POSTMASTER: TIMELY MATERIAL. PLEASE EXPEDITE. AUGUST 2009 Vol. 15 No. 8 Published and Owned by Schaffner Publications, Inc. “The Business Voice of Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca Counties” INSIDE THIS MONTH Chambers of Commerce ........ 2 Disinheriting a Child ............. 9 Ten Things About Social Security 15 Help! I Need an Appraisal ....... 19 Netbooks. Something New in PCs ..............23 Well-Booked Business ......... 24 Buyers' Remorse .. .........................26 The Good News! By Norwalk Mayor Sue Lesch Yes times are tough! We have certainly seen that here in the heart of Huron County, where we have consistently seen some of the highest unemployment numbers in the state. But there are rays of light peeping through the clouds in many corners and extraordinary things are happening as our community bands together to meet the challenges. A year ago this month, Norwalk Furniture closed its doors after over 100 years of business. As one of the City’s largest and best employers, the impact was severe. But in Norwalk, Ohio extraordinary things happen. A group of local investors stepped forward and bought the company assets. A strong partnership with the new investors, the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) and the City enabled a new company to reopen as Norwalk Custom Order Furniture, which today employs over 100 people with hopes to total 250 employees as the economy rebounds. Other manufacturers also display that entrepreneurial spirit for which Norwalk is known. New Horizon Baking Company received an Industrial Site Improvement Fund grant for $220,000 from ODOD, to fund a creative delivery system which will reduce costs and keep them competitive. Even our many auto-related manufacturers are thinking outside the box, planning strategies for new product lines and contracts. Janesville Acoustics and CVG Mayflower are two of our large manufacturers who have used these times to retool and retrain. Utilizing programs offered by federal stimulus dollars and the Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS), these companies have been able to Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce Genoa Chamber of Commerce Focus on norwalk Celebrating 15 Years of Service Standard Mail U.S. Postage Paid Tiffin, OH 44883 Permit #88 offer valuable training programs. These and many other savvy companies are now seeing the reward for their perseverance and planning with some new contracts and rehires. Fisher Titus Medical Center, the City’s largest employer continues to grow. The www.ncbj.net Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce Snyder/White Heart and Vascular Center has been added to this award-winning facility, providing important medical specialists and high-tech tools needed for diagnostic procedures. This patient and family-focused center provides a one-stop location for heart and vascular services Milan Chamber of Commerce here in Huron County. An important part of looking to the future for many of our companies includes exploring possibilities with alternative energy. The City will partner with businesses to do a wind assessment for the area, affording them the chance to pursue current funding options and tax credits for investment in wind energy alternatives. In addition some companies are researching the opportunity to be part of the alternative energy supply chain. Small business grows too in Norwalk with the opening of a new Sears Store in our downtown district. Several other retail shops have opened in addition to a number of new and relocated restaurants. Norwalk is very fortunate to have a very vibrant downtown area and solid small business base. It is an active Economic Development Team that continually brings together our companies and resources to provide what is needed now. I believe the City of Norwalk can boast one of the very best teams in the area. A creative public/private partnership leads the team with the Norwalk Economic Development Corp (NEDC). Ellen Heinz was hired in January to take over the reins of NEDC offering a strong background in manufacturing and workforce development that has been invaluable in these times. A strong Chamber of Commerce led by Melissa James and a growing Main Street Norwalk Program led by Kristie Wert round out the team. As the chief elected official, I am available when team members need me to help solve a problem, meet a new business, or go to Columbus to bang on some doors. Regional and State resources are tapped to Continued on page 4... Vermilion Chamber of Commerce We’re a proud member of the following: Elmore Chamber of Commerce Huron Chamber of Commerce Oak Harbor Area Put-in-Bay Chamber Chamber of Commerce of Commerce Chamber of Commerce Erie County Chamber of Sandusky County of Commerce Marblehead Peninsula Norwalk - Huron County Port Clinton Area Tiffin Area Chamber Willard Area Chamber Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce of Commerce of Commerce 2 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Your Chamber of Commerce It's What YOU Make of It! By Jeffrey H. Bryden, Editor I’ll admit I’m a bit prejudiced when it comes to Chambers of Commerce. When I moved to Port Clinton from Cleveland, I joined the local chamber, got to know what it could do, got involved on various committees and ended up serving nine years on its Board with two as its Chair -- until I “termed out” and became just a member again. Here at the North Coast Business Journal, we count on our area chambers to be our “eyes and ears” in the five counties we serve. When we’re out visiting the cities and towns on editorial or sales calls, the chambers serve as our “home away from home.” Area chamber directors help to point us in the right direction for good news stories and give us input on developments that mean increased business for all of us in the region. In short, they help us do our job better. And, given the opportunity, your chamber will help you with your business too! We believe in Chamber membership and support – we belong to every chamber of commerce in our five county news coverage – sixteen chambers in all. If you received this issue of the NCBJ in the mail, it’s because of your local Chamber membership. Our paper’s membership in these chambers allows us to mail you your copy each month free of charge – yet another benefit you get from belonging to your Chamber. That’s why we love chambers. But what’s in it for you? Not much if you just belong. Think about buying a car and then locking it in the garage. Five years later you might wonder what you got for your investment. Nothing. To get something from your membership in a chamber, you’ve got to put something into it. You’ve got to attend meetings and programs. Meet and network with fellow business people, sharing ideas, concerns and insight. You’ve got to drive your car! There are many talented men and women out there who are paid to keep our chambers on track, fiscally sound, and serving their members. This issue’s focus on the city of Norwalk and Huron County is a good example of proactive chamber leadership and community involvement in its chamber. Melissa James, Executive Director of the Norwalk-Huron County Chamber is one of those dynamic chamber leaders – no matter where you go, no matter what the event or the community cause – there she is. She leads her members by example and won’t take no for an answer. She has seen what involvement in the Chamber can mean to a business (again, not just belonging, but being involved.) Make sure you read her Chamber article on page 12, but before you do, I’d like to share an excerpt from it: “Established businesses as well as start-ups are joining to take advantage of the savings an organization such as the chamber can deliver. If you are in this chamber or any chamber, and you do not take advantage of the many discounts offered, if you are not active on a committee or don’t seem to make it to the events, you are missing a huge resource for your business. Don’t assume your business is too big or too small, or that the chamber in your community can’t help you in some way. We (chambers) are all connected to one another by the mere fact of what we do. So if your local chamber doesn’t have the resource they need to help you, they can reach out to a nearby chamber for assistance and we’re all willing to pitch in to serve your business. You just need to keep us in mind.” ‘Nuf said? “The Business Voice of Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca Counties” 205 S.E. Catawba Road, Suite G, Port Clinton, Ohio 43452 419-734-4838 • Fax 419-734-5382 Publisher Editor Director of Sales Accounting Manager Layout & Graphic Design JOHN SCHAFFNER JEFFREY H. BRYDEN This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it DAVE KAHLER This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it CINDY CONSTIEN This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it JENNIFER DAUBEL This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ANGIE ADAIR This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it BRUCE DINSE Edgewood Manor, Home Instead and Stein Hospice Partner to Provide Continuing Education to Community Nearly 40 healthcare professionals gathered at Edgewood Manor last month for a continuing education seminar. Stein Hospice and Home Instead Senior Care co-sponsored the event, a t t e n d e d mostly by nurses and social workers. C a r r i e McGlothlin, Marketing Director at Edgewood Manor stated, “We were extremely pleased with the turnout. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our facility and provide a great service to the community.” She said the facility is planning to host continuing education seminars each quarter. The event was for 3 credits on Ethics, lunch was provided and was offered at no cost to the attendees because of the partnership with Stein Hospice and Home Instead. “We feel it is important to build relationships with local health care organizations. We have many residents at Edgewood they can greatly benefit from companion or hospice care.” a d d e d McGlothlin. If you would like additional information about the continuing education seminars in the future, please contact Carrie McGlothlin at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Edgewood Manor at 419-734-5506. Circulation Manager North Coast Business Journal is owned and published monthly by Schaffner Publications, Inc., and is mailed free to chamber of commerce members in a five-county area: Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Seneca counties. The editorial deadline is the 25th of each month, with the advertising deadline the end of each month. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed, written consent of the Publishers. We welcome submissions from readers in the form of letters, articles or photographs, although we reserve the right to edit and condense any articles submitted. Submissions should be sent to the editor at the above address. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like an item returned. We prefer material (copy & photos) to be submitted electronically. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 3 F I S H E R - T I T U S M E D I C A L C E N T E R Choose the Best: Fisher-Titus Medical Center From women’s health services and 24-hour emergency care to advance surgeries and cardiac care, Fisher-Titus Medical Center provides exceptional personal care coupled with state-of-the-art technology and facilities to meet the needs of our communities. Left to Right: FTMC Patient Pavilion, FTMC Rehabilitation Center, FTMC Cancer Care Center & FTMC Heart & Vascular Center. Programs and Services Ambulatory Surgery Unit Audiology Center The Birthing Center Cancer Care Center - Level 3 Trauma Center Provisional Status Caring for you Every day, care is extended to all those who walk through our doors. Last year we provided care for more than 4,700 in-patients, delivered 774 babies, treated almost 26,000 in the emergency room, performed more than 6,700 surgical procedures, and provided more than 59,000 imaging tests and almost 420,000 laboratory tests. Meeting the health-care needs of each patient comes before consideration of his/her ability to pay. In 2008, FTMC provided $3.1 million in charity care and financial assistance and $10.1 million to cover the unreimbursed cost of care for Medicaid and Medicare patients in our service area. Emergency Department Exceeding your expectations with award-winning care Snyder/White Heart and Vascular Center Imaging/Radiology Services Industrial Health Services Intensive Care Unit Laboratory Services Nuclear Medicine Obstetrics/Gynecology Orthopedic Care Center Pediatric Outpatient Specialty Clinics Pulmonary Services Sleep Disorder Laboratory Surgical Services Ralph & Alice Walcher Rehabilitation Center - Audiology & Speech Therapy - Occupational Therapy - Pediatric Therapy - Physical Therapy - Sports Medicine At FTMC we are committed to the highest quality patient care and clinical excellence. Our experienced team of health-care providers makes quality care and patient satisfaction our top priority. And we are proud to be recognized for our efforts through the many national awards we have received. Providing for the health of your community Core to our mission as a non-profit are our community benefit activities. Providing community health education, financial contributions, free and discounted health services and community building activities are ways FTMC benefits the communities we serve. In 2008, some 10,000 area residents participated in health fairs, screenings, health education courses and programs, support groups and other community activities valued at $880,000. In addition, FTMC contributed $330,000 to civic and community events, programs and partnerships From our family to yours The 934 members of our Fisher-Titus family are your neighbors and friends who work as nurses, physical therapists, radiology technologists, speech therapists, social workers and other medical and technical professionals, administrative personnel and important support staff including food services, environmental services, building maintenance, financial services. The 158 members of our outstanding Medical Staff bring more than 35 medical specialties to our communities. Our family is proud to provide for the health-care needs of you and your family. Thank you for choosing Fisher-Titus Medical Center for your care. D O A M E R I C A N O S T E O PAT H I C A S S O C I AT I O N FTMC has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ Accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Commission on Cancer Accreditation with 7 Commendations 2009 5-Star Rated in Treatment of Respiratory Failure Wound Healing Institute Home Health Center Carriage House 2009 FTMC’s Primary Stroke has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ 5-Star Rated in Gall Bladder Surgery Best Cancer Care 2007 Top 25% in HomeCare 2007 National Ranking - Assisted Living Facility Norwalk Memorial Home Transitional Care Unit Community Outreach & Wellness Smoking Cessation Best Rated in the Area* for Joint Replacement *Area as defined on healthgrades.com - Long Term Care Facility Fisher-Titus Medical Center 272 Benedict Avenue • Norwalk, OH 44857 419-668-8101 or Toll-Free 800-589-3862 www.ftmc.com 4 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Speaking Out on the Person-Centered Care Philosophy Several members of the care team at Gaymont Nursing Center recently spoke at the Ohio Patient Centered Care Conference in Columbus, Ohio. The topic was “It is All About the Love” and they discussed the small things that have been done in the facility to promote person-centered care. More than 650 people were in attendance at the Conference this year. Person-centered care is a philosophical approach to nursing home care that honors and respects the voice of elders and those front left to right) Erin Dotson, Director of Nursing, Tamie Taft, Director of Social Services, (Back left to right) Sandy Proctor, Dietary Manager, and Sandy Boyd, Marketing Director. working closest to them. It involves a continuing process of listening, trying new things, seeing how they work and changing practices in an effort to personalize care and de-institutionalize the nursing home environment. Gaymont Nursing Center has been using this concept for the past two years and their staff has said that the benefits for the residents and their families are evident. Another Reason to Believe in Mercy Hospital of Tiffin. Gastroenterology Specialty Clinic to the community. Dr. Wagner manages chronic diseases such as colitis, Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, GERD and irritable bowel syndrome. He also performs therapeutic and diagnostic procedures including colonoscopy, EGD and PEG. He brings over 25 years of clinical expertise to providing the best most personal care to patients. Dr. Wagner received his medical degree from The Ohio State University and completed an Internship and Residency at University Hospital in Columbus. He also fulfilled a Fellowship in Gastroenterology at The Ohio State University and is board certified. He will see patients every Monday in Mercy Tiffin’s Specialty Clinics, located on the second floor of the Medical Office Building at 27 St. Lawrence Drive. Mercy welcomes "Norwalk" Continued from the cover... ensure a ready response for company needs. Recent efforts have produced a Manufacturers Council where networking and partnership are achieving results. Strategic planning and looking to the future does not mean we are not mindful of the challenges many in our community face today. In response to growing unemployment rates last fall, the City collaborated with DJFS and other agencies to establish the Workforce Response Team. This Team has provided numerous forums and resources for laid-off workers, on topics such as unemployment, job searching, healthcare options, financial issues, and wellness. I must here commend the many unemployed who are making the best of their circumstances by enrolling in training programs to advance their skills or change careers. I must also commend many local businesses who have sought creative alternatives, i.e. shorter work weeks, furlough weeks, reduced benefits, to avoid lay-offs for valuable people. The City of Norwalk is an extraordinary community. We have been hit hard but we are determined to bounce back by bringing together resourceful business leaders, enthusiastic entrepreneurs, and a committed community to keep us strong during these tough times. Steven Wagner, MD Gastroenterologist Submit stories for September's Port Clinton issue by e-mailing Jeff Bryden at To schedule an appointment, mercyweb.org call the Mercy Tiffin Specialty Clinics at (419) 455-8500. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it © 2009 Mercy Health Partners www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal interventional peripheral procedures have been performed.” Prior to that, heart and vascular procedures were performed in FTMC’s renovated special procedures lab. Dr. Barry Zadeh, board-certified cardiothoracic/endovascular Surgeon, arrived at FTMC in August 2006 and performed over 1,200 diagnostic and interventional peripheral procedures in the special procedures lab while the new heart and vascular center was under construction. In July 2007, cardiologists from the University of Toledo Physician-Heart and Vascular and North Ohio Heart Center began heart procedures at FTMC and completed over 150 low-risk diagnostic heart catheterizations and implanted 18 pacemakers before the opening of the Snyder/White Heart & Vascular Center. With the continued growth of cardiovascular services, two additional medical staff members were added in 2009. Dr. Michael Levy, a board certified cardiothoracic surgeon, joined Dr. Barry Zadeh’s practice, Norwalk Cardiac, Thoracic/Endovascular Therapies in late January. In July, Dr. Ehab Eltahawy of the University of Toledo Medical Center joined University of Toledo Physicians-Heart and Vascular, with offices in the Snyder/White Heart and Vascular Center. Dr. Eltahawy, who is board certified in cardiovascular diseases and interventional cardiology, joins Dr. Daniel Kosinski, who is board certified in cardiovascular diseases and clinical cardiac electrophysiology. Thanks to the advanced technology of FTMC’s 64-slice CT scanner, FTMC offers the community a new “tool” to detect heart and vascular disease. In February, the Snyder/ White Heart & Vascular Center began offering CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring –a high-tech screening that can identify a person’s risk for coronary heart disease before symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain develop. The fast, painless and non-invasive uses a computed tomography system (CT scanner) to look for calcium deposits in coronary arteries – the vessels that supply the blood to the heart muscle. FTMC also has teamed up with Dr. Barry Zadeh and Dr. Michael Levy, of Norwalk Cardiac, Thoracic & Endovascular Therapies, to offer vascular screenings throughout the FTMC service area. The screening consists of carotid artery checks to determine blockages or abnormalities; abdominal aortic ultrasounds to identify the presence of aneurysms; and/or lower extremity checks to assess peripheral vascular disease. These screenings are fast, non-invasive and patients are seen by board-certified cardiothoracic surgeons during the process. Emergency Services August 2009 5 FTMC Focuses on Continued Growth In its ongoing commitment to provide the best medical care and leading-edge technology to the community, Fisher-Titus Medical Center has plans for expansion. And, while over the past few years, expansion has been in the form of buildings and square footage, in 2009, FTMC focuses on continued growth of its services and its commitment to reaching out to the community. “FTMC has a strong tradition of investing in the latest medical technologies and expanding services to meet the needs of the communities we serve and provide quality care to our patients,” said FTMC President Patrick J. Martin. “In 2009, we continue to grow our cardiovascular services, emergency medicine and obstetrics. In addition, a new Wound Healing Institute will open in August.” Fisher-Titus Medical Center also is committed to reaching out to communities with health programs and assistance. During these challenging economic times, FTMC’s notfor-profit mission is more important than ever. “As a not-for-profit community hospital, we are here to provide care for all patients regardless of their ability to pay,” said Martin. “Whether a person is without medical insurance or has suffered a crisis leaving him/her financially strapped, Fisher-Titus has programs in place to help them with their hospital care. In addition, programs like Prescription Assistance help those in need access valuable resources to meet their health needs.” The Fisher-Titus Wound Healing Institute A minor cut or scratch poses little problem for most of us. But for some five million Americans who do not have the ability to heal properly, a simple wound or cut can result in serious infections, gangrene and even amputation. On Aug. 10, Fisher-Titus Medical Center will open a Wound Healing Institute to offer a comprehensive approach for treating patients with non-healing sores and wounds. “The FTMC Wound Healing Institute is dedicated to healing patients with difficult to heal wounds,” said Dr. Farid Said, medical director of the Wound Healing Institute. “Such wounds are often the result of diabetes, circulatory problems, chronic infections or previous accidents. A highly skilled and specially trained team of doctors, nurses and technicians staff the FTMC Wound Healing Institute. This team has advanced training and experience in healing difficult wounds.” In addition to Dr. Said, who is a board-certified general surgeon and specially trained in wound care, Heather Williams, a registered nurse, will serve as manager of the FTMC Wound Healing Institute. Williams is certified in wound care by the National Alliance of Wound Care and will coordinate the day-to-day activities of the FTMC Wound Healing Institute as well as work closely with physicians to meet the needs of patients and the community. The clinical staff will thoroughly assess each patient’s underlying causes that lead to chronic wounds. After each assessment, the treatment plan is individualized to meet the specific needs of that patient. For more information on the FTMC’s Wound Healing Institute, call 419-660-6980. The Snyder/White Heart & Vascular Center Just a little over a year ago, FTMC’s $11.3 million, 22,000-square-foot Snyder/White Heart & Vascular Center opened. Since that time, the Cardiovascular Services Department has seen tremendous growth. “The facility was designed as a place for scheduled heart and vascular procedures both invasive and non-invasive,” said Suzanne Inglis, FTMC’s director of cardiovascular services. “Since the center opened in July 2008, an additional 97 low-risk diagnostic heart catheterizations, 25 pacemaker implants and 612 diagnostic and Drs. Timothy J. Thomas and John J. Parente look over a chart in Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s Emergency Department. The Emergency Department includes 18 treatment bays, a waiting room and a triage area. In 2008, FTMC’s Emergency Department reported 25,600 emergency visits. FTMC’s Emergency Department recently expanded both space and personnel to enhance the quality of service to those community members requiring emergency care. The reception and triage areas were renovated to provide better patient flow. Four additional bays also were added to provide more space and patient privacy. “Physician staffing also expanded in the past year with the addition of three new doctors, as well as an increased number of physician assistants,” Martin said. FTMC Emergency Department’s medical team includes members of North Central Emergency Associates, L.L.C.: Drs. Timothy J. Thomas, John J. Parente, Ryan S. Prudoff, Jeffrey L. Pay, Sonny Bare and Dana F. Parsons. “Our ER doctors, physician assistants and nurses are specially trained for emergency conditions and to provide quality emergency care 24 hours per day, seven days a week,” said Dr. John Parente of North Central Emergency Associates, L.L.C., a member of FTMC’s medical staff. The Emergency Department includes 18 treatment bays, a waiting room and a triage area. In 2008, FTMC’s Emergency Department reported 25,600 emergency visits. As a non-profit community hospital, FTMC provides care to all persons regardless of the ability to pay. Continued on page 7... MAY PAINTING INC. Family Owned and Operated Since 1933 Serving Commercial & Industrial Accounts In NW Ohio Specializing in: STANDARD ARCHITECTURAL & MULTICOLOR COATINGS WOOD FINISHING VINYL WALLCOVERING WATER REPELLENT COATINGS TWO COMPONENT EPOXY & URETHANE SYSTEMS WATER AND SAND BLASTING “Professional Painting Pays” Registered CT Technologist Cherri Schaffer prepares Norwalk Firefighter Dave Wallace as he participates in the preliminary testing for CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring. 419-332-1363 446 N. Wood St., Fremont, OH 43420 Toll Free 800-797-6252 www.maypainting.com 6 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal 9/16, Eagle Creek Golf Club, Register with Chamber office August 6 Safety Council Construction Division meeting, 7:30am, Chamber office, RSVP req’d Chamber information breakfast for non-member businesses, 7:30am-8:30am, Chamber office, RSVP Safety Council General Risk Division meeting, 7:30am, Chamber office, RSVP req’d SBDC/Chamber Seminar Government Contracting, 8:00am-9:00am, Chamber office, Free, open to all businesses, RSVP req’d. Safety Council Manufacturing Division meeting, 7:30am, Chamber office, RSVP req’d Safety Council Service Division meeting, 7:30am, Chamber office, RSVP req’d August 19 August 20 www.ncbj.net Chamber Conference Room, 9 am American Cancer Society Workshop, TBA Main Street Board Meeting, Chamber Conference Room, 8 am CHAMBER CALENDAR Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce August 7-9 August 8, 22 City Wide Garage Sales Farmers’ Market and Sidewalk sales 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. August 20 August 13,27 Lunch on the Lawn, City Hall Lawn, Noon August 29 LatinoFest, Downtown Fostoria Starting at 11 am Fostoria Country Club, 1 p.m. tee time Chamber Board Meeting Fostoria Community Hospital, Noon August 12 Sandusky County Chamber of Commerce August 5 August 13 Board of Trustees Meeting 7:30 a.m., Chamber office Business After Hours 5 to 7 p.m. @ PostNet, 1409 E. State St., Fremont Health & Wellness Meeting, Chamber office, 1:00 p.m. Erie County Chamber of Commerce August 8 “Chamber Members’ Night at the Sandusky Speedway” Doors open at 5 p.m. Advance registration required. “Open for Business” Golf Scramble Plum Brook Country Club August 13 Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce August 6 Directors Meeting 7:00 pm at Otterbein North Shore Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m.; Hosted by Marina Del Isle Lions Perch Festival August 18 August 20 August 24 August 20 August 25-30 Chamber Fair Tent Sandusky County Fair August 25 Ambassador’s Meeting After opening ceremonies, Ag Tent @ Fairgrounds Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce August 1, 8, 15,22,29 August 14 Fostoria Farmers Market City Hall Lawn, 9 am – Noon Chamber Golf Classic, August 20 August 22 Norwalk-Huron County Chamber of Commerce August 1 Fall Finale Golf Outing Registration Opens, August 27 Tiffin Area Chamber of Commerce Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28 Sept. 4, 11 August 18 Jazz Festival Free concerts 11:30 am to 12:30 p.m. Courthouse lawn. “New Educators’ Breakfast” Community Civic Center 7:30 am. RSVP 419-447-4141 Business After Hours The Sisters of St. Francis. 5 to 7 p.m. St. Francis Convent 200 St. Francis Ave. RSVP 419-447-4141 Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce August 8,9 August 16 September 4 Ottawa County Flea Market Mid County Chicken BBQ Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing August 20 Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce August 1 Annual Jerry Lippus 16th Memorial Classic Car, Truck & Bike Show Madison Street Downtown 10 am – 3 p.m. Admin. Committee Meeting. Chamber Conference Room – Noon Business After Hours, The Vineyard on Catawba 5 – 7 p.m. Chamber Board Meeting Chamber Conference Room , 8 am Membership/Marketing Committee Vermilion Chamber of Commerce August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Concerts in the Park Sponsored by HealthSource, Kingston of Vermilion, Community Health Partners and Lorain National Bank. Victory Park at the Gazebo. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. September 20 37th Annual Woollybear Festival (440)-967-4477 or vermilionchamber@ centurytel.net August 5 August 6 August 10 August 10 www.ncbj.net "Growth" continued from page 5... In 2009, FTMC was granted provisional status as a Level 3 Trauma Center by the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Public Safety. FTMC was the first area hospital to have this designation and is working to attain full verification by the American College of Surgeons later in 2009. Level 3 Trauma Centers can provide prompt assessment, resuscitation, emergency surgery, and stabilization and also arrange for possible transfer to a facility that can provide definitive trauma care. The Medical Center also is certified as a Primary Stroke Center and is 5-star ranked by national health care ranking firm HealthGrades for its treatment of respiratory failure. Award-Winning Care Most recently, Fisher-Titus Medical Center received the 2009/2010 Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ from HealthGrades. FTMC has ranked among the top 10% in the nation for Outstanding Patient Experience. “We are incredibly proud that our patients and HealthGrades have rated us among the best in the country for patient experience,” Martin said. “Our nurses, doctors and administration work hard every day to ensure our patients have outstanding care during their stay, from clear communication to vigilant pain management to a quiet environment in which to rest.” Fisher-Titus Medical Center also was recently ranked among Modern Healthcare’s inaugural list of the 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. With over 900 employees, Fisher-Titus Medical Center serves Norwalk, Huron County and contiguous North Coast Business Journal August 2009 7 Patty Arlin-Smith, a labor and delivery registered nurse in Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s Birthing Center, cares for a newborn. communities with the latest medical advancements. As a local, independently owned community hospital, FTMC provides the area’s 60,000 residents a full continuum of care that includes Fisher-Titus Memorial Hospital, a 98-bed acute care hospital; Norwalk Memorial Home, a 69-bed skilled nursing facility; The Carriage House of Fisher-Titus, a 48-unit assisted living facility; and a Home Health Center. The FTMC Birthing Center From the first ultrasound to baby’s first cry, FTMC’s highly skilled board certified obstetricians, experienced obstetric nurses and support staff provide a special touch to growing families. In 2008, 774 babies were born in the Fisher-Titus Birthing Center including one record-breaking month with over 80 babies delivered. Three board-certified obstetricians are members of FTMC’s medical staff. Drs. Sharon Dorman, Kimberly Gecsi and James Kasten serve residents in Huron and Erie counties with convenient locations and flexible hours. In addition, FTMC offers a wide variety of classes, support groups and programs to help families during the birth of their newest addition. “At the FTMC Birthing Center, patients have all the latest technology—with a personal touch by a highly experienced and caring team of physicians, nurses and support staff,” said Virginia Clouse, manager of FTMC’s Birthing Center. FTMC in the Community… FTMC’s commitment to community outreach remains strong in 2009. Fisher-Titus provides a variety of initiatives to help community members in their mission to stay healthy and safe. “Core to FTMC’s mission as a non-profit are our community benefit activities,” Martin said. “Providing community health education, financial contributions, free and discounted health services and community building activities are ways FTMC benefits the communities it serves. Reaching outside our walls to meet community health and safety needs is a strong tradition.” In 2008, FTMC provided $19.4 million worth of community services to area residents through its community outreach and charity care programs Consistent. Strong. Stable. 15 Whittlesey Ave., Norwalk battlesinsurance.com 419-668-4402 8 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Huge Win for Huron County, City of Norwalk and New Horizons Baking Company – Rail Spur Development Project Awarded $220,000 Submitted by Ellen Heinz, Director Norwalk Economic Development Corporation At a time when Business Retention and Expansion efforts are more important than ever, and state grants and financing are not easy to come by, Huron County, the City of Norwalk and New Horizons Baking Company were big winners in the Ohio Department of Development’s Industrial Site Improvement Fund award announcements on June 25. Sheena Metzger of the Ohio Department of Development contacted the community on Friday and stated that Huron County’s Norwalk Rail Spur Development Project was awarded $220,000 in grant funds and financing assistance from the State of Ohio and the Ohio Rail Development Commission. The Norwalk Economic Development Corporation and Huron County Development Council worked together to secure this grant and financial assistance on behalf of Huron County, the Norwalk Rail Spur Development Project and New Horizons Baking Company. Ellen Heinz, Director of Norwalk Economic Development Corporation, said these funds will enable New Horizons Baking Company to have one of their highest commodities transported in via rail, saving the company a great deal of money on logistics and providing them with the opportunity to make this additional long term investment in their Norwalk facility, benefiting the entire Huron County community. The grant and loan dollars complement the substantial financial match already committed to the project by New Horizons Baking Company. “New Horizons Baking Company is very grateful for being awarded a total of $220,000 in Grant and funding assistance for the Norwalk Rail Spur Development Project,” said Trina Bediako, Executive Vice President of New Horizons Baking Company. “Flour is the primary commodity used in our baking business. On average we use approximately 650,000 pounds per week. During these challenging economic times, it has become even clearer that we have to purchase and transport all of our production materials and ingredients in the most cost effective means possible.The completion of this project will allow us to be more competitive in our flour purchasing and to have better control of costs for transport and delivery of flour.” “We have been an active part of Huron County for over 40 years,” she added. “To be blessed to continue to grow our business and provide employment in a supportive community with exceptional leadership is all an employer can ask for.” “I was extremely happy to hear of the state’s investment in this project and New Horizons Baking Company,” said Norwalk Mayor Sue Lesch. “We are so fortunate to have them here in Norwalk. I am impressed with their quality products, and their commitment to their employees and the community. And we are delighted to partner with them on this important project.” The State of Ohio created the Industrial Site Improvement Fund, a pilot grant program initiated in 2004, to help invest in infrastructure growth in Ohio communities. According to Heinz, county and city resources pulled together seamlessly to apply for this assistance. As the Huron County Development Council did not yet have a new director in place, Council President Gary Mortus of Ohio Edison, Norwalk Economic Development Corporation Director Ellen Heinz and New Horizons Baking Company’s Operations Manager Mike Porter worked together with a very tight timeline to complete and submit Huron County’s application before the March 31 deadline. Director of Public Works Josh Snyder was also very instrumental in the process, as well as numerous others who contributed their time and efforts throughout the county. The Huron County Commissioners and Norwalk Mayor Sue Lesch were in full support of applying for the state funds, and were very responsive to the timing of the application. Huron County Commissioner Gary Bauer was very glad to hear of the announcement and commented, “It’s great that we are getting help from the state for economic development in Huron County. We are also very pleased that New Horizons Baking Company is making the commitment to move ahead with the project. This helps us keep one of our stronger businesses and their employees here in Huron County.” “We appreciate more than ever the assistance from the State of Ohio and the Ohio Rail Development Commission. Their support and financial investment will enable this project to move forward quickly,” stated Heinz. She added, “Huron County and the entire Norwalk community should be excited and appreciative of the ISIF grant award. During these difficult economic times, it is impressive that the amazing attributes, potential and tenacity of this community did not go unnoticed by the State of Ohio. This is the first Industrial Site Improvement Fund grant Huron County has been awarded since 2005. It is a huge win for our community.” The new Huron County Development Council Director Alex Beres commented, “This affirms a recognition by the State of our area’s industrial perseverance, and is a viable investment in infrastructure. I’m very grateful for the hard work from Ellen, Gary, and New Horizons who did the heavy lifting for this project before I was here.” INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY Fully-leased, incomeproducing property for sale Long-term tenants include Verizon Wireless Real estate only - businesses not for sale NORWALK COMMONS 1-acre outlot for sale In front of Premiere Theatre Adjacent to new Bob Evans Also available: units up to 2,400 sq. ft. for lease Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher Visits Norwalk for Manufacturers’ Appreciation Day When Norwalk Area Manufacturers’ gathered for “Manufacturers’ Appreciation Day” earlier this year, Lt. Governor Lee Fischer spoke to over 26 local manufacturers who were in attendance. The event was well-received by all who attended. Following Manufacturers’ Appreciation Day, the Norwalk Area Manufacturers had an initial brainstorming meeting and determined there is a need and interest for area manufacturers to meet on a bi-monthly or quarterly basis to share resources, best practices, and create a Manufacturers Council. The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for late this month. Kula Hoty Lynch (800) 416-4689 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 9 Disinheriting a child By Jeff Roth Periodically, clients will reluctantly ask the question, “Can I disinherit my child?” This will open an emotional discussion that may be very necessary but also very traumatic. Clients will ask this question for several reasons. Some may think disinheriting a child is cruel and self-centered on the part of the person signing the document but most times their reasoning is sound. Before judging, consider the various reasons for this decision. 1. The child has a severe physical or mental handicap that will require a nursing home or total care upon the parent’s death. The child’s share can be protected for future personal use. 2. The child has an addiction or emotional problem. If the child was to receive the funds directly, the funds would certainly be dissipated within a short period of time. 3. The child is a compulsive gambler or has extreme debt. Receiving a large inheritance at one time may result in the child’s self-destruction and again immediately lose whatever he stood to inherit. 4. The child is in a very bad marriage and without proper planning; your assets will be the subject of a divorce order. 5. There is a child out there that you know to be yours but is not part of the main family unit. If this child is your natural child he or she has all of the same rights as your acknowledged children. 6. You have not seen or heard from your child for ten years and for whatever reason you will not hear from him. It is amazing how he will mysteriously appear shortly after your funeral. 7. You simply have never related to each other and you have each gone different directions. The child would probably not want anything from you but there is always his spouse looking out for the grandchildren. 8. Your child is independently secure and would prefer to see his siblings have his share rather than increase the size of his estate. CAN I DISINHERIT MY CHILD? Yes you can. Merely leaving him or her out of the will or trust does this. There is no requirement that the child be given one dollar or some small amount. It is very important though that you state his or her name and that you have intentionally left this child out of the final distribution. You do not need to give a reason. If you fail to mention his name at all, then he could challenge the document and state that you must have forgotten he was your child and that he should receive his equal share along with the other children. WOULD A WILL DO THIS? The provision for disinheriting a child can be placed in a will though this is not the recommended vehicle. A will is filed in probate court and is subject to final approval from the probate judge. The probate rules give many rights to the child and opens the door to a will contest. The child can create a major headache for the executor and the family. If enough money is involved and the right attorneys are employed, a real nightmare can arise. Many times the executor will pay the child to dismiss his claim rather than spend a large sum of money to fight. In the end, the child receives money and your wishes are not fulfilled. WHAT DOCUMENT SHOULD I USE? A revocable trust is the preferred document. It is not under the authority of the probate court and is a much harder document to challenge. It is still important to mention the child and make it clear that you fully intended to not distribute any assets to this child. CAN I TAKE ANY FURTHER STEPS TO INSURE THAT MY DECISION IS NOT CHALLENGED? Yes, you should add a “No contest clause.” This section openly states that if the child attempts to challenge the document in any matter then he shall inherit nothing. Some people give this child a small token or a Legal noticeably unequal share. The child is taking a major chance in challenging the document. He would have received his stated inheritance but if he were to challenge the document, he would also lose what he was to receive. The document states that if the child challenges the trust, he shall be treated as if he had predeceased the parent and receive nothing. HOW CAN I PREVENT MY DISINHERITED CHILD FROM SUCCESSFULLY CONTESTING MY PLAN? You cannot stop the child from trying, but you can make his desired result hard to accomplish. If you anticipate a challenge, then be very careful and complete in your execution. Have a doctor examine you and witness the signing. Videotape the actual signing and have the attorney or doctor ask you all of the relevant questions to indicate that you made a conscious informed decision. Have several witnesses. This may seem extreme but it will probably prevent the child’s challenge when he finds out what steps you have taken. There are many real and legitimate reasons to disinherit a child. Your children all have a different relationship with you. It is important to treat them equitably not necessarily equally. The will or trust is to reflect your true feelings and plan. One final caution, if you have disinherited a child, the burden is on you to correct the document if circumstances change. If it was done purely out of emotion, time may cure the cause but the will or trust will be honored unless it is formally changed. Jeff Roth is a partner with Forrest Bacon and David Bacon of the firm ROTH and BACON with offices in Port Clinton, Upper Sandusky and Marion, Ohio. Mr. Roth is also licensed and practices in Florida. His practice is limited to wealth strategy planning and elder law in both states. Nothing in this article is intended for, nor should be relied upon as individual legal advice. The purpose of this article is to help educate the public on concepts of law as they pertain to estate and business planning. Jeff Roth can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (telephone: 419-732-9994; cell: 419-261-8513) copyright@Jeffrey P. Roth 2009. M E D I C A L C E N T E R F I S H E R - T I T U S Award-Winning Healthcare Ranked Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Outstanding Patient Experience™ by HealthGrades 2009/2010 Fisher-Titus Medical Center is the recipient of The 2009/2010 Outstanding Patient Experience Award by HealthGrades, a leading independent health-care ratings company. This prestigious ranking is further assurance that at Fisher-Titus, our patients are more than just “numbers” to us. They are our neighbors, friends and families and we are proud to provide them with the outstanding personal care they deserve and have come to expect at FTMC. We thank our employees, physicians and volunteers for the dedicated and compassionate care they provide everyday to our patients. And we thank you — our community members — for choosing Fisher-Titus Medical Center as your health-care provider. www.ftmc.com 10 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Huron County Visitors Bureau Enters Year Two Submitted by Melissa James Executive Director Norwalk-Huron County Chamber The Huron County Visitors Bureau is just entering its second year of existence and it has been a good start. Showcasing what Huron County has to offer, not only to visitors but to area residents as well, has been fun and rewarding. We started out the year by exhibiting in Columbus at the AAA Great Vacations Expo, nearly 2,000 information packets have gone out, plus the web site is up and continually expanding as more people become aware of the program. Mid June found more than 2600 bicycle riders converging on Norwalk for the start of the week long GOBA ride which made a 300 mile loop and returned to Norwalk the following weekend. We were also pleased to be at the Summit Motorsports World Nationals in June to help race fans with local information. The community calendar has become a favorite of Web visitors and offers our small community groups another avenue of exposure for numerous community festivals and activities. Another project underway is the recording of short videos at each of our museums in the county, which are then posted on our web site. There are also several 360 Virtual Tours; two show the Veterans Memorials in Norwalk and Monroeville. Features such as these allow families that may be in other states or countries the opportunity to stay connected to family roots; share with children where mom and dad grew up, etc. Recently the Chamber brought Dan Rood on board to focus on marketing the bureau. Not only will Dan promote the bureau to area businesses but he’ll also work to spread the word to tour groups and others that may be interested in the many assets Huron County has to offer. The more participation by our businesses the more attractive Huron County will be to potential visitors and area residents. We are excited to work with surrounding communities and chambers to bring greater opportunities to the county-wide business community. For more about the Huron County Visitors Bureau, contact Dan Rood at the office, 419-668-4155, or log onto the Web site mentioned above and e-mail us. “People ask me, why I give so much TIME to the hospital. It’s because everyday, they give BACK to me, my family and community. And on Monday, July 21 , 2008, they gave me my life BACK. So, for me, it’s been TIME well in vested.” - Dwight Hogue Having the time of his life My Life - My Hospital - My CHOICE Life-Saving Care You Can Trust 24-7 Dwight Hogue, center, is surrounded by the people who saved his life. (L to R) Heather Swecker, RN; Tina Smith, LPN; Roger Garcia, DO, JD; and Michelle Garcia, RN, CEN Dwight has given his time as a member of the hospital's Board of Trustees for 17 years. 1400 W. Main Street • Bellevue, Ohio • 419.483.4040 419.341.1117 w www.aha4creative.com e This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it t www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 11 As a member of an Ohio electric cooperative, you not only have access to energy, but to valuable information, resources and energy expertise – all to help keep your business running efficiently. As your partner in energy, your local cooperative offers assistance with energy audit funding, benchmarking data, and engineering expertise through its Ask an Expert hotline and online services, all to help improve your company’s energy efficiency. Contact your local cooperative or visit www.buckeyepower.com for more information. OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES 12 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Norwalk-Huron County Chamber: Don’t Miss Out on this Valuable Resource Submitted by Melissa James Executive Director Norwalk-Huron County Chamber The Norwalk-Huron County Chamber of Commerce has been busy so far this year and the remainder of 2009 looks to be equally so. The activity level in our Small Business Development Center office has stayed steady with business owners from every industry utilizing this valuable service. Certified Business Advisor, Tom Moore, is available on Tuesday and Thursday to assist area businesses with everything from updating the business plan to streaming financials, analyzing policies and procedures, employment issues, marketing and more. Contact Mr. Moore to set an appointment either at your place of business or at this office, 419-5251614. The SBDC/Chamber monthly seminars have been well received and this month’s topic will be Government Procurement. Jill Nagy-Reynolds, Director of the PTAC Procurement Technical Assistance Center in Columbus, will facilitate the seminar. The government is the largest consumer of goods and services, someone is supplying them, why not you? Learn how to navigate the maze, how to make the proper contacts, submit bids, etc. Join us on Tuesday, August 18th, 8:00 am-9:00 am in the chamber conference room. The seminar is free and open to all area businesses but we do request you RSVP, 419-668-4155, chamber membership is not required. One of our ongoing projects is located in the basement of the chamber building at 10 West Main Street, Norwalk. The Professional Attire Resource Room opened two years ago in cooperation with the ASSURE THAT THOSE RARE DAYS OUT OF THE OFFICE ARE OUT OF THE ORDINARY. Escape to the water for whatever adventure strikes you, whether that’s fishing, playing or cruising. Visit FreedomBoatClub.com or call 419-797-3000 and see what’s possible when you have a fleet of boats at your disposal and don’t have to maintain a single one. Catawba Island | Port Clinton Membership is just $199.00 per month with a one-time entry fee. United Fund and offers professional clothes free of charge to individuals referred to us by high school guidance councilors, college placement services, job stores or current employers, walk-ins are not accepted. This resource is intended to assist those getting ready to interview or who have changed careers, received a promotion, etc., and do not have the appropriate attire for the situation. With the current economic situation usage of the resource room has increased but thanks to the generosity of our business people we have been able to assist nearly everyone that has been sent our way. The resource room accepts professional clothing in good condition along with all related accessories such as briefcases, umbrellas, etc. Donations are tax deductible. While businesses everywhere are cutting costs the chamber has welcomed many new members this year. Our next information breakfast for those considering chamber membership will be held Wednesday, August 12th, 7:30-8:30am in the chamber office. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, learn what the chamber can do for your business and decide for yourself. Contact the office, 419-668-4155, if you would like to attend. Established businesses as well as start ups are joining to take advantage of the savings an organization such as the chamber can deliver. If you are in this chamber or any chamber, and you do not take advantage of the many discounts offered, if you are not active on a committee or don’t seem to make it to the events, you are missing a huge resource for your business. Don’t assume your business is too big or too small, or that the chamber in your community can’t help you in some way. We (chambers) are all connected to one another by the mere fact of what we do. So if your local chamber doesn’t have the resource they need to help you, they can reach out to a nearby chamber for assistance and we’re all willing to pitch in to serve your business. You just need to keep us in mind. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 13 THE PARTNERSHIP of Firelands Regional Medical Center and University Hospitals Ireland Cancer Center brings you and your loved ones the highest quality distinction in cancer care – now available close to home, where we can work together to cure cancer. 14 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Norwalk City Schools – 2009 State of the District There will be a changing of the guard in the two top spots of the Norwalk City School District. Norwalk native Dennis Doughty has been named superintendent of Norwalk schools, replacing retiring superintendent Wayne Babcanec. Babcanec feels comfortable in turning the reins over. He stated that Doughty is an outstanding administrator with a Doughty proven track record who cares about the community. For the last 10 years, Doughty served as superintendent for Willard City Schools. Doug Crooks, middle school principal from Berlin-Milan, will replace retiring assistant superintendent Michael Gordon. Both Doughty and Crooks come to Norwalk with a wealth of educational experience. Before serving as superintendent at Willard, Doughty served as high school principal at Willard, Norwalk St. Paul and Western Reserve. Previous to his stints as principal, he was a social studies teacher at St. Paul High School and an assistant principal and Crooks athletic director at Monroeville High School. Doughty is excited about returning to Norwalk and keeping the district moving in a positive direction. Besides being the middle school principal at Berlin-Milan for the last eight years, Crooks was the assistant principal at Edison High School from 2000-2001. He taught social studies at Edison from 1987 until 2000. Previous to beginning his career in education, Crooks served in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of Captain. Both Doughty and Crooks take their new posts Aug. 1st. their third annual all-classes reunion on Sunday, August 16, at Norwalk High School on Shady Lane Drive, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. There will be refreshments, exhibits, and entertainment provided by the Norwalk High School Blue Pride Marching Band. Most of all, there will be an opportunity to meet your classmates and friends that you haven’t seen for years. Dress will be casual and there is no cost. Last year, approximately 350 people attended the second all-class reunion. Alumni mingled with old friends and toured the new high school facility. Please take advantage of this opportunity to reconnect with old friends you promised you’d never forget, visit former classmates, and tour the new facilities at Norwalk High School. One-to-One Tablet Project When school begins this fall, all seniors attending Norwalk High School will have tablet laptop computers available to them 24 hours per day. Research shows that when students have use of a personal computer in a one-to-one educational situation that: Student achievement increases; Students’ attitudes towards school improves; Parents’ attitudes towards school improves; Positive relationships are built between teachers and students; Attendance and discipline rates improve; Students access a broader array of learning resources These tablet computers give both the teacher and students the capability of inputting data either by using the keyboard or by “inking” on the actual computer screen utilizing a stylus pen. Norwalk High School staff members have been trained to utilize these tablet computers as part of their daily instruction. Students will have the opportunity to access online textbooks, submit homework and take tests online, and participate in teacherinitiated blogs. Last year, 25 students at Norwalk High school participated in a pilot program involving tablet computers. Students in three advanced placement classes and their teachers were given tablet laptops for the entire year. Students had the tablet available 24 hours per day. Surveys were periodically completed by students to monitor their perception of the project. At the conclusion of the project, most students felt that the tablets affected how well and how much they learned. Organizational skills were directly impacted by the use of the tablets. As one participant stated, “This technology made it easier for me to be organized. It really helped me a lot”. Rarely did students have the need to print worksheets, reports, or assignments. Assignments were submitted electronically. Teachers then could grade and return those assignments electronically in a more expeditious manner. The administration and staff believe that our initial one-to-one project was a success and have every reason to believe that expanding the one-toone project for all of our senior classes will be even more effective. All-Classes Reunion The Norwalk City Schools Alumni Association will hold The care you trust is in your own back yard. in Norwalk: Monday-Saturday (including evening hours) 282 Benedict Ave. Ste B 419-668-9409* in Bellevue: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 1400 W. Main St. Bldg 1, Ste C 419-483-4122 *Phone line opens at 7:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday to schedule sick appointments for all locations www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 15 Retirement & Estate Planning Ten Things You Might Not Have Known About Social Security Douglas Gildenmeister, Senior Vice President, Investments Retirement Plan Consultant The Gildenmeister Wealth Management Group of Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Social Security is a lot like the ozone layer--we all know it’s there now and we count on it being there in the future. Yet most people don’t know much more about it than that. Here’s a short list of interesting facts about Social Security. (1) Social Security benefits do not automatically start coming in the mail the first day of Normal Retirement Age. They must be applied for. The easiest way is to set up an appointment with the local Social Security office or call 1-800772-1213. (2) To get an official statement of all the earnings recorded in your Social Security account, an estimate of your current disability and death benefits, and an estimate of future retirement benefits, fill out a Form #7004 Request for Social Security Statement, obtainable at your local office. (3) If you do not find and correct errors in your Social Security record within 3 years, they become part of your permanent record. Therefore, you might want to check on them every 3 years or so. (4) You can work during retirement, but if you earn too much it will reduce the size of the benefits you are receiving from age 62 up to your Normal Retirement Age. The limits on such earnings are currently $14,160 for 2009. Benefits are reduced by $1 for every $2 that you earn over this amount. After you attain your Normal Retirement Age, you may work as much as you want with no reduction in benefits, although they may become taxable if you earn too much. (5) You can increase the size of your retirement benefit by delaying collecting your benefits and by remaining on the job past full retirement age. This higher benefit comes from extra earnings toward your account and a credit awarded for this patience, ranging from 3% to 8% of your benefit depending on your date of birth. (6) For people born after 1937, Normal Retirement Age will increase. For example, if you were born in 1940, full retirement age is 65 and 6 months; born in 1950, it is 66. Anybody born in 1960 or later will be eligible at age 67. (7) Social Security disability benefits do not continue past Normal Retirement Age. The month before you attain normal retirement age the disability benefits are automatically converted to retirement benefits. (8) There is a limit to the amount of benefits that can be paid on each Social Security record called the Maximum Family Benefit, generally around 150 to 180 percent of the worker’s benefit. If this limit is exceeded, the family benefits are reduced. (9) Ex-spouses, widows and divorced widows may all be eligible for benefits on a spouse’s record. Provided the requirements are met, they may even all be collecting on the same worker’s record. (10) There are two Social Security trust funds: one used to finance retirement and survivors benefits and the other used to finance the disability program. Money not used to pay current benefits is invested only in U. S. Government Treasury bonds. Social Security is a significant resource for many retired individuals. Spend some time with your financial planner learning about what part these benefits should play in your retirement planning future. This material was prepared by Raymond James for use by Douglas Gildenmeister, Senior Vice President, Investments of Raymond James & Associates, Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Old Fort Bank is Pleased to O er a New With the challenging economy, receiving a good return on every dollar is even more important. Preferred Money Market Preferred Money Market 2.00% * APY Requires an Old Fort Bank Checking Account** on balances of $10,000.00 or more Contact your local Old Fort Bank 1-866-347-3440 www.oldfortbank.com Old Fort Bank...making every dollar count! *Minimum opening balance of $5,000.00. Interest compounded and credited monthly. Check writing privileges . Checks, drafts, transfers to another account or to third parties by pre-authorized, automatic or telephone transfers are limited to 6 per month. Variable tiered rates. A $10.00 fee will be assessed - if balance falls below $5,000.00 any day of the month Rates and the resulting annual percentage yields may change at any time at our discretion. Must maintain minimum daily balance of $0.01 to obtain disclosed APY. APY accurateas of July 20, 2009. Rates and tiers are available by visiting Old Fort Bank, by phone or www.oldfortbank.com **If ten checking account transactions are not met during the month your Preferred Money Market account will revert to the current Marquee Money Market rate. Fees could reduce earnings. 16 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net WEATHERING THE TEST OF TIME SINCE 1970 Northwestern Ohio’s Premier Full Service Commercial and Industrial Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractor ANY ROOF - ANY SERVICE - ANY TIME J.B. & Company Inc. 100% Employee Owned service@jbroofing.org PO Box 520, Tiffin, Ohio 44883 Phone 800.472.0969 Take control of your print fleet, and watch your profits and productivity soar! Introducing optimize. manage. improve. anotta erner nc. Maintenance Services PagePilot™ is RS’ new all-inclusive program that gives your business the control to optimize your print infrastructure, manage its print environment and improve e ciency and workflow, all while saving up to 40% annually! Call us today at 800.516.7321 for your no-obligation print assessment. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 17 18 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Main Street Norwalk Receives 2009 National Trust Main Street Accreditation Submitted by Kristie Wert Program Manager Main Street Norwalk has been designated an accredited National Main Street Program for meeting the commercial district revitalization performance standards set by the National Trust Main Street Center. Each year, the National Trust and its coordinating program partners announce the list of accredited Main Street programs that have built strong revitalization organizations that demonstrate their ability to follow the Main Street methodology. The performance of the Main Street Norwalk Program was evaluated in February of this year by Heritage Ohio, which is the coordinating organization for Main Street programs in the state. The day long evaluation, which included all Main Street Advisory Board members, was conducted by Frank Quinn, Associate Director of Revitalization for Heritage Ohio. Quinn commented to the group that he was impressed with the Norwalk program as a whole especially given the fact that they were without staff leadership for the end of 2008. David Gulden, the previous Program Manager, left the post in October of 2008. Kristie Wert, the current Main Street Program Manager, came on board in January. “Being accredited as a National Main Street Program is a very important thing and to have accomplished that without having a manager on staff during the last part of the year, really says a lot about the dedication of the volunteers on our Main Street Advisory Board and our four committees,” commented Wert, “The yearly review process ensures that Main Street Communities maintain their high standards, which means that not every community makes the grade. Our Advisory Board, the uptown businesses, and the community should be very proud of the fact that Norwalk has been accredited for the eighth year in a row.” The ability to market Norwalk as a Certified National Main Street Community gives Norwalk an advantage and puts the City on the national stage. This becomes important in retaining and recruiting businesses and new residents. Many business owners looking to start or relocate a business will look for this accreditation. There are only 38 Main Street Programs throughout the state according to Heritage Ohio statistics. Main Street Norwalk serves the Uptown Norwalk Historic District which includes many of Norwalk’s locally owned businesses. There is no membership fee for district businesses to participate in Main Street Norwalk. The 13 Board members and those that serve on the four committees are all volunteers. For more information on the activities of the program, or to find out how you can volunteer, contact Kristie Wert at 419 660 8696, or visit the Web site at www.mainstreetnorwalk.org. Uptown District is Growing and Worthy of Appreciation Submitted by Kristie Wert Program Manager Main Street Norwalk The Uptown Norwalk Historic District is receiving some well-deserved praise for its growth and revitalization in these troubling economic times. The District has seen great improvements in recent years in the district’s shops. From façade improvements to store expansions, like Robert’s Art Gallery and Hush Little Baby, the district is moving in the right direction. So far in 2009, the District has seen great growth starting with the addition of the Sears store on East Main Street and the relocation of White’s Automotive to Whittlesey Street. In April, Stickman’s II, a videogame specialty shop, opened its doors offering a variety of new and used video games and gaming systems. The new store buys, sells, and trades video games. The Bargain Bin, a shop filled with overstock merchandise is getting return customers from as far away as Clyde and Fremont. “The Bargain Bin is a great example of taking this economy and making the best of it,” says Kristie Wert, Program Manager for the Main Street Norwalk program. “Jennifer Saunders, and her manager Heather Todd, have great people skills and a lot of enthusiasm for the community to combine with the shop. She and her staff have brought several innovative ideas for activities and programs to me already. They are a great addition to our District.” The shop offers a variety of surplus merchandise from department stores and has a constant stream of new merchandise. Another newcomer to the District is The Uptown Café, a Unique Eatery, which opened in late May. Miguel Lugo, formerly of Arpeggio’s pizzeria, owns and operates the restaurant which features ribs, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, pasta, subs, and fish. Uptown Norwalk also boasts service based businesses in the fields of health and fitness, beauty, finance, realty, legal, insurance, and medical/dental that are unsurpassed in the area. The District has some great anchor businesses that work together to help pull other new businesses into the uptown business district; Amish Heirloom Furniture, Colonial Flower Shoppe, Gardner’s SuperValu, LinDale M Broidery and Book Express, Northern Ohio Antique Mall, Excel Bike and Fitness, and Hill’s Interiors to name just a few. The District features some great gathering spaces in Berry’s Restaurant and Sheri’s CoffeeHouse. These business owners care about what is going on in the business district and in the community and they work to promote the City of Norwalk. There is still a need for more and more of these small, locally owned shops and the Uptown Norwalk Historic District is growing, even in this less than stellar economy. It is tremendous to know that Norwalk is earning some respect in the community and people see the benefits to being a part of the Uptown District which has resulted in this great growth in 2009. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 19 speaking it is easier to find a qualified equipment appraiser than a qualified inventory appraiser. That is part of the reason equipment appraisals are less expensive than inventory valuations. Because of the By J. Brian O'Connell abundance of research Barnes Wendling Appraisal Services LLC data available to Aside from buying junk food machinery and equipment appraisers it is less time at the store, how often do you consuming to complete those valuations. Inventory pay for something you don’t think you need? At valuations require more expertise and a thorough least you can pick your poison with junk food. This understanding of company systems and product is not always the case when the bank tells you it is movement to arrive at a conclusion of value. While time for an appraisal. Oftentimes the lender chooses a 50,000 square foot manufacturing plant may take an appraiser from their “Approved” list and engages 2 weeks to appraise, a 50,000 square foot distribution them. Your input might be limited to paying the company can take 4 weeks for an inventory fee. The following guidelines are provided to make appraisal. How much? This is usually the big sure everyone involved has input with the process. motivator for business owners to get involved in Why? You should have a clear understanding why the selection process. The first step is to determine your lender is requiring an appraisal. Is it a new if a “full” appraisal is necessary. Explore the relationship? A renewal? An annual review? Or possibilities of “desktop” or “walk-thru” valuations. have circumstances changed with respect to your borrowing needs. Has the market changed for the product you sell, or the equipment used to manufacture your goods? The answer to why can have an impact on who does the appraisal and the fee. Let’s assume you are having an annual renewal and your credit needs have not changed. Your loan officer may be requesting a full appraisal when a desktop valuation will meet the bank’s needs. Let’s further assume that you have an insurance appraisal that is only a couple of years old. The insurance appraisal will not be acceptable to the bank. However, the appraisal firm that completed the insurance valuation may be qualified to perform a desktop valuation under a liquidation concept that meets the lenders needs and saves you a significant amount of money. Who? Without exception, the appraiser should be accredited. One of the premier organizations for accreditation is the American Society of Appraisers. The Senior designation is referred to as an ASA. If you are trying to use someone other than an appraiser on the bank’s “approved” list, they will need a designation from a credible organization. The bank will try to insist that the appraiser must come from their list, but it is not uncommon to find appraisers who have similar if not better qualifications than the bank’s recommendation. Recognize that it is impossible for the bank to include every appraiser on their list. If you find a firm who you feel will protect your position and still meets the bank’s standards you should negotiate for use of that firm. All the bank is looking for is an accurate valuation from a credible source. It is Terra offers classes that will allow you to worth noting that you will have an uphill battle if balance your home life and your work you are trying to use an appraiser/equipment dealer who has recently sold you some equipment. schedule. Affordable and flexible classes From the lenders point of view, it would be difficult with the assurance of technical support for the dealer to assign a liquidation value which and advising. reflects the appropriate discount from his sales price to you. The equipment dealer is TOO close to the transaction. Inventory vs. equipment valuations: Generally Help! My bank says I need an appraisal Accounting These alternatives can be significant cash savers. The next step is to make sure that you are not paying for a name. If you have a mid-size business you probably don’t need an international appraisal firm. The overhead for these firms is passed along in the form of higher fees. Many times, lenders do not utilize a bidding process to secure a low fee for their customer. They simply call ABC firm and ask, “How much will it cost to appraise the equipment and/or inventory at my client?” If the lender is not willing to bid out the job, the business owner should offer to do it. Keep in mind who is paying for the appraisal. Bid the jobs to qualified firms both on and off the approved list. J. Brian O’Connell is a Principal with Barnes Wendling Appraisal Services LLC. Brian specializes in performing inventory and machinery and equipment appraisals. He has over 30 years of banking and appraisal experience. Reach him at 216.566.9000 or via e-mail at jbo@barneswendling. com. Barnes Wendling CPAs is located at 5002 Timber Commons Drive, Sandusky. To reach Director-in-Charge of this location, Tim Mayles, call 419.626.3627. 866.AT.TERRA www.terra.edu Start Here...Go Anywhere! 20 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Is Leasing Dead? Guest article submitted by Phil Steinle When it comes to new cars, the buyer is truly in the driver’s seat. With U.S. auto sales down more than 35 percent in March compared to the same month in 2008, car manufacturers and dealerships are taking steps to sweeten the deal for potential new car buyers. Want zero percent financing? It’s available. Think the car companies should make your payments or let your return your car if you lose your job? They’ll do that. Looking for cash back or some other enticement? Spending on incentive programs reached an all-time high in March — an average of $3,169 per vehicle. Though dealers are willing to do just about anything to make a sale, there’s one thing some automakers aren’t doing much of these days: Last Fall, Some Automakers Walked Away From Leasing. Will They Be Back? leasing. Both Chrysler Financial and manufacturers had “paid” more for General Motors’ financing arm, these gas-guzzlers than consumers GMAC, practically stopped leasing were now willing to spend on them. last fall, and Ford Credit has cut back The shrinking credit market and on leasing and tightened the terms rising unemployment made on those leases it does issue. unloading those overpriced off-lease For years, manufacturer-subsidized vehicles and selling new ones even leases with high residuals allowed more difficult, leading to tens of consumers to lease vehicles for less billions of dollars in losses for the big each month than they would pay on three. a loan to buy the car outright. The Industry-wide, leases are dwindling. carmakers’ captive finance companies In the decade preceding the current made money off the interest, and the “credit crunch,” about 18 to 25 dealer was all but guaranteed a new percent of new car sales were leases. deal at the end of the lease term, But in the first six weeks of 2009, when the customer would enter into leases accounted for less than 14 a new lease or purchase the vehicle. percent of new vehicle purchases. a But what once appeared to be a But leasing isn’t dead. The financing “win-win” situation fell apart for arms of foreign-based automakers manufacturers last year. Soaring gas continue to offer subsidized leases. prices led to a sharp decline in resale Leasing at Honda is up four AM Page 1 Land Auction northcoast:Layout 1 7/27/09 9:44 percent value (and a drop in demand) for this year compared to the fourth trucks and SUVs. quarter of 2008. For luxury brands, Through high residual values in leasing has grown even more. leases issued years earlier, dealers and According to J.D. Power and Associates’ Power Information Network, leases currently account for more than half of new sales at BMW, Infiniti, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz. With gas prices down about 50 percent and demand for larger vehicles returning, GM in January announced plans to return to leasing in 2009. Mark LaNeve, GM’s sales chief for North America, said leasing could grow to five to ten percent of the company’s sales, as compared to 20 to 25 percent years ago. Manufacturers are focusing on cars, not trucks or SUVs. So for consumers, at least, there may be a silver lining: As carmakers vie for each and every sale, they’re turning up the heat on the competition. Phil Steinle can be reached at www.steinlecars.com or contact him directly: 419-625-0055 or phil@ steinlecars.com. LAND AUCTION Thurs., SEPT. 17, 2009 @ 6:07 pm 31.271± ACRES w/Woods Offered in 2 Tracts or Combination Dickinson Street Fremont, Ohio For all your Business Needs • Awards Banquets • Golf Outings • Business Meetings • Sales Seminars • Lunch and Dinner Meetings • Weddings For information, contact Tom Smerillo at 419-625-5394 Membership not Required Zoned B2 General Commercial in the City of Fremont Utilities Available Parcel # 34-60-00-0377-00 Selling to the highest bidder at Absolute Auction. PROPERTY LOCATION: Dickinson St., East of the Kmart parking lot and North of Journey’s Amusement Center. AUCTION LOCATION: Sandusky Co Fairgrounds – 901 Rawson Ave Fremont, OH in Jon’s Dream Barn. Auction by order of Sandra K. Overmyer Successor Trustee of the Longanbach Living Trust For Terms & Info: Dickinson Street POND Tract 1 12.8± Acres w/woods 60’± frontage SR 19 North- Oak Harbor Road www.bakerbonnigson.com Office: 419-547-7777 K-MART Tract 2 18.471± Acres 600’± frontage 1315± depth Journey’s Family Amusement Center PLUM BROOK COUNTRY CLUB 3712 Galloway Rd., Sandusky • www.plumbrookcc.com WILLIAM BAKER & KEN BONNIGSON, CAI Auctioneers US 20 By-Pass around Fremont www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 21 Huron County Safety Council – Training can keep workers safer, costs down Submitted by Melissa James Executive Director Norwalk-Huron County Chamber Safety Councils throughout Ohio provide area businesses with access to important safety training and information; act as a link to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Division and Hygiene and provide network of resources amongst safety professionals. The Huron County Safety Council, sponsored locally by the Norwalk-Huron County Chamber of Commerce, has more than ninety members. Recently, the HCSC Steering Committee announced a format change for the 2010 fiscal year that begins July 1st. Through the evaluation of injury/accident reports, the committee determined the council needed to bring more industry-specific presentations to the membership. To do this the council has been divided into four categories, construction, general risk, manufacturing, and service and each division will meet monthly. These smaller division meetings will allow the chairpersons the opportunity to assess what safety topics are needed by the businesses and then bring those presentations to the members. Industry-focused presentations will provide tightly focused topics as opposed to broad, general topics, allow for more in-depth study of those topics, and provide assistance with policy creation and program implementation for the individual businesses. Area businesses need to be cautious about cut backs where safety is concerned, especially considering the current economic situation. Doing more with less, while a step most businesses have taken, may mean you have put someone in a position they are not familiar with, did you take the time to provide the safety information to them? Do not assume that because they have been with the company for years they will automatically know the proper procedures or the dangers associated with the different position. A few minutes of training could prevent a valued employee from injury as well as helping you to keep your workers’ comp cost at a minimum. For more information on the Huron County Safety Council log onto www. N o r w a l k A r e a C h a m e b r. c o m / safetycouncil or contact the chamber office at 419-668-4155. Beach bummers welcome. Magruder Hospital’s New On-Site Urgent Care Sprains • Simple Cuts • Burns • Eye Injuries • Flu • Ear Infections Located within the emergency department 7 days a week • Holidays included Noon - 7:30 pm 615 Fulton Street • Port Clinton, OH 43452 • 419-734-3131 www.magruderhospital.com 22 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Legislative Reception at Terra Draws Federal, State and Local Elected Officials Area legislators were on hand this morning for an informational reception at Terra Community College to discuss national and state issues. It was the sixth consecutive year for the event that drew United States Congressman Robert Latta and State Senator Mark Wagoner. Campus president, Dr. Marsha Bordner, opened the morning program with a recap of the summer term enrollment increase that has significantly added more students to the classrooms. The headcount for summer has increased by nearly 37% with the FTE (Full Time Equivalency) surging ahead by 57%. Those numbers are only the precursor of things to come for fall term according to Dr. Bordner, as the enrollment for the August 24th start date is up by 33% in headcount and nearly 37% in FTE. Terra’s good news was overshadowed by bleak budgetary and fiscal news from Washington, D.C. and Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Wagoner’s overview of the recently approved state budget was reflective of the significant decline in tax revenue received in Columbus. The decline, according to Mr. Wagoner, is the lowest since the Great Depression. Higher education has, for the most part, been spared the massive cuts other agencies have taken in the biennium budget. Nonetheless, the budgetary hits taken by higher education have opened the door for lifting the two year tuition freeze mandated by Columbus in 2007. Mr. Wagoner reflected on all the positive accomplishments that have taken place in the General Assembly, including working to make college credits more easily transferred between higher education institutions and containing the cost of an education in Ohio. With the new budget, colleges and universities are capped at 3.5% tuition increases per year. And, on an equally worrisome front, Congressman Latta explained that manufacturing jobs in US Ohio’s 5th District Congressman have decreased at such Robert Latta an alarming rate that they now represent the fifteenth largest manufacturing base in the United States rather than the ninth. And, in his estimation, “ We’re in for some tough, tough times.” The dramatic decrease of local high paying manufacturing jobs not only is detrimental State to local economies but Senator also to the tax revenue Mark collected nationally. Wagoner “Our dependence on foreign loans doesn’t bode well for any American citizen,” Latta said. In addition to comments by elected officials present, Terra administrators provided information about new programs, campus facility upgrades, and collaborations and partnerships. Fish Ohio! By Angie Adair Ohio’s first lady pulled in five fish Monday during the 31st annual Governor’s Fish Ohio Day. While Gov. Ted Strickland was in budget meetings in Columbus, his wife Frances with Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher, U.S. Sen. George Voinovich and others reeled in keepers totaling 472 pounds. The elected and state wildlife officials and members of the press headed out with local charter captains to enjoy the area’s biggest resource. “We have an asset in Ohio other states wish they had,” said Fisher, who also said this event is his favorite of the year. “That water is the future of Ohio,” said Voinovich, who has been fighting what he calls “the second battle of Lake Erie” throughout his career. He has worked to push through the Great Lakes Compact, which keeps control of the water in the hands of the eight states bordering the lakes, and is working to halt invasive species through ballast legislation. Larry Fletcher, executive director of the Ottawa County Visitors Bureau, caught a 28-inch, 7-pound fish, to help bring that boat’s total to 72 pounds. Mayor Debbie Hymore-Tester caught six fish. But it’s not about the totals for everyone. “It’s the memories that are created out here,” said Sean Logan, director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. And according to Chief of the Division of Wildlife Dave Graham, Ohioans agree. Ohio's first lady Frances Strickland poses with her walleye during the Governor's Fish Ohio Day on Lake Erie. “We’ve seen a resurgence in families fishing,” he said. “We’ve seen the biggest upswing in fishing licenses in my career.” Each participant left the luncheon at the Lake Erie Islands Regional Welcome Center that followed the fishing outing with a bag of fish. And the “first angler and first lady,” as Logan dubbed her, promised to go home with pride. After not catching any fish last year, the governor will definitely hear about his wife’s successful catch. “I got my walleye,” she said. “I can tell Ted all about it with the biggest grin.”            Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher, ODNR Deputy Director Tony Celebreeze, Ohio Tourism Director Amir Eylon nad Executive Director of Lake Erie Shores & Islands West, Larry Fletcher.         www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 23 Netbook: Finally, Something New in a PC! By Don Knaur Netbooks are the hottest selling item in today’s PC market. The experts expect to see Netbook total sales to be over 30,000,000 units this year. With an average cost of over $300, that will equal over $9 Billion, which is an impressive sales figure in a slow economy. Why are they so popular? They can do almost everything that most people want a notebook to do at two-thirds of the cost and one-third of the weight. They can also do it for twice as long without being plugged in. Let’s examine this in depth. Netbooks come with Windows XP Home as their operating system. Meanwhile most Notebooks come standard with Windows Vista. This is a big plus for the Netbook in this writer’s eyes. However, the fact is that, due to size constraints, Netbooks cannot support the processor speed and graphics adaptors needed to keep Vista from crawling. Netbooks come with 1 GB RAM upgradeable to 2 GB. Notebooks come with 1-2 GB RAM upgradeable to 4 GB. But who needs more than 1GB RAM with Windows XP? Netbooks do have a much smaller screen than a notebook. Netbook diagonal screen measurements vary from 6.1” to 12.1” with 10.1” being the most popular size. Today most Notebook screen measurements range from 14” to 17”. Most Netbooks weigh around 2.5 pounds as compared to Notebooks that range from six to eight pounds. Gee, which one would you want to carry around? The battery charge on a Netbook ranges from six to nine hours, while most Notebooks last about three hours. Once again, Netbooks sound like a winner. The most popular Netbook hard drive size is 160 GB, while 250 GB is a very popular size for a Notebook hard drive. (Most people could actually survive with 40-80 GB hard drives.) Netbooks do not have an optical (CD or DVD) drive while most notebooks have a DVD-RW drive. This is a problem if you want to add software to your Netbook. However, it is easily overcome by use of an external drive or by sharing of an optical drive on one of your other PC’s. The other day, I had a friend with a new Netbook, who needed to install PageMaker on it so she could develop the program for her 60th high school reunion. She brought her Netbook and CD to my house and I had her program installed and working in less than ten minutes by using the CD-ROM in my PC. Both Netbooks and Notebooks come standard with wireless networking built in. This allows you to take advantage of all of the free Wifi Hotspots that are available. Actually with the extended battery life of the Netbook, it could be terrific. The most popular Netbook Processor speed is 1.6 GHz, while Notebooks can have up to a core 2 quad 2.0 GHz processor, which means it has finished any calculation you can think of before you thought of it. However, the Netbook running Windows XP will probably do everything you want it to as fast or faster than a high end Notebook running Vista. That is because no matter how quickly a calculation is made, it isn’t available until it is displayed on the screen, so both processors will appear to perform equally. So what does all this mean to you? If you need portable IT computing, but don’t need to be able to play DVD’s or CD’s and are not a “Gamer,” then you would probably be wise to think about a new Netbook. Warning: to those of you like me that can easily hit four keys with one stroke on a standard keyboard, Netbooks may be hazardous to your sanity. Ohio, a complete computer service center, located in Suite A of the Courtlee Interiors’ Building, 2499 W. Market in Tiffin. Don has a degree in Computer Programming from Tiffin University and has been an Information Technology Professional for over 20 years. He started Help-Desk, Ohio in the spring of 1996 and opened his shop in March 2001. Don Don is the CWO (Chief Working Officer) of Help-Desk, welcomes calls for advice or information at 419-448-8020. Dan Giebel 24 Ausugt 2009 North Coast Business Journal or simply settling for one alternative or the other… to produce a synthesis that is superior to either opposing idea.” He introduces us to a number of these leaders, some of whom are very familiar to Americans, and uses their example to demonstrate how anyone can build up their capacity for integrative thinking. KEY LEARNINGS: • Using the example of A.J. Lafley, innovative CEO of Proctor and Gamble, Martin describes the pressure many leaders feel to make tough trade-off decisions. As an integrative thinker, Lafley is able to resist either-or propositions by holding mental space for the two opposing ideas and not becoming upset by the tension. By simply holding off on making the decision, he patiently gives himself time to create an additional option that satisfies the interests of both sides. • The growth of Four Seasons Hotels is an example of how a leader avoided choosing between existing models for hotels – small and homelike with excellent personalized services vs. large with many amenities but lacking personal feel – and created a new model with excellent results. The steps for such decision-making are: 1. Determine which facts are relevant (or salient) to the decision, 2. Consider how the facts relate to each other, 3. Choose a process for deciding, and 4. Decide • Bob Young of Red Hat Software found that by recognizing the difference between reality and mental models, he was able to develop a new model for distributing software that became highly profitable. By being clear that neither of the limited options being presented to him were “real” and by accepting some of the salient facts underpinning each, Young was able to live with the messiness of indecision until the new model he sought occurred to him. He made millions. • Effective leaders understand that creativity springs from complexity… rather than from simplicity. They are therefore able to overcome the anxiety of having too much information before them and allow for a decision’s entire context to be part of the thought process. Says Martin, “Complexity doesn’t have to be overwhelming, if we can master our initial panic reaction and look for patterns, connections, and causal relationships.” • Over the course of life and work experience, a www.ncbj.net person develops their “stance,” a mental model of “how things are.” Our stance shapes not only how we approach problems, but even what facts and considerations we will consider salient. Unchecked and unrecognized, this knowledge system can lead individuals into self-reinforcing narrow positions. Such a pattern can be consciously broken by those who study and practice the habit of integrative thinking. • Victoria Hale created something new - a not-forprofit pharmaceutical company - after cultivating the six stances of an integrative thinker: - Existing models do not represent reality; they are our constructions. - Opposing models are to be leveraged, not feared. - Existing models are not perfect; better models exist that are not yet seen. - I am capable of finding a better model. - I can wade into and get through the necessary complexity. - I give myself the time to create a better model. • Dr. Martin also describes a process he calls “generative reasoning” which inquires into what might be rather than into what is or has been. A firm grasp of causal relationships and system dynamics is necessary for generative reasoning, which results in the creation of new options. • To explore opposing models, integrative thinkers employ assertive inquiry, sincerely seeking to understand other people’s views, including the facts they find salient, the causal relationships they see, and how they developed their stance. • Given years of experience is a specific field, individuals will develop mastery over its material, including causal relationships and system dynamics. When such mastery is substituted for inquiry into new ideas, or used to shut down the original thinking of others, creativity is limited and options are narrowed. Integrative thinkers embrace both mastery and originality. Cathy Allen is the owner of Creative Option C, LLC, a consulting firm in Port Clinton dedicated to helping groups and organizations invent solutions together. By developing feedback from stakeholders, planning strategically, and taking the time to get everyone on the same page, groups can achieve greater levels of success than they ever imagined – all while bringing projects in under budget. To learn more about how Creative Option C can help you and your organization, call 419732-1770 or check out www.CreativeOptionC.com. Also posted there are additional book synopses and original articles. The Well-Booked Business By Cathy Allen One of the advantages to living on the shores of Lake Erie is the opportunity to watch broadcast television originating in Ontario, Canada. The news, interview programs, and documentaries from another country provide a unique perspective on the world of business. I particularly enjoy a book discussion program called In Conversation with Allan Gregg on TV Ontario, a PBS-like channel out of Toronto. That’s where I first learned about Canadian author Roger Martin and his book about the thinking habits of successful business leaders. Since I have a consulting firm dedicated to the idea that it is always possible to avoid choosing between bad options by creatively inventing good options that satisfy all interests, I was intrigued enough to special order the book. I recently saw it on the shelf at Borders in Sandusky. Good stuff is good stuff, whether it comes from an American author or somewhere else! The Opposable Mind: How Successful Leaders Win Through Integrative Thinking, by Roger Martin, Professor of Business at the University of Toronto, Harvard Business School Press, 2007 SUMMARY: In the course of a career spent interviewing and studying successful business leaders and their decision-making style, Professor Martin has discovered that many are inclined toward what he calls “integrative thinking,” which he defines as “hold[ing] two diametrically opposed ideas in [one’s] head. And then, without panicking 10313 Milan Rd., Milan Newly listed St. Rte. 250 manufacturing, office & warehouse bldgs for sale offering 6,136 s.f. office & 16,420 s.f. mfg space on 1.76 acres. Located near Ohio Turnpike & St. Rte. 2 720 Townline Rd. 151, Norwalk Multi bldg site offering 14,800 s.f. industrial bldg w/office space & second building offering office and storage area. Situated on 1.45 acres near St. Rte. 250 Jake’s AutoCare Earns Exceptional Rating Norwalk’s Jake’s AutoCare Inc has received an exceptional rating in the NAPA AutoCare Customer Service Index Program for the second quarter of 2009. This program is conducted by the National Automotive Parts Association and is an evaluation of the service strengths and weaknesses of AutoCare Centers. The evaluation is based on surveys in which customers are asked questions regarding their opinion of quality of service received. The survey includes questions regarding efficiency, knowledge and attitude of personnel as well as service satisfaction. The National Automotive Parts Association considers 90% positive responses to be a good rating although the National Average for the quarter was 99.27%. Jake’s AutoCare received a positive rating of 99.88% for the quarter. This is the 57th quarter in which Jake’s has received an exceptional rating. Edmond A. Hoty (419) 433-1144 www.edhoty.com www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 25 Janotta & Herner Building Dorms in Harrisburg, Pa. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. All railroads have trains that, once at their destination, need facilities to house their crews until their next run. MSI owns and operates 19 such facilities around the nation and has recently worked with JHI to construct facilities in both Bellevue, Ohio and Peru, Indiana. These dormitories also include restaurants that serve the railroad crews and the public as well. The Pennsylvania project will house 60 people and include a 50 seat restaurant. Another Reason to Believe MSI (Motel Sleepers Incorporated) of Little Rock, Arkansas, has chosen Janotta & Herner Inc. of Monroeville, Ohio to build their newest Railroad Dormitory near in Mercy Hospital of Willard. JHI Ahead of Schedule — Celebrates Christmas in July On July 24th, Janotta & Herner Inc. of Monroeville, celebrated their fifth annual “Christmas in July” program. This new concept in corporate charitable giving takes the funds that were previously used for December Christmas gifts to clients and divides it between various charities in the communities in which JHI operates. At a presentation ceremony held at the JHI offices, nine area United Ways and the Bellevue Selective Fund shared a total of $5,000.00 in the name of Janotta & Herner and their numerous clients in these communities. The majority of the monies donated to these charities, goes directly back into the local communities. All charities are working hard for donations, but during the Christmas season most charitable giving increases. Unfortunately the needs don’t go away in the summer when most charitable giving is at a low. Ken Schafer President of Janotta & Herner, thanked the United Way Directors for the hard work they perform in their respective communities. “For many years, members of your communities have placed their trust in our company by allowing us to build their projects. We feel an obligation to give back to those communities and help you in the effort to assist your area agencies through these challenging times,” said Schafer. Mercy Hospital of Willard welcomes Riverside Radiology Associates to the Mercy Family Riverside Radiology (RRA), based in Columbus, Ohio, is comprised of over 60 sub-specialized, board certified, and fellowship trained radiologists. They will provide an on-site radiologist at Mercy Willard and teleradiology coverage for diagnostic interpretation of x-ray, CT, PET/CT, MRI, nuclear medicine, mammography and ultrasound procedures. Radiologists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. RRA radiologists have a national reputation for producing detailed and decisive reports in specialized areas, including neuroradiology, musculoskeletal and body imaging. RRA is contracted with every major insurance plan in Ohio including Medical Mutual of Ohio, UHC, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. RRA participation covers over 95% of Ohio’s covered lives. For more information about Riverside Radiology Associates, or the radiology services at Mercy Hospital of Willard, please contact Barb Fry, Radiology Manager, at 419-954-5558. mercyweb.org Pictured are United Way representatives in attendance, along with JHI Project Managers and Senior Staff. © 2009 Mercy Health Partners 26 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net simply reminds the customer as to the financial benefits that HE (the customer) pointed out during the conversation regarding solving the customer’s problem. If the salesman is fighting decision procrastination, the salesman again can remind the customer of the benefits he will derive with the salesman’s solution. A simple question like, “you told me that you would save $XXX by solving this problem. By delaying you delay or miss the opportunity to save those $$. Can you please share with me why you would want to delay gaining these savings?” You will either get the order or find out what is holding him back so you then can address that issue as well. A salesman has two key items going for him/her. He has his time and his product or his services. Buyer’s remorse and decision procrastination eats up one of these important items. Protect your time by investing some time up front to build both the emotional and logical side of your sale. Good luck and good selling! Roger Bostdorff is the President of B2B Sales Boost. He spent over 30 years with IBM in sales and sales management. B2B Sales Boost is a consulting company helping organizations improve their sales and overall business processes. You can find more about B2B Sales Boost on the web at www. b2bsalesboost.com or calling 419-351-4347. If you would like to receive the B2B Sales Boost Newsletter please send an email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Buyers Remorse/ Decision Procrastination By Roger Bostdorff There are two types of emotion that is typically required in a Business to Business (B2B) sale. You have the emotional side of the sale and the logical side of the sale. A sale can rarely be made without the emotional side of the equation being fulfilled. A sale sometimes can be made without the logical side of the equation being addressed, however, not for long. The emotional side of the sale is when the buyer wants the product or solution whether it is logical or not. The new red convertible when you turn 45 and are having a midlife crisis, the large screen plasma so you can watch football on Sunday as though you are actually there or the dress that is two sizes to small because it was the size you wore when you were 25. (Yes, ladies you too do this) These are emotional buys. However, when you are buying a product or service for your business you may have other reasons emotionally to purchase. You like the salesman, the Sales salesman is a relative of a friend, the company is associated with someone that is famous, etc. Unfortunately, many times when a salesman makes a sale for these reasons shortly after the sale is consummated the buyer starts having second thoughts. This is called buyers remorse. If in the sales process the salesman did not address the logical side of the sales process he runs the risk of buyers remorse coming into the picture and the sale gets killed or at a minimum the decision is delayed and the sale cycle is prolonged. So how do you avoid this from happening? The salesman needs to insure he is including the logical side of the sales process as well. The salesman needs to understand what problem he is solving for the customer. He needs to ask the customer why this problem needs to be solved. If the problem is solved, what good things happen for the company? If the problem is not solved, what bad things continue to occur? By the way, how many $$ do these good and bad things represent? Now when the salesman asks for the order not only has he/she accomplished the emotional side but also the salesman has addressed the logical side. If the buyer gets queasy after the sale and buyer’s remorse is trying to set in, the salesman Optimism from Area Firms Submitted by Ellen Heinz, Director The Norwalk Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) was pleased to organize the 6th Annual Norwalk Area Business Appreciation Week earlier this year. It has proven again to be a very effective method of innovative e c o n o m i c development. It is important to note that this program and its success could not continue without the participation of our outstanding local businesses and over 50 volunteers who dedicated their time and effort, making this event a reality. By sending out teams of community and private sector leaders and government representatives to visit with Norwalk area businesses, NEDC’s goal of Business Appreciation Week is to show our appreciation of area businesses and to demonstrate our local community’s commitment to being business‐friendly. Of the 102 companies visited in 2009, over 60% have recently or are planning to expand services, either by offering new services/breaking into new markets, adding new employees or modifying their facilities. Approximately a third of those interviewed reported that their businesses planned to expand in the future, which is similar to the findings in 2008 despite this economy. This appears to illustrate an i n c r e a s e d initiative to expand markets to maintain a competitive edge, although financial resources are more limited. Overall, based on more detailed comments in the areas of concern section than in previous years, it is obvious that business representatives are feeling the impact of negative economic news and the loss of jobs to Huron County residents. Despite the current economic climate, optimism was a reoccurring theme in the comments from area businesses. In 2007, only 17% reported “good economic conditions in our industry,” but this year in 2009, 18% of executives said that their business was doing well. Arts Boosted by Main Street Norwalk Submitted by Kristie Wert Program Manager Promotion of the arts in the Norwalk area is receiving a boost from the Norwalk Area Arts Council, which is currently a part of the Main Street Norwalk program. “The Arts Council was started late last year in an effort to coordinate the many arts activities that take place in our area and to act as a resource for new and existing art opportunities and education programs.” Kristie Wert, Main Street Norwalk Program Manager stated, “When I came on board in January, I felt that the group could benefit by continuing as a part of Main Street.” After a proposal submitted by Wert, the Main Street Norwalk Advisory Board voted to add the Arts Council as a standing committee of the Main Street program. “The group has been awarded a Capacity Building Grant and is currently working on building partnerships with the area art organizations to promote communication,” commented Wert. The grant will be used to fund the initial activities including work with consultant, Michael Morris, former Director of the Midland Theater in Newark, Ohio. “Mike has been a great help from the beginning in helping the group to formalize their mission and direction. He continues to support the group in various ways” Wert said. As part of their mission, the Arts Council plans to develop a calendar where the community can look to see what arts activities there are available in the area. The group hopes that this will become a tool for the arts organizations to use when they are planning events and will help prevent overlapping events. The Arts Council held their first big event, the “Art Walk” , in June. The event took place as part of the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure Street Fair, sponsored by the Norwalk Huron County Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately, weather and other circumstances kept the event from being well-attended. The Art Walk featured 12 area artists from potters and wood turners, to painters and photographers. Twelve Uptown Norwalk Historic District businesses hosted the artists for the event. “We had some great partnering going on with the Arts Council, the artists, and the businesses,” commented Wert. Main Street Norwalk is a program of the Norwalk Economic Development Corporation. Its mission is to preserve, improve, and promote the district of Norwalk as a commercial, cultural, and social center. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal and you would like email and shared calendaring. To accomplish this with a Microsoft Exchange Server, including hardware your initial costs would likely be around $7,000. For most small offices the same functionality through online services can be achieved for around $150/month. The payback time for the Exchange server would be close to four years, not counting any administrative overhead including: patching, server maintenance, troubleshooting hardware failures etc., which should not be overlooked as these costs can be significant over that period of time. It is also likely that a business of this size would not otherwise require a full time IT person. This translates to at least one person in that organization who is not concentrating on core tasks while they are researching and working on email and other technical issues. It is easy to see in this example why this is a good deal for many people. Online services are a no-brainer right? Not quite. In many cases online services are not the best fit. Depending on the specific application, performance can be an issue, especially in rural areas where slow Internet access may prove to be a bottleneck. If the same small business mentioned above has to spend hundreds of dollars a month on Internet access for the sole purpose of accessing these cheaper services, the business case falls apart rather quickly. It’s often not just about the math either. Many businesses require highly customized solutions in order to retain their competitive advantage. This is not normally where online services work out best from a cost perspective. Another reason that online services may not be looked at as a great fit is security. Based on the application, you may not have enough confidence in the specific provider. You may prefer it to reside on your own network because of a fear that you may lose certain sensitive data. In these cases, your business may benefit more from owning your own systems. These systems can reside at your location or it is possible that collocation is an appropriate approach for you. Collocation in this context simply refers to an agreement in which you actually own something (hardware and software) that is being housed by someone else in a dedicated data center, usually to reap the benefits of their technical skills, environmental stability, bandwidth and reliability. Just like the in-house vs. outsourced IT staffing decision, we find that it is often simple to make the right decision for your particular organization. We have found that the answer is simple once you August 2009 27 Online Services Guest editorial submitted by Denao Ruttino, President, Advanced Computer Connections Technology services are critical in today’s businesses. In addition to the normal decisions that need to be made regarding reducing costs, workflow, integration and efficiency today’s decisions are also likely to be about company-owned vs. outsourced solutions. We get quite a few questions regarding whether online services make sense for a particular organization or application. Online services are also often referred to as “Software as a Service” or “SaaS” solutions. At a basic level, online services refer to an offering that you do not buy, install or maintain on your workstations or servers that you own. Instead, you are more or less renting these services from someone who has made these applications available to you, usually from anywhere on the Internet. It is that organization’s responsibility to maintain the hardware, software, etc. and to make it available to you. From YOUR business perspective, online services are simply applications that are someWHERE else, being maintained by someONE else, and available to you over the Internet. Google’s Gmail is a popular free example of this. How does this help you? From an economic perspective, online services can make a lot of sense. As you might expect, current hardware and virtualization technologies make delivering applications to large numbers of users possible in a cost-effective manner. If you have a few users that need to access a specific application, it may make sense to use a service that is available online. As an example from a small business perspective, let’s say that you have 10 email users in your company have the right level of awareness; awareness of the business need, awareness of the available options, and awareness of the financial and technical impact. It sounds simple, and it usually is. Ruttino is the CEO of Advanced Computer Connections located in Norwalk, Ohio. His background includes numerous advanced technical certifications, a Bachelors degree in IT (security), as well as numerous courses in the areas of business and entrepreneurship. You can find out more about Advanced Computer Connections at www.acc-corp.net or by calling 419.668.4080. Mercy Hospital of Willard Achieves HCAHPS Scores Above National and State Averages Based on recently published data, Mercy Hospital of Willard has achieved HCAHPS survey scores above the state and national averages in 9 of 10 categories. HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) is a national, standardized survey of hospital patients measuring their experiences during a recent inpatient hospital stay. “The physicians, nurses, staff and administration at Mercy Hospital of Willard are dedicated to providing the best, most personal care to our patients.” said Lynn Detterman, President and CEO of Mercy Hospital of Willard. “Everyone strives to ensure that our patients are receiving very good care.” An area that Mercy Willard specifically excels in is discharge information. Patients are asked about information they were given as they prepared to be discharged. Patients reported whether or not the hospital staff had discussed additional needs or help they would require once they returned home. Patients also reported whether or not they were given written information about symptoms or health problems to watch for during their recovery. “Discharge planning is available to aid all patients and their families in developing a plan to provide continuing recovery after discharge from Mercy Willard,” said Julie Landoll, manager of social services at Mercy Hospital of Willard. “The social services department is dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives the support they need as they transition from the hospital to their home or extended care facilities.” “Building the North Coast” ild Bu Bu ild nd an na dL sig ea Chamber Discount on Commerical and Health Insurance John K. Flickinger, CIC 30 E. Main St. Norwalk www.flickinger-ins.com 419-668-4406/800-947-3700 De se General Contractors FOCHT CONSTRUCTION 1-888-797-7724 28 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Senior Enrichment Services Erie County Economic Taking Care of Huron County Seniors Senior Enrichment Services is a private non-profit agency that has served and evolved with the seniors of Huron County for over 37 years. With a goal of being the most informative and dependable organizations in the county for mature adults, let them provide you with the i m p o r t a n t information you need. Providing core services of transportation, meals and chore, S e n i o r Enrichment Services has become a source of independence for the seniors of Huron County. Allowing those over 60 to travel within the county borders, receive meals in their homes and having assistance with light housework has allowed many of them to remain in their homes. These services are based solely on need and not on income. Donations are appreciated, but not required and scheduling of services can be made by a simple phone call to the agency. Over that past few years, the agency has adapted to ever changing needs of the more active senior by developing many diverse programs, classes and trips. A few of the classes offered fall into the fine arts category and include stained glass projects, jewelry making, flower arranging, quilting and water color painting. Educational programs can include how to protect yourself from scams, the best ways to invest your money, and healthy and nutritional eating. Trips range from day trips to several days and have included on cruises, Europe, dinner theater, Amish country and gambling. Currently , all activities are open to all adults age 21 and over including the programs and c l a s s e s mentioned above. As the wants and needs of the communities in Huron County continue to grow and evolve, Senior Enrichment Services will be growing and evolving with them. Open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 to 4:30, Senior Enrichment Services has 2 locations to better serve the residents of Huron County. The Norwalk center is located at 130 Shady Lane Dr, Bldg. C, and the Willard center can be found at 315 E Tiffin St. For directions to the centers, or for more details on their programs and services, call 419-668-6245, or 419-933-4701. Development Announces New Executive Director, Board VP, Board Member Erie County Economic Development Corporation is announcing the appointment of Brian T. Coughlin as its new Executive Director. Coughlin was most recently the Director of Economic Development in Butler County, Ohio (Cincinnati area). He is also Past President of the Associated Industries of Missouri, was the Director of State Government Affairs Policy and Planning for BP America, and was the head of federal and state government relations for AK Steel. Coughlin began his duties on July 28 and can be contacted at 419-627-7791 or director@ eriecountyedc.org. Ted Kastor, Director of Business Development for Janotta & Herner Inc. in Monroeville, has been appointed the Vice President of the Board of Directors. Mr. Kastor has been involved in construction in the area for over thirty years. He will complete the term of his predecessor, Dr. James Smith, who has resigned from the board to accept the Presidency at Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Kastor currently is a member of the Perkins Township Zoning Board of Appeals and previously served on the City of Sandusky Board of Zoning Appeals. A graduate of LEAD Coughlin Sandusky, he is active in the United Way Campaign, Sandusky Elks Lodge #285 and Plum Brook Country Club. Mr. Kastor resides in Perkins Township with his wife, Denise. Dr. William K. Balzer will complete the Board term of Dr. James Smith. Dr. Balzer was named dean of BGSU Kastor Firelands, effective July 1, 2009. He is an expert in industrial/organizational psychology. His doctoral degree is from New York University; his master degree is from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and his bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Balzer Ohio Funeral Directors Association Elects John Evans Treasurer Evans has been a funeral director and embalmer in Norwalk area since 1996. As Treasurer, he will continue as a part of the Executive Committee of one of the largest state organizations for funeral directors in the country. With more than 1100 affiliates, accounting for nearly 90 percent of the funeral homes in Ohio, the OFDA provides education, training and professional networking within the industry. Evans’ past positions include OFDA’s North Regional Director, and OFDA Secretary 2008-2009. He is currently a part of the OFDA-Mortuary Response Team including disaster preparedness, Member Services Committee, Education Committee, Task Force Committee and Master Trust Committee. Evans Funeral Home is owned by John and his wife, Jennifer (Traczek) Evans a ‘home-grown’ Norwalk resident and 1987 graduate of Norwalk High School. John and Jennifer are also members of the National Funeral Directors Association among many other Norwalk community-based organizations. Dr. Ehab A. Eltahawy, a board c e r t i f i e d cardiologist, recently joined Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s medical staff and now practices in the University of Toledo (UT) Physicians-Heart and Vascular offices within the FTMC Snyder/ White Heart and Vascular Center in Norwalk. He joins Dr. Daniel Kosinski, who is board certified in cardiovascular diseases and clinical cardiac electrophysiology. Dr. Eltahawy completed fellowships in cardiovascular medicine and interventional cardiology at the University of Toledo-College of Dr. Ehab Eltahawy Joins FTMC Medicine, and is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases and Interventional Cardiology. During his fellowship, he also earned a master’s in public health with an emphasis on epidemiology and advanced statistics from the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University. He earned his medical degree at Ain Shams University, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt and completed his residency in internal medicine at Michigan State University, East Lansing, where he also was elected fourth-year Chief Resident. Dr. Eltahawy and his wife, Dr. Abeer Ahmed, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Bellevue, are parents of four children, including infant twins. In his personal time, he enjoys watching soccer, listening to music and traveling. www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 29 Area CPA Firm Promotes From Within Dana Stahl, founder and CEO of Dana Stahl, CPA, Inc. of Port Clinton and Sandusky, Ohio is pleased to announce the promotion of Laronica S. Priddy, as Marketing Director. A graduate of Terra State Community College, with an Associate of Technical Studies Degree in the fields of Criminal Justice and Social Work, Priddy was recognized during commencement on June 9, 2006 as a member of Phi Theta Kappa Society, Alpha Mu Epsilon Chapter as well as Magna Cum Laude for achieving an outstanding GPA. She went on to become a State Tested Nurse Aid, with an exceptionably high GPA as well. Firelands Director, Materials ACC Promotes Management Earns MBA New Sales Manager Firelands Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that Tina Monarch, CPM, MBA, recently received a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from The University of Toledo. Monarch is the Director, Materials Management at Firelands Regional Medical Center. She has been employed at Firelands for two years and has 26 years of experience. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Administrative Services from The University of Toledo and is a Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM). Tina Monarch lives in Sandusky with her husband Matt. Shannon M. Clark has recently been promoted to Sales Manager for Advanced Computer Connections, Inc. Clark has been an Account Manager with ACC since 2005 and holds a BA in Business Management and Finance from Western Governor’s University. According to company CEO, Denao Ruttino, “Shannon Clark’s experience in business, project management and technology make her an asset to the ACC team and our clients. ACC provides advanced technology solutions including Data Center services to Northern Ohio business customers and has been in operation since 1991. ACC is based out of Norwalk, Ohio. Dan Cobb Receives License Firelands Nurses Achieve Certification Dan Cobb, Project Manager with Janotta & Herner Inc., has passed his Professional Engineer’s licensing exam and is now a Licensed Professional Engineer. Cobb is a 2004 graduate of Ohio University and holds a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering. To be eligible to take the PE test, a Civil Engineering degree holder must work under a Licensed Engineer for a period of at least four years. Cobb has been with Janotta & Herner for five years starting in the field and was promoted to Project Manager in Braden 2006. Dan lives in Sandusky with his wife Laura. F i r e l a n d s Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that C a r m e n Patterson, RN, CRRN and Sharon Braden, RN, CRRN recently obtained the Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) certification, though the Registered Nurse Certification Board (RNCB) of the Association for Rehabilitation Nurses. Carmen Patterson, RN, CRRN has been employed at Firelands Regional Medical Center for 5 years and resides in Sandusky and has three adult children. Patterson Sharon Braden, RN, CRRN has been with Firelands for 5 years and resides in Norwalk with her husband Jerry and three children. Time To geT down To business! Ohio Business College offers programs in: • Accounting • Business Administration • Human Resource Management • Information Technology • Legal Assistant • Medical Administrative Assistant • Web Page Design 1-888-363-3130 www.OBCTraining.com 5202 Timber Commons Dr. • Sandusky, OH 44870 Day and Evening Classes Financial Aid Available for Those Who Qualify Graduate Placement Assistance OH Reg# 97-12-1480B Call today to get started! 30 August 2009 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net Boling Recognized As Certified Dr. James Revelas Earns Master Surgeon Status Healthcare Facility Manager Firelands Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that Darrell M. Boling, Director, Plant Operations has earned the designation of Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) by the American Hospital Association (AHA). The CHFM is a national credential that distinguishes an individual as being among the elite in a critical field of healthcare facility management. Boling has been an employee at Firelands Regional Medical Center for four years and has 15 years of experience in healthcare facilities management. Dr. James Revelas, a board certified podiatrist and member of Fisher-Titus Medical Center’s medical staff, has met the requirements to become a master surgeon in subtalar arthroereisis with the HyProCure™ sinus tarsi implant. He is one of seven master surgeons for this procedure in Ohio. Dr. Revelas achieved master surgeon status by attending a seminar on the procedure, participating in case study presentations, a cadaver workshop, passing a written exam on subtalar arthroereisis and successfully inserting 10 HyProCure™ implants. Dr. Revelas is a diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Thomas Receives Accreditation Perry Dryden, President of Battles Insurance Agency, Inc., has announced that Andy Thomas has received the accredited Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation. The CIC program offers national recognition and professional designation to those who successfully complete five intensive CIC courses including Agency Management, Commercial Casualty, Commercial Property, Life and Health and Personal Lines. Each course includes 20 hours of instruction followed by an examination. Area Goodwill Adds Five to Board Joining Sandusky Bay Area Goodwill are Mike Adelman, Monroeville, Huron County commissioner; Darryl Edge, Sandusky, Sandusky Post commander, Ohio Highway Patrol; Rich Finneran, Sandusky, vice president-commercial lending, Citizens Banking Co.; Sharon Mastroianni, Monroeville, superintendent, EHOVE Career Center; and Terry Overmyer, Fremont, mayor, City of Fremont. Officers elected are Carl Anderson, Sandusky, chair; Jean King, Norwalk, vice-chair; Faith Denslow, Sandusky, secretary; and Finneran, treasurer. Sandusky Bay Area Goodwill provides training and employment services to the disabled and disadvantaged in Erie, Huron, Ottawa and Sandusky counties. The nonprofit organization operates work centers in Fremont and Sandusky, and donation/retail centers in Bellevue, Fremont, Huron, Norwalk, Port Clinton, Sandusky and Willard. Community Hospice Care EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS THROUGH EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. Kwest Group has the resources necessary to meet the needs of our clients, providing the best solutions for any given project. We have the right people and the right equipment to assist your organization in any of the following areas: • Commercial Site Development • Industrial Site Development • Underground Utility Installation • Demolition • Environmental Remediation • General Excavation • Shore Protection • Wetland Mitigation and Construction • Marina Construction and Maintenance • Dredging • Sheet Piling • Custom Crushing With Community Hospice Care, it’s not the destination, but the journey that matters Proudly Serving Seneca & Huron counties since 1983 Our mission is to provide high-quality construction services that maximize value across the board. To accomplish it, we recruit and retain the best employees available. As a result, we’re setting new standards for our people, our clients and our role within the community. Discover the difference Kwest Group can make in your next project. Not for Profit - No Patient ever receives a bill for our care 181 E. Perry Street; Tiffin, OH 44883 (419) 447-4040 1-800-834-8100 Visit our website: www.communityhospicecare.com or contact us via email at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 960 S. Plasterbed Rd. • Port Clinton, Ohio 43452 419-734-5533 • Fax: 419-734-5534 Community Hospice Care www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal August 2009 31 Sandusky County Chamber Participates in Clarion Inn & Conference Center Ribbon Cutting FTMC President Receives Prestigious Award from Ohio Osteopathic Association accomplishments in scientific, philanthropic, or other fields of public service. It is the Ohio Osteopathic Association’s highest honor for a nonD.O. Martin of Sandusky has been a longtime supporter of the osteopathic profession, and Fisher-Titus is one of only a few hospitals in the state that is accredited by both The Joint Commission and the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program of the American Osteopathic Association. Fisher-Titus Medical Center is a member of the Ohio Osteopathic Hospital Association and annually supports the Ohio Osteopathic Foundation as well. FTMC President Patrick J. Martin recently was recognized during a luncheon at the 111th Ohio Osteopathic Convention at Kalahari Resort Convention Center in Sandusky. Ohio Osteopathic Association (OOA) President Dr. Barbara A. Bennett presented Martin with the Ohio Osteopathic Association’s Meritorious Service Award. The award The Chamber of Commerce of Sandusky County and Chamber Ambassadors honors an individual who is not an participated in Clarion Inn & Conference Center’s Ribbon Cutting late last osteopathic physician for outstanding month at their 3422 Port Clinton Rd, Fremont location. Business Marketplace Branch Manager/Sales Lawyers Title Insurance Corporation 402 Columbus Avenue | Sandusky, Ohio 44870 phone: 419-626-4475 fax: 419-626-8333 toll free: 800-442-7767 mobile: 419-656-1209 email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it CHRISTOPHER D. PALMER “Committed to Excellence” Abby Slemmer Mortgage Loan Originator 2374 W. State St. • Fremont, OH 43420 Phone: (419) 333-2936 Fax: (419) 355-2678 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.fremontfcu.com (419) 684-5502 Fax (419) 684-5756 TOLL FREE 800-356-5125 CASTALIA TRENCHING & READY MIX, INC. EXCAVATING - BUILDING SUPPLIES READY MIX CONCRETE SINCE 1953 Chamber Members save $500 with this ad. 4814 SR 269 CASTALIA, OHIO 44824 ONE MILE SOUTH OF CASTALIA 32 August 2009 MHCS Ed Ad NC Biz Journ.pdf North Coast Business Journal 7/23/09 4:22:21 PM www.ncbj.net WE HAVE SKILLS THAT GO BEYOND MEDICINE. for the right care Memorial Hospital right now. Memorial Hospital has been caring for the community for over 90 years, and now we’re raising the bar in emergency medicine. Whether you enter our hospital through our newly renovated lobby or soon to be renovated Emergency Department, our advanced technology, experienced staff, and short wait times make us the right choice for emergency care. We are committed to providing you and your loved ones with the right care, right now. 715 South Taft Avenue Fremont, Ohio 43420 Phone 419.332.7321 memorialhcs.org ■ ■