Press Releases
For Immediate Release
What’s happening at the Columbus Chamber and with our members? In this section you will find a complete catalog of our recent and archived press releases.
To arrange an interview with a member of the Columbus Chamber team, contact:
Michelle Bretscher, APR
Director, Marketing and Communication
W: 614.225.6941
C: 614.499.0889
michelle_bretscher@columbus.org
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Press Release
December 20, 2010
Metro Chambers Announce Collaboration on State Budget Issue
Recommendations to transform state government, reduce costs unveiled
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 20, 2010) – In a significant reimagining of state budget issues and Ohio government, nine Ohio-based metropolitan chambers of commerce, including the Columbus Chamber, today jointly released a report recommending sweeping changes designed to help Ohio improve economic performance and reduce costs.The recommendations are the culmination of an unprecedented year-long process in which the chambers identified, researched and analyzed a wide variety of ideas and narrowed them down to those that will best improve the performance of the state. To facilitate this process, the chambers worked with author and public policy expert David Osborne and former state budget director Greg Browning. The coalition of nine chambers of commerce represents Ohio’s larger metro areas as well as the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. In addition to the Columbus Chamber, the participating metropolitan chambers of commerce include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. “The budget crisis in Ohio is both sobering and a significant opportunity to fundamentally change the way state and local government operate,” said Tom Humphries, president and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber. Humphries leads the metro chambers coalition. “We believe that if the General Assembly and the Governor adopt these recommendations, state and local government will be transformed from systems that maintain the status quo of inefficient, costly government to systems based on performance, outcomes and accountability.” The report, titled “Redesigning Ohio: Transforming Government into a 21st Century Institution,” includes the following recommendations:- Adopt budgeting for outcomes as the underpinning for the government redesign plan. Rather than making incremental changes to the status quo, this approach focuses on what matters most: purchasing outcomes that citizens value. Programs that do not contribute much to those outcomes are no longer included in the budget.
- Establish charter agencies and entrepreneurial management as “bureaucracy busting” measures to save money and/or increase revenues while increasing creativity and flexibility for managers.
- Make state agencies that provide support services to government accountable to their customers, and use the power of competition to drive innovation and improvement.
- Reduce state regulatory enforcement costs by designing regulations that achieve the same outcomes as their predecessors but are easier to comply with and, as a result, decrease the likelihood that they will be violated.
- Implement a comprehensive tax expenditure review to regularly examine the 122 distinct tax expenditures – credits, exemptions and deductions – that amount to $7.7 billion in lost state revenue annually. Also, reduce or cap costly real property tax rollbacks.
- Adopt civil service and compensation reform that will give managers freedom to manage their people; link public employee compensation to performance; and bring state pensions into line with private sector realities.
- Reduce the costs of the public pensions system through changing contribution formulas, consolidating redundant systems and increasing cost sharing of some benefits.
- Improve Ohio’s health insurance value equation by using the state’s bulk purchasing power to help drive down healthcare costs.
- Significantly reduce prison system costs by directing more nonviolent offenders away from adult prisons toward non-residential community-based monitoring and treatment.
- Establish new structures on the state and county levels and provide both carrot and stick incentives and assistance to promote local government efficiencies, sharing of services and consolidation.
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About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community. For more information visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
December 16, 2010
Chambers to Unveil Budget-Reducing Recommendations for State
What:
A coalition of metropolitan chambers of commerce from around Ohio will release a study containing business-based recommendations on how the State of Ohio can transform its operations to improve performance and reduce costs.
When:
Monday, Dec. 20, 2010
9 a.m.Where:
The Bistro Room at the Capital Club
Huntington Center, 41 S. High St., 7th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215 Why:
The recommendations are the culmination of a year-long process in which the chambers identified, researched and analyzed a wide variety of ideas and narrowed them down to those that will best improve the performance of the state. The goal of the chambers is to foster economic growth and development in Ohio. Who:
The coalition of nine chambers of commerce represents Ohio’s larger metro areas as well as the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. The participating metropolitan chambers of commerce include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, Columbus Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. To facilitate this process, the chambers worked with author and public policy expert David Osborne and former state budget director Greg Browning. A representative from each of the chambers will be available for interviews at the conference.-30-
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Press Release
December 16, 2010
Economic Development Professionals Join Columbus2020! Team
Business Development and Global Markets Directors Significant Hires
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 16, 2010) – Columbus2020!, the Columbus region’s economic development initiative, has hired Deborah Scherer, director of global markets and Matt McQuade, director of business development. Scherer and McQuade join a growing team dedicated to attracting new enterprises and retaining existing employers to the eight-county Columbus region.
“Deborah and Matt are talented, experienced professionals that know the Columbus region and the state of Ohio very well and we are fortunate that they are joining the Columbus2020! team,” said Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer, Columbus2020! “They can hit the ground running and provide additional evidence that the Columbus2020! initiative is deeply committed to meeting the jobs and investment goals set by our leadership.” Scherer will draw on her international business experience in both the private and public sectors. Scherer last served as director of the Ohio Department of Development’s Global Markets Division and is a native of Ohio. Scherer attended Ohio University where she majored in International Business and Marketing, and minored in Spanish. “We intend to utilize Deborah’s skills to better understand our existing international business community and to develop a business proposition to companies around the world.” said McDonald. McQuade will direct business development strategies in North America, on behalf of Columbus2020! He previously served as the Ohio sales manager for the Ohio Business Development Coalition (OBDC) where he marketed the state to companies and location advisors throughout the world. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University (OSU) and a master’s in Public Administration from the John Glenn School of Public Affairs at OSU. “Columbus2020! is about surfacing opportunities and getting our region on the list of possible locations – often before they have fully conceived their projects,” said McDonald. “Matt has a proven record of doing just that in his previous roles.” Columbus2020! is a regional public-private partnership focused on economic development strategies to attract, retain and create new businesses in the region. Additional team appointments are anticipated for the first quarter of 2011.-30-
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Press Release
December 06, 2010
State Grant to Support Chamber Initiative
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 6, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber was awarded nearly $250,000 from the Ohio Department of Development to support an initiative to retain businesses and jobs. The agency awarded a combined $2.4 million to 11 organizations across the state through the agency’s Early Warning Network programs. Funds support enhancing relationships with business executives, responding to threats of businesses at risk of closing or leaving the region, and supporting businesses with expansion potential.
The grant aligns directly with the focus of the Chamber and the Columbus2020! regional economic growth initiative, which calls for the Chamber to focus its efforts on the retention and expansion of businesses located in the Columbus region. The Chamber will work with local businesses to identify impediments to growth or retention, and offer connections to solutions.
This grant will boost the programs the Chamber has in place. “This grant supports the work of the Columbus Chamber to retain and expand local businesses,” said Jack Partridge, president of Columbia Gas of Ohio and chairman of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors. “This Early Warning Network for the Columbus region will provide support for existing businesses at risk of closure to ensure they are aware of and get connected to the resources they need to grow and prosper.”
The Early Warning Network intends to help organizations identify and assist companies at risk of closure or layoffs.
"The Early Warning Network allows us to continue our proactive work with companies that are in need of assistance, rather than getting involved after layoff notices are given," said Ohio Department of Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel. "This program will ensure that companies around the state have the resources needed to keep their employees on the job and continue to bolster their communities."
For more information on the Early Warning Network, visit http://development.ohio.gov/workforce.-30-
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
November 22, 2010
Chamber to Sponsor March Trip to Ireland
COLUMBUS, OH (Nov. 22, 2010) -- The Columbus Chamber introduced a new travel program for members of the Columbus business community, their family and friends this year. The upcoming go>explore program will travel to the Emerald Isle March 22-30, 2011.
The guided tour features Limerick, Killarney, Waterford and Dublin, and will depart from Port Columbus. The trip is designed to be hassle-free for travelers and is provided as a service by Chamber Explorations. The go>explore trip will allow attendees to explore Irish treasures such as:- Dublin
- Killarney and Jaunting Car ride
- Trinity College – Book of Kells
- Guinness Brewery Storehouse
- Cliffs of Moher
- Ring of Kerry
- Waterford Crystal Visitor Center
- Glendalough and St. Kevin’s
- Limerick
- Blarney Castle and Woolen Mills
- Galway
- Muckross House & Gardens
The guided tour includes:- Round-trip airfare from Port Columbus
- Seven nights of four-star hotel accommodations
- 10 meals
- Professional guide
- Comprehensive sight-seeing
- Admissions per itinerary
- Baggage handling
- Hotel transfers
- Opportunity to travel with other Chamber members
Free Informational Session Slated for Dec. 7
About the Columbus Chamber
Space is limited, and the Columbus Chamber encourages anyone interested to attend a free information session on Dec. 7, 2010. The information session will in no way obligate attendees to go on the trip; it is an opportunity to learn more about the trip and Chamber Explorations.
For more information, please e-mail Jay Scott at the Columbus Chamber or call him at 614.225.6901. For more information, visit www.columbus.org/travel
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The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
November 09, 2010
Chamber Survey Finds Small Businesses Plan Growth, Expansion
More than half plan to add to staff in 2011,
70 percent predict expansion in next five yearsCOLUMBUS, Ohio (Nov. 9, 2010) – Results of Columbus Chamber survey, released today in conjunction with the organization’s annual Small Business Forum & Leader Awards, finds local small business owners optimistic for the future. Fifty-three percent anticipate adding to their staffs in 2011, and nearly 70 percent plan to expand their products and/or services in the next five years. The survey, commissioned by the Columbus Chamber and administered by Community Research Partners, included insight from more than 100 local small businesses – with 73 percent of respondents self-identifying as executive management (i.e., owner, president, CEO). In addition to uncovering small businesses’ plans for expansion in the future, the survey was meant to determine the characteristics of small businesses in the region, understand small business owners’ perceptions of the local business climate, and identify top challenges business owners face. “If the survey is any indication, central Ohio’s small businesses are a driving force that is here to stay,” said Jack Partridge, president of Columbia Gas of Ohio Inc. and chairman of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors. “These businesses – which already make up a healthy percentage of the region’s total number of businesses – have weathered the most recent recession and have plans to grow both their operations and the services they offer. They also anticipate growing their staffs, which benefits the entire region in terms of employment and tax revenue.” Other interesting findings from the survey included:- More than 70 percent of respondents indicated that their company has been in business for more than 10 years, and 57 percent of the businesses surveyed have annual gross revenues of more than $1 million.
- More than half (56 percent) of the respondents chose to start their business in central Ohio because of pre-existing ties to the community. Respondents cited the region’s strong economy, ideal location, community diversity, ample networking opportunities and the reasonable cost of living as the key strengths that make Columbus a great place to start a business.
- The majority of respondents identified three factors – stable economy, availability of qualified workers and revitalization – as having a positive impact on their businesses.
- Infrastructure is a selling point in the region, with respondents overwhelmingly agreeing that building space (85 percent), highway access (97 percent) and high-speed Internet access (95 percent) are adequate.
- When asked to identify the key issues and challenges facing their industry, central Ohio businesses cited national economic factors, cost and availability of health insurance, local economic factors, availability of financing/capital and state taxes as most prevalent.
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The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
September 28, 2010
Columbus Chamber Receives Economic Development Award
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 28, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber received an Honorable Mention for Excellence in Economic Development for its Columbus Region Attracts, Retains Talent in the category of Human Capital for communities with populations of greater than 500,000 from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The honor was presented at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 28 during the IEDC Annual Conference, September 26-29 in Columbus. “We recognize the Columbus Chamber for providing successful strategies to promote new paradigms in economic development in this period of global recovery,” said William Best, IEDC chair. “Our awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in communities. The Columbus Chamber is showing that they are at the forefront of the economic development profession and are using innovative and effective practices that can be replicated in other communities." The Columbus Chamber supports businesses in the eight-county Columbus Region. In preparation for a national workforce shortage, and to address the needs articulated by local businesses, the Columbus Chamber launched a three-pronged strategy to attract and retain talent, through the support of a strong public-private partnership. The strategy focused on building the area’s local workforce through internships, attracting and retaining young professionals, and assisting area companies in marketing Columbus to potential employees. The Columbus region has tremendous assets to recruit and retain a strong workforce including 27 colleges and universities with total enrollment of more than 120,000; 14 Fortune 1000 companies; a strong culture of entrepreneurialism and a younger-than-average population. The Excellence in Economic Awards Program annually recognizes the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. The program honors organizations and individuals in 28 categories for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. The city of Dublin, a partner of the Chamber and member of the Mid-Ohio Development Exchance, won in the category of Entrepreneurship for the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the premier membership organization dedicated to helping economic development professionals create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions. Serving more than 4,500 members, IEDC represents the largest network of economic development professionals in the world. IEDC provides a diverse range of services, including conferences, certification, professional development, publications, research, advisory services and legislative tracking.
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Press Release
September 13, 2010
Columbus Chamber Book to Commemorate Citys Bicentennial
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 13, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber has partnered with the City of Columbus to publish the official commemorative history for the Columbus Bicentennial in 2012. The book, to be titled Historic Columbus: A Bicentennial History, is being written by local historian and educator, Ed Lentz. It will give a fresh perspective on Columbus’ history as the city looks back the last two centuries.
Lentz has been teaching, writing and exploring the history of central Ohio for the past 40 years. He teaches Ohio history at several local colleges and universities. He is the author of numerous articles and books on Ohio historical topics, including Columbus: The Story of a City (2003). This coffee table book will contain hundreds of photographs, illustrations, maps and other images, many of which have never before been in print. Numerous images will be reproduced in full color. A unique part of Historic Columbus is the “Sharing The Heritage” section, which will include the histories of many of Columbus’ leading corporations and organizations. Participation in this section is being offered by invitation to Columbus companies which have played a role in the development and economic strength of the city. The “Sharing The Heritage” section is separate from the main historical manuscript and is being written by local free-lance writers. Historic Columbus is the official history book of the Columbus Bicentennial, and will be published in late 2011. It is being produced utilizing the services of Historical Publishing Network of San Antonio as a publishing consultant. It will be the sixth in the Ohio Heritage series of books produced by Historical Publishing Network. The book, when published, will sell for $49.95 and will be available through the Chamber, the City of Columbus and also at area book stores.###
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Press Release
August 17, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports Second Quarter Employment Increase
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) rose slightly during the second quarter of 2010, with a net increase of 4,000 positions (0.4 percent). The increase topped Ohio’s employment increase (0.1 percent), but slightly trailed the U.S. rate (0.5 percent).
A mid-year review of the 2010 Blue Chip Economic Forecast suggests that year-over-year employment growth will be less than that forecast in January: a net loss of approximately 9,000 positions (1.0 percent). “The important point is that the downward revision is not because the labor market now is doing worse than we were expecting, but rather because employment losses last year were so much worse than the federal government originally estimated,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “I expect continued employment growth during the rest of the year.” The region’s seasonally-adjusted June unemployment rate was 8.9 percent, down from 9.8 percent in March, but up from 8.6 percent in June 2009. The June rate was lower than the 9.5 percent national rate and Ohio’s 10.5 percent. The decline in the local rate was due to a strong increase in the number of people employed. Employment performance was mixed at the sector level, with construction, wholesale, and leisure and hospitality growing at a stronger-than-average rate. Manufacturing, information, education and health, other services, and government substantially underperformed the averages. Of Ohio’s six large MSAs, all but Dayton registered employment increases during the second quarter. Akron, Cincinnati, and Cleveland experienced employment growth during the quarter better than both Columbus and the U.S. average. However, the other MSAs’ employment losses since the beginning of the recession continued to be proportionally greater than for both Columbus and the U.S. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 2.4 percent during the second quarter, far less than the three-plus percent expected by economists. The consensus of economists surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll is that growth will be moderate (2.7 to 2.9 percent) through the second quarter of 2011. The forecast expects U.S. employment growth to average 160,000 jobs per month, with the unemployment rate near its current 9.5 percent level through the end of the year. A detailed report summarizing these findings and a chartbook showing employment trends in more than 20 individual sectors of the local, state, and national economies are available at http://www.columbus.org/media-center/publications.php#columbus.-30-
The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
July 06, 2010
Two Sales Professionals Join the Columbus Chamber
For immediate release:
July 6, 2010
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Two sales professionals, Tyler Durbin and Dan Morris, have joined the Columbus Chamber staff. They are charged with connecting businesses in the Columbus region to the resources needed to grow and prosper.“With the hiring of additional business development team members, we’re proud to further expand the resources we can offer businesses in the Columbus region,” said Joe Sciulli, director of member services. “Both Durbin and Morris bring versatility and a fresh perspective, particularly regarding the young professional demographic, enhancing the value we can deliver to Chamber members.” Durbin comes to the Chamber from Valpak Direct Marketing, where he was responsible for developing direct mail advertising campaigns for small businesses in Columbus. He is also the founder and editor of GenYJourney.com, a blog focused on the career development of young professionals. Durbin is a graduate of Miami (OH) University’s Farmer School of Business, and he resides in Grandview Heights (43212). Also a business development representative, Morris is a graduate of The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business. Prior to joining the Chamber, Morris served as assistant director of operation management for The First Tee of Columbus. In that position he was responsible for fundraising and membership. A Bexley native, Morris now resides in Northwest Columbus (43214). For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
June 22, 2010
Chamber Leader to Step Down
For immediate release:
June 22, 2010Columbus, OH – Ty D. Marsh today announced his resignation as president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. Marsh has held the position since December 2003.
“For more than six years I have enjoyed the honor and privilege of leading the Columbus Chamber toward its economic development mission,” said Marsh. “The professional challenges of leading this dynamic organization and preparing it to launch new initiatives through Columbus2020! have been fulfilling and rewarding. I have accomplished the goals I established when accepting this position and it is a good time to pursue new professional opportunities and challenges.” Marsh believes that this is the appropriate time for a transition, as the Columbus Chamber takes on a new role under the community’s regional economic development strategy, Columbus2020! The Chamber will implement a new existing business strategy that will seek to understand, assist and advocate for existing businesses. “With up to 80 percent of job growth originating from existing businesses, the new strategy is timely, needed and prudent,” said Marsh. “As implementation begins, it’s the right time for me to make a change. The Chamber can count on me to be helpful in its mission even as I work in other capacities.” During his tenure with the Chamber, Marsh passionately advocated for and successfully pursued regional collaboration as the driver for economic development. The Chamber now holds a contract with 22 local cities and counties, through the Mid-Ohio Development Exchange, which provides unprecedented marketing and business attraction and retention collaboration. This regional partnership has resulted in numerous successes for the region including the retention of thousands of jobs at DSCC and expansions at NetJets and JPMorgan Chase. In addition, the Chamber and Marsh received numerous awards and recognitions including Chamber of the Year (CEO Magazine), Regional Leader of the Year (MORPC) and the highest rankings among polls of regional CEOs, elected officials and civic leaders. Jack Partridge, chair of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors and president, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc., credits Marsh with positioning the Chamber to lead the new existing business strategy. “Ty’s leadership, credibility and trusted relationships resulted in successes for the Chamber and our region. On behalf of the board of directors, we appreciate his tireless efforts to advance the region’s growth and prosperity,” said Partridge. “His work will benefit the Columbus regional economy for years to come.” Marsh will conclude his work at the Chamber in July. Over the next year, he will play a leadership role in preparing Columbus for its bicentennial in 2012. In this voluntary position, Marsh will chair a leadership team to ensure that the community moves forward on implementing the 2012 Bicentennial Commission report.-30-
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Press Release
May 25, 2010
Study: Midwest Records Solid Metrics in Employment, Housing
For Immediate Release:
May 25, 2010Columbus, Ohio – A new national economic development study comparing changes in factors including employment rates, overall population and housing prices found the Midwest fared better overall than many of its regional counterparts during the most recent recession.
The study, compiled by the Columbus (Ohio) Chamber of Commerce, includes data for 32 cities and Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) ranging from Los Angeles and New York to Detroit and Atlanta. The cities and MSAs were compared across seven key categories to determine overall economic health and signs of growth during the recession. Some of the Midwest locales examined were strong in employment and housing price stability. “Because of the widely known struggles of Midwest spots like Detroit, the nation’s perception is that the entire region is experiencing the same level of hardship – record-setting employment losses and real estate declines,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “While the Midwest saw decreases across the board like everyone else, some Midwest cities and MSAs were able to maintain favorable metrics compared to some other metropolitan areas. Because our region didn’t see the significant spikes prior to the recession, we didn’t experience declines as drastic as some other regions.” Another area in which the Midwest performed well was housing affordability, based on median household incomes and median housing prices. Of the MSAs researched, eight of the 10 most affordable locales – meaning that the average wage earner could afford the average home – were located in the Midwest. Some of the key findings from the study include:- Of the 32 MSAs researched, Pittsburgh came out on top regarding employment loss during the height of the recession (from Dec. 2007 to Feb. 2010), with a decrease of just 3.3 percent. Columbus (-4.9 percent), Kansas City (-5 percent) and St. Louis (-5.6 percent), all Midwest MSAs, also fared well, comparatively. Locations including Los Angeles, Miami and Atlanta lost nearly double the percentage of jobs in the same time period.
- Metropolitan areas outside the Midwest have generally suffered the largest house price declines since 2007, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) House Price Index. Miami, Phoenix and Los Angeles all recorded decreases of more than 25 percent. The bright spot in the Midwest was Pittsburgh, with an increase of 3.3 percent; on the other hand, Detroit prices fell 27.1 percent.
- Despite the recession, some Midwest MSAs, including Indianapolis, Columbus and Kansas City, saw notable population increases (more than 2 percent) from 2006-2008 – easily surpassing cities like Boston and New York. The central city population of both Columbus and Kansas City also grew during the same time period – with increases of 1.8 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively – meaning these two Midwest locales are growing on both urban and suburban levels.
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The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community. Media Contacts:
Susan Merryman, Columbus Chamber
614-225-6941
Susan_merryman@columbus.org Ann Marcum, Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations
614-383-1634
Ann.marcum@fahlgren.com
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Press Release
May 17, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports First Quarter Employment Stable
For Immediate Release:
May 17, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) remained nearly unchanged during the first quarter of 2010 with a net increase of 100 positions, according to the Columbus Chamber’s analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic data. Ohio and U.S. employment both increased 0.1
percent.“The employment stability that emerged in the first quarter is encouraging and better than predicted,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “I continue to expect the employment growth rate in total and in many sectors to strengthen as the year continues.” The region’s seasonally-adjusted March unemployment rate was 9.8 percent, up from 9.1 percent in December and 8.1 percent in March 2009. The March rate was higher than the 9.7 percent national average, but lower than Ohio’s 11.0 percent. The increase in the local rate was due to a strong increase in the number of active job-seekers. In analyzing employment by sectors, the Chamber found professional and business services strengthened markedly. Transportation was also stronger than average, which is an indication of increased demand for goods. The Columbus region is recognized internationally for its logistics infrastructure. Employment in nearly all other sectors declined – most by proportionally more than at the national level. Declines were particularly severe in financial activities, information, and construction. Of Ohio’s six large MSAs, Cleveland, Dayton, and Toledo experienced employment growth during the first quarter-- better than both Columbus and the U.S. average. However, the Columbus MSA’s employment losses since the beginning of the recession continued to be proportionally less than those of the other five MSAs as well as the U.S. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 3.2 percent during the first quarter, in line with economists’ expectations. The consensus of economists surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll is that growth will continue close to this rate through the year. The forecast expects U.S. employment growth to average 160,000 jobs per month, with a slight decline in the unemployment
rate to 9.3 percent by December. Also last quarter, revised employment estimates published for 2009 revealed employment declines much worse than originally reported: 32,100 jobs (3.4 percent) rather than the originally estimated loss of 17,300 jobs (1.8 percent). Although this was still better than the national average, it was the worst regional employment decline in nearly 50 years of statistics. Estimates for 2008 were also revised downward. A detailed report summarizing these findings and a chartbook showing employment trends in more than 20 individual sectors of the local, state, and national economies are available at http://www.columbus.org/media-center/publications.php#columbus-30-
The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
May 11, 2010
Government Day Puts Spotlight on Economic Development Policy
For Immediate Release:
May 11, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Business leaders and policymakers will come together to discuss issues that are important to the economic growth and development of the Columbus region at Chamber Government Day. The forum, hosted by the Columbus Chamber with support from 21 metro chambers, will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 14 at the Athletic Club of Columbus, 136 E. Broad St.
Nearly 30 federal, state and local office holders are expected to attend. “Providing business leaders a voice in the public policy process is critical to the growth and development of the Columbus region,” said Mike Curtin, associate publisher emeritus of the Columbus Dispatch, and chair, Columbus Chamber Government Affairs Steering Committee. “This event gives policymakers an opportunity to hear directly from businesses about hot-button issues that will have an impact on their operations. It’s an invaluable learning and networking event for all involved.” As a highlight of Government Day, the luncheon portion of the agenda will include a discussion between Ohio Republican Party Chair, Kevin DeWine, and Ohio Democratic Party Chair, Chris Redfern. It will be moderated by Curtin. Roundtable discussions will focus on the areas of health care, infrastructure development, economic development practices, government support for start-up companies, and the state operating budget. “From our beginning, advocacy has been at the core of the Columbus Chamber’s mission,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Government Day is an integral part of our efforts to promote a pro-business legal and regulatory environment in which the region’s businesses can continue to grow and prosper.” Tickets for Government Day are available for $50 at www.columbus.org. The event is sponsored by Columbia Gas of Ohio, Alterra Real Estate Advisors, American Electric Power, Nationwide, Sam’s Club, Paul Werth Associates, Sam’s Club, Sequent, CSX, Huntington, and OhioHealth. Cosponsoring Chambers include Bexley Area Chamber of Commerce, Canal Winchester Area Chamber of Commerce, Clintonville Area Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Area Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce, Grandview/Marble Cliff Area Chamber of Commerce, Granville Area Chamber of Commerce, Hilliard Area Chamber of Commerce, Knox County Chamber of Commerce, Lancaster Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce, New Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, Pickaway County Chamber of Commerce, Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, Reynoldsburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Southeastern Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, Union County Chamber of Commerce, Upper Arlington Area Chamber of Commerce, Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.
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Press Release
April 14, 2010
Bickle Graduates from Prestigious Economic Development Program
For immediate release:
April 14, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Justin Bickle, manager, corporate site location at the Columbus Chamber, has graduated from the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute (OU/EDI).
“Justin is an integral member of the Chamber’s economic development team,” said Matt McCollister, vice president of economic development for the Columbus Chamber. “As a graduate of the OU/EDI program, he now brings even more knowledge and skills to benefit the businesses we serve—and can further enhance our efforts to attract the world’s leading companies to the Columbus region.” OU/EDI is a three-session program, each one week long, which provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional and is accredited by the International Economic Development Council. OU/EDI classes focus on three major core areas: business retention and expansion, real estate, and finance, as well as areas of concentration in marketing, strategic planning, and managing economic development organizations. Students complete 117 hours of instruction selected from more than 50 seminars, workshops and discussion groups. Begun in 1962, OU/EDI now has more than 3,500 graduates. Bickle has served on the Columbus Chamber team since 2006. Previously he held the position of economic development specialist for the city of Lewisville, Texas. Bickle holds a Master of Public Administration and International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, both from Bowling Green State University. He resides with his wife in Gahanna, Ohio (43230). For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.
-30- The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
March 31, 2010
Columbus Chamber Names Joe Sciulli Director of Member Services
Sales Veteran Joins Team as Chamber Strengthens Focus on Retaining and Growing Region’s Existing Businesses
For Immediate Release
March 31, 2010 COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber today announced that Joe Sciulli has joined the organization as its director of member services. Joe will play an integral role in the Chamber’s membership development program, as he heads up the new membership team. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Joe to this critical role—connecting local businesses with the resources and information they need to prosper,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “He brings extensive business expertise and highly relevant sales experience that will have an immediate impact on the Columbus Chamber and its members, especially as we develop a blueprint for economic growth and vitality of the region’s existing businesses.” Sciulli comes to the Columbus Chamber from GN Netcom, a telecom office equipment company, where he served as director of sales for the past five years. Prior to that, he had served as vice president of sales for NetTest North America, a major manufacturer in the test and measurement industry. Sciulli brings more than 18 years of experience in business development, with an emphasis on growing new sales programs for the enterprise. His international experience includes growing new business and developing new relationships in 21 different countries. Sciulli resides with his family in Liberty Township, OH. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
March 19, 2010
Chamber Introduces New Members of Small Business Council
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber has announced that eight area business owners have joined the Columbus Chamber Small Business Council, which serves as the voice of small to mid-size enterprises in the Columbus region. Nine of ten Columbus Chamber members are classified as small businesses.
“The Small Business Council is integral in helping the Columbus Chamber best serve its members by representing the needs of small and growing companies,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We’re excited to welcome these new members to the council and look forward to leveraging their unique perspectives and business experiences -- especially as we strengthen the Chamber’s focus on ensuring that our region’s existing companies are growing and thriving.”
Nearly 40,000 small businesses in the Columbus region form the foundation of our local economy. The 21-member Small Business Council represents these companies’ interests in the Columbus Chamber’s program development and position on controversial policy issues.
New council members include:- Michelle Abreu, President, Oxford Consulting Group, Inc.
- Kamal Boulos, Owner, The Refectory Restaurant
- Martin Brady, Chief Sales Officer, Commerce National Bank
- Mark Hall, Vice President, Three Leaf Productions
- Bill Kiefaber, Chief Operating Officer, GRIP Technology
- Catherine Lang-Cline, President, Portfolio Creative
- Tim McCord, President, DaNite Sign Company
- Christine Robertson, President, Capital Services
The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
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Press Release
February 24, 2010
Economic Future Topic of Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting
New vision built on collaboration and support for existing business
For immediate release
Feb. 24, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – More than 1,100 business and community leaders attended the Columbus Chamber’s Annual Meeting, held today in the new Battelle Grand at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The event focused on economic development plans for the Columbus region, including a vision for 2020 and the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to retain and expand existing businesses in central Ohio. The Columbus2020! strategy is designed to take this region to the next level, using the basic elements of economic development – attraction of new companies; expansion of existing companies; creation of new companies; and the enhancement of workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life. “The Chamber is pleased to be an integral part of the Columbus2020! strategy. Retaining and growing existing businesses is our highest priority, as these organizations create 60 to 90 percent of all new jobs,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Moving forward, the Chamber is eager to bolster our programs that provide assistance to both large corporations and small companies across the region. It is our mission at the Chamber to help them succeed and prosper.”
Presentation overview
Alex Fischer, president and CEO, The Columbus Partnership, helped to unveil the details of the Columbus2020! initiative. The initiative will focus on three core strategies to ensure the economic success of Columbus over the next decade: retaining and expanding the companies and industries that call central Ohio home today; attracting major employers to establish operations in the region; and creating more commercial enterprises by leveraging the region’s research assets and entrepreneurs. The community collaboration of the initiative is unprecedented. Jack Partridge, president, Columbia Gas of Ohio, and incoming chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, discussed the role the organization will play in nurturing existing businesses to foster growth. “Through Columbus2020!, the Chamber will deliver an essential resource to our region – a blueprint for economic growth and vitality of our existing businesses, as well as the energy, synergies and partnerships to make it happen,” said Partridge. “As we move through this transformation in our community, your Chamber will serve as a catalyst for change.” Columbus Award
Michael Morris, chairman, president and CEO, AEP, received the Columbus Award, the most prestigious award given by the Columbus Chamber, recognizing an area business professional for outstanding business and community leadership. The award was presented by Dave Blom, president and CEO, OhioHealth and the Chamber’s immediate past chairman, and Partridge. “Mike has devoted his expertise to build a better Columbus, leading AEP’s commitment to build the Scioto Mile, a mile long system of bike and pedestrian paths, urban streets, new riverfront park spaces and activities along the Scioto River,” said Blom. “In an integral role at AEP, Mike also brings national attention to Columbus for his knowledge and work on environmental issues. It is a true honor for me to bestow this year’s award to a most-deserving recipient.” Morris received a unique piece of art created exclusively for the Columbus Award by Dawson Kellogg, assistant professor, dimensional studies program, the Columbus College of Art and Design. Board of Directors elections
As part of the annual meeting, the following members were re-elected to serve another term on the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors.
• Terri L. Hill, president, Nationwide Better Health, and executive vice president, Nationwide Administration
• John P. McEwan, office managing partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP
• Lonnie L. Miles, CEO, Miles-McClellan Construction Co., Inc.
• Gregory R. Overmyer, CPCU
• William W. Pfeiffer, chairman and CEO, CareWorks
• Elaine Roberts, A.A.E., president and CEO, Columbus Regional Airport Authority
• Eric C. Smith, vice chairman emeritus, Team Fishel New to the board are:
• Robert D. Irwin, president and CEO, Sterling Commerce
• Jeff M. S. Kaplan, senior vice president, administration and planning, and special assistant to the president, The Ohio State University
• Stephen E. Kelly, senior vice president, Battelle, and president, National Security Global Business
• Catherine M. Lyttle, vice president of corporate communications and investor relations, Worthington Industries, Inc.
• Kathleen P. Murphy, president, MurphyEpson, Inc. Breakout Sessions
Following the one-hour meeting, in-depth sessions were conducted for each of the three Columbus2020! focus areas: business retention and expansion; business attraction; and business creation. Copies of retention and expansion and attraction presentations are being made available online: Retention & Expansion Session: Existing Industry Strategy (via SlideShare)
Attraction Session: Economic Development (via SlideShare)
Attraction Session: The Columbus Image Project (PDF)
The Columbus Chamber 2010 Annual Meeting was presented in partnership with State Auto Insurance Companies. Event partners include Leaders CareWorks, Columbia Gas of Ohio, and Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and Patrons Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP, Schneider Downs, Sophisticated Systems, Steptoe & Johnson, and Agil IT. Additional support is provided by Columbus Chamber Partners Anthem and CompManagement, Inc., with media promotion provided by Bartha Audio Visual, 99.7 the Rock, Classic Hits 103.9, and WMNI AM. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
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Press Release
February 19, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports Fourth Quarter Employment Decrease
Economists Continue to Forecast Job Market Turn in 2010,
U.S. GDP Shows Strong GainFor Immediate Release:
Feb. 19, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) decreased 10,200 (1.1 percent) during the fourth quarter 2009. Ohio and U.S. employment both fell 0.2 percent.
The region’s seasonally-adjusted December unemployment rate was 9.1 percent, up from 8.2 percent in September and 6.5 percent in December 2008. The December rate was lower than the 10 percent national average and Ohio’s 10.9 percent. The increase in the local rate was due both to declining employment and a much smaller decline in the number of active job-seekers.
Employment in nearly all individual sectors declined – most by proportionally more than at the national level. The declines were particularly severe in transportation, leisure, and professional services; however, construction strengthened and retail and government were also stronger than average.
“Most of the fourth-quarter employment decline was due to a net loss of 8,100 jobs in December – a decrease twice as large as any recorded during the worst of the recession last winter,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “There is no identifiable reason for a decline that large, which leads me to think that it might be a measurement error in these preliminary statistics.”
Despite the decreases in employment, some positive signs emerged.U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 5.7 percent during the fourth quarter – the strongest growth since 2003.
Those surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll were unanimous in expecting continued economic growth, but at a slower pace than that registered during the fourth quarter – around 3 percent. The forecast continues to expect the job market to turn within the year. However, the national unemployment rate should end the year only slightly lower than its current level.
The release of preliminary December sector employment estimates gives a first look at employment trends for 2009 as a whole. Total employment decreased 1.8 percent in the Columbus MSA, 4.4 percent statewide, and 3.7 percent nationally. All sectors except government outperformed their national counterparts. These estimates are subject to a potentially significant revision in the release scheduled for March 10.
A detailed report and visual representation of this information is available at www.columbus.org.
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The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of nearly 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
February 11, 2010
Columbus Chamber to Offer Internship Workshops for Employers
For Immediate Release
Feb. 11, 2010
COLUMBUS, OH – Internships can be a win-win proposition for both students and employers. To help interested organizations launch successful internship programs, the Columbus Chamber will offer a series of workshops for local business leaders. The Columbus Chamber supports internships because they strengthen the business community.“The Columbus Chamber’s new workshops are ideal for any organization that is either considering the use of interns, or interested in learning more about the process,” said Dave Cofer, internship consultant, Columbus Chamber. “Interns represent a great opportunity to introduce short-term, flexible resources into your business, while also offering a young person the chance to obtain valuable work experience.” Scheduled through the year in both in-person and webinar settings, the sessions are free for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. Getting Started with Interns The first session, “Getting Started with Interns,” will introduce the fundamentals and key considerations every organization should review prior to hiring interns. It will be offered seven times throughout 2010 and is launching next Tuesday, Feb. 16, from 8:30 – 10 a.m. at the Columbus Chamber office, 150 S. Front Street, Columbus. Registration is now open at Columbus.org. Future session dates and times include:- Thursday, April 1 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 11 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Thursday, July 1 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 24 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 30 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 9 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Wednesday, March 10 – 3 to 5 p.m.
- Thursday, June 10 – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, Sept.14 – 3 to 5 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 9 – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Part 1: Wednesday, March 10 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 2: Tuesday, March 23 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 1: Thursday, July 15 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 2: Thursday, July 29 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
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Press Release
February 03, 2010
Columbus Chamber Announces 2010 Annual Meeting
Feb. 24 Event to Highlight Vision for 2020,
Renewed Focus on Business Retention and ExpansionFor Immediate Relase:
Feb. 3, 2010 COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus community has come together in an unprecedented move to align economic development activities with an eye toward 2020. Join the Columbus Chamber at its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 24 to hear about an innovative vision in which Columbus is recognized for job growth and support for local business; a collaborative community invested in its existing business; and a community that talented professionals seek out to live, work, and play.
“The road to 2020 involves significant investment in economic development, targeted attraction strategies, and heightened focus on the retention and expansion of today’s businesses,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “As we enter this new decade, the Chamber will renew and strengthen its commitment to improving our region’s business climate, helping local companies grow and succeed, and enhancing our quality of life in the Columbus region.”
Business retention and expansion programs rank as the number one economic development activity in communities across the country. Existing businesses create 60 to 90 percent of all new jobs, according to the Ohio Business Retention and Expansion Initiative.
The Chamber’s Annual Meeting will take place in the new Battelle Grand at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Doors will open at 7 a.m., and a full breakfast and networking will begin at 7:30 a.m. The program will run from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Individual tickets are available for $75 or $750 for a table of 10 for members. Non-member tickets are $90 for an individual or $900 for a table of 10. Registration is now open online at www.columbus.org.
Columbus2020!, a community-driven vision and strategic plan for the future of economic development in Central Ohio, will be introduced during the meeting.
Following the one-hour meeting, in-depth presentations will be conducted for three Columbus2020! focus areas: business retention and expansion; business attraction; and business creation. Concurrent sessions will be held from 9:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The Columbus Chamber 2010 Annual Meeting is presented in partnership with State Auto Insurance Companies. Event partners include Leaders Columbia Gas of Ohio and Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and Patrons Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP, Schneider Downs, Sophisticated Systems, Steptoe & Johnson, and Agil IT. Additional support is provided by Columbus Chamber Partners Anthem and CompManagement, Inc., with media promotion provided by Bartha Audio Visual, 99.7 the Rock, Classic Hits 103.9, and WMNI AM. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
Editor’s note: Media representatives are invited to attend the Annual Meeting at no cost. Please RSVP Michelle Bretscher at 614-225-6908 or michelle_bretscher@columbus.org.
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Press Release
February 03, 2010
Chamber Applauds Legislature Action on Third Frontier
For Immediate Release:
Feb. 3, 2010
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today expressed its support for the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives passing a resolution that will allow Ohioans to vote on renewing the Third Frontier program on the May primary ballot.“The Third Frontier program is a way to grow our workforce and economy,” said Ty Marsh, President & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber’s mission is to lead and support economic growth and development and the Third Frontier program advances that mission.” The Columbus Chamber was a strong supporter of placing the Third Frontier renewal on the May 2010 ballot. Among the many reasons for its support was the program’s six-year history of a 10 to 1 return on the state’s investment, the high-value, high-paying jobs the program has created and will likely produce in the future, and the substantial increase in venture capital for investment in Ohio-based small businesses and early-stage companies.HJR 12 passed the Ohio Senate by a vote of 83-13 and the Ohio House by 30-2 margin.
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Press Release
January 18, 2010
DuPont Completes $295 Million Expansion for Photovoltaic Marke
For Immediate Release
WILMINGTON, Del., Jan. 18, 2010
DuPont announced an investment of $175 million to complete the multi-phase expansion of its high-performance DuPont™ Tedlar® PV2001 series oriented film production line. This investment is in addition to $120 million in capacity expansions, announced in August 2009, for raw materials used to make the film, bringing the total commitment of these two phases to $295 million. Tedlar® films serve as the critical component of photovoltaic backsheets, providing long-term durability and performance for photovoltaic modules in all-weather conditions.
The film line expansion will be located at the DuPont Circleville, Ohio, facility using existing and retrofitted assets. This expansion provides Tedlar® oriented film capacity to support global demand of over 10 gigawatts (GW) of photovoltaic module production. The investment will deliver DuPont technology to help meet increasing needs for energy and environmental sustainability. This reflects the company’s recently announced commitment to focus on meeting four emerging global trends, one of which is decreasing dependence on fossil fuels. Film production is scheduled to start up in September 2011.
“The photovoltaic market increasingly demands materials that enable modules to reliably deliver power for decades,” said David B. Miller, president – DuPont Electronics & Communications. “This major expansion underscores our commitment to maintaining DuPont leadership in the photovoltaic industry and specifically in the backsheet materials market for solar panels.”
The manufacturing steps for Tedlar® oriented film include producing vinyl fluoride (VF) monomer, which is converted into polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) polymer resins, and extruded into the Tedlar® film. DuPont plans to increase monomer and polymer resin capacity by more than 50 percent. Construction is under way for these new monomer and resin facilities at the DuPont Louisville, Ky., and Fayetteville, N.C., sites, respectively, and the facilities are scheduled to start up in mid-2010.
DuPont anticipates that the photovoltaic market will grow rapidly over the next several years, and this growth will drive the demand for Tedlar® and other new materials that increase the lifetime and efficiency of solar cells and modules. DuPont expects that overall sales of its family of products into the photovoltaic industry will exceed $1 billion by 2012.
DuPont™ Tedlar® PVF films have been an essential component of photovoltaic backsheets for more than 25 years. Tedlar® is widely recognized as the industry standard due to its excellent strength, weather resistance, ultraviolet resistance and moisture barrier properties. As a result, Tedlar® enables solar modules to achieve long-life performance providing a long-term sustainable energy source for the marketplace. This results in improved economic returns for investments in solar energy projects and therefore a lower cost of solar electricity to consumers. Tedlar® films also are used in key applications for aerospace, construction and graphics arts because of their durability and weatherability.
DuPont™ Tedlar® PVF films are part of the broad and growing portfolio of products from DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, which applies DuPont science and technology to support the dramatic growth of the photovoltaic industry globally. To learn more about DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, visit http://photovoltaics.dupont.com.
DuPont – one of the first companies to publicly establish environmental goals 20 years ago – has broadened its sustainability commitments beyond internal footprint reduction to include market-driven targets for both revenue and research and development investment. The goals are tied directly to business growth, specifically to the development of safer and environmentally improved new products for key global markets.
DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.
Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements based on management’s current expectations, estimates and projections. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements as a result of future developments or new information. All statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including statements about the company’s strategy for growth, product development, market position, expected expenditures and financial results are forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements may be identified by words like “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects,” “indicates,” and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors, including those discussed more fully elsewhere in this release and in DuPont’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, particularly its latest annual report on Form 10-K, as well as others, could cause results to differ materially from those stated. These factors include, but are not limited to changes in the laws, regulations, policies and economic conditions of countries in which the company does business; competitive pressures; successful integration of structural changes, including acquisitions, divestitures and alliances; research and development of new products, including regulatory approval and market acceptance, and seasonality of sales of agricultural products. -
Press Release
January 06, 2010
Columbus Economy Expected to Resume Growth in 2010
Columbus Chamber’s 11th annual Blue Chip Economic Forecast shows growth in business and professional services, healthcare and transportation
For Immediate Release:
Jan. 6, 2010
COLUMBUS, OH – Employment in the region may decline early in 2010, but these declines will be offset by employment growth later in the year, according to the Columbus Chamber’s Blue Chip Economic Forecast released today at the Columbus Metropolitan Club. Year-to-year net is predicted to be 0.1 percent, or 800 jobs, compared to 1.8 percent decrease in 2009. The Columbus Region includes the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) of Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway and Union Counties. “Columbus MSA employment declined in 2009, but much less than average,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “The region’s loss compares favorably to the likely 3.7 percent U.S. decline. This has been the case throughout the recession.” The strongest labor growth is expected in business and professional services, healthcare and private education, and transportation and utilities. The construction and manufacturing sectors are expected to suffer the largest declines. “Columbus MSA employment should enjoy growth in the second half of the year mostly or completely offsetting declines in the first half,” said Lafayette. “The net effect will be average employment for the year 0.1 percent higher than in 2009.” The 2010 Blue Chip Economic Forecast examines trends in 10 individual sectors. Key findings include:- Greater Columbus employment is expected to grow weakly, at 0.1 percent in 2010.
- Professional services dramatically outperformed the national average during the recession and will hold steady with a gain of 2.7 percent.
- Education, health and social services saw significant growth in 2009 due primarily to the healthcare industry and estimated increased employment in higher education. This trend will continue in 2010, with a 2.0 percent gain.
- Government, leisure and other services and wholesale trade are expected to experience minimal growth.
- Retail employment fared better than average locally during the recession, declining 3.7 percent (3,800 jobs) since December 2007 compared with 6.0 percent nationwide. Although consumer spending will grow with the economy in 2010, the moderate growth rate is likely only to slow employment declines, resulting in a 1.5 percent job loss regionally.
- Manufacturing was down 9.3 percent or 7,100 jobs in 2008, due to the recession. The anticipated moderate growth will slow this decline for a 3.5 percent loss.
- Economic growth should slow the declines in the financial activities industry in 2010, resulting in a 1.6 percent decline.
- Transportation and utilities will outperform the overall economy in 2010 as companies replenish inventories and the Heartland Corridor boosts distribution consolidation in Columbus.
- Construction companies have shed 5,300 jobs (14.3 percent) since the recession began in 2007. Although there are positive signs in the residential construction market, commercial vacancy rates remain high. The forecast calls for a further 4.9 percent decline in this sector.
- Greater Columbus employment is expected to grow weakly, at 0.1 percent in 2010.