Get documents about "VAN WERT HOMEBUSINESS EXPO April 34
Document Sample
VieWpoint February ’09
INSIDE VIEW VAN WERT HOME & BUSINESS EXPO: April 3 & 4
2 On Message
The Van Wert Area Chamber of Building - there will be displays featuring local vendors and aggressively promote the inter-
Commerce is proud to announce and events connecting the two entertainment!” ests of the business community.
3 What’s News that their annual HOME & BUSI- areas. Local vendors, hands-on For more information please
NESS EXPO is scheduled for April demonstrations and entertain- The mission of the Van Wert Area contact the chamber office at
3rd & 4th at the Van Wert ment will keep the expo Chamber of Commerce is to 419/238-4390.
4 Member Spotlight: County Fair Grounds. This year’s bustling.
Elmco event is on schedule to be bigger
and better than before and will Exhibitor booths are currently
feature a Food Court featuring being sold through the Chamber
Member Spotlight: office. Chamber investors may
5 RCS Construction area food service providers.
rent a 10’ X 8’ booth for $225,
www.vanwertchamber.com The Home & Business Expo will non-members are charged $300.
be open Friday evening and Booths include one eight-foot
6 Chamber Awards Dinner Saturday. The hours for the event table and two chairs. Electric is
will be from 5 - 8pm on Friday available for $15. Booths are
7 Progress and 10 - 4pm on Saturday. available on a first-come-first-
served basis and will be reserved
Member Spotlight” “We are very proud of the expo; upon receipt of signed contract
8 Wee Care Learning Center we have loyal exhibitors return- and payment. Attendees & exhibitors enjoy last year’s Home & Business Expo—
ing and new exhibitors signing there were over 65 exhibitors at that event.
on. It is an exciting opportunity Craft exhibitors and home-based
9 Member Spotlight: for our local businesses to show- businesses may rent space at a
Manna Outreach
case their goods and services to cost of $75 for Chamber
Ministries the general public,” said Gribble. investors and $100 for non-
“Our Chamber Investors enjoy investors. These booths include
10 Leadership Van Wert
Workers’ Compensation
the chance to gain new cus- one 8’ table and two chairs.
tomers, and we appreciate the Electric is available for $15.
opportunity to assist them.”
11 Safety Council “We are very excited to be host-
Tourism: 2009 This Chamber event will again ing the Home & Business Expo,”
be held at the Van Wert County said Chamber President/CEO
Mission Statement: Fairgrounds. There will be two Kate Gribble. “We’re looking
buildings full of exhibitors & forward to an eventful show that
To aggressively promote
events. The Expo will be taking will offer something for every-
the interests of the
place in both the Junior Fair one - a chance to connect with
business community.
Building and the Administration area businesses, a food court
1224177
Van Wert Area
Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2009
On
Executive Committee
Mike Heffelfinger, Message
Chairman of the Board
Farm Focus
Cara Rice
Vice-Chair
Staffmark
Shonda Vorst
KATE GRIBBLE
Vice-Chair
Central Insurance
Barb Suever,
Vice-Chair
US Bank
Mark Schumm
Treasurer
Van Wert Federal, Assistant Vice President
CHAMBER
Connie Swander, 411
Immediate Past Chair
Swan Memorials, Owner/Manager Greetings!
Frequently people are unclear about exactly what a
chamber does! There’s a saying in the chamber industry
Board Members: which states “if you’ve seen one chamber, you’ve seen -
Joyce Pothast one chamber.” While each chamber is unique and each
Van Wert County Hospital entity has a different approach and unique mission, there
are generally a few core principles that a chamber encap-
Eva Yarger sulates. Most chambers are centered around supporting
Young, Taylor & Yarger business and promoting economic and
community development. While I cannot tell you what
Connie Johnson all chambers do, I certainly CAN tell you what YOUR
Braun Industries, Inc. CHAMBER does!
Brad Keenan Our focus is to promote the interests of the business
community. We do that through providing educational
Universal Lettering options to our members, supplying publicity
opportunities, creating networking outlets and supporting
Kerry Schlegel economic development efforts.
Mark’s Heating & Air Conditioning
Here are a few key things
Kurt Schalois YOUR chamber did in 2008:
Statewide Ford
* 2008 Annual Dinner
Andrea Carlin * 3 Eggs & Issues Breakfasts
Arend, Laukhuf & Stoller
* 3 Manufacturing Roundtables
Michael Meyer * 13 Safety Council Events
Stahl, Stoller & Meyer Insurance * 1 Leadership Summit
* 2008 Home & Business Expo
Dave Mosier * 1 Entrepreneur Fair
Van Wert Independent
* 1 Legislative Luncheon
Hugh Kocab * 7 Emerging Professionals Events
YMCA * 1 Workforce Seminar
* 1 HR Roundtable
Ex-Officio Members * 48 Member Spotlights in the Times Bulletin
Nancy Bowen
* 48 Business Features on WERT/WKSD,
Director of Economic Development, ESPN & vwindependent
Van Wert
* 4 Educational Seminars
Jane Jones * 1 Estate Planning Course
People often think that the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce receives
Program Manager - Main Street Van Wert * 1 Financing Forum
city/county/state/federal funds. This is not the case. Additionally, while we work
* 9 Leadership Events
Larry Lee closely with the Ohio Chamber and US Chamber, we are a completely separate enti-
* 2008 Golf Outing
Exec. Director for Van Wert County ty. I have included two graphs which show the chamber’s basic income & expense
* 3 Business After Hours Events
Convention & Visitors Bureau breakdowns. As you can see, we are dependent upon the support of our chamber
* 1 Wage & Benefit Survey
investors as well as our fund raisers to maintain the high-quality programming pro-
Chamber Staff * 12 VieWpoint Newsletters
vided by the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce.
Kate Gribble * Small Business of the Year Awards
President/CEO * Business Appreciation Week
I hope this answers a few of your questions! If you have additional questions, please
Marci Martz * 2 Displaced Worker Seminars
contact me at the chamber office 419.238.4390. I am always eager to discuss the
Director of Operations * 1 New Website
chamber!
2 VieWpoint FEBRUARY 23, 2009
WHAT’S NEWS
potential through exercise and related subjects. The sessions Association, Culligan, Save-A- the Marsh Foundation.
New Year leading a healthy lifestyle.
Over 440 people are involved
on 56 teams to track points
are free and open to the
public, including people not
participating in the program.
Lot Grocery, Vantage Career
Center and others, have
donated services, items or
The goal with this program is
to increase public awareness
New You based on making the right
choices. The Van Wert County
funds for the program. about how living a healthy
lifestyle can reduce health
On January 17, a partnership Hospital, Central Insurance Donations are tax deductible problems and costs related to
including The Ohio State Although weight loss is an Companies and Eaton with all funds being applied health care for families and
University Extension, Van Wert important component, the Corporation, are sponsoring toward awards for winning businesses, while improving
County Hospital Wellness program primarily emphasizes the program, providing both teams and individuals. Checks quality of life for people and
Center, the YWCA and YMCA leading a healthy lifestyle leadership and funds to award can be made out to the OSU productivity in the workplace.
launched a revised New Year- through weekly educational the top teams and individuals Extension - Van Wert County, Questions on the program can
New You for a Healthy Van sessions held at the Junior Fair at the conclusion of the 12 referencing the New Year New be addressed on the New Year
Wert County at Vantage Building at the County week program. The program You program and sent to their New You web page at
Career Center with keynote Fairgrounds. These 1/2 hour has received great support address at 1055 S. Washington www.vanwerthospital.org or
speaker and entertainer Jim sessions are held on Tuesdays from the community. To date, St., Van Wert, OH. 45891. by e-mailing well-
Steffen. Jim motivated the at noon and 6 p.m. and fea- many businesses and partners, Donor organizations will be ness@vanwerthospital.org or
almost 300 people in atten- ture local professionals who including the Y’s, the Hospital, listed in the program brochure calling 419-232-3845 and
dance to reach their full speak on different health- First Federal Savings & Loan for the Grand Finale, being leaving a message.
held Saturday, April 18th at
Van Wert County
Hospital
1250 South Washington Street
Van Wert, Ohio 45891-2599
419-238-2390
People Working Wonders for Life!!
www.vanwerthospital.org
1224183
1227002
Want a Checking Open a Personal
Account that’ll or Business
Make You Smile? Checking Account
that’s
REALLY FREE.
1227041
Van Wert
232-2222
bankofberne.com
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 VieWpoint 3
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
CORRECTION
Elmco Heating & Air Conditioning
224 Bonnewitz Ave, Van Wert is a certified NATE contractor meeting standards In the January
419-232-2080 for quality and expertise. 2009 VieWpoint,
OWNER: Jeff Olinghouse
CONTACT: Jeff Olinghouse ADVICE TO ANYONE STARTING A BUSINESS: the Member
EMAIL: jolinghouse@elmcomech.com “My advice is to make a long term Strategic Spotlight article
WEBADDRESS: www.elmcomech.com Plan,” advised Jeff. “From that plan, formulate for Culligan,
you Goals and Tactics needed to achieve your
strategy. It is also necessary to have a short
we used the
term plan. This is based on the knowledge that: incorrect name
“What gets measured gets done”, so we meas- for the Van Wert
ure results on a short term basis.” “We also
make manpower plans because labor is where
Store Manager
Lori Harrod.
we spend the most money,” he added.
WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF CUSTOMER
We are sorry for Laudick’s
SERVICE?
Per Jeff, “My philosophy is on every email.”
our error. Jewelry
Make us to choose the harder right instead of 1244 S. Shannon St.
Van Wert Area Van Wert • 238-2266
the easier wrong, and never to be content with
a half truth when the whole truth can be won. Chamber
1224175
Endow us with the courage that is born of loy-
alty to all that is noble and worthy, that scorns
to compromise with vice and injustice and Leadership at Work
Owner Jeff Olinghouse knows no fear when truth and right are in jeop-
ardy.
Elmco is a heating, ventilating and air condi- Passage from the “Cadet’s Prayer” Kennedy-Kuhn, Inc.
tioning company which focuses on residential
and light commercial buildings. It was started 5 WHAT MAKES DOING BUSINESS IN VAN 10305 Liberty Union Rd.
years ago as a department of Elmco WERT ENJOYABLE?
Engineering. Two years ago, Jeff Olinghouse Jeff replied, “When I was growing up my Dad Van Wert, Ohio 45891
purchased the company and it became an inde- worked for Honeywell and they moved us
pendent company, completely separate from around the country a lot, too much. As a result I 419-238-1299
Elmco Engineering. Their reputation for solving have lived in several big cities, Indianapolis, Agricultural & Consumer Products
problems has created a growing business. Cleveland, Chicago and Minneapolis. These are 1224179
interesting places to live and work but you
NUMBER OF YEARS IN BUSINESS: 5 don’t get the home town feeling I get in Van
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 7 Wert. I like seeing people I know at restaurants
and on the street. Also the business community
Elmco will always provide the customer with has gone out of their way to help me and intro-
the “Right Solution” to address their needs. The duce me to the community.” They belong to the
“Right Solution” will always be the most cost Chamber of Commerce and have been active in
effective solution for the customer in the long the “Toys for Tots” Christmas drive.
term. Elmco will not provide an “Expedient
Solution” for the sake of getting a job. “Too “There are so many changes and dramatic
often we hear, “It’ll work” but that doesn’t improvements in the residential heating and air
1224182
mean it is the “Right Solution”, said owner Jeff conditioning industry that may put the ordinary
Olinghouse, “it is frequently just a patch wait- home owner is at risk of making big mistakes
ing for a future problem to develop. Using this when replacing their equipment,” claimed Jeff.
“Right Solution” approach, Elmco has been “As a public service to the community, I have Purmort Brothers
able to correct some long term problems in sev- put together a short program (20 to 30 min.) INSURANCE AGENCY
eral Van Wert buildings.” entitled “The 5 Things a Home Owner Needs to
Know Before Replacing their Heating and Air “Call and Compare With The People Who Care”
Because they use the “Right Solution” approach Conditioning Equipment.” It includes big
they can make the “100% satisfied or 100%
free” offer on all their installation of residential
changes in efficiency, new refrigerants and
proper sizing of equipment. This is a “commer-
419-238-6214
HVAC equipment. “If we didn’t know we are cial free” Green Presentation that I will present
giving our customers the exactly right system, to your organization as a public service project 101 W. CRAWFORD • VAN WERT, OH.
we couldn’t make that offer,” stated Jeff. Elmco and a thank you to Van Wert,” concluded Jeff.
Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. www.PurmortBros.com
4 VieWpoint FEBRUARY 23, 2009
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT The Bruns Business started in ect or commercial project. part of Van Wert not only in ***Be sure to mention the RCS
1951 by Robert Bruns and since sales for the company but with Member Spotlight to the Bruns
RCS Construction has blossomed to become Bruns WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY other community groups such Family and/or Kindra Butler the
6781 Hellwarth Rd. Building and Development in OF CUSTOMER SERVICE? as Rotary and the Chamber. next time you see them!
Celina, OH St.Henry, operated by Mike Customer service is their #1 pri-
QOOWPKV[ *GCNVJ 2TQHGUUKQPCNU
419-586-9367 Bruns. Bruns General ority. They want happy clients
OWNER: Randy Bruns Contracting is located in Tipp and they work very hard to
WEB ADDRESS: City and operated by Steve make each project unique and
Bruns. Indiana and Ohio Roofing satisfactory by being very
?R\R]RWP7^[\N\1X\YRLN
www.rcsshowroom.com
CONTACT: Kindra Butler in St.Henry is operated by Dan detailed.
EMAIL: Bruns and RCS Construction in 9[R_J]N-^]b <N[_RLN\
*M^U]-Jb ,J[N,NW]N[
kbutler@rcsshowroom.com Celina being operated by Randy WHAT MAKES DOING
Bruns. BUSINESS IN VAN WERT
,XVYUN]N 1XVN 1NJU]Q 1X\YRLN ,J[N
ENJOYABLE?
NUMBER OF YEARS IN “The people,” replied Kindra
"@N\]`XXM-[R_N?JW@N[]
BUSINESS: 29 Butler of RCS. “It’s always a joy
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 25 to work in Van Wert. We feel as
though we’re part of a family 1224178
RCS Construction is unique in and we’re proud to call it
that they not only offer their ‘home’,” Kindra added. They are LeLand Smith
complete turn key building busi- a member of the Van Wert Area
ness for residential but also Chamber and a member of the Insurance Services
commercial as well. They also Van Wert Rotary Club. 1179 Westwood Dr Suite 302, Van Wert OH 45891
1175 Westwood Dr. Suite 200, Van Wert, OH 45891
have a subdivision in Van Wert Van Wert Toll Free Decatur
for clients to choose lots for Kindra Butler is responsible for 419-238-7880 800-934-3490 219-724-3100
260-724-3100
building. They have a 5500 sq. sales in Van Wert and truly
Kindra Butler ft. showroom for their clients to enjoys the experience. The Van Serving Indiana & Ohio
use in making their picks for Wert market has been a success. Home Auto Health Life
their new home, remodel proj- She continues to enjoy being a Commercial Farm Bid Bonds
1224181
www.lelandsmith.com
www.vanwertchamber.com
Chamber Launches New
Website
The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce is
proud to launch their new website
www.vanwertchamber.com . The site features
chamber facts and benefits, information on Van
Wert and a Member Directory which is search-
able by business name or business type. Secret Garden
A glimpse at the home page of the 2x5
“We are proud of the new chamber website,” Chamber’s new website
said Chamber President Kate Gribble. “In creat- www.vanwertchamber.com
ing the new site, we wanted something that
would allow potential customers and clients
easy-access to our chamber investors. We also
wanted to provide current information on cham-
ber programs, events and benefits.” Gribble
added, “We will be continually updating the
website and adding more content daily— be
sure to visit vanwertchamber.com regularly to
stay up-to-date on the things happening with
area businesses and within your chamber.”
While the website continues to grow and
expand, the chamber staff and board of direc- The Member Directory, which includes
tors are glad to provide a resource which information on all current chamber
heightens the visibility of their investors. investors.
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 VieWpoint 5
Cooper Farms Honored at Chamber Awards Dinner
The Chamber’s Annual Dinner Innovation Center. Corcoran is reputation as an innovative Keynote speaker and Customer experiences and events require
& Awards Ceremony, held on a member of the Business industry leader by constantly Experience Expert, Kordell businesses to create a drastic
January 27th, celebrated Retention & Expansion expanding and modernizing its Norton, sponsored jointly by US change in sales and marketing,”
business in Van Wert County. committee as well as the Main hatchery, feed and processing Bank and Braun Industries, gave Norton quipped.
The event drew over 170 local Street Board of Directors. He facilities. Cooper Farms focuses an energizing address called Each attendee received a gift of
business and community has served on City Council for on quality and innovation, “Status Quo to Status Grow” . chocolates which were made by
members and honored a myriad 12 years, is a board member & raising turkeys in a low-stress Artfully walking a fine line Baked Nostagia in Convoy and
of local businesses. founder of VWPATI, and is a environment and growing between entertainment and sponsored by Van Wert Manor.
member of the National Cooper Farms into one of the education, Norton provided Mark’s Heating and Air
The crowd was welcomed by a
Business Incubation largest family-owned turkey humor, examples and some food Conditioning and Fortmans
chamber update from
Association. Corcoran also processing companies in the for thought regarding the Crescent Laundry were also
president/CEO Kate Gribble.
volunteers at his church - country. They use over 9-million importance of creating a event sponsors for the evening.
Gribble highlighted some of the
Calvary Evangelical and in his bushels of corn annually and customer experience. He also All in all, it was a great evening
chamber’s accomplishments
spare time he serves as a hatch over 14-million quality touched on the importance of and a wonderful opportunity to
from 2008 and also outlined the
business counselor for Wright poults (baby turkeys) each year. marketing to different recognize the positive accom-
chamber’s goals for 2009. The
State Business Enterprise Additionally, Cooper Farms’ Van generations. “Great customer plishments of local businesses.
evening kicked off with live
Center. Wert facility processes more
dinner music by Eric Miglin
than 40 million pounds of fully 2009 Annual Dinner Committee
which was sponsored by Wells Cooper Farms was recognized cooked turkey, chicken and pork Meghan Dicke, Committee Chair
Fargo. Past Chair Connie Boley for their generous community hams for restaurant and deli use Gloria Waterman
Swander, owner of Swan involvement and business each year. Co-owner Dianne Jane Jones
Memorials, was honored for her growth with the Crystal Image Cooper was on hand to accept Kerry Schlegel
term as Board Chair. Award. Cooper Farms built its the Crystal Image Award. Mike Heffelfinger
Awards for the evening were Marci Martz
sponsored by First Bank of
Berne. The Golden Shovel
Award was given to five
nominated local businesses
who underwent a significant
expansion or renovation of their
business in 2008: Linolnview
Schools, Marsh Supermarket,
Marsh Foundation, McDonald’s
and NEXT!
The Milestone Recognition
Award winners were comprised
of nominated businesses who
reached significant Troy Bowersock and Doug Fries of Lincolnview Schools
anniversaries. Winners of the accept the Golden Shovel Award from Chamber Board of
Milestone award were Van Wert Directors Vice-Chair Cara Rice. Chamber Annual Dinner attendees enjoy the presentation.
Bedrooms- 25 years,
Community Health
Professionals- 35 years, Van
Wert Civic Theater- 50 years,
WERT Radio- 50 years and
Cooper Farms- 70 years.
Gary Corcoran was given the
prestigious Ray Miller Award.
Corcoran was recognized for his
volunteerism and extensive
dedication to the Van Wert
Community through his
commitment to economic
development by serving as chair
of the Revolving Loan Fund
Committee and acting as Dianne Cooper of Cooper Farms accepts the Crystal Image Keynote speaker, Kordell Norton, gives an animated
co-manager for the Van Wert Award. address on creating a customer experience.
6 VieWpoint FEBRUARY 23, 2009
PROGRESS
We all look forward to welcoming growth in the Van Wert area. This growth can come
in the form of new business, expansions or business improvements. In this section of
the Viewpoint, the Chamber wants to keep you informed on some of the outstanding
projects that our members are working on within our community.
5 Questions with Donna in their own food, a library, and 5. Any additional thoughts
Grimm of Community lounges. This facility will be as youíd like to share with us?
Health Professionals home-like as possible to make Van Wert is a great community
patients and families and it is located strategically for
VAN WERT’S NEW INPATIENT comfortable. Families are the 5 counties that this facility
HOSPICE CENTER encouraged to stay overnight will serve. This facility has been in
and there are family showers. The the planning for 14 years. In
1. When will the Van Wert rooms are all private rooms and 1996, 7 acres was purchased on
Inpatient Hospice Center there is the ability for 3 family Westwood Drive with the inten-
open its doors? members to stay in the room tion of building an inpatient
overnight. When you accept a Hospice Center one day.
Construction is scheduled to be terminally ill patient you also Community Health Professionals
completed by March 31st, at Progress is being made on the spacious
treat the family and follow up is a non-profit agency that has
which time we will complete the patient rooms at this facility.
with the family for 1 year after always accepted many clients
facility with supplies & furniture the death of a loved one. without the ability to pay for
and finish all hiring of staff. The services, that have no insurance,
next step is the state licensure 4. How does this facility dif- or inadequate insurance to cover
inspection. Our goal is to have fer from the hospice services costs. Community Health
an Open House in late April or already provided by Professionals sponsors WIC and
the first week of May, and to Community Health Help Me Grow, holds blood pres-
begin accepting patients on May Professionals? sure clinics, flu clinics, and has
4th, 2009. sponsored many grant programs
This facility will not change the
Hospice Program that CHP including the Tobacco cessation
2. How many will be program. Community Health
employed at the Van Wert already does in homes, but will
enhance the options for terminal- Professionals continues to
Inpatient Hospice Center? fundraise to get this facility paid
ly ill patients , especially those
Initially, we will hire 35 new for. The facility cost $3,000,000
that do not have caregivers or
employees, but as the census to build and CHP has over half of
those whose families need a
increases we will need to hire the money to pay for the facility
break— the patient can come
more. at this point. CHP has held many
into the facility for a period of
respite, or have a place to go dur- fund raising events and has
3. What services will the worked hard to provide this facil-
ing an acute phase of pain man- This room will be the Chapel at the
facility offer to patients & ity to this community and outly-
agement or other acute symptom Inpatient Hospice Center. Stained glass windows
family members? ing counties. The first inpatient
with nurses around the clock. The will complete the space seen here.
This facility is a 12 bed unit - inpatient Hospice Center is a was built in Defiance and opened
understand that the length of facility that cares for terminally ill in 2007 and has been a real asset
stay is a 5-7 day average. This patients and their families, but is to that area. This facility will be
facility will offer residential care not a place that individuals have self-supporting once the building
for those without a caregiver and to go to die. Many patients will is paid for. A special thanks goes
in need of a place to stay, respite be in the facility for a short while out to those in the community
care for individuals whose family and then go back home. that have supported the building
needs a rest or needs to go out of of this facility.
town, and acute care for those
terminally ill individuals that
have acute symptoms and
require 24 hour nursing. We
offer nursing, spiritual care from
pastors, social services, massage
therapy, physical therapy, occu-
pational therapy and speech
therapy, aide services and volun-
teer services. There will be many External construction is nearing an end at
services for families including a Community Health Professionalsí Van Wert Inpatient
family kitchen so they can bring This will be the main entrance and lobby at
Hospice Center on Westwood Drive. the new facility on Westwood Drive.
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 VieWpoint 7
Member their new location, they have
expanded their childcare
Spotlight program to include infants,
toddlers, preschoolers and
school age children. They are
Wee Care Learning Center now able to accept babies
10485 Van Wert Decatur starting at 6 weeks old. Their
Rd, Van Wert school age program offers
419-238-9918 before and after school, school Children and staff members coming in from outside on a pleasant winter day.
Non-Profit Organization delays, cancellations, holidays
Contact: and a full program during the energy and financial support in
Faith Fabian, Director summer for children through The families Wee Care currently As a non-profit agency, they the construction of their new
Email: age 12. They average 150 serve and have served in the business is supported by parent facility.
weedaycare@bright.net children each day with current past have shared their fees, block grant funding, The
enrollment at 250. They appreciation of the care and United Way, Van Wert County ***Be sure to tell them you
currently have 34 employees. education that they provide to Foundation and bequests. read their Member Spotlight in
In the mid 1970’s, a group of their children. Wee Care is a However, they want to thank the Chamber VieWpoint.
Van Wert citizens, who were Wee Care will assist children valuable “business” that allow the countless area businesses
concerned about the lack of and families by providing a parents to go to work and/or and individuals for their time,
child care, formed to conduct a consistent, secure and safe school knowing that their
needs assessment and to atmosphere in which each child children are Wee Care’s primary
investigate programming and can grow and develop at his/her concern. The children without a
regulations to begin a licensed own pace. They assist in question are what make Wee
child care center. Through the development of acceptable Care Learning Center a valuable
commitment of dedicated behavior and social skills. They “business” in Van Wert County.
volunteers, Calvary United will also encourage creativity
Methodist Church and the and curiosity. The staff at Wee Wee Care Learning Center is a
Cooperative Ministry Board, Care enjoys each child as an United Way Agency, Day of
Wee Care was able to open its individual while building self Caring recipient and they
doors October 29, 1979. Faith image and positive values with participate in the annual Peony
has been with Wee Care since each child. Parade.
the very beginning.
Wee Care Learning Center not
only provides childcare but also
a preschool program with an
emphasis on age-appropriate
learning activities. They have
provided this service to the Van
Wert community for almost
thirty years. In January 2005
they made the decision to move
to their new facility on Van Wert
Decatur Road. Since moving to 1227003 1224176
8 VieWpoint FEBRUARY 23, 2009
son to the cost,” remarked In less than a year, they have
Paul. For more information, or saved area individuals and
to place an order, please call families over $100,000.00 with
419-238-2788 or 419-238-5813 their food budgets. Their central
or visit their website at distribution is in Van Wert but
www.mannaoutreachministries. they also have opened sites in
Member minded people to unite and
meet those needs. One of
pass on volume purchasing
power to area communities. A
com If you are interested in
volunteering or desire addition-
Delphos, Melrose, Mandale and
Willshire and in the future they
Manna’s primary purposes is to basic box will feed a family of al information on how to bring want to open sites in Allen and
Spotlight facilitate the bringing together
of communities to change for
four for a week or a senior citi-
zen for a month. To place an
Manna Foods to your church or
community, contact Pastor Paul
Putnam Counties.
Another aspect of Manna
the better.” order, people need to pre-order Hamrick at 260-312-4444 or Outreach Ministries is Manna
Manna Outreach Ministries and pre-pay by the monthly email at Network. The purpose of
(M.O.M. Inc) A central part of Manna is an order date. You will be able to mercy_missions@hotmail.com. Manna Network is to bring
P O Box 292, Van Wert out-reach to assist individuals pick up your order usually on together diverse churches,
and communities, with their the second or third Saturday of Manna Foods has grown to be organization, and communities
Website: ever growing food costs. As ris- the month, at a local distribu- one of the largest programs in with a common goal of trans-
mannaoutreachministries.com ing food costs, escalating fuel tion site. On “D” Day (distribu- the state in less than a year’s forming their communities and
Directors: Paul Hamrick, prices and a slowing economy tion day), dedicated volunteers time. Their many volunteers areas into a great place to live
Pastor Dan Custis, strain many families’ budgets, enthusiastically disperse tons of have donated hundreds of and raise a family. “As we net-
Pastor Bill Watson, Manna have developed a pro- quality food to area individuals hours to assist our area during work together, we can accom-
Pastor Tom Robeson gram called Manna Foods, to and families. Their motto is these economically trying plish so much more than we
Contact: enable individuals and families “having fun helping others”. times. They are to ones who can individually. Our goal is in
Pastor Paul Hamrick to get through during these try- They accept checks, money have made us so successful. the future to bring national
Phone: 260-312-4444 ing times. Currently they are orders and food stamps Over 90% of the individuals programs and speakers to our
Email: providing food budget relief to through the U.S. Food Stamp and families are middle class area,” Paul concluded.
mercy_missions@hotmail.com families in five counties and Program. “We are finding more people trying to survive the ****Be sure to thank the
over twenty-five area commu- people wanting to help their economic disaster that our directors and the many volun-
Manna Outreach Ministries nities in Ohio and Indiana, neighbors and families by country is in at this time. More teers for their service and being
(M.O.M. Inc.) is a nonprofit touching literally hundreds of donating one or more boxes. and more of their clients are a Van Wert Area Chamber
interdenominational organiza- lives. Family members, friends They appreciate, that their senior citizens on fixed member.
tion consisting of churches, and co-workers are enthusiasti- neighbors and families, are able incomes, who are so thankful
civic organizations, businesses, cally sharing the economic sav- to receive so much in compari- that they are able to help them.
and individuals, with a commit- ings of Manna Foods. Each
ment to make their communi- month, Manna Foods continues
ties a better place to live. They to touch many more lives
are a Christ centered ministry, through their food program.
whose purpose is to use bibli- Their goal is to impact individu-
cal principles in all they do. Per als, families, and communities
Paul, “Jesus taught us in the across NW Ohio and NE
scriptures ‘to love our neighbor Indiana, by collaborating and
as ourselves’ and ‘that faith pooling their resources and
without works is dead’. In a personnel together to multiply
small way, we are fulfilling their effectiveness.
those principles through
Manna. Our philosophy of min- Individuals and families across
istry is team oriented. We real- the area, pre-order a basic box
ize that alone, we are limited in of quality food for only $30.00.
our abilities but together we The average retail value of a
can accomplish great things. box of Manna Foods is approxi-
Each member brings many mately $60.00. In addition, a
skills, which enable Manna to number of specialty boxes
effectively influence their com- (steaks, chicken, seniors and
munities. Our vision is to train, kids boxes) can be purchased.
equip, and empower everyday The food in each box is top
people to accomplish awesome quality, not distressed or out-
life changing experiences dated food items. By ordering
through teamwork. As the directly, from a wholesale sup-
needs of our local communities plier and distributing the food
grows, so does the opportuni- through their dedicated volun- Directors of Manna Outreach Ministries
ties for creative community teer program, they are able to L-R Pastor Dan Custis, Reverend Bill Watson, Pastor Paul Hamrick and Tom Robeson
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 VieWpoint 9
BWC Board Approves Plan to Limit Extreme Premium Jumps
Leadership Van Wert Gives go-ahead for exploration of a solution to ensure more equitable
payments for all employers
COLUMBUS - The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors
today approved a cap on premium increases that is expected to prevent unforeseen
The Van Wert County Leadership group met at the YWCA for their January session. The day was filled
spikes in workers’ compensation insurance costs. The cap on an employer’s experience
with a learning experience as well as giving back to the community. The topic on the agenda was the modifier (EM) is expected to limit extreme premium swings in the event of a serious
5 S program. 5 S is a program designed to eliminate wasteful tasks from any job whether it be at accident or loss of a group-rated premium. Large shifts in premium have shown to be
home or work. The five steps to the program include Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. detrimental to existing operations and hinder business growth. The capping plan is
part of BWC’s ongoing efforts to foster economic growth by stabilizing premiums and
The class was split up into two groups to apply the five step process to two areas inside of the YWCA
providing relief for small businesses that are striving to remain competitive in a diffi-
Women’s Housing program. They sorted out the unneeded items, organized and cleaned what was cult economy.
left, labeled where things should be stored, and shared their before and after situations (see pictures An employer’s EM is one of the key components in calculating an employer’s overall
below) with the entire class and the YWCA Executive Director Jennifer Jackson. Jen, her staff, and the premium rate, measuring the total costs of the claims filed within an experience peri-
od. BWC plans to leave this cap in place permanently to provide ongoing pricing sta-
residents were very pleased with the transformation and here is what she said about the day:
bility. The cap will take effect on July 1, 2009.
“As businesses are challenged by the current economy, it is important to address the
“Dear Chamber Leadership Group: impact dramatic premium fluctuations have on many employers,” said BWC
The YWCA of Van Wert County would like to say ‘Thank you’ for your hard work and cooperation on Administrator Marsha Ryan. “By increasing the stability and consistency of Ohio’s
workers’ compensation system, BWC will continue to support the growth of business
the 3rd floor closets and the kitchen. Your kindness and generosity is deeply appreciated. The YWCA
in Ohio and increase our competitiveness with other states.”
will continue to serve the women and families in Van Wert County and the surrounding communities. The board also approved a motion to allow BWC staff to explore options designed to
Thank you for taking so much pride in your YWCA.” create greater equity in what Ohio employers are charged for workers’ compensation
insurance coverage. The agency will look for new approaches to ensuring employers
pay the right rate for the right risk. BWC staff will provide the board with regular
If you or your employer would like to have an area 5 S’d, please contact the Chamber and let them
updates on progress to this initiative with board members making a final decision in
know. We will put your location on next year’s agenda and the only cost you will incur is the cost of the coming months.
needed supplies. Submitted by Marcia Miller, Leadership Committee. In addition, the Board of Directors heard the first reading of a plan to initiate a
deductible program that will give employers better control of their workers’ compen-
sation insurance spending. Under this type of program an employer agrees to pay the
portion of claims below the deductible and receives a premium discount in return. The
proposed creation of a new deductible program is part of a menu of new programs
under consideration with target implementation dates as early as July 1, 2009.
The BWC Board of Directors also voted to extend the deadline for employers to apply
for the group rating program from February 28 to April 24. The application deadline
extension will allow additional time for sponsoring organizations to determine how to
proceed once potential changes are implemented by the Board of Directors.
10 VieWpoint FEBRUARY 23, 2009
Safety Council
Van Wert Area Safety Council met Wednesday, February 11th at Willow Bend Country Club for their month- Jennifer Jackson,
ly breakfast meeting. Executive Director
The program this month was Corporate Wellness with Jennifer Jackson, Executive Director of the YWCA of the YWCA
presenting the program. She discussed the Six Dimensions of Wellness. Occupational, Spiritual, Physical,
Intellectual, Emotional and Social.
There were 50 members in attendance.
The next Safety Council meeting will be held March 11th, 7:30 - 9:30 at Willow Bend Country Club.
The Van Wert Area Safety Council program is offered by the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce and is
co-sponsored by Eaton Corporation and The Van Wert County Hospital to encourage safety awareness in
the workplace.
For more information, please call the Chamber Office at 419-238-4390 or email Marci Martz at mmartz@vanwertchamber.com
Van Wert Area Safety Council met Wednesday, January 14th at Jehmm’s Banquet Center for their monthly breakfast meeting.
There were 57 members in attendance to hear Adam Lander, Secret Service Agent present his program on Identity Theft. Adam’s
presentation showed the group several different ways that individuals can make & use counterfeit money. He even passed
around some counterfeit bills. Adam highly recommended to never do banking through a wireless router on your computer.
What: Safety Council
When: Wednesday, March 11th, 2009
Time: 7:30 - 9:30am
Where: Willow Bend Country Club
Topic: Game Show Fun
Cost: $7.00 or FREE for Safety Council Value Plan Participants
RSVP: 419-238-4390
Secret Service Agent, Adam Lander Sponsors: Eaton Corp. & Van Wert County Hospital
from the Toledo office.
Tourism: What’s Ahead for 2009? exercise greater control over the total cost of only 15% of the cell phones are Internet tion, and include more people in the travel- events. As financial contributions from event
Most marketers of travel servic- the trip - before they depart. enabled. This percentage will rise quickly in ing party. Seven out of 10 adults have taken sponsors are as yet uncertain, we know that
es have gladly said adieu to 2008. But the * Vacations and Business Trips Will Get the year ahead given the growing popularity one of these “Celebration Vacations” before, event organizers are moving forward cau-
year ahead promises to be equally challeng- Shorter - Not surprisingly, two-thirds of active of the iPhone, Blackberry, and similar devices, with “milestone birthdays and anniversaries tiously. The CVB will continue our efforts to
ing. The good news is that the travel inten- travelers who participated in an October however, and with this growth will come topping the list. keep area residents informed about activities
tions of Americans remain robust - 71% of 2008 survey stated that “staying few nights” greater usage for things other than voice and * Going Green Is Good for Business - going on in the County. You can check out
active travel households are planning at least was one of the strategies they intended to text communications through advancements Although most Americans are unfamiliar with the calendar of events on our website, visit-
one overnight trip during the next six employ to manage the cost of their travel in in mobility marketing. We expect more trav- the term “carbon footprint,” 85% consider vanwert.org, or we invite you to stop by our
months, the same as one year ago. There 2009. elers to plan and purchase travel services themselves to be “environmentally con- new office at 136 E. Main Street, where we
are, however, several emerging trends that * Consumers Will Use the Internet Differently with these devices. In fact, according to the scious” and an impressive four out of 10 will have information available.
will have a significant impact on the travel - The first 10 years of Internet usage were survey, fully one out of four “next genera- now state they would consider shifting their Early Notice. Be sure to save
and tourism industry. defined by our fascination with access to tion” travelers plan to use their mobile patronage to a travel service supplier who the days of August 6 - 9 for a stay at-home
* Value is King - And if you doubt it, take a content. It was deep, enlightening, and phone or PDA to make or change travel plans demonstrates environmental responsibility. weekend. The 2nd Annual Crossroads
look at what is happening across America: instantaneous. But the percentage of (other than through voice communications) Most, however, are not willing to pay a pre- Festival is being planned for those days.
The “big box” discounters are still churning Americans who go online to plan and pur- in the next two years. mium rate to green suppliers as they expect Included this year are the Highway 127 Yard
out year-over-year same store sales increases, chase travel has remained essentially * All Vacations Are Not Created Equal - As them to be good stewards of the environ- sale, the Lincoln Highway Yard Sale, the 3rd
while most “luxury” retailers are reporting unchanged during the past two years, and revealed in a national survey of more than ment in which they operate. Annual Van Wert Rib Cook-Off, the 2nd
double-digit declines. The message is clear: they are increasingly interested in the 4,000 adults conducted for Walt Disney Parks There will be no shortage of Annual Wheels-N-Wings Heritage Festival,
Consumers are demanding more in exchange Internet’s ability to assist with comparison & Resorts, vacations are increasingly per- challenges in 2009, to be sure. Your Van and the 3rd Annual Antique Tractor Ride
for what they pay. They won’t necessarily shopping. The growing popularity of large ceived as an appropriate way to recognize Wert Area Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsored by the Van Wert Historical Society.
opt for the least expensive alternative, but search engines that pull prices for competi- certain life events (e.g., anniversaries, school continues to work with supporters of the We began advertising this event on websites
they will shop aggressively to ensure they tive products and services from multiple sup- graduations, retirement, etc.). And the vaca- many events and festivals held annually in and in nationally-distributed magazines and
don’t overpay for what they consider right- pliers then display them in a user-friendly tions taken to celebrate these life events are the Van Wert area. While, the economic con- we’ve already mailed our brochures to
fully theirs in the current economic climate - manner will accelerate this phenomenon. decidedly special by practically every meas- dition in which we find ourselves locally prospective visitors in California, Idaho,
a good deal. They are more likely to pur- * Marketing Will Go Mobile - Almost eight ure: they are planned further in advance, appears dire, to our knowledge there have Maine, New York, Virginia, Colorado,
chase inclusively-priced travel services to out of 10 Americans own a cell phone, yet budgeted at a higher amount, longer in dura- been no plans to cancel any of this year’s Michigan, Indiana, and across Ohio.
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 VieWpoint 11
Related docs
