In the News
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We are getting noticed around the region and the globe. Read how the Columbus Chamber, our members and the Columbus business community are making headlines.
To arrange an interview with a member of the Columbus Chamber team, contact:
Michelle Bretscher, APR
Vice President, Marketing and Communication
W: (614) 225.6908
C: 614.499.0889
michelle_bretscher@columbus.org
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News
April 11, 2013
Word of Mouth: Columbus
From Cool Hunting:
Places like Portland, Vancouver or Copenhagen may be the first that pop to mind when thinking about cities whose residents successfully combine a progressive attitude with a laid back approach to life. But slowly sneaking onto the scene is Columbus—Ohio's industrious state capital and one of the world's smartest cities, according to Canada's Intelligent Communities Forum. Home to one of the largest Pride Festivals as well as an array of pioneering companies, from the high-tech innovators at Battelle to the masterminds of casual threads at Abercrombie & Fitch, not to mention students from around the world mastering in engineering, medical and agriculture sciences at Ohio State University, the diversity is as huge as the level of talent comprising its impressively clean streets.
Chamber members Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, the Wexner Center for the Arts and the North Market are among several cool Columbus shops and attractions noted in this article. Read more. -
News
April 11, 2013
iPad CRM App Released with Efficient Routing and Combined PDF Attachment Features
Coalesce Software releases Routzy 3.0 with ability to create fastest or shortest route for sales meetings, add generic attachments to bulk emails, and combine multiple PDF attachments into a single email attachment.
Widely downloaded mobile CRM and sales app Routzy version 3.0 is released and features enhanced routing with the ability to identify fastest, shortest or customized travel routes, generic attachments to bulk emails, and the ability to combine multiple PDF attachments into a single email attachment. We have an active mobile sales app user community and we believe their valuable feedback is what continues to propel our app forward and make it great, aid Skip Stringfield, Coalesce Software founder and president. Stringfield continues, these latest updates are requests that come straight from our active community and we’re happy to deliver on their valuable insights on how to improve the app. Sales professionals will enjoy the advanced routing feature in Routzy allowing them to select a contact group and map out the fastest or shortest route, as well as create a customized route from their current location or any other location address. Also, Routzy 3.0 allows users to combine multiple PDFs into a single PDF. Users can look forward to sending an email to a client with a single PDF attachment rather than multiple PDF attachments. About Coalesce Software
Coalesce Software makes doing business better through mobile technology. Founded in 2010, Coalesce Software specializes in business productivity applications for sales teams, small and medium sized businesses, independent sales representatives, and business development professionals. Since its founding, Coalesce Software continues to release mobile applications that help people do business of better with the following mobile applications: Smart Service iFleet, Routzy and Routzy BackOffice. Coalesce Software completes mobile application customization projects so any business owner can have the perfect app to maximize their existing business processes. -
News
April 10, 2013
Hospitals Encourage Employers to Sign Pledge, Support Employees who Breast-feed
From the Central Ohio Hospital Council:
Local hospitals have developed and signed on to an employer pledge to encourage and support their own employees who breast-feed. They’re sharing that pledge with other employers in hopes they’ll sign on, too.
The pledge comes from a survey conducted by the Council last fall, which showed one barrier to breastfeeding being concerns over returning to work. The Central Ohio Hospital Council is a collaborative group that includes all the Franklin County hospital systems-- Mount Carmel Health System, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Wexner Medical Center and OhioHealth. The systems are also members of the Columbus Chamber. Studies show that babies who are breastfed are much less likely to develop infections or health problems later in life. View the pledge. -
News
April 10, 2013
Casinos send $2.6M to Columbus, $1.7M to Franklin County in 1Q tax distribution
From Columbus Business First:
Ohio’s counties and largest cities are starting to enjoy revenue gains because of the growth of casino gambling in the state, with more than $35 million in gaming taxes to be distributed to them this month.
That includes $2.6 million to the city of Columbus and $1.7 million to Franklin County, according to a quarterly reportissued Monday by the Ohio Department of Taxation. Read more. -
News
April 10, 2013
Finalists announced for Business First 2013 Corporate Caring Awards Program
From Columbus Business First:
Congratulations to these Columbus Chamber members who are part of Columbus Business First's Corporate Caring Awards finalists:
Small companies: Aramark
Calfee Halter & Griswold
Columbus Crew
Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea
Halcyon Solutions Inc.
MediaSource
Navigator Management Partners
North American Broadcast Co.
Optimum Cos.
Outreach Promotional Solutions
Pepper Construction
Schneider Downs
Sequent
Vital Cos.
Medium Companies: Deloitte
EMH&T
GBQ Partners
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Modern Medical
Porter Wright Morris & Arthur
Quick Solutions
Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel
Tim Hortons
Value City Furniture
Large Companies: Alliance Data Systems Corp.
Cardinal Health Inc.
Grange Insurance
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
Safelite Group
Scotts Miracle-Gro Co.
Walmart
White Castle System Inc. The Corporate Caring Awards Luncheon recognizes and honors exemplary companies who are creatively dedicating their resources to a variety of not-for-profit organizations. Honorees will be announced at the awards luncheon on April 11. View all the finalists and read more. -
News
April 10, 2013
Honda's Growth Helps Tow Ohio Out Of Recession
From National Public Radio:
Honda is moving its North American headquarters from California to Ohio. That's just the latest bit of good news for the Buckeye State and Honda, whose fortunes have been closely tied for decades now.
Honda has been an economic heavyweight here since it was lured to central Ohio in the 1970s. The company's footprint is big, and it continues to increase. Read more. -
News
April 10, 2013
Coming Attractions: Port Columbus International Airport
From Experience Columbus:
Columbus is on the rise! Our new video series showcases some of the most impressive new attractions and amenities the city will roll out in the near future. Port Columbus International Airport is set to make some major changes, including a new runway.
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News
April 09, 2013
Express Employment Professionals Opens New Office in Columbus
From Express Employment Professionals Press Release:
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Express Employment Professionals announces the opening of the Columbus Southeast office by franchisee Brian Carpenter.
Carpenter will assist local job seekers in finding employment and help area businesses find qualified employees. Express offers traditional temporary and professional contract staffing, as well as temp-to-hire evaluation, and direct hiring options in a variety of fields including light industrial, administrative, medical and marketing. “As a locally-owned and operated business, we strive to provide exceptional customer service as well as support to serve the community we live in by matching outstanding people with good jobs at good companies,” Carpenter said. Carpenter preciously worked for a media research corporation as Director of Operations in the Ohio Valley region. He is a member of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and the Human Resources Association of Central Ohio. He is also active in the community as a football official at both the high school and collegiate level. The Columbus office is located at 6105 McNaughten Rd., and is currently taking applications. Businesses and applicants are encouraged to stop by the office or call (614) 328-9345. Express is on a mission to put a million people to work annually. Worldwide, Express Employment Professionals put more than 367,000 people to work in 2012 and has more than 615 offices in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Offices provide expertise in evaluation hire, temporary staffing, professional search and human resources, and work across a wide variety of industries. Temporary staffing sales for the international staffing franchise company totaled more than $2.3 billion in 2012.###
For More Information:
Brian Carpenter, franchisee
Express Employment Professionals
6105 McNaughten Road
Columbus, Ohio 43232
(614) 328-9345
brian.carpenter@expresspros.com -
News
April 09, 2013
Ohio State Engineering Grads Among Best Paid
From Columbus Business First:
Graduates of Ohio State University's college of engineering are among the 25 best-paid of any programs around the country, according to a new report from financial research firm NerdWallet.
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News
April 09, 2013
Worthington Industries Acquires Palmer Mfg. & Tank Business
COLUMBUS, Ohio- Worthington Industries, Inc. (NYSE:WOR) announced today that its Pressure Cylinders segment has acquired Palmer Mfg. & Tank, Inc. business, a manufacturer of steel and fiberglass tanks and processing equipment for the oil and gas industry, and custom manufactured fiberglass tanks for agricultural, chemical and general industrial applications.
Palmer is located in Garden City, Kan., and employs approximately 200 people. We are very excited to add the capabilities of Palmer to further the growth in Pressure Cylinders, said Andrew Billman, president of the business segment. The Palmer business strengthens our energy position and fits our strategy to geographically expand in the oil and gas industry. When combined with our alternative fuel cylinder business and our entry into the cryogenics arena, we are broadening our energy product offerings, Billman added. This strategy allows us to participate in the expanding North American oil and gas markets, as well as global growth in alternatives for gas and diesel to power vehicles, which include compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), auto gas (propane) and hydrogen. Palmer manufactures both steel and fiberglass tanks in a comprehensive range of sizes and is strategically located to serve the Bakken formation in North Dakota, the Uinta and Denver-Julesburg basins, along with several of the shale formations in northern Texas. Palmer was founded in 1971 and has 184,000 square feet of manufacturing space at the Garden City headquarters. The privately owned company generated sales of $70 million in its fiscal year ended June 30, 2012. Worthington continues to pursue new markets that are accelerating our growth, said John McConnell, Chairman and CEO. The acquisition of the Palmer business, together with our recent acquisition of Westerman, gives us a strong footprint in the oil and gas industry. This high-value added manufacturing business complements our existing capabilities and should generate strong commercial synergies. About Worthington Industries Worthington Industries is a leading diversified metals manufacturing company with 2012 fiscal year sales of $2.5 billion. The Columbus, Ohio based company is North America’s premier value-added steel processor and a leader in manufactured pressure cylinders; custom-engineered open and enclosed cabs and operator stations for heavy mobile equipment; framing systems for mid-rise buildings; steel pallets and racks; and through joint ventures, suspension grid systems for concealed and lay-in panel ceilings, current and past model automotive service stampings; laser welded blanks, and light gauge steel framing for commercial and residential construction. Worthington Industries employs approximately 10,000 people and operates 83 facilities in 11 countries. Worthington’s Pressure Cylinders business segment is the world’s leading global manufacturer of pressure cylinders, delivering products and value-added services to its customers designed to exceed their expectations in quality, service and value. The company offers the most complete line of pressure cylinders in the industry, including storage of liquefied petroleum, compressed natural gas, refrigerant, oxygen and industrial gases. BernzOmatic , Balloon Timeand Worthington, products are available at retailers nationwide and provide products to consumers for grilling, party planning, outdoor leisure activities and home repair. Safe Harbor Statement The Company wishes to take advantage of the Safe Harbor provisions included in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements by the Company relating to the expected benefits of the acquisition including the expectations for accretiveness, synergies and growth; expected growth of the pressure cylinder business; increases to product lines and participation in markets; opportunities to participate in certain markets; and other non-historical matters constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act. Because they are based on beliefs, estimates and assumptions, forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Any number of factors could affect actual results, including, without limitation, the possibility that the costs or difficulties related to the integration of the business acquired are greater than expected; the ability to maintain relationships with customers of the acquired business; the outcome of negotiations surrounding the United States debt and budget, which may be adverse due to its impact on tax increases, governmental spending, and customer confidence and spending; the effect of conditions in national and worldwide financial markets; product demand and pricing; changes in product mix, product substitution and market acceptance of the Company’s products; fluctuations in the pricing, quality or availability of raw materials, supplies, utilities and other items required by operations; the ability to realize price increases, cost savings and operational efficiencies on a timely basis; capacity levels and efficiencies within facilities, within major product markets and within the industry as a whole; financial difficulties of customers, suppliers, joint venture partners and others with whom the Company does business; the effect of national, regional and worldwide economic conditions generally and within major product markets, including a prolonged or substantial economic downturn; the effect of disruption in the business of suppliers, customers, facilities and shipping operations due to adverse weather, casualty events, equipment breakdowns, acts of war or terrorist activities or other causes; changes in customer demand, inventories, spending patterns and supplier choices; the ability to improve processes and business practices to keep pace with the economic, competitive and technological environment; deviation of actual results from estimates and/or assumptions used by the Company; the level of import and import prices in the Company’s markets; the impact of governmental regulations, both in the United States and abroad; and other risks described from time to time in filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. -
News
April 08, 2013
Council Supports Small Businesses with Access to City Training
From a City of Columbus Press Release:
Columbus—The Columbus City Council is announcing the Small Business Training Services Pilot Program, making it possible for eligible independently owned small businesses to receive workforce development training at the Citywide Training facility in the Jerry Hammond Center.
A $10,000 amendment from the Jobs Growth Fund in the general fund budget, sponsored by Workforce Development Committee Chair Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson and Administration Committee Chair Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig, will give access to businesses that have a contract compliance number with the City of Columbus to help create a better-trained workforce in the community. “The City currently offers a wide range of courses for our employees to improve their professional skills,” said Councilmember Tyson. “What we are doing is opening up these courses to be used as resources for local businesses to make sure their employees have the skills necessary for the success of the small business.” These training opportunities were suggested during a series of Small Business Roundtable discussions sponsored by City Council and will be offered this summer to Columbus businesses that employ between five and fifty people. Classes will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis and will include courses on soft skills such as critical thinking and improving communication to hard skills like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The City of Columbus will soon announce the first registration date for the pilot program. “This is an opportunity to make a big impact on local small businesses, while effectively managing taxpayer money,” said Councilmember Tyson. “Our investment in easier access to training will help businesses reinvest more into their companies and their employees. It’s good for small business and that’s good for Columbus’ economy.” -
News
April 08, 2013
Columbus Named a Top 10 City for Small Business
From Columbus Business First:
Columbus is among the 10 best cities in the country for small business, according to a new survey from the Kauffman Foundation.
The city received an A grade overall, based on a survey of small-business owners regarding overall friendliness, ease of starting a business, ease of hiring, regulations, health and safety, employment, tax code, licensing, environmental, zoning and training and networking programs. Read more. -
News
April 08, 2013
Forty Under 40 honorees announced for Class of 2013
From Columbus Business First:
Columbus Business First has chosen the latest group of up-and-coming professionals and community leaders as part of its annual Forty Under 40 awards program.
Congratulations to these honorees who represent employees of Columbus Chamber member companies:
Ronney Abaza, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Jason Dapore, OhioHealth Corp.
Natasha Davis, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Shawna Davis, OhioHealth Corp.
Eve Ellinger, Ice Miller LLP
Michelle Galligan, ViaVero
Jessica Goldman, Squire Sanders (US) LLP
Jennifer Grinstead, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.
Amber Hulme, Medical Mutual of Ohio
Erin Olson, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Jennifer Osburn, GBQ Partners LLC
Ryan Phillips, Franklin County Board of Development Disabilities
Daniel Prevedello, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Jennifer Scheehle, American Heart Association
Roy Serruto Jr., PNC Wealth Management
Darren Shulman, City of Delaware
Philip Sineneng, Thompson Hine LLP
Pankaj Tiwari, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Ariana Ulloa-Olavarrieta, Latino Small Business Development Center
Lisa Whittaker, Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP
Read more about the Forty Under 40 and view the full list of honorees. -
News
April 07, 2013
Columbus Named Most Intelligent City in America
From NBC News:
The Intelligent Communities Forum has named Columbus in the top seven most intelligent cities in the world, and it is the only American city to make the cut.
ICF founder Robert Bell came to Columbus to present an award marking the achievement, and to also judge the city for signs of intelligence that could lead to the city being named the most intelligent city in the world for 2013. Bell said that more than 400 cities around the world vie for the intelligence designation. Read more. -
News
April 04, 2013
Columbus Chamber Member Hosts Governor for Signing of Transportation Budget Bill
Vista Packaging and Logistics hosted Governor Kasich and a number of legislators for a ceremonial signing of Ohio’s Transportation Budget, which included the “Turnpike Plan”.
From the Columbus Dispatch: We move more than 30 million pieces of goods annually, and it’s a constant challenge for us to reduce our costs,” said Martha Cahall, CEO of Vista. “The governor’s idea of using the turnpike to create that revenue for projects instead of raising the tax — I know some people (near the turnpike) may have had concerns, but it’s good for businesses like us.” Read more.
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News
April 03, 2013
CareWorks Consultants Offer Workers' Compensation and Safety Seminars in April
From CareWorks Consultants:
This year’s CareWorks Consultants seminars will take place from 8:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. Topics include:
-Keys to Lowering Claims Costs
-OSHA Regulation Change on Hazard Communication
-Hearing Representation – Legal vs. Laymen
-Vocational Rehabilitation
-Rates and Underwriting: Retrospective Group and Traditional Group Rating.Claims administrators, safety coordinators, financial officers, payroll and human resource administrators, and supervisors are encouraged to attend. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided at all seminars. There is a $40 fee to attend. These seminars fulfill BWC’s group two-hour safety training suggestions for policy year 2012 for group-rated and group retrospective employers with a claim in 2011. Locations: April 19 – Cleveland Holiday Inn Independence
6001 Rockside Rd.
Independence, OH 44131 April 22 – Cincinnati/Dayton
Kings Island Resort
5691 Kings Island Dr.
Mason, OH 45040 April 23 – Columbus
Quest Business Center
8405 Pulsar Place
Columbus, OH 43240 April 25 – Canton
Courtyard Marriott
4375 Metro Circle NW
North Canton, OH 44720 April 26 – Toledo
Hilton Garden Inn
6165 Levis Commons Blvd.
Perrysburg, OH 43551 To register, mail, fax or email the following information to Sarah Crouthamel: Fax: 614.210.5840 Office: 800.837.3200, ext. 7245 Email: sarah.crouthamel@ccitpa.com Mail: 5500 Glendon Court, Dublin, OH 43016 You may also register on our website at www.careworksconsultants.com/about-cci/seminars. Attendees, Company Name, Email, BWC Policy Number, Phone Number, Date and Location of seminar attending. CareWorks Consultants is the Columbus Chamber's partner for workers' compensation. -
News
April 03, 2013
Group Retrospective Program Deadline April 26, 2013
From CareWorks Consultants-- the Columbus Chamber's Workers' Compensation Program Partner:
CareWorks Consultants Group Retrospective Program
CareWorks Consultants offers a comprehensive, full-service group retrospective rating program. Our unique approach to safety consultation and cost control initiatives fosters an environment where our group retrospective program participants successfully obtain the benefits of participating in the program. As your advocate, we will continually provide you the information necessary to succeed.Group Retrospective Program Rules
As indicated in your enrollment documents, the suggested key components to obtaining the program goals and premium savings are: -Provide salary continuation to minimize claims costs including reserves
-Safety program development
-Provide transitional duty to injured workers
-Aggressively settle claims when feasible
-Work with your safety consultant
-Timely premium payments made to BWC
-Contact your CareWorks Consultants claims examiner immediately upon the occurrence of any work-related injury or accident for advice on all claims-related filings. Group Retrospective Program Support Services
CareWorks Consultants will provide claims administration services, hearing representation and representation in risk-related matters before the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and the Ohio Industrial Commission. You will also receive periodic status updates for your company individually and for the group. Deadlines to Enroll
Employers who are interested in enrolling in this program must return their paperwork back to CareWorks Consultants by April 26, 2013. To discuss your unique savings situation or receive a new copy of your retro quote, please call CareWorks Consultants’ knowledgeable Sales Assistants toll-free at 1-800-837-3200. -
News
April 03, 2013
City Seeks New Nominees for Columbus Hall of Fame
Mayor Michael B. Coleman is asking residents to nominate new candidates for the City of Columbus Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame honors outstanding individuals who, through exemplary accomplishments, have gained national recognition for themselves and have brought credit to this City.
Those nominating individuals for the Hall of Fame are asked to provide as much biographical information about the nominee that you have available, including biographies, resumes, magazine articles, newspaper clippings and letters. Please complete a separate nomination form for each individual if nominating more than one. Nomination forms for the 2013 induction will be accepted through June 30. Residents can nominate people online, download the nomination form at http://www.columbus.gov/gallery.aspx and mail it in, or pick up a hard copy of the nomination form in the front desk at City Hall. Please return your completed Hall of Fame Nomination Form to: Mayor’s Office
City of Columbus, Hall of Fame
90 W. Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215-9005 -
News
April 03, 2013
Feedback Needed for Columbus Region Export Plan
Columbus 2020, a Columbus-area regional economic development organization, is working with the Brookings Institution and numerous regional partners to develop an “Export Plan” for the Columbus Region. If your business is serving international markets, or considering doing so, then please assist us by taking the Columbus Region export survey.
Whether you are exporting goods or conducting work for clients based abroad, your input will be valuable in helping to develop the Export Plan. The information you provide is confidential and will only be reported on an aggregate basis. Please note that all questions pertain only to your company's Columbus Region location(s). If you have any further questions or need help with the survey, please contact Mr. Jung Kim, Research Director, Columbus 2020 at jung_kim@columbus.org or 614-225-6913. -
News
April 02, 2013
White Castle's president joins National Restaurant Association board
From Columbus Business First:
The newly named president of White Castle System Inc. is adding another industry title to her resume.
The National Restaurant Association named Lisa Ingram to its board of directors for a term that expires at the end of 2015. Ingram, a fourth-generation leader in the family-owned Columbus business, was promoted to president of the fast-food chain in February. Read more. -
News
April 02, 2013
Survey Ranks Columbus as one of Small Business-Friendly Cities
From Governing: By The Numbers:
Columbus is ranked ninth of 57 metro areas across the U.S. in small business-friendly climates. A survey of nearly 8,000 small businesses throughout the country rated business climates of states and metro areas, providing clues to what these economic engines view as top concerns.
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News
April 02, 2013
Retirement Village Chefs Face Off in OPRS Culinary Showdown
From a Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services Press Release:
Chefs from a family of retirement communities create nutrient-packed, flavorful dishes for foodie judges in an all-out cookery showdown. Top culinary professionals from six of Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services' (OPRS) communities faced off in a timed challenge for gold, silver and bronze medals.
Two-chef teams from Breckenridge Village, Cape May Retirement Village, Lake Vista of Cortland, Rockynol, Swan Creek and Westminster-Thurber Community had 75 minutes to prepare, cook and present their entrees and sides. Winning dishes fit within nutritional guidelines, such as a max of 700 calories, and cost less than $7 to produce. The plates and teams were judged on culinary skill, organization, originality, presentation taste and presentation. "When we feed chefs' competitive natures, those sharpened skills and best practices carry over into everyday standards. It's our residents who really win” tantalizing, sophisticated meals," says John Andrews. Andrews is the director of OPRS' culinary and nutritional services department. The cook off's No. 1 dish was created by Swan Creek Retirement Village's Chef Patrick Young and Chef Stacy Chesney. Their Wonton Fish Tacos with Asian Root Vegetable Slaw took home the gold. Chefs Young and Chesney are entering for a chance to showcase their talents in the national Association for Healthcare Foodservice (AHF) 2013 Culinary Competition. Only eight chef teams will go for the gold during AHF's June conference. "In today's retirement community, full-flavored, savory food is the attraction. OPRS chefs know their craft and are proud to create that kind of food every day," says Andrews. The competition was held at Columbus Culinary Institute, in Columbus, Ohio, Saturday, March 9, and was open to the public. MEDIA TOUR INVITATION: Members of the professional working media are invited to tour our kitchens with introductions to campus chefs. PHOTO CUTLINE: Chef Patrick Young and Chef Stacy Chesney's gold-medal winning Wonton Fish Tacos with Asian Root Vegetable Slaw. Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services is the largest and most experienced not-for-profit provider of continuing care retirement communities and services in Ohio. With headquarters in Columbus, OPRS serves more than 90,000 people in 40 Ohio counties through its wholly owned subsidiaries OPRS Communities and Senior Independence. OPRS Communities operates 11 retirement communities. Senior Independence provides home and community based services, operates 13 adult day centers and manages six senior centers, in partnership with local governments. -
News
April 01, 2013
Columbus 2nd for job creation in 2012, Gallup says
From Columbus Business First:
Columbus ranked second for its level of job creation among major markets in 2012, a new Gallup report shows.
Columbus' job creation index score of 30 is based on a survey of local workers being asked whether their employer was growing or reducing employment between January and December of last year. In Columbus, 43 percent indicated growth and only 13 percent indicated reduction. Read more. -
News
April 01, 2013
UCT CEO Joe Hoffman named to Columbus Chamber of Commerce council
Columbus, Ohio- UCT CEO Joe Hoffman has been named to a three-year term on the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Council.
The Small Business Council consists of 24 small business experts, as well as one representative each from the Chamber’s Board of Directors and the Chamber’s Entrepreneur Program. The council evaluates and provides counsel regarding a variety of issues such as healthcare and economic development that affect small businesses in the Columbus Region. UCT’s Home Office is located in Columbus. “Small businesses are critical to a thriving business community and economy,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We value the opinions of the Small Business Council, as they inform our decisions and act as our lens into the small business community, which represents about 90 percent of membership.” The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. It was founded 130 years ago and has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Learn more. -
News
April 01, 2013
Downtown District Proposed Code Update and New Design Guidelines
From The City of Columbus:
The City of Columbus, in cooperation with the Downtown Commission, is undertaking a major revision of the downtown zoning district and creation of design guidelines for use in conjunction with the code. The Downtown District was established in 1997 with the adoption of City Code Chapter 3359 and has not had a substantial update since that time. The entire downtown falls within one zoning district, which allows most land uses pending design review by the Downtown Commission. Since its inception, the Commission has reviewed hundreds of projects, from storefront reconstructions to parks and other civic improvements, entertainment venues, new housing development and office buildings. Read more.
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News
April 01, 2013
Bob Evans, DSW among Forbes' most trustworthy
From Columbus Business First:
Two local names, Bob Evans Farms Inc.and DSW Inc., are among America's 100 most trustworthy companies, according to a new report from Forbes.
The list is based on an evaluation of governance and accounting practices of companies with market capitalization over $250 million. Read more. -
News
April 01, 2013
Columbus one of the best cities for young adults
From Columbus Business First:
Columbus is the best city in Ohio for young adults, ranking 20th among 102 metro areas in the U.S., according to a new report from On Numbers.
The study sought to find markets that offer the best opportunities for workers in their 20s and early 30s. It considered factors such as population, job and income growth, per-capita income, unemployment rate and level of education. Read more. -
News
April 01, 2013
Anne and Jack Partridge to Lead 2013 United Way of Central Ohio Campaign
From a United Way of Central Ohio Press Release:
Columbus, Ohio- United Way of Central Ohio announced that Anne and Jack Partridge will serve as co-chairs for the 2013 campaign.
Jack Partridge is president of Columbia Gas of Ohio and chief regulatory officer of the NiSource Gas Distribution Companies. NiSource, one of the nation’s largest regulated energy companies, is the parent of Columbia Gas of Ohio. “Anne and Jack are two of the most knowledgeable and engaged leaders in our community and we are excited to welcome them as campaign co-chairs," said Janet E. Jackson, President and CEO, United Way of Central Ohio. "Their leadership will be crucial as we work to ensure that everyone, especially the many people who now live in poverty in central Ohio, have the opportunities and resources they need to reach their potential." "We are honored to chair this year’s campaign and can’t wait to begin our work," said Anne Partridge. "We look forward to educating more people about the important work of United Way in addressing poverty in our communities, and providing pathways out of poverty to those in need. We’re confident that central Ohio will continue its longstanding tradition as one of the most generous communities in the country." -more- Partridges Chair United Way Campaign is gratifying to see how people come together to give, advocate and volunteer through United Way, said Jack Partridge. "This year we will continue that great tradition of improving lives by mobilizing central Ohioans, their compassion and caring, in the fight against poverty. Columbia is a long-time partner of United Way and United Way of Central Ohio. In 2012, the company and its employees increased their United Way giving in central Ohio by 38 percent. Columbia and NiSource are active corporate citizens in the communities they serve. Over the past 10 years, the companies and their employees have contributed more than $40 million and thousands of volunteer hours supporting hundreds of charitable organizations throughout their service territories. Jack Partridge has been president of Columbia Gas of Ohio since 2003. He assumed the role of chief regulatory officer in 2011. He began his career with Columbia Gas in 1977 as a governmental affairs representative at the company’s local distribution company in Pennsylvania. He is immediate past Chair of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce board of directors and serves on the executive committee. He is also a member of The Ohio Business Roundtable, the Columbus 2020 board of directors and the Columbus Partnership. He served as a member of the Ohio Governor’s Workforce Policy Board, Chairman of the Goodwill Columbus Board of Directors and the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) board of trustees. Partridge holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York. -more- Anne Partridge has been an active community leader and volunteer for many years. Her volunteer experience includes leadership roles with the Heinzerling Foundation, Rosemont, Muirfield Village Civic Association, St. Brigid of Kildare School, Bishop Watterson High School, Kidsmiles Dental Clinic, Furniture Bank of Central Ohio, Miami University Parent’s Council national co-chair, The Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation, Columbus Metropolitan Library, the Columbus Association of Performing Arts (CAPA) and The Gathering 2012 Prayer Breakfast. She is a board member and development chair for Ronald McDonald House Charities. She is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, where she graduated from Towson State University with a bachelor’s degree in education. About United Way of Central Ohio
Founded in 1923, United Way of Central Ohio is working to improve lives and strengthen our community by providing pathways out of poverty through our focus on the building blocks of a good life: a quality education that leads to a productive career, enough income to support a family through retirement, good health, and a safe place to live. As one of the largest United Ways in the country, we bring together more than 80,000 donors, advocates and volunteers to achieve our community's transformational Bold Goals in Education, Income, Health and Home. Working together, our community will accomplish these goals by 2020. For more information, visit www.liveunitedcentralohio.org. About Columbia Gas of Ohio Columbia Gas of Ohio delivers natural gas to approximately 1.4 million customers in 61 of Ohio’s 88 counties. With headquarters in Columbus, it is one of the seven energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI) and is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource companies deliver energy to approximately 3.8 million customers located within the high-demand energy corridor stretching from the Gulf Coast through the Midwest to New England. More information about Columbia Gas of Ohio is available at: ColumbiaGasOhio.com. -
News
March 27, 2013
Express Employment Professionals Opens New Office in Columbus
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Express Employment Professionals announces the opening of the Columbus Southeast office by franchisee Brian Carpenter.
Carpenter will assist local job seekers in finding employment and help area businesses find qualified employees. Express offers traditional temporary and professional contract staffing, as well as temp-to-hire evaluation, and direct hiring options in a variety of fields including light industrial, administrative, medical and marketing. “As a locally-owned and operated business, we strive to provide exceptional customer service as well as support to serve the community we live in by matching outstanding people with good jobs at good companies,” Carpenter said. Carpenter preciously worked for a media research corporation as Director of Operations in the Ohio Valley region. He is a member of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and the Human Resources Association of Central Ohio. He is also active in the community as a football official at both the high school and collegiate level. The Columbus office is located at 6105 McNaughten Rd., and is currently taking applications. Businesses and applicants are encouraged to stop by the office or call (614) 328-9345. Express is on a mission to put a million people to work annually. Worldwide, Express Employment Professionals put more than 367,000 people to work in 2012 and has more than 615 offices in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Offices provide expertise in evaluation hire, temporary staffing, professional search and human resources, and work across a wide variety of industries. Temporary staffing sales for the international staffing franchise company totaled more than $2.3 billion in 2012. -
News
March 27, 2013
Save With Columbus Chamber Affinity Programs
As you may be aware, the Columbus Chamber offers a series of group-savings programs (entitled Affinity Programs) to save our members time and money with particular services/products. These programs include critical business services and products that range from energy to workers’ compensation to health care insurance.
And there is an added benefit. When members participate in these Affinity Programs, the program partners provide financial support that allow the Chamber to continue advocating for and serving our local companies through business development, business advocacy and general support of the region’s economy. It’s a win-win proposition. A Powerful Combination We ask that you give strong consideration to the Affinity Program that is sponsored through our exclusive energy savings partner, AEP Energy. AEP Energy develops a customized electricity plan to fit the right combination based upon your risk and price preferences. A share of the revenue is directed to the Chamber’s mission for every member enrolled in the program. There is one simple step to start your program participation. Send AEP Energy a copy of your recent electricity bill via email or fax and an expert energy representative will contact you and provide a free quote. AEP Energy can be contacted at (F) 312-488-5049 (E) columbuschamber@aepenergy.com