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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 27, 2012
Experience Columbus chief to retire after guiding city brand
From the Columbus Dispatch
Monday will be the last day on the job for Paul Astleford, 66, who is set to retire as CEO of Experience Columbus, the city's convention and visitors' bureau.
During his tenure, visitor spending has grown from $7.2 billion in 2007, before the recession, to $7.8 billion in 2011. This was enough to support 9 percent of all the jobs in Franklin County. The amount of bed-tax revenue collected is another indicator of the health of the city’s convention and tourism business. It was $23.3 million in 2000 and $30.8 million in 2011, according to Experience Columbus. Read more. -
News
December 27, 2012
Columbus in top third of U.S. for pace of economic recovery
From Business First:
An improving jobs picture is driving Columbus’ economic recovery, overcoming sluggishness in housing prices and overall economic output, according to a new report from the Brookings Institution.
The Columbus region’s economic recovery ranked 32nd among the country’s top 100 metro areas during the third quarter, up from 36th during the second quarter, according to the institution’s Metropolitan Policy Program MetroMonitor index. Read more. -
News
December 26, 2012
Chamber and SoMo Lend: For small businesses, a series of small loans
From the Columbus Dispatch:
The Columbus Chamber is offering small businesses a new way to raise money by telling them to join the crowd.
In a new partnership, the chamber is making SoMoLend its first recommendation for “crowdfunding,” which involves raising money through small pledges online. “We do over 700 one-on-one meetings with businesses small, medium and large every year,” said chamber President and CEO Michael Dalby. “The No. 2 most cited need is access to capital. That’s behind finding the right people. “They have a bank relationship. But they want to know what else is possible. We’re just playing the role we traditionally do, as a connector to a potential resource.” Read more. -
News
December 24, 2012
Columbus Chamber partners with SoMoLend
From the Metropreneur:
SoMoLend will be the Columbus Chamber’s first recommendation for crowdfunding and featured on its website thanks to a new partnership between the two entities.
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News
December 21, 2012
Bronder Promoted to Project Executive at Renier Construction, Inc.
From a Renier Construction, Inc. Press Release:
COLUMBUS, Ohio – November 27, 2012 – William Heifner, president of Renier Construction announced today the promotion of Neal Bronder to project executive. Bronder joined Renier in 1989 and has worked over thirty years in the construction industry. He was most recently a senior project manager at Renier Construction. As project executive, he will utilize his vast experience in commercial, industrial and multi-family construction to serve clients in the Midwest.
“Neal is deeply valued by our clients and we couldn’t be more delighted for him to take this next step at Renier. His working knowledge is extraordinary and our architects and engineers have always appreciated his ability to complete the most challenging projects,” stated Heifner. Bronder has worked as a foreman, superintendent, estimator, and project manager on projects in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Missouri, Indiana, and Arizona. Bronder comes from a long line of ancestors in the construction industry; Bronder’s father, grandfather, and great grandfather were all involved in the construction and building industry. He traced his genealogy back to the 1640’s and his earliest ancestor’s occupation was ‘Zimmermann’ which is German for carpenter. Bronder received his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Through Renier he is a member of the Builders Exchange of Central Ohio and The Columbus Chamber of Commerce. He actively volunteers his time with the Boy Scouts of America and Abundant Life Lutheran Church in Hilliard. Bronder and his family reside in Columbus, Ohio. About Renier Construction Renier Construction is a leading design-build general contractor serving clients throughout the Midwest from its headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. For over 32 years, Renier has exclusively completed both new-build and renovation projects using the design-build partnering approach. The recipient of numerous awards for integrity and construction excellence, Renier primarily serves clients in the automotive, transportation, industrial, manufacturing, medical office, restaurant and multi-family industries. For more information about Renier’s services, projects or company contacts visit www.renier.com or call (614) 866-4580.###
Karen M. McClain
The McClain Group, LLC
1026 Eastchester Drive
Gahanna, Ohio 43230
O: 614-476-5604
F: 614-418-9966
C: 614-284-3457 -
News
December 21, 2012
OHIO LAUNCHES NEW EFFORT TO HELP WORKING OHIOANS UPGRADE THEIR SKILLS
From a Goveror's Office Press Release:
Incumbent Workforce Training Effort Part of Broader Kasich Workforce Development Reform Initiative
COLUMBUS – Today Gov. John R. Kasich announced a new and aggressive approach to helping Ohio workers improve their skills while also enhancing the economic competitiveness of Ohio companies. The Ohio Incumbent Workforce Training Voucher Program provides $20 million for training opportunities designed to enhance worker skills. “Continuing Ohio’s recovery means helping job-creators and workers have access to the tools they need to modernize and evolve, and one of the most important tools is knowledge. It used to be that virtually the only way workers could get training help was to lose their jobs. Wouldn’t it be better if Ohio could help prevent lay-offs to begin with by helping workers get the skills they need so their employers are more competitive and workers keep their jobs? That’s the aim of this effort. Workers and businesses across Ohio become more competitive when they can take their know-how to the next level,” said Kasich. The program provides direct financial assistance to both Ohio workers looking to improve their skills and employers looking to enhance the skills of their workforce. The program is designed to offset a portion of the employer or employee’s costs for training and will provide reimbursement to eligible employers for specific costs accrued during training. Applications will be available for the program beginning January 7, 2013. Workers and companies can learn more about the program and apply for it by visiting www.OhioMeansJobs.com. The Ohio Incumbent Workforce Training Voucher Program, administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency, is part of Governor Kasich’s overall workforce development reform effort. An essential part of Ohio’s economic revival is enhancing Ohio workers’ competitiveness by creating a world-class workforce development system. Streamlining Ohio’s fragmented worker training programs and services to be more responsive to the needs of workers and job-creators, better aligning the needs of employers and training programs, and more closely engaging business leaders in workforce development efforts are all new initiatives begun by Gov. Kasich to transform Ohio’s workforce to help further fuel Ohio’s recovery.###
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News
December 20, 2012
Local Business, LOTH, Inc, Supports Mid-Ohio Foodbank with Employee Food Drive
From a Loth Press Release
COLUMBUS—December 20, 2012—Every year around the Holiday season, LOTH, Inc. employees donate their time and resources to supporting those in need in the Columbus community. Holding a food drive has become a holiday tradition for LOTH and employees always strive to outdo their previous years’ donation. Last year, the Mid-Ohio Foodbank informed LOTH that their donation box was the only one filled to the brim with food. This year, LOTH employees exceeded their own expectations by donating enough food to overflow the food drive box (as can be seen in the picture to the right). Supporting the Columbus community has always been a priority for LOTH, Inc. and this food drive is only one of the many ways in which LOTH gives back to the community.
Donations made to the Mid-Ohio Foodbank are distributed to thousands of individuals and families within the Columbus community who are in need. About LOTH, Inc.: LOTH, Inc., located in Cincinnati and Columbus, has been serving Central and Southern Ohio for over 100 years. Founded in 1891, LOTH has become an integrated workspace solutions organization by helping organizations create interconnected, high-performance workspaces to promote workforce productivity and efficiency. As a Steelcase dealer, LOTH is able to offer clients an extensive products and services portfolio, along with access to workplace expertise. For more information, visit lothinc.com or call 513-554-8767# # #
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News
December 20, 2012
Westerville No. 5 on Forbes' list of America's Friendliest Towns
From Forbes
Westerville ranks high on this prestigious list thanks to its parks and erected facilities like the Westerville Community Center, which touts a track, gymnasium, pool, and climbing wall. Also noted are fourth Fridays, Otterbein University and the Westerville Are Resource Ministry.
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News
December 20, 2012
Columbus among most tech-friendly cities
From TechHive:
What makes a “tech-savvy” or “tech-friendly” city? It may be a combination of public and private amenities that are available to those people who spend a significant amount of their time online, whether they’re at home or out and about. It could also mean the availability of such services at prices that don’t make it difficult to live the digital lifestyle. A tech-savvy city might be one where a significant part of the local economy is driven by information technology or by the production of the machines that allow people to create or access information.
TechHive developed a set of ten measurements to reveal the extent to which the country's largest cities possess those tech-friendly traits, or, put a different way, to show which cities are the most and least hospitable places to live for the tech-inclined. Columbus is at 19 on this list. Read more. -
News
December 18, 2012
Ohio Returning $13 Million in Tax Overpayments to Businesses
New Policy WIll Tell Businesses When They are Eligible for a Refund
From a Governor's Office Press Release
The Ohio Department of Taxation (ODT) is changing policy, procedures and systems to ensure that business taxpayers get refunds back when they overpay. While current Ohio law requires businesses to request a refund, it does not obligate the state to notify the taxpayer that a refund is available. In the past, if potential refunds go unclaimed the practice has been for the state to not notify the business and simply keep the money. Gov. John Kasich and Commissioner Joe Testa are changing this policy so businesses are automatically notified of tax overpayments. Similar policies are already in place for income tax filers. Download the press release to read more. -
News
December 17, 2012
41 Roetzel Attorneys Named 2013 Ohio Super Lawyers and 15 Named 2013 Ohio Rising Stars
From a Roetzel Press Release
(AKRON, Ohio - December 17, 2012) - Roetzel is pleased to announce that 41 of its Ohio attorneys have been selected as 2013 Ohio Super Lawyers and another 15 have been named 2013 Ohio Rising Stars by Super Lawyers magazine. The 2013 Ohio Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists are also published in Cincinnati Magazine, Cleveland Magazine, Columbus Monthly and Inside Business.
"We strive every day to measure up to the high expectations of our clients," said Jeff Casto, Roetzel's Chairman and CEO. "We are gratified that our attorneys continue to be recognized for their commitment to clients and excellence in the practice of law." The Super Lawyers selection process evaluates lawyers based upon multiple criteria, including professional achievement and peer recognition; honors and awards; firm and bar involvement and leadership; scholarship and professional writings; community service and pro bono activities; and other outstanding achievements. "Rising Stars" are the top up-and-coming attorneys who are no more than 40 years old or who have been practicing for no more than 10 years. Roetzel's attorneys selected as 2013 Ohio Super Lawyers: Akron: Susan Box; Jeffrey Casto; John Coyne III; Elizabeth Davis; Stacy Delgros; Shane Farolino; Megan Faust; Terrence Finn; Stephen Funk; Michael Hudak; Paul Jackson; Ronald Kopp; Brian Moore; Randall Moore; Bruce Schrader II; Roger Stevenson; Thomas Treadon and Bradley Wright. Cincinnati: Eric Bruestle and William Ellis. Cleveland: Anna Carulas; Robert Casarona; R. Mark Jones; Doug Leak; Ronald Lee; Richard Mitchell; George Rooney, Jr.; Suzanne Saganich; Donald Scherzer; Doug Spiker; Diana Thimmig and Tim Webster. Columbus: Brian Dickerson; Thomas Dillon; Robert Graziano; Erika Haupt; Edward Hertenstein; Stephen Jones; Douglas Kennedy; Thomas Rosenberg and Bradley Snyder. Roetzel's attorneys selected as 2013 Ohio Rising Stars: Akron: James Burke; Ryan Kennedy; Terrence Link II; Chad Mowery; Marshal Pitchford; Michael Rigelsky and John Rutter. Cincinnati: Chris Cathey. Cleveland: Christine Garritano and Amanda Knapp. Columbus: Jeff Braun; Jessica Davis; Jonathan Secrest; Michael Traven and Jeremy Young. About Super Lawyers Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas. Super Lawyers magazine is published in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., reaching more than 13 million readers. For more information, visit superlawyers.com. About Roetzel Roetzel is a full-service law firm that provides comprehensive, integrated legal counsel to national and international clients. For more information, visit ralaw.com.###
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News
December 14, 2012
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Awards $200,000 in Impact Grants to Area Non-profits
Safelite AutoGlass® Foundation, the 501(c)(3) giving arm of the nation's largest vehicle glass repair and replacement company, has awarded $200,000 in Impact Grants to seven separate Columbus area non-profit groups, six receiving $25,000 and one receiving $50,000. This is the second year the Foundation has awarded its Impact Grants, and thanks to improved fundraising, 2012 has doubled over last year.
The recipient of the $50,000 grant was given to: - Habitat for Humanity Mid-Ohio: Sponsorship of the "Home of Hope" Blitz Build with WBNS-10TV in April 2013. Additional $25,000 recipients include: - Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central Ohio: Replacement of a 12-passenger van used for the Camp Oty Okwa summer camp program for at-risk and disadvantaged youth, located in southeastern Ohio. - Mid-Ohio Foodbank: Support for Mid-Ohio Foodbank's efforts to acquire 8.5 million pounds of fresh, nutrient-rich produce, donated by local farmers, distributors and suppliers, to distribute to Franklin County's nearly 200,000 residents in need. - Boys and Girls Clubs of Columbus: Purchase of a new vehicle to transport additional children to the Club from areas that are currently under-served. - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio: Support of the Helping Hands program, designed to close the gap between what families pay to stay at the Ronald McDonald House and the actual costs. This grant will result in 500 nights of rest for families in need. - Children's Hunger Alliance: Support of the "Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools" initiative to reduce childhood obesity in Franklin County, targeting middle school students. - LifeCare Alliance: Funding of 2,679 meals for LifeCare Alliance clients through Meals-on-Wheels program and Senior Dining Center as well as 43 new thermal bags for meal delivery. Applications were reviewed by members of the Safelite AutoGlass® Foundation, a volunteer committee, and selected by the breadth and depth of impact the grant would have on the local community. The Foundation received 54 grant requests this year. Funding for the Impact Grants is provided by the Foundation's Annual Golf Classic, which also funds a number of other donations made by the Foundation. "We give back to charity because it's simply the right thing to do. We believe in investing part of our profits into the betterment of mankind," said Safelite® President and CEO Tom Feeney. "We are looking forward to seeing the good work of our Impact Grant recipients and to building a long-term supportive partnership." About The Safelite AutoGlass® Foundation Safelite AutoGlass®, the nation's leading provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services, is committed to be a responsible member of the communities where we live and work. This includes those outside our doorstep and those across the world. As such the company supports employees' charitable endeavors while also being a large fundraiser. The Safelite AutoGlass® Foundation was created in 2005 as the 501(c)(3) giving arm of the company aimed at supporting organizations that promote the health and well-being of families through monetary and in-kind contributions and volunteer hours. The Safelite AutoGlass® Foundation is set up as a separate entity, governed by company employees from the corporate offices and the field organization. The Foundation administers giving on behalf of Safelite® and its employees, disbursing aid to approved causes or charities, and organizing many giving initiatives in communities where our associates live and work. -
News
December 14, 2012
Resources Global Professionals Named One of Crain's 2012 Best Places to Work
Resources Global Professionals ("Resources"), a leading multinational provider of professional services and the operating subsidiary of Resources Connection, Inc. (NASDAQ: RECN), was recently named as one of the Best Places to Work in New York City by Crain's New York Business.
"At Resources, our goal is to hire people with TIEL – talent, integrity, enthusiasm and loyalty. We empower them to create an environment that promotes teaming in order to best serve our clients and help employees reach their full potential," said Tim O'Rourke, senior vice president. "We are proud of our New York practice for receiving this award. It demonstrates that our Company culture has resulted in a high level of employee satisfaction which ultimately leads to high client satisfaction." The 2012 Best Places to Work in New York City list is made up of 50 companies. Companies in New York City were judged based on everything from benefits and policies to opportunities for advancement and corporate culture. The award program is managed by Best Companies Group and produced by Crain's New York Business. This year's Best Places to Work winners were recognized during an awards luncheon and ceremony last Friday at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers in New York City. ABOUT RESOURCES GLOBAL PROFESSIONALS Resources Global Professionals, the operating subsidiary of Resources Connection, Inc. (NASDAQ: RECN), is a multinational professional services firm that helps business leaders execute internal initiatives. Partnering with business leaders, we drive internal change across all parts of a global enterprise - accounting, finance, risk management and internal audit, corporate advisory, strategic communications and restructuring, information management, human capital, supply chain management, healthcare solutions, and legal and regulatory services. Resources Global was founded in 1996 within a Big Four accounting firm. Today, we are a publicly traded company with over 2,900 professionals, annually serving approximately 1,900 clients around the world from 77 practice offices. Headquartered in Irvine, California, Resources Global has served 85 of the Fortune 100 companies. The Company is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, the exchange's highest tier by listing standards. More information about Resources Global is available at http://www.resourcesglobal.com. -
News
December 12, 2012
Is Ohio next on right-to-work battlefront?
From USA Today:
The divisive battle over right-to-work legislation could come to Ohio next year.
As neighboring Michigan became the 24th state Tuesday to enact laws that prohibit agreements requiring workers to join a union or pay dues, Ohio groups that support the laws say the Buckeye State has to follow suit or watch jobs leave. Read more. -
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.