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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
December 12, 2012
Chamber leaders praise state's changes
From The Columbus Dispatch:
Badly needed reforms to state government that Ohio’s business leaders began pushing two years ago already are paying off in the form of a more business-friendly state and a lower unemployment rate, they said yesterday.
“We believe that state government is becoming more flexible, adaptable and innovative and continues to search for new ways to improve services and heighten productivity,” the state’s chamber of commerce leaders said in an update of its report two years ago that called for change in the way government operates. Read more. -
News
December 12, 2012
Business groups urge state to continue efficiency efforts
Reforms the state of Ohio has enacted over the past two years to improve efficiency and cut costs are winning praise from Ohio business leaders who are pushing politicians not to ease up on efforts to improve the way government operates.
The business leaders — executives of the state’s chambers of commerce who called for transformational changes two years ago — credited the state’s political leaders with eliminating an $8 billion budget shortfall without raising taxes, regulatory and pension reform, making state and local government more efficient, and reforms that have slowed the cost of health care for the state’s poorest people. Read more. -
News
December 12, 2012
Caretta Workspace furniture a mix of technology, traditional materials
From The Metropreneur:
Larry Tracewell has produced innovative products at his Lewis Center-based company Caretta Workspace, which designs and manufactures computer desks, tables, and accessory products, such as file cabinets and coat trees.
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News
December 11, 2012
City lands big national convention
From The Columbus Dispatch:
Franklin County Commissioner Paula Brooks hopes the National Association of Counties will do for Columbus what it did for Pittsburgh.
The association held its large, annual convention in the Steel City this year. “Most people remembered Pittsburgh as a dirty, gritty city with not a lot to do, and people were complaining about having to go there,” Brooks said. “When we got there, everyone saw Pittsburgh had gone through a renaissance and raved about it.” The association announced yesterday that it will hold its 2017 convention in Columbus. It will attract elected and appointed officials from more than 3,000 U.S. counties who will pay for more than 9,000 nights in hotel rooms and provide an estimated economic impact of $8 million. Read more. -
News
December 11, 2012
Logistics industry sees exports as key to fueling growth
From Business First:
Foreign trade is needed to fuel growth in a Columbus-area logistics industry that a new report found increased the value of its exports by 3 percent over four years, the head of the Columbus Region Logistics Council says.
“Until we can take an Ohio-produced product and export to a country that has demand, the logistics industry is only going to thrive in proportion to the amount of imports that our local-landed businesses push out into the domestic economy,” said Jeff Zimmerman, director of the Columbus Region Logistics Council. “The acceleration is going to happen inside of foreign trade.” Read more. -
News
December 05, 2012
The Pearl Restaurant Leadership Team Named
First new concept in five years for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants will open in February 2013
COLUMBUS (December 5, 2012): Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ (CMR) first new concept to be introduced in five years – The Pearl – has named its general manager and executive chef. The two leaders have been appointed to oversee final details for the restaurant, which is scheduled to open in Columbus’ Short North Arts District on February 5, 2013. Two CMR veterans have been tapped to lead operations at The Pearl. Amberlyn Heiney, who currently serves as assistant general manager of Marcella’s in the Short North, will serve as general manager of The Pearl. Peter Chapman, who most recently served as executive chef of Martini Modern Italian in the Short North, will oversee the kitchen and menu as executive chef at The Pearl. Heiney and Chapman are the first named to the management team of the long-anticipated new CMR concept, a restaurant, tavern and oyster room with American and European influences, serving made-from-scratch food, classically inspired cocktails and a diverse collection of unique lagers, ales and stouts. A casual “gastropub” sure to become a coveted dining destination in central Ohio, The Pearl will be set in a warm, artisan-style tavern mirroring early 20th century vintage urban design. The 5,194 square foot restaurant has occupancy for 185 guests. “Our team is awaiting the opening of The Pearl with a great deal of excitement,” said Cameron Mitchell, president and founder of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. “We believe this new concept is just the right complement to our current concepts, and that it truly will be a jewel in the Short North. I am so pleased that Peter and Amberlyn, both of whom are exceptional restaurant professionals and genuine assets to our company, are leading the management of The Pearl.” Heiney, who has more than 20 years of restaurant experience and resides in the Upper Arlington community, joined Cameron Mitchell Restaurants in 2007, and has held several management positions at Marcella’s in the Short North. A graduate of The Ohio State University, she cites her time at CMR as the reason she chose a career in hospitality. She is thrilled to remain in the Short North for her new position with The Pearl, because of the area’s energy and vibrance. Chapman’s career at Cameron Mitchell Restaurants began in September 2004. He held positions at M, as executive chef at Martini Modern Italian and as executive chef at Marcella’s Italian Kitchen at Polaris before being named executive chef at The Pearl. Inspired by the culinary passions of his father, Chapman credits his parents with encouraging him to pursue a hospitality career. A resident of Old Towne East, he graduated from Columbus State Community College with a degree in Hospitality Management and is an American Culinary Federation Certified Culinarian. The Pearl is located at 641 North High Street in Columbus’ Short North Arts District. The restaurant will open nightly at 4 p.m. beginning February 5, 2013. Visit The Pearl online at ThePearlColumbus.com. About Cameron Mitchell Restaurants Founded by Cameron Mitchell in 1993 in Columbus, Ohio, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants LLC now operates 18 restaurants under eight different concepts including Cameron's American Bistro, Cap City Fine Diner & Bar, M, Marcella’s, Martini Modern Italian, Mitchell’s Ocean Club (Ocean Prime), Molly Woo's Asian Bistro, The Pearl (opening February 2013) and Cameron Mitchell Catering in Columbus. Cameron Mitchell Catering also oversees two venues in Columbus, The Darby House and The Ivory Room at Miranova. The Ocean Prime concept has locations in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Texas. The Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern, a sister company of CMR, currently operates 13 locations in Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. Cameron Mitchell and the various concepts have received numerous culinary, leadership, entrepreneur, community service and readers’ choice awards. For more information on Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, please visit www.cameronmitchell.com. -
News
December 05, 2012
Editorial: Kasich should keep up pressure to update Ohio's severance tax
From the Columbus Dispatch
Ohio Gov. John Kasich said in a recent speech to the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation that he intends to eventually see a severance-tax increase, coupled with an income-tax rebate, become law. The rebate could be especially powerful for owners of small businesses, including farmers, whose business taxes are paid through personal income tax. A boost to those businesses could add a bit of steam to Ohio’s economic recovery, further amplifying and spreading the benefit of the boom.
Read more. The Columbus Chamber support the Governor's income tax rebate proposal. -
News
December 04, 2012
Huntington Bank Names Barbara Benham Director of Corporate Communications and Government Relations
From a Huntington Bank press release:
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Dec 04, 2012 - Huntington Bank has named Barbara Benham director of corporate communications and government relations, the bank announced today. She has served as interim director for the past year, reporting to Steve Steinour, Huntington's chairman, president and CEO. Benham has led the bank's government relations department for the past 10 years and has extensive experience in building partnerships in the communities the bank serves.
Barbara will continue to oversee public relations, internal communications, and government relations. During her year in the position, she has helped to raise awareness in the community about Huntington, increase communications with Huntington colleagues and build strong innovative partnerships with elected officials, civic organizations and community groups. "Barbara is one of the country's top government relations professionals in the banking industry," said Steinour. "Over the past year, she has helped strengthen Huntington's business during a time of tremendous growth. She has taken on a new role and improved our corporate communications strategy, while continuing to lead government relations at a critical period for financial services. She is extremely active in our communities and dedicated to finding innovative solutions for our customers, colleagues and shareholders. She is the right leader to help guide Huntington's communications and government affairs as the bank continues to grow." "Huntington has demonstrated an industry-leading commitment to our customers and communities," said Benham. "We have created innovative, customer-friendly banking products and groundbreaking partnerships in our markets that position us to drive economic recovery in the neighborhoods we serve." Benham has nearly 20 years of experience in community and government relations. She has worked for a wide variety of organizations spanning the nonprofit, civic, corporate and government sectors. Before joining Huntington in 1998, she served as the development director for Children's Hunger Alliance, manager of the Wexner Center Foundation, as an account executive at RWA Management and Marketing, and in senior leadership roles for statewide and federal political campaigns. Based in Columbus, Benham currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Community Shelter Board, The Women's Fund of Central Ohio, Just Think, Inc, The Capital Square Foundation, and is Chair of the Government Affairs Steering Committee for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. She previously served on the Board of the YWCA Columbus, the Homeless Families Foundation, and was inducted as a member of the Ohio Commodores for her volunteer work in economic development. A native of Kettering, Ohio, Benham earned a bachelor's degree from Loyola University Chicago. About Huntington Huntington Bancshares Incorporated is a $56 billion regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. The Huntington National Bank, founded in 1866, provides full-service commercial, small business, and consumer banking services; mortgage banking services; treasury management and foreign exchange services; equipment leasing; wealth and investment management services; trust services; brokerage services; customized insurance brokerage and service programs; and other financial products and services. The principal markets for these services are Huntington's six-state banking franchise: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The primary distribution channels include a banking network of more than 690 traditional branches and convenience branches located in grocery stores and retirement centers, and through an array of alternative distribution channels including internet and mobile banking, telephone banking, and more than 1,380 ATMs. Through automotive dealership relationships within its six-state banking franchise area and selected other Midwest and New England states, Huntington also provides commercial banking services to the automotive dealers and retail automobile financing for dealer customers. -
News
December 03, 2012
Lamphere Joins GBQ as Senior Manager
From a GBQ press release:
Columbus, OH, December 3, 2012: GBQ is pleased to announce that Lisa Lamphere has joined the firm as a Senior Manager in our Location and Incentive Services practice.
Lisa graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Capital University Law School with a Master’s in Taxation. Prior to joining GBQ, Lisa was part of Ernst & Young’s East Central Business Credits and Incentives practice in Columbus, Ohio. She was also a manager in KPMG LLP’s Global Location and Expansion Services (GLES) Practice. “I am extremely pleased to have Lisa Lamphere join GBQ’s growing State and Local Tax practice. With this addition, the firm will add significant depth to our Location and Incentive Services practice and strengthen our ability to service our clients in the Cincinnati, Columbus and Toledo markets,” said Matt Stamp, Director of State and Local Tax Services. “I am excited to have Lisa join our Location and Incentive Services practice. Her experience as a LEED Green Associate will add Green Incentives to our portfolio of service offerings. In addition, her experience in site selection and negotiated incentives across a variety of states and industries will further enhance our ability to serve clients,” said Marti Brenner, Director, Location and Incentive Services. Lisa specializes in securing federal, state and local business incentives and tax credits for national and international companies. Her experience includes identifying tax credits and incentives related to energy efficiency and renewable energy as well as assisting companies in achieving LEED Certification for existing buildings. Lisa is also a certified Economic Development Finance Professional and a member of the Ohio Economic Development Association. About GBQ GBQ is the largest independent accounting and consulting firm in Central Ohio. With over 120 associates we are large enough to handle the needs of today’s complex and progressive organizations, while providing close personal attention. As an independent member of the BDO Seidman Alliance, GBQ has access to global resources through a network of accounting and consulting firms. Visit GBQ on the internet at www.gbq.com , become a fan on Facebook, subscribe to the GBQueue Blog or follow us on Twitter. For more information on BDO USA, LLP visit http://www.bdo.com/. -
News
December 03, 2012
Survey: Chamber Membership is Effective Business Strategy
From an ACCE press release:
Alexandria, Va. (Nov. 30, 2012) – A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy because two-thirds of consumers believe that such companies use good business practices, are reputable, care about their customers, and are involved in the community.
The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found consumer perceptions of chamber members to be positive in many ways: - When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future. - If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g., is a chamber board member), consumers are 10% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition. - When consumers know that a national restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 68% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months. When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 36% more likely to think favorably of the company. Major Impact on Small Businesses Small businesses represent the largest segment of most local chamber membership rolls, and the study indicates that chamber membership has consistent and powerful benefits for small business members—if consumers are aware that the small business is involved with its local chamber. For example, if respondents know that a small business is a member of its local chamber, the business enjoys a 49% increase in its consumer favorability rating, a 73% increase in consumer awareness, a 68% increase in its local reputation, and an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future. Most people know fairly well what their local chambers do; the study assessed the effect of this knowledge on perceptions of chamber members. The researchers said ”any belief about the chamber of commerce—whether that belief was true or not—could have a significant positive impact on how someone views a member… he or she is more likely to think that the [member] company’s products stack up well and have a favorable opinion toward the company.” The key factor in developing and maintaining positive consumer perception of chamber members, the Schapiro Group said, was that “positive outcomes only occur when consumers know that a business is a chamber member (i.e., being involved in the chamber is a known facet of the company's reputation).” Accordingly, when consumers know that a large business is a member of the chamber, they are likely to patronize the company more often, to express favorable opinions about the company, to know more about the company, and to buy the company's products. The strength and nature of these effects differ by industry: Large Restaurant Chains When consumers know that a restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 15% more likely to report knowing a lot about the franchise, 58% more likely to eat at the franchise more often, 68% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months, and 37% more likely to think favorably of the franchise. Among consumers who do not eat at the franchise so often, those who are aware that the franchise is a member of the chamber are 33% more likely to hold favorable opinions of the franchise. Among consumers who hold less favorable opinions of the franchise, those who are aware that the franchise is a member of the chamber are 65% more likely to eat there in the coming months. Insurance Companies When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 29% more likely to report knowing a lot about the company, 36% more likely to think favorably of the company, and 36% more likely to consider buying insurance from it. Among consumers who hold less favorable opinions of the insurance company, those who are aware that the company is a member of the chamber are 25% more likely to consider purchasing insurance from it. Among those who have not considered purchasing insurance there in the past, chamber membership increases that likelihood by 37%. Automobile Manufacturers When consumers know that an auto manufacturer is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 21% more likely to have a favorable opinion of that company and 31% more likely to consider purchasing their next car from that company. Among those who have ever considered buying a car from a particular auto manufacturer, chamber membership leads to a 44% increase in consumers’ likelihood of purchasing a car there in the future. The study, commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), in cooperation with the Western Association of Chamber Executives, was sponsored by Insperity, a Houston-based company that provides human resources and other business services to more than 100,000 businesses nationwide. J. Mac Holladay, founder and CEO of Market Street Services, an economic development firm in Atlanta, was a key contributor of concepts used to develop the study. The new study tracks similar data reported by The Schapiro Group in 2007. “Despite changes in markets and demographics, a nagging recession and the growing influence of the internet, the chamber brand today is stronger and more dynamic than ever,” said ACCE President Mick Fleming. “We’re proud that the numbers prove, once again, that engagement in a chamber means a positive perception of the business in the eyes of the buying public.” About ACCE
Established in 1914, ACCE is the only national association serving the professional development needs of executives and managers of chambers of commerce throughout the U.S. and Canada. Representing more than 7,300 chamber employees, ACCE enhances the knowledge, leadership skills, and management effectiveness of chamber professionals and their staffs through its education, research, publications, certification, trends analysis, benchmarking, and promotion of best practices. -
News
November 29, 2012
IBM adding 500 jobs at new data analytics center in Columbus
From Business First:
IBM Corp. will establish an IBM Client Center for Advanced Analytics at its northwest Columbus campus, adding 500 jobs over the next three years.
Ron Lovell, an IBM vice president with 23 years in his native Columbus, will lead the center, which will be the global technology giant’s main hub for helping clients with business intelligence and forecasting. It will be the company’s leader for “Big Data,” the emerging buzzword in IT for sifting through the unimaginable quantities of data produced by digital transactions, social media and mobile devices to find patterns that will help businesses run more efficiently and profitably. Read more. -
News
November 29, 2012
Forbes ranks Columbus eighth best place for female business founders
Forbes magazine recently named Columbus eighth on its list of the 15 best U.S. cities for female entrepreneurs. The rankings were reported in the business publication’s October 18th issue. Columbus is the only Ohio city to make the list.
So, what makes Columbus such a good place for women to create their own businesses? Read more. -
News
November 29, 2012
State must match jobs, training, Kasich says
From The Columbus Dispatch:
Gov. John Kasich wants Ohio workers trained for jobs that businesses are looking to fill.
With dozens of training programs and plenty of opportunities in health care, energy and other fields, it should be easy. But it’s not, Kasich says. Not yet, anyway. “We have job openings, but yet we don’t have people to fill them,” the Republican governor told business leaders and lawmakers who convened yesterday for the first meeting of the Governor’s Executive Workforce Board. Read more. -
News
November 28, 2012
Economic impact of airports, logistics cluster tops $6.6B
From Columbus Business First:
Port Columbus International Airport,Rickenbacker International Airport and Bolton Field contribute more than $4.6 billion a year to the local economy, according to a new economic impact study.
The Columbus Regional Airport Authority, which oversees all three airports, commissioned the six-month study. It found that the total economic output spurred by the airports has jumped by 69 percent since 2004, the last time the agency conducted such a study. The airports support 38,374 jobs and more than $1.3 billion in annual payroll, averaging just under $34,000 per job, the study found. Read more. -
News
November 28, 2012
Navigator Management Partners Celebrates Ranking on Great Place to Work 2012 Best Small & Medium Workplaces List
From a Navigator Management Partners press release:
Fourth Consecutive Year on National List
COLUMBUS, OH– Navigator Management Partners is ranked No. 18 in the annual Great Place to Work® Rankings: 2012 Best Small and Medium Workplaces published by FORTUNE magazine. This is Columbus-based Navigator’s fourth consecutive year on the list. Navigator was selected among hundreds of companies vying for a place on the list this year. Applicant companies opt to participate in the selection process, which includes an employee survey and an in-depth questionnaire about their programs and company practices. Great Place to Work® then evaluates each application using its unique methodology based on five dimensions: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie. “We are proud of this recognition and see it as a testament to the employees we have hired,” said David Schoettmer, President. “Our culture is what makes us a great place to work and we look forward to celebrating this honor with our employees.” Navigator earned similar recognition as a Best Place to Work, as evaluated by Columbus Business First in 2012, as well as the previous six years. Its Baltimore, MD office was named a 2012 Finalist by the Baltimore Business Journal’s Best Places to Work. Navigator Management Partners made this year’s recently-announced list by participating in the Great Place to Work® Institute’s selection process. Navigator was evaluated based on five areas: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie. The Institute’s unique methodology measures the level of trust that exists between employees and management, the pride employees express about the company and the camaraderie employees share. To see the 2012 Great Place to Work Best Small & Medium Workplaces list, visit www.greatplacetowork.com. Navigator Management Partners is a regional consultancy specializing in Project Management, Business Process Design, Packaged Software Implementation, Organizational Change Management, and Enterprise Technology Strategy services. The team includes individuals with a proven track record in business and technology consulting, many having served Fortune 500 companies and Public Sector institutions as employees of the world’s market leading consulting firms. Navigator was founded in Columbus, Ohio but has since opened additional offices. Navigator brings world-class consulting services to its local marketplaces. To learn more about Navigator Management Partners, please visit www.navmp.com or www.facebook.com/navmp or www.linkedin.com/company/30946 -
News
November 27, 2012
City of Columbus Sewage and Drainage Standards Revised
The City of Columbus Department of Public Utilities Division of Sewage and Drainage has recently completed revisions to its standard construction drawings. The new standard drawings will replace the previous editions and are effective immediately.
The revised drawings are available for download at the Columbus Public Utilities Website or purchased at the Public Utilities Permit Department located at 910 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH. -
News
November 27, 2012
H.B. 601 - Municipal Income Tax Reform Bill Testimony Begins
House Bill 601, a municipal income tax reform bill, was introduced in Ohio House in late October and will begin hearing sponsor testimony this week in the House Ways and Means Committee.
Testimony from Co-sponsors Rep. Grossman (Grove City) and Rep. Henne (Clayton) will be heard by the committee this week. The bill is unlikely to pass through during the lame duck session, but it is expected to be re-introduced when the General Assembly convenes in 2013. The Columbus Chamber continues to work alongside 19 other organizations as part of the Municipal Income Tax Uniformity Coalition to research and advocate for adequate changes to the current system. The Coalition will continue to work and advocate for important details and issues important to businesses as the legislature moves forward with this bill. Learn more. -
News
November 20, 2012
Mayor Coleman Releases 2013 City Budget
Last week Mayor Coleman, as well as the Franklin County Commissioners, released their 2013 budgets. The Chamber has been working closely with the Mayor’s and Commissioner’s Office over the past year to make sure the business voice is heard and adequately represented in the upcoming budget.
The Chamber would like to highlight several items within the City of Columbus 2013 budget that we feel adequately reflect the demands for economic growth and development for years to come. Experience Columbus received an increase in funding of 53% to $7.27 million. The increase is a result of the additional $3.4 million in revenue from the city’s hotel bed tax. With the increase in funding, Experience Columbus can be more aggressive in attracting major events and conventions to Columbus. The Development Department will be allocated $22.6 million, which will continue to support programs such as Columbus 2020 and the Downtown development program. As part of their 10-Year Reform Plan, Columbus has taken steps to save $210 million by 2019. They are looking to accomplish this through curbing employee benefits, cutting unnecessary overtime and being more efficient through performance management, technology, green initiatives and other cost-cutting measures. The city is estimating to save $12.4 million in 2012 by spending below budgeted levels. We would also like to mention several allocations within the 2013 Franklin County proposed budget that also reflect an encouragement in economic growth and development. The Economic Development and Planning Department will see a large increase of 31.7% in funding to approximately $15.4 million. The county will also be dramatically increasing their investment in their Tax Incentive Program in 2013 with a 176.1% increase in funding to $6.5 million to help grow and sustain economic development. The Business Loans and Grants Program will also continue to receive funding of $2.6 million to help support small businesses in Franklin County. The Columbus Chamber will continue to work with the Mayor and the Franklin County Commissioners over the coming years to help build and grow the business community in the Central Ohio region. Please learn more about the Mayor’s 2013 budget at the Mayor’s website, here and the Franklin County Commissioner’s Budget, here. -
News
November 20, 2012
AT&T 4G LTE Available in Columbus
From an AT&T press release:
Customers to benefit from ultra-fast mobile Internet on the latest LTE devices
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 16, 2012 — AT&T* has turned on its 4G LTE network in Columbus, bringing customers the latest generation of wireless network technology. Watch here to see several of the benefits AT&T 4G LTE provides, including: - Faster speeds. LTE technology is capable of delivering mobile Internet speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G. Customers can stream, download, upload and game faster than ever before. - Cool new devices. AT&T offers several LTE-compatible devices, including new AT&T 4G LTE smartphones and tablets, such as the Sony Xperia™ TL, LG Optimus G™, Samsung Galaxy S III, Motorola ATRIX™ HD, HTC One™ X, Nokia Lumia 920, Samsung Galaxy Note™ II, HTC One™ X+, Samsung ATIV smart PC and ASUS VivoTab™ RT. - Faster response time. LTE technology offers lower latency, or the processing time it takes to move data through a network, such as how long it takes to start downloading a webpage or file once you’ve sent the request. Lower latency helps to improve services like mobile gaming, two-way video calling and telemedicine. - More efficient use of spectrum. Wireless spectrum is a finite resource, and LTE uses spectrum more efficiently than other technologies, creating more space to carry data traffic and services and to deliver a better network experience. “The launch of new, even faster mobile Internet service in the greater Columbus area will help my constituents and local businesses, who are working hard to rebuild Ohio’s economy,” said State Representative Michael Stinziano. “Advancement in technology is a critical economic driver for businesses and consumers to remain competitive and to foster further economic growth.” “In an information-driven economy, the ability for all the people of our community to have access to the latest communications technology is critical,” said Alex Fischer, President & CEO Columbus Partnership. “Investments like this assure that businesses of all sizes can compete effectively in a global economy.” AT&T’s 4G Network AT&T’s innovation and investment has resulted in the nation’s largest 4G network, covering more than 285 million people with ultra-fast speeds and a more consistent user experience. That’s coverage in 3,000 more 4G cities and towns than Verizon.** Our 4G LTE network delivered faster average download speeds than any of our competitors in PCWorld’s most recent 13-market speed tests. AT&T’s 4G LTE network delivers speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G***, as well as multiple innovations that optimize the network for performance. Our network’s radio components are placed close to the antenna at most cell sites, instead of inside the base station, which helps minimize power loss between the base station and antenna and, in turn, improves the performance of our 4G LTE network. The network also is designed with its core elements distributed across the country, which helps reduce latency, or the delay when using the Internet, because your request isn’t traveling as far. “As part of the Ohio community, we’re always looking for new opportunities to provide enhanced mobile Internet coverage and our investment to expand our 4G LTE network to greater Columbus is another way to accomplish this," said AT&T Ohio state president Tom Pelto. “In the last three and a half years alone, AT&T invested $1.6 billion in our wireline and wireless networks in Ohio. That equates to a million dollars every single day of the last three and a half years, and today’s announcement continues to build on that.” Even as AT&T continues to expand its 4G LTE coverage, customers can get 4G speeds outside of 4G LTE areas on our 4G HSPA+ network, unlike competitors, where smartphone customers fall back to slower 3G technologies when outside of LTE coverage. AT&T’s focus to deliver the best possible mobile Internet experience goes beyond 4G to embrace additional connection technologies. AT&T operates the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network**** including more than 31,000 AT&T Wi-Fi Hot Spots at popular restaurants, hotels, bookstores and retailers across the country. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn’t count against customers’ monthly wireless data plans. AT&T also is a leading developer of Distributed Antenna Systems, which utilize multiple small antennas to maximize coverage and speed within stadiums, convention centers, office buildings, hotels and other areas where traditional coverage methods are challenging. Over the past five years, AT&T invested more than $115 billion into operations and into acquiring spectrum and other assets that have enhanced our wireless and wired networks. Since 2007, AT&T has invested more capital into the U.S. economy than any other public company. In a July 2012 report, the Progressive Policy Institute ranked AT&T No. 1 on its list of U.S. “Investment Heroes.”*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
**4G speeds not available everywhere. Comparison based on U.S. cities and towns with 4G coverage.***Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. Deployment ongoing. 4G LTE device and data plan required. Up to 10x claim compares 4G LTE download speeds to industry average 3G download speeds. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. 4G speeds not available everywhere. Learn more about 4G LTE at att.com/network.
****Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See www.attwifi.com for details and locations -
News
November 20, 2012
Columbus C.E.O. Names Leaderpromos a Top Ten Women-Owned Business
From a Leaderpromos press release:
Company continues record of growth by ranking again on annual list.
Leaderpromos was named sixth on Columbus C.E.O.'s list of Top Women-Owned Businesses in Central Ohio, moving up from the previous year's rank of ninth place. The positions were based upon 2011 revenue. "We're proud to land on Columbus C.E.O.'s list once again," said Stephanie Leader, President and C.E.O. of Leaderpromos. "I am pleased with our company's accomplishments and our team's hard work." The list was revealed in the November 2012 print edition of Columbus C.E.O., a local magazine which delivers in-depth business reporting on topics of interest to Central Ohio's business professionals. -
News
November 19, 2012
Girl Scouts launches first new cookie box in 13 years
From a Girl Scouts press release:
Columbus, Ohio — For the first time since 1999, all eight varieties of Girl Scout cookies have a new look on their boxes, and a new purpose: to elevate the significance of the Girl Scout Cookie Program, a $790-million girl-led business.
The new Girl Scout cookie package showcases several elements of the Girl Scout Cookie Program: the five financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills that the program teaches girls; the Girl Scout Gold Award; badges girls may earn; the organization’s mission; the alumnae association; the cookie baker’s sustainability efforts for ingredients free of environmental harm; and more. The new package design captures moments that show the power of girls working together as they engage in common Girl Scout activities: helping at a community garden and food pantry, painting murals, learning karate, kayaking, dancing, public speaking on issues affecting girls, and the Girl Scout Cookie Program. “Our council, along with Girl Scout councils across the country, is thrilled to feature the newly designed cookie boxes for our cookie program next year,” said Tammy H. Wharton, CEO of Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland Council. “The new boxes feature information that’s important to share with people who support Girl Scouting by buying cookies, and they convey the new Girl Scouts as the leadership program that it is.” The decision to update the package came about in 2010 as part of an overall brand refresh in advance of the organization’s 100th anniversary on March 12, 2012. The package needed to be more contemporary to reflect the new brand identity and to embody the spirit of Girl Scouting, while showing customers how they can reconnect with the organization. Girl Scouts of the USA partnered with Anthem Worldwide, the brand development division of Schawk Inc., to redesign the packaging to inspire consumers and engage them on the important role Girl Scouts plays in girls’ lives. “We are proud to be able to capture the empowering essence of the Girl Scouts in these iconic brand packages,” said Wharton. “The pride and excitement we feel is only the first of many moments of pride Girl Scouts everywhere will feel selling this year’s cookies.” To execute the final design concept, Anthem and GSUSA worked with Pulitzer Prize–winning photographer David Hume Kennerly to photograph Girl Scouts doing common scouting activities. The five skills identified on the box that girls develop through participation in the Cookie Program are: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. The GreenPalm logo on the box speaks to the commitment on the part of Girl Scouts and their baker, to addressing conservation and sustainability concerns related to Girl Scout cookies. The cookies for this area are baked by Little Brownie Bakers in Louisville, Kentucky, operating as a subsidiary of Kellogg Sales Company. The local Girl Scout cookie season runs from January 13 to April 17, 2013. To find out when Girl Scout Cookies are available near you, go to www.girlscoutcookies.org. About the Girl Scouts Girl Scouts of the USA is the premier leadership development program for all girls from kindergarten through grade 12. The mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Through activities in science and technology, business and economic literacy, and outdoor and environmental awareness, Girl Scouting provides girls with opportunities for fun and friendship, while fostering the development of leadership skills and self-esteem. March 12, 2012, marked the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Girl Scouts. The organization was established by Juliette Gordon Low in Savannah, Georgia, as a way to bring girls out of isolated home environments and into community service and the outdoors. Low believed all girls should be given the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually. The first Girl Scouts hiked, played basketball, camped, told time by the stars, and studied first aid. Within a few years, Low’s dream for a nationwide girl-centered organization was realized. Today, Girl Scouts of the USA has a membership of more than 3.2 million – 2.3 million girl members and 890,000 adult members working primarily as volunteers. More than 59 million American women enjoyed Girl Scout membership during their childhood and are alumnae of the organization. Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland Council, headquartered in Columbus, serves more than 32,000 girls and more than 9,000 adult members and volunteers in 30 counties: Adams, Ashland, Coshocton, Crawford, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Highland, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Knox, Licking, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Pike, Richland, Ross, Scioto, Union, Vinton, Wayne and Wyandot. For more information on how to join, volunteer, or donate to Girl Scouts, call (800) 621-7042 or visit www.gsoh.org. -
News
November 19, 2012
Columbus 2020: Job growth in region slowed in 3Q
From Columbus Business First:
Employment growth in the Columbus region cooled in the third quarter, but Columbus 2020, the group trying to boost those job numbers, continues to charge ahead.
Those are the most important things I gleaned from the quarterly economic update the organization released this week. Read more. -
News
November 16, 2012
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio Named 2013 Champion of Children Nonprofit Organization
From a United Way of Central Ohio press release:
Jed Morison Named 2013 Champion of Children
Morison and Big Brothers Big Sisters will be honored at the 20th Annual Champion of Children Signature Event featuring education pioneer Geoffrey Canada to be held on February 13, 2013 at The Southern Theatre
Columbus, Ohio (November 15, 2012) –Jed Morison, Superintendent/CEO of Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities has been named the 2013 Champion of Children. Morison joins a group of dynamic local leaders who have been recognized as Champions of Children and have worked to create a better tomorrow for all of the children in central Ohio.
“Over his long and distinguished career Jed has been a steadfast leader of efforts to ensure all children, especially those with disabilities, get the high quality education they deserve,” said Elfi Di Bella, president and CEO of YWCA Columbus, and chair of the Champion of Children Selection Committee. “Jed understands that providing educational opportunities not only improves individual lives, but strengthens our entire community, and through his leadership he has had a deep and far-reaching impact that will continue to inspire us for years to come."
Morison has served as the Superintendent/CEO of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities since 2000. The Board provides early intervention, educational, therapeutic, employment and residential support services for over 17,000 children and adults who have developmental disabilities, helping them to live, learn and work in our communities. Prior to his current service as Superintendent, Morison served as Assistant Superintendent from 1977 ‐ 2000.The Champion of Children Nonprofit Organization award went to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio for its decades of effective work and the inspiration it has provided to others through its proven record of success. The United Way Member agency has served more than 100,000 central Ohio children since it was founded in 1933 and is the third-largest Big Brothers Big Sisters agency in the country. Last year, it served 4,000 central Ohio children through one-to-one matches with volunteers and 5,000 children through its mentoring programs at Camp Oty’Okwa. Partnering with parents/guardians, schools, businesses, civic and faith-based organizations, and others in the community, the agency operates community-based mentoring programs, school-based mentoring programs -- including Project Mentor -- and mentoring programs at Camp Oty’Okwa in the Hocking Hills, plus its Mentoring Center of Central Ohio.
"Mentoring is such an important part of helping children succeed in school," said Linda Kass, Champion of Children founder and chair of the Advisory Committee. "Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio has created the thousands of lasting mentoring connections that have helped generations of students graduate high school and pursue productive careers. The organization's positive impact on education in our community simply cannot be overstated."
The Champion of Children Nonprofit Organization recognition includes a $5,000 award generously donated by Nationwide that will help Big Brothers Big Sisters further its mission.
Morison and Big Brothers Big Sisters will be honored at the 20th Annual Champion of Children Signature Event to be held at 5:30 p.m. on February 13, 2013 at The Southern Theatre. The event, which will be taped for later broadcast on WOSU, will include an award ceremony and a one-on-one conversation between former WOSU “Open Line” host Fred Andrle and renowned education expert Geoffrey Canada, founder of the Harlem Children's Zone in New York City.
The Signature Event will focus on the transformative neighborhood revitalization efforts currently taking place in central Ohio and how these efforts affect academic achievement. Canada is a national expert in this area, having developed a holistic approach to rebuilding communities in ways that help students succeed in school, graduate from high school, and progress to higher education and careers. He has created a replicable model for improving education for low-income children and will share his insights on this subject that is so important to the central Ohio community.
To learn more about Champion of Children and register for the Signature event, please go to www.liveunitedcentralohio.org/champion-of-children.
Support for the Signature Event and Champion of Children's work in raising awareness of education issues, mobilizing our community to support education and investing in effective education initiatives is provided by Champion Partners: Nationwide, PNC, The Columbus Foundation, Chase, Battelle; Presenting Partner: AEP; Supporting Partners: CSX, Huntington Bank, Limited Brands Foundation; and Media Partners: Big Red Rooster, Business First, Mills James Productions and WOSU Public Media.
About Champion of Children
Since 1994, Champion of Children has been a leading voice in raising awareness on education issues, mobilizing our community to support education and investing in effective efforts that help children succeed in school. In 2010, Champion of Children joined forces with United Way of Central Ohio and has taken on a key leadership role in United Way's work in the education impact area.
Champion of Children is focused on achieving our community's Bold Goals in education which set concrete ten-year goals for increasing kindergarten readiness and high school graduation. To help accomplish these goals, Champion of Children is mobilizing our community and preparing it with the tools needed to take effective action.
About United Way of Central Ohio Founded in 1923, United Way of Central Ohio is working to improve lives and strengthen our community by focusing on the building blocks of a better 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. -
News
November 16, 2012
Girl Scouts launches first new cookie box in 13 years
From a Girl Scout Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 16, 2012 Contact: Sara West, PR Director, 614-487-8101 or swest@gsoh.org Girl Scouts launches first new cookie box in 13 years Columbus, Ohio
For the first time since 1999, all eight varieties of Girl Scout cookies have a new look on their boxes, and a new purpose: to elevate the significance of the Girl Scout Cookie Program, a $790-million girl-led business. The new Girl Scout cookie package showcases several elements of the Girl Scout Cookie Program: the five financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills that the program teaches girls; the Girl Scout Gold Award; badges girls may earn; the organization's mission; the alumnae association; the cookie baker's sustainability efforts for ingredients free of environmental harm; and more. The new package design captures moments that show the power of girls working together as they engage in common Girl Scout activities: helping at a community garden and food pantry, painting murals, learning karate, kayaking, dancing, public speaking on issues affecting girls, and the Girl Scout Cookie Program. "Our council, along with Girl Scout councils across the country, is thrilled to feature the newly designed cookie boxes for our cookie program next year" said Tammy H. Wharton, CEO of Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland Council. "The new boxes feature information that's important to share with people who support Girl Scouting by buying cookies, and they convey the new Girl Scouts as the leadership program that it is." The decision to update the package came about in 2010 as part of an overall brand refresh in advance of the organization's 100th anniversary on March 12, 2012. The package needed to be more contemporary to reflect the new brand identity and to embody the spirit of Girl Scouting, while showing customers how they can reconnect with the organization. Girl Scouts of the USA partnered with Anthem Worldwide, the brand development division of Schawk Inc., to redesign the packaging to inspire consumers and engage them on the important role Girl Scouts plays in girls' lives. "We are proud to be able to capture the empowering essence of the Girl Scouts in these iconic brand packages," said Wharton. "The pride and excitement we feel is only the first of many moments of pride Girl Scouts everywhere will feel selling this year's cookies." To execute the final design concept, Anthem and GSUSA worked with Pulitzer Prize winning photographer David Hume Kennerly to photograph Girl Scouts doing common scouting activities. The five skills identified on the box that girls develop through participation in the Cookie Program are: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. The GreenPalm logo on the box speaks to the commitment on the part of Girl Scouts and their baker, to addressing conservation and sustainability concerns related to Girl Scout cookies. The cookies for this area are baked by Little Brownie Bakers in Louisville, Kentucky, operating as a subsidiary of Kellogg Sales Company. The local Girl Scout cookie season runs from January 13 to April 17, 2013. To find out when Girl Scout Cookies are available near you, go to www.girlscoutcookies.org. About the Girl Scouts Girl Scouts of the USA is the premier leadership development program for all girls from kindergarten through grade 12. The mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Through activities in science and technology, business and economic literacy, and outdoor and environmental awareness, Girl Scouting provides girls with opportunities for fun and friendship, while fostering the development of leadership skills and self-esteem. March 12, 2012, marked the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Girl Scouts. The organization was established by Juliette Gordon Low in Savannah, Georgia, as a way to bring girls out of isolated home environments and into community service and the outdoors. Low believed all girls should be given the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually. The first Girl Scouts hiked, played basketball, camped, told time by the stars, and studied first aid. Within a few years, Low's dream for a nationwide girl-centered organization was realized. Today, Girl Scouts of the USA has a membership of more than 3.2 million, 2.3 million girl members and 890,000 adult members working primarily as volunteers. More than 59 million American women enjoyed Girl Scout membership during their childhood and are alumnae of the organization. Girl Scouts of Ohio's Heartland Council, headquartered in Columbus, serves more than 32,000 girls and more than 9,000 adult members and volunteers in 30 counties: Adams, Ashland, Coshocton, Crawford, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Highland, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Knox, Licking, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Pike, Richland, Ross, Scioto, Union, Vinton, Wayne and Wyandot. For more information on how to join, volunteer, or donate to Girl Scouts, call (800) 621-7042 or visit www.gsoh.org.###
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News
November 15, 2012
YWCA to recognize five for community involvement
From The Columbus Dispatch:
Through their work in health, sports, education and social services, the five Women of Achievement chosen by the YWCA of Columbus represent the mission of the organization: eliminating racism and empowering women. Read more.
Congratulations to these five women who are a vital part of the Columbus community! -
News
November 13, 2012
Chamber Endorsed Issues on Election Day
Issue 56 – Franklin County Office of Aging Senior Options Levy, in which the Chamber recommended a “YES” vote, was successfully passed by voters last Tuesday by a large margin with 62.6% of votes for the tax levy. Find all Franklin County election results through the Board of Elections, here.
State Issue 2 – Redistricting Reform, in which the Chamber recommended a “No” vote, was turned down by voters at the polls on Election Day with 63.4% of votes against the amendment. Find all Ohio election results at the Secretary of State’s website, here. -
News
November 13, 2012
NASCAR race at Mid-Ohio to benefit Nationwide Children's Hospital
From Columbus Business First:
Ohio is set to host its first NASCAR Nationwide Series race.
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington will be the site of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital 200, the racing circuit announced in a press conference Tuesday at Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.’s downtown headquarters. Mid-Ohio, along with Nationwide, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and NASCAR said the first race weekend of a three-year partnership will be held August 16-17 next year. Read more. -
News
November 13, 2012
Safelite AutoGlass Wins Optimas Award from Workforce for "People First" Initiative
From a Safelite press release:
Safelite AutoGlass® has earned a 2012 Optimas Award from Workforce for its People First HR initiative.
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Nov. 13, 2012 - Safelite AutoGlass®, the nation’s largest provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services, has earned a 2012 Optimas Award from Workforce for its People First HR initiative. “Workforce's goal is to show how leaders in the HR profession are guiding their companies to greater success through the astute management of an organization's most valuable corporate asset—its employees,” said Andrea Whitney, director of content strategy from Workforce. “The Optimas Award winners are workforce management leaders who have identified critical business issues in their organizations and responded with initiatives that are key to the company's success.” Three years ago, Steve Miggo, senior vice president of operations and HR at Safelite®, recognized that as a growth company with a relatively short-term goal of doubling business and then doubling again, Safelite® needed to become a company that thinks “People First.” The company introduced the People First strategy with the objective of driving business performance by having an obsessive focus on having talented people who are inspired to deliver great results. As such, Safelite® introduced its Six Core Competencies: - Live Our Values: Do what is right. - Think People First: Understand the importance of having talented people to drive the success of the business. - Have Passion for Creating Customer Delight: The word "customer" means external customers as well as internal customers. - Understand the Business (and your role in it): Effective performers consistently demonstrate the functional skills required by their position and align their efforts with our wider vision, strategy and plans for the long-term. - Be Innovative: Think differently for better business results. - Drive for Extraordinary Results: Show personal desire, energy and focus to succeed against high standards, whether the task at hand is large or small. Results since implementing People First have been positive: - Within a tough economic climate where engagement dropped in companies across the country by an average of two to three points; Safelite’s third annual People Opinion Survey showed overall engagement increased by 5 percentage points, reaching the top 25% best-in-class industry results. - Net Promoter Scores (customer satisfaction survey) have also reached an all-time high of 85% in 2011. - During a tough economic climate in 2011, Safelite® delivered record sales of $1.1 billion, effectively reaching the goal of doubling business. Read more at www.workforce.com/article/20121101/AWARDS/121039973/safelite-autoglass-optimas-award-winner-for-competitive-advantage. About Safelite AutoGlass® Safelite AutoGlass®, founded in 1947, is the nation’s leading provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services, providing mobile service to more than 95 percent of the U.S. population in all 50 states. The Columbus, Ohio-based company employs nearly 10,000 people across the United States and served more than 4.4 million customers last year. For more information, visit www.safelite.com. About Workforce’s Optimas Award Since 1991, the annual Optimas Awards celebrate HR's success at solving some of the biggest business challenges of our time. Each year, 10 Optimas Awards are given by Workforce Management to recognize human resources and workforce management initiatives that achieve business results for the organization. The award is given in the following categories: Financial Impact, Global Outlook, Innovation, Managing Change, Partnership, Corporate Citizenship, Service, Vision, Competitive Advantage, and General Excellence. Judges look for organizations whose initiatives have a strong human resources component and an emphasis on bottom-line business results. For more information, visit www.Workforce.com. -
News
November 12, 2012
Columbus among cities that can show us how to create jobs
From the Atlantic Cities:
A recent analysis of competitiveness and job growth across U.S. metros conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists could not be more timely. It provides a detailed assessment of the metros that have generated the most robust job growth based on "unique regional factors rather than national trends."
San Jose, home to Silicon Valley, not surprisingly ranks first and Austin, Texas, another leading high-tech metro, is second. But after this is where the list gets very interesting. In addition to high-tech knowledge economy metros like these and Raleigh-Cary, North Carolina, Seattle, and Columbus, Ohio, it includes resource-based metros like Houston and Oklahoma City, as well recovering Sun Belt metros like Phoenix and older Rust Belt metros, including Detroit, whose economies are improving after being so hard hit by the economic crisis. Read more and see full list. -
News
November 12, 2012
Export Assistance Resources
Thursday, December 6
OSU/Fisher College of Business
Mason Hall
7:30am – 9:00am
Please join the inaugural monthly “Exporter’s Forum,” to be offered in Columbus. The first topic will be Export Assistance: Government Programs/Services and Grants for Exporters. Participants will have a chance to learn about the assistance available to companies in Ohio to help them export. Speakers from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the State of Ohio will share information on their respective services. For more information and to register, please contact Alex Kohls (SBA) at 614-633-6372.