that this same NLRB report stresses that employers may enforce policies prohibiting employees from violating laws relating to the employer’s business. For example, a bank can prohibit employees from discussing customer accounts, and a drug company can prohibit discussion of individual patient prescriptions. An employer can also enforce a policy that prohibits employees from coercing or pressuring coworkers to connect via social media, or a policy that prohibits employees from making vulgar, obscene, threatening, intimidating or harassing comments that violate the employer’s policies against illegal discrimination and harassment. Q: Can an employer exclude a job applicant from consideration based on a prior criminal arrest or conviction record? A: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission frowns on using criminal background checks to determine employment eligibility unless the background information is job related and consistent with business necessity. The EEOC suggests that employers determine, before listing a job, whether any particular crime would act as a deterrent to
hiring for the job, and then individually assess an applicant’s situation, considering such factors as the seriousness of the offense and the length of time since conviction, before excluding anyone. This “Law You Can Use” column was provided by the Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA). It was prepared by attorney Maryellen Reash, of Reash Law Offices in Columbus. Articles appearing in this column are intended to provide broad, general information about the law. Before applying this information to a specific legal problem, readers are urged to seek advice from an attorney.
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North Coast Business Journal
ENT Specialist Joins Memorial James M. Williams, MD, PhD, has joined the Memorial Hospital medical staff. Dr. Williams specializes in treating adult and pediatric ear, nose and throat conditions, including surgery for head and neck disorders. He has more than 20 years ENT specialty care experience. Dr. Williams comprehensive range of E.N.T. services include endoscopic sinus surgery; nasal and septal surgery; laser surgery; head and neck surgery (for tumors and facial skin cancer); evaluation and treatment of dizziness
and balance disorders; external, middle and inner ear surgery; snoring and obstructive sleep apnea surgery; pediatric upper airway surgery and ear tubes; treatment of hearing loss; t o n s i l l e c t o m i e s ; adenoidectomies and more. Dr. Williams earned his medical degree at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Williams earned a Ph.D. in Development Biology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Figula Joins Stein Hospice Susan Figula, a registered nurse with more than 20 years experience in hospice and home care, has been named Director of Market Development for Stein Hospice. Her initial focus will be on developing Stein Hospice’s presence in Lorain County. Figula’s previous hospice employment includes 12 years at Hospice of the Western Reserve, where she was chief marketing and
communications officer. She also was a member of the management team of New Life, based in Elyria. Figula is a board member of the Midwest Care Alliance and co-chair of the HospiceVeteran Partnership in Ohio. Since 1994, she has been a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse. Figula lives in Elyria with her husband Joseph. The couple has four children and three grandchildren.
Fisher-Titus CEO Recognized Patrick J. Martin (right), president and CEO of Fisher-Titus Medical Center, received the American Hospital Association Grassroots Champion Award on Tuesday, May 8 in Washington D.C. The American Hospital Association (AHA), in partnership with the Ohio Hospital Association (OHA), presented the award in recognition of Martin’s exceptional leadership in generating grassroots and community activity in support of a hospital’s mission. The award was presented during the AHA Annual Meeting. One champion is named for each state. Pictured with Martin is Mike Abrams, OHA president and CEO.
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Law You Can Use: Wrongful Termination Q: I believe I was wrongfully fired from my job. What can I do? A: Ohio is an “at-will” employment state. This means that most employers may fire (terminate) or discipline an employee for any reason at any time, including a bad reason or no reason at all. The only employees who are not “at-will” are certain government employees, those who have employment contracts, and those who belong to a union with a collective bargaining agreement. Q: Even if I’m an at-will employee, could I still have a wrongful termination case? A: Yes. There are many exceptions to the at-will employment rule, and most are laws forbidding the termination of employment for specific reasons. In bringing a wrongful termination suit, you would have to claim that your employer violated one or more of these laws. Most of the time, wrongful termination cases are based on the reason for—not the fairness of—the termination. Q: What reasons would make a termination “wrongful”? A: There are many reasons that a termination might be considered “wrongful.” For example, you are probably aware that employers are not allowed to terminate employees because of their gender, race, national origin, age or disability. Employers are also not permitted to terminate employees who are identified with certain protected classes, or because of military service, or for taking certain types of medical leave, filing a Workers’ Compensation claim, or for certain types of whistle-blowing activity. Certain types of terminations have also been found to violate Ohio’s “public policy,” including termination for filing an Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) complaint or serving on a jury. Generally, what makes a termination “wrongful” involves a complex and sometimes confusing web of statutory and common law. It is wise to consult a knowledgeable attorney to determine if your employer has violated any law in
terminating you. You should do this as soon as possible, because some of these laws have a statute of limitations as short as three months, and if you do not take action you may lose your claims. Q: Can my employer wrongfully demote me or discipline me? A: Yes. Just as with termination, the legality of negative employment actions often comes down to the employer’s motivation. The same laws prohibiting terminations for particular reasons often prohibit certain types of lesser adverse action, like a demotion or other discipline. Such discipline must usually rise to a certain level of severity, however, before you can hope to bring successful legal action against your employer. Q: Can I take my employer to court because I have a hostile work environment? A: Employees have a right to a workplace free of discrimination, such as sexual or racial harassment. If the hostility in the workplace environment rises to a certain level of severity, it may warrant legal action. General hostility that is not based on illegal discrimination usually will not give rise to a claim. If illegal harassment is occurring, you should complain. In fact, employees often are obligated to complain before a court will find an employer liable for allowing a hostile work environment. Complaint procedures are generally found in an employee handbook, and should be followed if possible. Q: Where can I find more information? A: Visit the Ohio Employment Lawyers’ Association at www. oelasmart.net or contact an attorney. This “Law You Can Use” column was provided by the Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA). It was prepared by attorney Edward R. Forman of Marshall and Morrow LLC in Columbus. Articles appearing in this column are intended to provide broad, general information about the law. Before applying this information to a specific legal problem, readers are urged to seek advice from an attorney.
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Firelands Announces President & Chief Executive Officer The Board of Directors of Firelands Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that Martin E. Tursky will become the next President & CEO of Firelands Regional Health System. Tursky comes to Firelands from Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, Pawtucket, Rhode Island. With over 14 years of healthcare leadership experience, Tursky also held a number of progressively responsible positions at Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, including leadership of Strategic Planning, Property Management, Clinical Support Services, Heart Center, Support Services and Chief Information Officer. His leadership includes numerous cost saving and growth initiatives, statewide and national recognition in quality and image, recognition as one of the first Certified Chest Pain Centers in the Nation, a $90 million hospital addition and implementation of an Electronic Medical Record project, to
name a few. From 1991 through 1996, Mr. Tursky served in the United States Army, U.S. and International Locations, where he managed sizeable teams, budgets and assets. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio and a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Management/ Mechanical, from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York. Tursky, originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, resided in Ohio for over 14 years before his most recent relocation to the east coast. He looks forward to coming back to Ohio with his wife, Mary and two children-daughter Emily and son Benjamin, ages 13 and 9. Firelands has been involved in the national CEO search process since January of this year. Members of the Firelands Regional Medical Center Board of Directors, Medical Staff, Senior Management Team and a representation of Firelands employees were all involved in the interview process for the new CEO.
Smith Rasnick Sells Lake Erie Shores & Islands to Groups Amanda Smith Rasnick, Group Sales Coordinator for Lake Erie Shores & Islands, has been busy this spring promoting group travel to the region at a number of industry trade shows. In January and February, she met with tour bus operators at the American Bus Association and Heartland Travel Showcase. In March, Rasnick promoted the region as a
corporate meeting destination at the Meeting Professionals International MidAmerican Conference and the Pharmaceutical Meeting Management Forum. Sports events organizers were targeted at the National Association of Sports Commissions in April. Most recently Rasnick targeted corporate meeting planners once again at the Collaborate Marketplace. Amanda and the group sales team at Lake Erie Shores & Islands are committed to bringing overnight group business to the region.
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New EHOVE Team Member EHOVE Adult Career Center is proud to announce that a new member has joined the team. Ben Chaffee of North Fairfield will fill the position of Adult Education Director as of July 1, due to the upcoming retirement of longtime Director Viki Kaszonyi. In his new role, Chaffee will manage EHOVE's Adult Education training programs and the department's personnel and budget. "I'm really excited about the new opportunity," said Chaffee. "I'm a vocational teacher by trade, so I think that aspect will fit well for me. The job description lends itself to the traits I bring as a Superintendent also." After growing up on a small family farm south of Tiffin and graduating from Mohawk HS, Chaffee earned
his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Ohio State University. From Ashland University, he also earned a Masters in Educational Administration and obtained his Principal's and Superintendent's Licenses. The experience as an educator and administrator that he brings is an asset to EHOVE. Chaffee taught agricultural education and was involved with FFA at Northridge Local Schools and South Central Local Schools. At South Central, he also served five years as Principal and six years as Superintendent. Chaffee is also on the Board of Directors for Project Leadership of Huron County, member of the North Fairfield Lions Club, Greenwich Rotary Club, and several professional organizations for educators. Married to Jody, a homemaker who is also a Librarian and member of the Firelands Symphony Orchestra, together they have three children, Benji, Lydia and Bryan.
Community Hospice Care
Rebecca S. Shank, R.N. Executive Director
With Community Hospice Care, it’s not the destination, but the journey that matters
Proudly Serving Seneca & Huron counties since 1983
Not for Profit - No Patient ever receives a bill for our care
Community Hospice Care
181 E. Perry Street; Tiffin, OH 44883 (419) 447-4040 1-800-834-8100 Visit our website: www.communityhospicecare.com or contact us via email at: info@communityhospicecare.com
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North Coast Business Journal
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Myers Joins Payne, Nickles - Sandusky Spencer Joins Ottawa Payne, Nickles & Company, CPAs, is pleased to announce the addition of Anthony R. Myers, CPA to the firm’s Sandusky office. His responsibilities include attestation services and tax preparation with a focus in the business and non profit sectors. Myers is a native of Norwalk and a graduate of Bowling Green State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in
Business Administration degree with specializations in Accounting and in Marketing. Upon graduation he began his career with a CPA firm in San Diego, California where he became a Certified Public Accountant in August 2011. He currently resides in Norwalk with his wife Brittany.
Grisel New Director of Vermilion Chamber The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce Executive Board and Board of Directors have named Sandra Grisel as their new Executive Director. She is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a major in Marketing and a minor in Business Administration. Mrs. Grisel started for the Chamber in May 2007 working full time as Administrative Assistant. Chamber President Barb Flaczynski said, “We are excited to have Sandy on board
as Executive Director. She has proven to be a real asset to the Chamber over the last several years coordinating some of our major fundraisers and community events, as well as addressing the needs of our members. Sandy has fresh new ideas and a passion for the chamber members and their continued growth. This will give the Chamber and the City of Vermilion great momentum for success.”
County Health Dept.
The Ottawa County Health Department has welcomed Jessica Spencer of Port Clinton to its nursing staff. She will be concentrating her efforts in the home health care division. “I love the elderly, geriatric patients,” said Spencer, noting regular visits can often forge special bonds. Diane Kokinda, Director of Nursing, said Spencer underwent an orientation period in which she was teamed with a fellow registered nurse. She now makes the health care visits on her own. Spencer’s position with the health department is parttime. She divides her time between the health department and duties in the labor and delivery unit at Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky. Previously, she also worked at Bellevue Hospital and Bay Park Community Hospital. Spencer, a Milan native, is a graduate of Edison High School. She obtained her degree through Ohio University and continues her education currently through an OU online-program. Spencer and her husband, Mike, a math teacher at Port Clinton High School, have two children.
June 2012
North Coast Business Journal
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Memorial Hospital Foundation Welcomes Board Members
BOWLUS
The Memorial Hospital Foundation Board welcomed Holly Elder and Thomas Bowlus, Esq. to its team. Bowlus is a graduate of Fremont Ross High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science, with distinction, in Natural Resources, and a Juris Doctor, both from The Ohio State University. Bowlus is the Managing Member at Bowlus & Murrell, Ltd. in Fremont, Ohio, and he
also owns and operates Park Avenue Title Agency, Inc. Bowlus is involved in many community organizations. Bowlus is also the owner and Editor-inChief of Bass Gear Magazine. Bowlus and his wife Bonnie have two children, Travis and Veronica. Elder is a graduate of Fremont Ross High School as well. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Bowling Green
State University. Elder has been the City of Fremont Treasurer since 2008. Elder also owns and operates Avenues for the Home, an interior decorating company. She is a member of many community organizations and involved in her church as well. Elder lives in Fremont with her husband John and their two daughters Maeve and Claire.
ELDER
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32 June 2012
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Memorial Ear, Nose & Throat (E.N.T.) Specialty Care Dr. Williams sees patients full time in Fremont
James M. Williams, M.D., Ph.D. Memorial Ear, Nose & Throat Specialty Care physician James Williams, M.D., Ph.D. specializes in treating adult and pediatric ear, nose and throat conditions, including surgery for head and neck disorders.
MEMORIAL EAR, NOSE & THROAT SPECIALTY CARE ■
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
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Nasal and Septal Surgery
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Laser Surgery
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Head and Neck Surgery (for tumors and facial skin cancer)
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Adenoidectomies
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Evaluation and treatment of dizziness and balance disorders External, middle and inner ear surgery
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Pediatric upper airway surgery and ear tubes
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Treatment of hearing loss
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Tonsillectomies
Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea surgery
605 Third Avenue, Fremont Office: 567.201.2890 (This is a local call in Fremont)
memorialhcs.org/ENT
For an appointment with Dr. Williams, call his office at 567.201.2890.