2013 Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Business Plan

2013LIMA/ALLEN COUNTY

BUSINESS PLAN

STRENGTH THROUGHCOLLABORATION

LIMA

LIMA

LIMA

2012 Marked a Successful Year with organizations partnering together to serve our Businesses and Community

Jed E. MetzgerPresident/CEO

Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce

Mission Statement: Serve, Represent and

Enhance Business Growth and Success.

Leading Businesses. Leading Communities.™

The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce functions to serve our business community and in doing so we help other organizations tackle projects to aide in enhancing our region.

It is our mission to enhance, represent and serve the business community and in doing so we provide outreach efforts in the areas of workforce, economic and community development, as well as advocacy and legislative reform.

Outlined in our 2013 Business Plan, you will find detailed information about the Chamber committees enhancing local businesses, advocacy efforts, educational outreach programs, and community development. Listed below are a few key points within our Business Plan which were areas of focus in 2012 and continue to be in 2013.

• Workforce Development: » College Access » Allen Lima Leadership » Lima Young Professionals » STRIVE building a workforce credential community » Winning the talent war

• Community Development: » Community Branding » Allen 2020 Community Visioning Project » Facilitate local community efforts » Sustainable Communities » Marketing the assets of the community » Partnering to enhance the City of Lima

• Advocacy Efforts: » Legislative Forums featuring local, state and national

representatives » Support of Task Force LIMA, pro-business policies and

regulations, less taxes for businesses and positive at-titude from government regarding business

» Focus on the impact of implementation of Health Care Reform and Bureau of Workers’ Compensation changes

It is our hope you will take a moment and review our 2013 Business Plan, as there are several other accomplishments reflecting the benefits of investing in the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and how we work to serve our community. We are looking forward to 2013 and the continued support of our membership, committee members and Board of Trustees, as we strive to make Lima/Allen County a “Real American Strength” community to grow and expand businesses.

Sincerely,

Jed E. Metzger President/CEO Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce

other

101-2500

51-100

11-50

1-10

other

programs

services

membership

facilities

general

programs

member services

other

101-2500

51-100

11-50

1-10

other

programs

services

membership

facilities

general

programs

member services

other

101-2500

51-100

11-50

1-10

other

programs

services

membership

facilities

general

programs

member services

Members bynumber ofemployees

2012 Budget

Expenses

Income

1-1054%11-50

20%

51-1003%

101-25004%

Other19%

Other4%

Membership47%

Programs30%

Member Services19%

General &Administration

26%

Facilities8%

Program Expenses

30%

Member Services

51%

2013 Business Plan 3

Chamber – Leading Businesses. Leading Communities™

Founded in 1887, the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce is the community’s leading advocate and champion for business. Its primary objective is to create a climate of growth and success in our community.

The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce provides leadership and business-building initiatives focusing on the critical priorities of the community. Leveraging the support, talent, and resources of our members, we are one of the leading organizations helping to improve the economic vitality and quality of life for the region.

As an advocate for businesses and our communities, we are living and breathing “Real American Strength” in our everyday programs, efforts, and initiatives. We encourage our local businesses and community members to evaluate how they demonstrate “Real American Strength” in their everyday activities.

Community and economic development are essential for a growing community. The Chamber has taken under its umbrella, the Common Threads “Allen 2020” project. Through this effort, 10 task force teams organized and developed a community vision focusing on the planned growth of the Lima/Allen County community.

The Chamber has continually focused our efforts on identifying and advancing opportunities to support economic development of small business. In collaboration with Diversified Management and the Small

Business Development Center the Chamber formed the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneurial Center. The purpose of the Center is to provide economic stability and to enhance the community’s quality of life by encouraging small and minority businesses to stay, invest and participate in the Lima/Allen County community.

Working together through the Lima Area Chamber Foundation, the Chamber, Allen Economic Development Group, Lima/Allen County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Downtown Lima, Inc., Allen Lima Leadership, Walter C. Potts Entrepreneurial Center and the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center were able to rehabilitate a historic building in downtown Lima, to form the Center for Business Services. The selection and renovation of the historic Schnorf-Wagner Building was a $2.4 million investment in the redevelopment of the downtown business district. The Center for Business Services created a unique ballroom to accent the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center as well as become a catalyst for economic development.

Enhancing education is a priority of the Lima/Allen County community. Several organizations have joined efforts with the Chamber to work with city and county schools to increase the number of students and adults striving to achieve a post secondary education. The Chamber and United Way of Greater Lima have partnered to identify social and educational gap areas – addressing those outside influences preventing students from obtaining a post secondary education. It is our

goal to overcome those hindrances and improve the quality of the workforce in Allen County and surrounding region.

Building relationships and retaining talent among the young professionals within the greater Lima area continues to be an optimist goal of the Chamber. Today, the Lima Young Professionals organization is making a difference and getting involved in several events, service and civic organizations, as well as providing outlets in which to impact the sustainability of the Allen County community. The Lima YP has taken an environmental stand, generating awareness for “green” initiatives throughout the Lima/Allen County region. Among the many programs the YP hosts, the organization has developed an annual Green Tie Affair which highlights those businesses active in reducing their carbon footprint within the community. This event is unique to the area and is held in conjunction with Earth Day-week. The Lima YP has also stepped up and is taking a stand on behalf of the community by forming the “I Love Lima” movement. The I Love Lima movement was formed to help combat negativity and help promote our community… not only to visitors but also to our own residents. The Lima YP has been nominated for The Good Neighbor Award for their work with the I Love Lima movement.

We are proud that the Chamber, through our many partnerships, has become one of the leading organizations helping to improve the economic vitality and quality of life for everyone in the Lima/Allen County Area.

Chamber – Leading Businesses. Leading Communities™

ABOUT THE CHAMBER

Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce4

Dr. Manu Aggarwal Vein Care Center and Allen County Health Department

Marc BowkerAlter Ego Comics

Lynn CarpenterLima Memorial Health System

Judith CowanOhio Energy & Advanced

Manufacturing Center

Keith EidenSuperior Federal

Credit Union

Mike FelixFord Motor Company,

Lima Engine Plant

Karen GrothouseSpherion of Lima

Gene HeitmeyerColonial Surface Solutions

John LeahyBalyeat, Leahy, Daley &

Miller, LLC

Michael LeyDennis Ley Insurance

Dr. Debra L. McCurdyRhodes State College

Randy PayneAEP Ohio

John RennerSt. Rita's Medical Center

George RicksNorthwestern Mutual

Financial Network

Tim StanfordYocum Realty

Michelle R. SterlingSign Pro Imaging, Inc

Brandi TruebloodSmith-Boughan

Mechanical Services

Todd SuttonPotashCorp

BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Jed E. MetzgerPresident/CEO

Cindy TenwaldeVice President

Linda BienertDirector of Finance

Jacquelyn BecknerDirector of Communications

Adah EllerbrockDirector of Programs

Debbie TierneyMembership Coordinator

Teri SiloneExecutive Assistant

Angela MeyerCollege Access

Director

Chamber Foundation

Matt OttoAllen Lima Leadership

Executive Director

College Access

Krista JonesCollege Access

Advisor

Denny TenwaldeCollege Access

Advisor

CHAMBER STAFF


Membership in the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce provides businesses with a wide variety of benefits that may enhance the potential for business success.

NetworkingNetworking is essential to achieve business success by making those important business contacts. The Chamber provides a number of networking opportunities including:

• After Hours Events • Connections • Executive Roundtable • Leads Groups • Lima Young Professionals • Legislative Forums/Debates • Wake, Rattle, & Roll • Women in Business Luncheons

Special EventsMembers are invited to attend a variety of events throughout the year:

• Annual Awards Gala • Annual Breakfast • ChamberFest Las Vegas Night • Chamber Golf Outing • Grow… & Reinvent/Business Expo • Member Orientations • Putt Around Town • Ribbon Cuttings/Groundbreakings

EducationThe Chamber partners with area organizations to provide education opportunities for business owners, staff and safety professionals, which include:

• Chamber Seminars • Member Orientation • West Central Safety Council

Group DiscountsTake advantage of these Members Only exclusive programs:

• Health Insurance • Media Discount • Office Supplies • Workers’ Compensation

ResourcesUse the following resources to find the information you need:

• Business Bytes E-Newsletter • Lima/Allen County Map • Membership Directory & Buyers’ Guide • Weekly Chamber Updates E-Newsletters • www.limachamber.com • www.limayp.com • www.thebusinessexpress.com

Advertising & MarketingThe Chamber provides a number of unique marketing and advertising opportunities to member businesses:

• E-mail Newsletters • Lima/Allen County Map • Membership Directory & Buyers’ Guide • Membership Lists • Program Sponsorships • Online Advertising – www.limachamber.com

Committees & Advisory GroupsThe more you get involved in the Chamber, the more your business is going to benefit from your membership. Chamber committees and advisory groups are the perfect way to network and help shape the direction of the Chamber and the business community.

• Agri-Business • Education • Executive Roundtable • Finance • Legislative • Lima Young Professionals • Manufacturer’s Council • Marketing • Safety Council • Small & Culturally Diverse Business Development • Wake, Rattle & Roll

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP


JANUARY

8 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.15 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.25 Annual Chamber Breakfast 7:30 a.m.

FEBRUARY

7 Women in Business 11:30-1 p.m.12 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.19 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.21 Member Orientation 8:00 a.m.22 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.28 Connections 11:30-1 p.m.

MARCH

12 Safety Council 7:30 a.m. 19 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.19 Safety Council Eric Giguere Safety Seminar 5 p.m.20 GROW…& Reinvent – Civic Center 22 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

APRIL

4 Women in Business 11:30-1 p.m.9 Safety Council – AWARDS BANQUET 4:30 p.m. 11 Putt Around Town 5-10 p.m. Location TBA16 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.18 Lima YP Green Tie Affair 5-8 p.m.18 Member Orientation 8:00 a.m.26 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

MAY

1 Annual Awards Gala 5-8 p.m.14 Safety Council 7:30 a.m. 21 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.30 Connections 11:30-1 p.m.31 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

JUNE

11 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.13 Member Orientation 8:00 a.m. 18 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.25 Safety Council Walk Thru28 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

JULY

9 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.16 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.26 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

AUGUST

7 Chamber Golf Outing 8:00 a.m. 13 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.15 Member Orientation 8:00 a.m.20 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.23 Wake, Rattle & Roll at the Fair 7:30 a.m.

SEPTEMBER

5 Women in Business 11:30-1 p.m.10 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.17 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.26 Connections 11:30-1 p.m.27 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

OCTOBER

8 Safety Council 7:30a.m.15 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.17 Member Orientation 8:00 a.m.25 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

NOVEMBER

7 Chamber Fest 5:30-10 p.m.12 Safety Council 7:30 a.m.19 Lima YP Professional Development 11:30-1 p.m.

DECEMBER

5 Women in Business 11:30 - 1 p.m. 6 Wake, Rattle & Roll 7:30 a.m.

10 Safety Council Christmas Holiday Meeting 4:30 p.m.12 Connections 11:30-1 p.m.

For up-to-date information and locations, visit our calendar of events at www.LimaChamber.com.

2013 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CALENDAR


Image courtesy of: TheAyers.com

COMMUNITY VISIONINGThe Chamber of Commerce often partners with other local community

and business-based organizations to work on initiatives that are

important to the area. We have highlighted a few of these efforts.


STRIVE Initiative

The Chamber, in partnership with the Allen Economic Development Group, is working collaboratively with businesses and educational institutions on “cradle-to-career” education, promoting a workforce credentialed community, developing careers in manufacturing and skilled trades, mining our talent for future workers, and securing higher paying jobs for our region.

Multiple Building Departments

The Lima Chamber facilitated the continuation of having one building department in the county. The Cham-ber worked with the Townships and the City of Lima along with area member contractors to address issues and con-cerns and to develop a more functional building department within the City of Lima. The Allen County Building Advi-sory Committee was formed with rep-resentatives of the townships, commis-sioners, businessmen, design/engineers and area contractors with the following mission to provide oversight and input on how the community views the Build-ing Department’s customer service and share dialogue on continued improve-ments on codes and standards.

Sustainable Communities Initiative

The Chamber is an active participant in the Allen County Sustainable Communi-ties Initiative. The mission is to utilize available resources in an efficient way to improve the quality of life for resi-dents of Allen County through compre-hensive community collaboration. The vision for this initiative is to create a sustainable environment that promotes and supports the health and well-being of the community through continuing awareness, collaborative alignment, and comprehensive action. The initia-tive has utilized the Allen County 2020 community vision goals to establish a sustainability website that will have indicators reflecting the progress of our community toward achieving the goals for each of the sustainability areas.

College Access

Workforce Development is one avenue in which we focus our attention. Sev-eral years ago, the Chamber decided it was necessary to establish a College Access Program to assist our commu-nity in achieving and increasing post-secondary education and to address our businesses workforce development needs. Since the program’s inception, the College Access program has offered assistance to 20,924 individuals through individual and group sessions, work-shops, classroom presentations, and programs related to education beyond high school. To date, there have been 124 Last Dollar Scholarship recipients to total $62,000. Additionally, each small school participating in the College Access program has seen a marked increase in the number of students taking the ACT and post-secondary enrollment.

Legislative Forums, Debates and Actions

The mission is to develop an awareness and understanding of emerging local, state and federal issues that could cause a change in the business/qual-ity of life climate; develop a position to inform members and the commu-nity; and, when advisable, develop a strategy to resolve the issue. We have lobbied against decreasing the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Group rat-ing discount, against Minimum Wage increases, Card Check, Cap & Trade, discussed Allen County Sales Tax, Issue 2, and other legislation impacting busi-ness. Lobbied for the High Speed Rail Study and continued to support the Downtown Lima Corridor Project. The Chamber organizes targeted legislative topic forums, receptions, debates and breakfasts; annually attends legislative meetings with state legislative repre-sentatives at the Ohio Capital to discuss significant Lima/Allen County issues. We provide legislative updates twice a month in the legislative Advocacy e- report, periodically for the Wake, Rattle and Roll event and the Chamber’s monthly news conference.

Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center

The Chamber focuses on identifying and advancing opportunities to support economic development of small and mi-nority business. As a part of this focus there became a need for collaboration with the Small Business Development Center at Rhodes State College, Diversi-fied Management, the City of Lima, Allen County Commissioners, AEDG, educational institutions and business leaders, to develop the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center. The Center’s mis-sion is to provide education necessary to support and sustain a small and/or minority business; enabling the commu-nity to create jobs, provide economic stability and enhance quality of life by encouraging small and minority busi-nesses to stay, invest, and participate in the Lima/Allen County community. Recently a grant was secured with the Minority Business Assistant Center through the Akron Urban League to provided additional services to minority and women owned businesses.

Center for Business Services

One of the Chamber’s primary goals was to secure a facility, in collabora-tion with the Allen Economic Develop-ment Group, Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, Downtown Lima, Inc and Allen Lima Leadership which would fully meet the current and future needs of each organization. After seeking input of all partners, the Chamber Founda-tion purchased the historic Schnorf and Wagner buildings adjacent/con-nected to the Veterans’ Memorial Civic and Convention Center. The collective agencies believed it best suited the various organizations to remain under one roof. This arrangement benefits all the organizations and will create a “one stop shop” Center for Business Services for the community.

Joint Systems Manufacturing Center

Task Force L.I.M.A. was reconstituted by Mayor David Berger in March of 2011 in response to a potential three year gap in production of the Abrams


main battle tank as well as the threat-ened cancellation of the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) program at the JSMC. The Task Force is a coalition of local elected officials, economic development and business associations including the Chamber, labor organiza-tions, media, and other community leadership, which have assembled in order to communicate with state and federal officials about the strategic importance of the JSMC, its unique and essential manufacturing capabilities, and its portfolio of world class armored vehicles and products.

Lima Auto Task Force Center

Over three years ago, Mayor David Berger brought together government, business, labor and others to form the Lima Auto Task Force. The Chamber President has been an active partici-pant in the meetings and events of the organization. The Task Force has led many initiatives benefiting the auto-re-lated companies in the region. The Task Force was called out in the October 2009 Report of the “Joint Select Com-mittee on the Impact of the Changing Automobile Industry in Ohio” as a model for other communities to follow.

458 Regional Postal Task Force

The Lima Mail Processing Center pro-cessed over 386 million pieces of mail in 2009, ranking #1 out of the 268 centers operated by the U.S. Post Office. In 2009 our community was faced with the possibility of this processing center being closed, eliminating over 100 jobs in our community, delaying mail service and making it more costly for local businesses utilizing postal services. In an effort to preserve Lima’s processing center, the Chamber along with several other business leaders, government officials and private citizens formed a task force to conduct a study highlight-ing the detrimental effects closing this facility would have on our community as well as the surrounding 8 county area utilizing the processing center. Ul-timately the U.S. Postal Service consoli-

dated the Lima Mail Processing Center with the Toledo center and the Lima center will be closed in 2010.

Downtown Lima Corridor Project

The Chamber is partnering with the City of Lima and Downtown Lima Inc. to beautify the entrance corridors to our city. Local government and busi-nesses recognizes the importance of improving “first impressions” of the city and promoting selected land uses that enhance the visual appeal of sights and designations along the most heav-ily traveled routes into the city. The Chamber has invested financially in sup-port of this valuable Downtown Lima Corridor Project.

LCI Task Force

The Lima Correctional Institute’s Task Force was developed through a part-nership between the Chamber, the City

of Lima, Allen County Commissioners, Allen Economic Development Group and other state elected offices, union representatives and local business leaders. The Task Force worked collab-oratively with the State of Ohio, state legislators and the Department of Cor-rections to develop a feasibility study focused on the impact of re-using or re-opening LCI. The recommendation to the Governor was to recognize the economic impact the facility had on the community upon its closing. LCI will in turn become one of the first facilities to re-open when the need arises to expand upon existing dormitory style prison facilities within the region.

Common Threads - Allen 2020

The Chamber has partnered with the Common Threads Community Develop-ment Team to work toward building a focused community vision for Lima/ Al-


len County. Through this collaboration, 10 taskforce teams were organized and over the following five years, a com-munity vision was created. This effort was citizen-driven and then present to local officials, business owners and community.

The following listed suggestions are currently being addresses/implement-ed:

• To practice collaboration, partner-ship and inclusion

• Increase communication among public, private and civic groups and citizens

• Enhance the use of technology among government groups and also among community sectors

• Eliminate duplicate agencies by establishing county consortiums

• Provide public education and awareness opportunities to engage citizens and foster informed deci-sion-making

• An additional detailed community

vision report has been developed and is being used as an outline to carry-out the vision of the Lima/Al-len County community.

Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC)

In an effort to reduce cost and the duplication of military facilities, the federal government deploys a Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) review every few years which reviews every military installation in the U.S. for potential closure or consolidation. Because the military facility in Lima was always known as the Lima Army Tank Plant there were those in Washington D. C. who felt the facility provided only one product to the military and there-fore had outlived its usefulness. In order to address this issue, our com-munity formed Task Force L.I.M.A. (Linked in Mutual Alliance) to act as the advocate for the long-term future of the Lima government owned facility. The Task Force led a charge to change the name of the facility from the “Lima

Army Tank Plant” to the “Joint Systems Manufacturing Center” which better reflects the “jointness” of the services the plant provides not just to the U. S. Army, but also to other branches of the service. It was imperative to the com-munity that we not only retain the cur-rent 700+ jobs at the plant, but also to facilitate the creation of more jobs. The actions of the Task Force resulted in the plant remaining open and creating 300 – 500 new jobs at the facility. Our actions also resulted in the construction of the new $11.3 million administration building on the site.


Members of these select leadership groups share a common interest

in influencing the direction and quality of Lima’s growth. These

memberships expand our leadership base and provide valuable input to

the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce.

PARTNERSIN KEEPING

LIMAGROWING

Tie

r 6

Tie

r 5

Tie

r 4

Tie

r 3

Tie

r 2

Tier 1 The State Bank & Trust CompanyBuckeye Anesthesia Services

Holiday Inn & Suites/Kems RestaurantFirst Federal Bank Huntington Bank The Union Bank

VALUED PARTNERS

Circle of Influence Members 2013AEP OhioBluffton UniversityCenturyLink ChaseCitizens National BankClear Channel RadioDominionFifth Third BankFord Motor Company, Lima Engine PlantHCF Management, Inc.

Husky Lima RefineryLima Memorial Health SystemMaverick MediaMetoKoteOhio Northern UniversityPERRY proTECHPotashCorpProcter & GambleRudolph FoodsSheakley

Spherion Staffing ServicesSt. Rita’s Medical Center Superior Federal Credit UnionThe Lima News and LimaOhio.comThe Ohio State University at LimaThe Union Bank CompanyTime Warner Cable Business ClassUniversity of Northwestern OhioYour Hometown Lima Stations

Gold Key Members 2013

Ford Motor Company, Lima Engine Plant

Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Co.

Board of Advisors 2013

Husky Lima RefineryINEOS USA, LLCMetoKote Company

Nash Finch CompanyRudolph Foods CompanyUniversity of Northwestern Ohio


AEP Ohio is focused on providing reliable affordable energy to our customers in a safe, effective manner. We also are committed to environmental protection and improvement consistent with providing electricity at a competitive price. AEP Ohio’s mission is to bring comfort to our customers, support business and commerce, and build strong communities. In Ohio, we provide power to more than 920 communities located in 61 of the state’s 88 counties. For more information about AEP Ohio, visit our website at aepohio.com.

Bluffton University is a residential, liberal arts campus in northwest Ohio with more than 40 undergraduate programs; adult degree-completion programs in organizational management and social work; and master’s degree programs in education, organizational management and business administration, including a MBA with a concentration in health care administration. Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton has an enrollment of more than 1,100 students, plus 16 NCAA Division III athletics teams. Its 114-year legacy is expressed today in its enduring values of discovery, community, respect and service, which are woven into the academic program and campus life. Bluffton students go into the world prepared for life as well as for their chosen vocation.

CenturyLink: We know one of the keys to your business success is the strength and reliability of your communications network. CenturyLink provides broadband, voice, wireless and managed services to consumers and businesses and offers advanced entertainment services under the DIRECTV brand. We also provide data, voice and managed services to enterprise, government and wholesale customers through our high-quality advanced fiber optic network and multiple data centers. CenturyLink is recognized as a leader in the network services market by key technology industry analyst firms, and is a global leader in cloud infrastructure and hosted IT solutions for enterprises through Savvis, a CenturyLink company. CenturyLink is the third largest telecommunications company in the United States. Our customers range from Fortune 500 companies to families living in rural America. CenturyLink is an S&P 500 company and is included among the Fortune 500 list of America’s largest corporations. CenturyLink values our partnership with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA is one of the top financial institutions in the United States and internationally. Our local Business Banking team alone consists of 20 people in the Lima/Allen County Market who are committed to our business customers and are driven to deliver the best financial solutions. Chase has six banking centers in the Lima/Allen County area, and is the area’s leading market shareholder with nearly $500,000,000 in deposits. We continue to have a strong commitment to the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and the customers we serve. Chase looks forward to partnering again with the Chamber in 2013.

Citizens National Bank is a community bank focused on small business. With eight locations, we service a 10 county area and are an approved administrator of SBA loan programs. We’re committed to providing technologically advanced banking with a local touch.

“The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce provides great programming. Through sponsorships we’ve been able to provide hundreds of people with information about our products and prove our commitment to supporting Lima area businesses.”

Clear Channel Radio: Since the 1930s, AM 1150 WIMA has been bringing Limaland the most local, up to date news, sports, and information of any broadcast media in the area. Since that time, T102, Mix 103.3, 93.9 Kiss FM, and 107.5 The Rock Station have been added to our family of stations to provide world class entertainment to the town we’re so proud to call home. We work hard to give

2013 CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE PROFILES


voice to the important works being accomplished by the business community and the Lima/Allen Chamber of Commerce, and look forward to strengthening the relationships we’ve attained with our neighbor businesses.

Dominion is one of the nation’s largest producers and transporters of energy, with a portfolio of approximately 28,200 megawatts of generation, 11,000 miles of natural gas transmission, gathering and storage pipeline and 6,300 miles of electric transmission lines. Dominion operates the nation’s largest natural gas storage system with 947 billion cubic feet of storage capacity and serves retail energy customers in 15 states. Dominion practices environmental stewardship and contributes more than $20 million annually to the environment, education, arts and culture, and health and human services. Dominion’s strategy is to be a leading provider of electricity, natural gas and related services to customers in the energy-intensive Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the U.S., a potential market of 50 million homes and businesses where 40 percent of the nation’s energy is consumed.

Fifth Third Bank and its 4 Allen County locations have a history of helping Lima area businesses since 1936 as we began as First Federal Bank of Lima. That commitment continues today and is demonstrated by our strong partnership with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce.

At Fifth Third, we believe in strengthening communities by creating opportunities for our neighbors and business partners. The Chamber provides those opportunities through education and networking events, member benefits, and economic development advocacy. Fifth Third Bank looks forward to partnering with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce again in 2013.

Ford Motor Company, Lima Engine Plant: At the Lima Engine Plant we are proud of our association with the community in Allen County and with the Chamber of Commerce. We have been part of the community for over 50 years and in that time have produced more than 39 million engines. We look forward to continuing a long and healthy relationship with the Chamber and to an improving business climate for all of the members of the Chamber in 2013. For more information about our journey, go to www.fordstory.com.

HCF Management, Inc.: Just as Lima Manor, Roselawn Manor, Shawnee Manor, Wapakoneta Manor, Burton’s Ridge Assisted Living and Heritage Health Care take care of the health and transitional care needs of our community, the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce enriches the Lima area’s business community. The Lima Chamber’s dedication, teamwork and commitment to excellence continues to be a strength of this community. Lima Manor, Roselawn Manor, Shawnee Manor, Wapakoneta Manor, Burton’s Ridge Assisted Living and Heritage Health Care are honored to be affiliated with this superb group.

Husky Lima Refinery: For 126 years, the Husky Lima Refinery has served as a cornerstone of the economy of Allen County, based on the strength and dedication of its employees. We are proud of our association with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and consider it to be a valued partner in that long history of success.

Since assuming ownership in mid-2007, Husky Energy has completed major upgrades to the refinery, resulting in more efficient operation, increased crude oil capacity and improved safety and environmental performance. This work will ensure that the Lima Refinery continues to be a significant employer and proud supporter of local businesses for many years to come.


Lima Memorial Health System: “Lima Memorial Health System is an important part of the community, as is the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and our partnership with the Chamber helps us connect with the business community and leaders in the area, which in turn helps us fulfill our mission of caring for our community. We are dedicated to providing quality care in a family atmosphere.”

~Michael D. Swick, President & CEO of Lima Memorial Health System

Ohio Northern University is an independent, comprehensive University that distinctively combines nationally ranked sciences, arts and professional programs in its five colleges: Arts & Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering, Pharmacy and Law. Established in 1871 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1899, Ohio Northern has an enrollment of more than 3,500 students, representing 36 states and 29 countries, and offers more than 70 programs of study. The beautiful, 342-acre residential campus is made up of more than 60 modern residences and academic buildings and provides a vibrant campus experience with nearly 200 student clubs and organizations. The Polar Bears compete successfully at the NCAA Division III level in 21 varsity sports as part of the highly respected Ohio Athletic Conference. Graduates leave prepared with an education that delivers one of the highest returns on investment in the state. The placement rate for graduates nine months after graduation is 92 percent, a rate higher than the national average.

Maverick Media of Lima is a local radio and media company that operates five radio stations and websites including “New Country” 92.1 The Frog, Classic Rock 104.9 “The Eagle”, Sports Radio 93.1 The Fan, Lite Rock 107.1 and News/Talk 940 WCIT. Maverick Media’s mission is to provide listeners and consumers with great content on both Music and Talk formats. Maverick Media is incredibly engaged with our community, and we are proud to host and showcase the Annual St. Jude Benefit Concert each Spring at the Veterans Memorial Civic & Convention Center. Maverick Media broadcasts over 150 high school and local college sporting events annually, as well as serving over 2,500 families at Thanksgiving with groceries.

Maverick Media radio is grateful to support and partner with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce on many community events, including important legislative forums as an active local media partner. We provide the Chamber a weekly opportunity to promote and market the variety of great programs and events the Chamber offers. Maverick Media is pleased to partner with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce.

MetoKote is proud to be a part of the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce. Their commitment to the growth and success of the Lima community is evident in many of the leadership programs and business-building initiatives that they provide to the area. Lima is home to MetoKote’s corporate headquarters and also to one of their largest and most diverse coatings service centers. MetoKote Corporation is the world’s leader in advanced coating applications. Specializing in electrocoat (e-coat), powder coat and liquid paint, MetoKote has served various industries for four decades. We currently operate over 90 systems in over 29 facilities located in North America, South America and Europe.

PERRY proTECH is one of the largest privately held office technology dealers in the country. We utilize advanced technologies to help our clients manage the flow of information through networks, documents and office solutions so each client can focus on what they do best, running their business. PERRY proTECH is more than just a business partner, we are an employee owned, community driven organization dedicated to the success of those we serve.


PotashCorp: We take pride in the positive relationship that PotashCorp Lima has developed with the people of this region - a relationship that has grown and strengthened over the years. The support of our neighbors is critical to the success of our business. We strive to be a valued member of the community by building a workplace committed to the health and safety of our employees, to the protection of our shared environment and to the ongoing economic and social well-being of the local community. We are proud to call Lima our home. We strive every day to maintain a strong relationship with the community and hope to continue to do so for many years.

Procter & Gamble: Companies like P&G are a force in the world. Our market capitalization is greater than the GDP of many countries and we serve consumers in more than 180 countries. With this stature comes both responsibility and opportunity. Our responsibility is to be an ethical corporate citizen – but our opportunity is something far greater, and it is embodied in our Purpose.

Our Purpose works to unify us in a common cause and growth strategy. It is powerful because it promotes a simple idea to improve more consumers’ lives in more parts of the world… more completely. While this statement defines our commercial opportunity, our culture reflects the broader opportunity of improving lives through and beyond our branded products and services.

Rudolph Foods sells pork rinds to nearly 30 countries around the world. In addition to being a proud member of the Lima/Allen County Community for over 55 years, the company has six other facilities in the United States and three international ventures. With nearly 450 employees globally, Rudolph Foods maintains its position as the world's largest manufacturer of pork rinds, while expanding into new areas of the snack food industry.

Sheakley: Since 1963, Sheakley has helped employers control their bottom line through aggressive cost saving strategies by providing an integrated suite of human resource outsourcing solutions including Ohio workers’ compensation, payroll administration, full service 401(k)/retirement plan services, flexible benefits, unemployment cost control, centralized billing and accounts receivable management services and merchandising. Over the last twenty years, Sheakley has had the pleasure of partnering with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce for their Ohio workers’ compensation group rating program. The Chamber has been instrumental in the success of this program exemplifying the qualities of professionalism and a strong commitment to their members. We look forward to our continued partnership for years to come.

Spherion: Founded in 1946, Spherion® Staffing Services is a recognized leader in workforce solutions. Local owners Bob and Grace Schulte and their team have been serving the recruiting and staffing needs of Northwest Ohio businesses for 32 years. Their distinct local focus and personalized approach to staffing has earned them a reputation of excellence among their customers. Partnering together, Spherion takes the time to understand your business, hiring criteria, workforce goals and the traits that make a candidate an ideal match for your opportunities. So, when you need talent on-demand, we’re able to deploy the right resource, right away!

Annually, Spherion connects more than 160,000 talented individuals to companies seeking their unique skills—from light industrial and manufacturing, to administrative and clerical staff on a flexible, temp-to-hire and direct-hire basis. Put the resources of a national staffing leader with a local focus to work for you! To learn more, visit www.spherion.com/nwohio or find us on Facebook.

VALUED PARTNERS


St. Rita’s Medical Center knows that being the leading provider of health care means being concerned about more than what happens inside the walls of the Medical Center. Being a member of the Chamber provides us with the opportunity to work in partnership with many other businesses in our community. We are always looking for opportunities to collaborate in projects that make our community a great place to work and live.

Superior Federal Credit Union is proud to support the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce. Our community and 49,000 members are fortunate to have such a strong voice representing the Lima area. As we deliver financial services, we always consider the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce a valued partner in our success.

The Lima News and LimaOhio.com: The Lima News is a daily newspaper which has served Lima and West Central Ohio community for over 125 years. The Lima News/LimaOhio.com reaches over 30,000 households and over 85,000 readers/unique visitors every day.

The Lima News also publishes the Putnam Voice, which is a weekly publication serving Putnam County, and the Marketplace, which is a weekly publication that is delivered to non-subscriber households. We also publish two monthly publications: the RealEstate Marketplace and Generations Magazine. The Lima News produces seven four-color glossy publications: the Wedding Planner, the Indian Lake Visitors Guide, a Medical Directory, the Grand Lake St Marys Visitors Guide, the Putnam County Community Guide, a Legal Directory, and the Lima/Allen County Visitors Guide. The Lima News annually produces six Special Events including Lima Bride, the Health & Fitness Expo/Community Wellness Day, the Real Wheels Classic Car Show, the Senior Living Expo, Ladies Night Out, and the Taste of Home Cooking Show and Expo.

The Ohio State University at Lima: One of The Ohio State University at Lima’s primary missions as part of the state’s top public university is to provide access to the community to all resources of the institution. For more than 50 years, students have come to the campus east of Lima for an Ohio State education that can help them achieve their professional and life goals and build strong and vital communities in west central Ohio. Today, Ohio State Lima offers 10 Bachelor and two Bachelor completion programs and several graduate programs. Students can also choose to finish any of Ohio State’s 175 degrees at the Columbus campus. While at Ohio State Lima, our students work directly with their professors in small class settings and have the option of engaging in undergraduate research.

The Chamber is an integral partner in that endeavor. The Chamber’s work to strengthen education on all levels and to provide a two-way conduit for communication between the community and its member businesses adds to the vitality of the region. The networking opportunities for our staff and faculty at Chamber events, through the Young Professionals program and through committee work are outstanding.

The Union Bank Company is a locally owned and operated community bank, since 1904, and is proud to serve the Allen County Community. The Union Bank continually strives to meet the needs of individuals and businesses with competitive products and services. Whether you are a large company with multiple financial needs, a growing small business, or someone simply looking for a rewards checking account, we have the right products and services and the right people to assist you. The bank also offers investment products, treasury management services, private banking, online banking solutions and much more. Celebrating over 105 years of community banking, The Union Bank Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ, UBOH news), and is headquartered in Columbus Grove, Ohio. The Union Bank Company serves Allen, Hancock, Putnam, Sandusky, Van Wert and Wood counties with twelve convenient locations in Bowling Green, Columbus Grove, Delphos, Findlay, Gibsonburg, Kalida, Leipsic, Lima, Ottawa and Pemberville. The Union Bank is looking forward to partnering with the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce in 2013.

THE

UNION BANK CO.

“COMMITTED TO YOU”


Time Warner Cable: The mission of Time Warner Cable is to connect people and businesses with information, entertainment and each other and to give customers control in ways that are simple and easy. Time Warner Cable does just that through its digital cable, Internet, Digital Phone, Media Advertising and Business Class services.

The company also believes in the power of community which is why Time Warner Cable is proud to support the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce. Through its various programs and initiatives, the Chamber always has the best interest of its members as its number one priority. Either through the promotion of its members’ businesses or through proactive legislative efforts, the Chamber is always working for you. That is why Time Warner Cable believes in supporting the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce.

University of Northwestern Ohio is an entrepreneurial, not-for-profit, university founded in 1920. There are five colleges within the university: College of Business, College of Health Professions, College of Occupational Professions, College of Applied Technologies, and Graduate College. UNOH has educated students from all 50 states and 24 foreign countries, and currently has more than 4500 students enrolled from 36 states and 24 foreign countries. In order to help students succeed in their desired career path, the University of Northwestern Ohio is proud to offer more than 60 programs of study including Master’s, Baccalaureate, Associate, and Diploma programs. The University is situated on a 200+ acre campus and is in the midst of a 10-year expansion plan. The University of Northwestern Ohio also offers a variety of athletics including Men’s & Women’s Basketball, Men’s & Women’s Tennis, Men’s & Women’s Golf, Women’s Volleyball, Men’s and Women’s Bowling, Men’s Baseball, Men’s Soccer, and six Co-Ed Motorsports teams. The University of Northwestern Ohio has an impact of more than $250 million on the local economy. Limaland Motorsports Park, which is owned by UNOH, has an additional $15 million impact.

Your Hometown Lima Stations Lima and Block Communications are proud of our unique position in the broadcast field. Lima, Ohio is the only television market in the country with all 4 major network affiliates under one ownership umbrella. The flagship station WLIO, which is our NBC affiliate will be celebrating its’ 60th year in 2013 of proudly serving the West Central Ohio viewing area. We are not only committed to bringing quality news, sports, and entertainment to our viewers but also creating an opportunity for our many advertising partners to grow their business. That philosophy along with the help of the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce is essential for a strong local economy.


WHO’S WHO

Tier 6 Who’s Who

St. Rita’s Medical Center • Brian Smith

President, St. Rita’s Health Partners Regional CEO, North Division Catholic Health Partners

• Bob Baxter President St. Rita’s Medical Center

• John Renner Regional Vice President/CFO St. Rita’s Health Partners

• Linda Chartrand Marketing St. Rita’s Health Partners

Tier 5 Who’s Who

Lima Memorial Health System• Mike Swick

President and Chief Executive Officer 419.226.5050 [email protected]

• Bob Armstrong Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer 419.226.5050 [email protected]

• Eric Pohjala Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 419.226-5050 [email protected]

• Lynn Thompson, MD Vice President of Medical Affairs 419.226-5050 [email protected]

• Ann Pohl Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer 419.226-5050 [email protected]

• Kha Tran, MD Chief of Staff and LMPC Medical Director 419.226-5050 [email protected]

• Lynn Carpenter Executive Director Lima Memorial Professional Corporation 419.226-5050 [email protected],

• Ken Kurz Executive Director Lima Memorial Foundation 419.226-5087 [email protected]

Tier 4 Who’s Who

Chase• Tim Turnwald

Area Manager 419.221.5000

• Dan Moening Sr. Vice President 419.221.5003

• Tim Connell Vice President 419.221.5814

• Chris Schimmoeller Vice President 419.221.5093

• Isabel Ortiz Assistant Vice President 419.221.5892

• Barry von der Embse Vice President 419.221.4719

• Mark Honigford Vice President 419.221.5823

Fifth Third Bank • Andy Farley

Vice President/City Executive 419.229.0404 [email protected]

• Scott Neth Vice President/Regional Manager 419.229.3060 [email protected]

• Mark Schluneker Assistant Vice President/Financial Center Manager 419.229.2060 [email protected]

• Ryan Morrisey Assistant Vice President/Financial Center Manager 419.999.1842 [email protected]

• Dar Hollar Assistant Vice President/Financial Center Manager 419.221.5861 [email protected]

• Ric Niekamp Assistant Vice President/Financial Center Manager 983 North Cable Road 419.225.6400 [email protected]

Ohio Northern University• Dan DiBiasio

President [email protected] 419-772-2030

• David C. Crago Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 419-772-2034

These individuals are the “go-to” people, the movers and shakers, the “let’s get the job done right” members of our business community. Due to their work ethic and dynamic commitment to the community, they are the “Who’s Who” of the Lima/Allen County business community.

WHO’S WHO

• Ken Block Vice President of University Advancement [email protected] 419-772-2035

• Lawrence Lesick Vice President for Enrollment Management [email protected] 419-772-2260

• William L. Robinson Executive Assistant to the President [email protected] 419-772-2721

• Amy Prigge Executive Director of Communications & Marketing [email protected] 419-772-2044

The Ohio State University – Lima • John R. Snyder

Dean and Director 419.995.8481 [email protected]

• Bryan Albright Associate Director of Enrollment Services 419.995.8223 [email protected]

• Amanda Miller Director of Development 419.995.8260 [email protected]

• Pamela Joseph Director of Communications 419.995.8284 [email protected]

• Rachel Richardson Career Services Coordinator 419.995.8053 [email protected]

• Allison Gilmore Associate Dean 419.995.8214 [email protected]

PERRY proTECH • Barry Clark

CEO & President 419.228.1360

• Dave Zimerle Executive VP of Sales 419.228.1360

• Becky Taylor VP of Accounting 419.228.1360

• Kathy Vogler Marketing Director 419.228.1360

• Don Katalenas VP of Service, Imaging 419.228.1360

• Jeff Boate President, IT/Networking 937.498.7080


PotashCorp • Todd Sutton

General Manager 419.879.8989

• Jennifer Niese Human Resource Manager 419.879.8989

• Mike Resar Safety, Health and Environmental Manager 419.879.8989

Time Warner Cable Business Class • Brian Young

Director of Government Relations 419.429.7450 [email protected]

• Joelene Jordan Time Warner Business Class 419.996.2218 [email protected]

• Dino Gerdeman Sales Manager 419.581.9948 [email protected]

• Tricia Profit-Kuhn Media Sales 419.996.2246 [email protected]

• Jason Teman Media Sales 419.996.2215 [email protected]

• Lisa Morris Media Sales Admin. Assistant 419.996.2215 [email protected]

Tier 3 Who’s Who

AEP Ohio • Randy Payne

Manager Community Affairs 567.207.8412 [email protected]

American Trim • Bob Stead

President and COO 937.494.6262 [email protected]

• Tim Hawk Executive Vice President 937.494.6030 [email protected]

• Dan Morgan Chief Financial Officer 419.996.4875 [email protected]

• Rick Pfeifer Chief Technical Officer 419.996.4964 [email protected]

CenturyLink • Dave Jordan

Area Operations Manager 419.226.6725

• Maria Stockwell Business Sales Account Manager 419.226.6236

• Joanette Romero Ohio Market Development Manager 440.244.8281

• Kathy Daniels Government Relations Manager 419.755.8921

Citizens National Bank • Ken Dysert

Sr. VP Lima City President 419.224.0400 x 1338

• Marty McCluer VP Business Banking 419.224.0400 x 1318

• Cheryl Verhoff VP Business Banking 419.224.0400 x 1348

• Chad King VP Business Banking 419.224.0400 x 1339

Superior Federal Credit Union • Phil Buell

President & CEO 419.223.9746 [email protected]

• Keith Eiden Executive Vice President Sales & Lending 419.223.9746 [email protected]

• Carol Buettner Director of Private Banking 419.879.4843 [email protected]

• Kurt Neeper Marketing Director 419.879.3502 [email protected]

Trinity Highway Products • Keith Hamburg

Plant Manager 419.227.1296 [email protected]

• Josh Briggs Safety/Environmental Manager 419.227.1296 [email protected]

• Curtis Napier Quality Control Manager 419.227.1296 [email protected]

• John Hickman Maintenance Operations 419.227.1296 [email protected]

Tier 2 Who’s Who

First Federal Bank • Gary Minnick

Vice President 419.222.6158 (office) 419.516.7313 (cell)

• Ginny German Assistant Vice President 419.338.2022 (office) 419.235.4587 (cell)

Holiday Inn & Suites • Brad Will

General Manager 419.879.4000 [email protected]

• Michele Knoch-Hicks Sales 419.879.4000 [email protected]

Huntington National Bank • Rob Armentrout

Branch Manager 419.225.5176 [email protected]

• Fred Vernon Commercial Relationship Manager 419.222.7134 [email protected]

The Union Bank • Erin W. Hardesty

Vice President Private Banking/Treasury Management Manager 419.879.6117 [email protected]

• Jim Osmon Assistant Vice President Commercial Lender 419.229.6500 [email protected]

Tier 1 Who’s Who

The State Bank and Trust Company• David Anderson

Regional President – Lima Region 419.228.3361 x 4406

Buckeye Anesthesia Services• Paul Scheiwiller, MD

801 Medical Drive 419.991.8820


LIMA/ALLEN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VISION STATEMENT:To be the leader of collaborative efforts, to advocate a community vision, to promote business retention, growth and development, and to be a catalyst for higher education to meet the workforce development needs of the Lima and Allen County employers.

MISSION STATEMENT:Serve, represent, and enhance business growth and success.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Established the “Partnership for Progress” campaign through the Chamber Foundation to support the Center for

Business Services’ financial needs and special community development and education initiatives. • Developed a strategy to maximize Chamber event participation and communicated the positive benefits regarding the

Chamber and Chamber events. • Worked to create partnerships with all entities within the Center for Business Services Building shared how each

organization could work together in accomplishing goals and aligning strategic plans for our community. • Developed a marketing plan to include social media components, the community brand and testimonials

communicating why businesses and individuals have located to or stayed in Lima. • Facilitated communication between businesses and legislators to create a unified vision focusing on legislative issues

impacting businesses. • Developed a plan to incorporate strategies to improve Chamber operations. • Worked with the Allen County Museum and Trinity Motorsports to develop a plan for an interactive race car to

promote STEM at the Children’s Discovery Center. • Developed, in collaboration with Allen Economic Development Group and the College Access Program, a “Careers in

Manufacturing Video” to promote career opportunities in manufacturing. • Held a B2B First Impressions opportunity for small and larger businesses to connect on products and services. • The Chamber, in partnership with the Allen Economic Development Group, worked collaboratively with businesses and

educational institutions to develop a STRIVE initiative focusing on “cradle to career” education, promoting a workforce credentialed community, careers in manufacturing and skilled trades, mining our talent for future workers, and securing higher paying jobs for our region.

2013 GOALS: • The Chamber will continue the partnership with the Allen Economic Development Group, working collaboratively with

businesses and educational institutions on “cradle-to-career” education, promoting a workforce credentialed community, careers in manufacturing and skilled trades, mining our talent for future workers, and securing higher paying jobs for our region.

• Develop Engage and Mentor Young Professionals to serve on leadership boards throughout our community and communicate the strengths and benefits of each generation.

• Focus on mining the talent that is needed for our community today and in the future through identifying available job opportunities, engaging young professionals, targeting and cultivating specific talent, placing business professionals into area schools to talk about careers and form more collaboration between colleges and businesses.

• Market assets of our community through meeting with newcomers to identify the positive assets of our community; marketing the quality of life, why businesses should locate in our community and relating benefits of the community to those professionals being recruited to the area.

• Expand our legislative efforts to host more business advocacy and topical forums, increase grassroots efforts and streamline the process for the chamber to take a stance on political issues impacting our businesses. Focus on business taxes and regulations and anti-business attitude from government. Be the “Voice of Business” … influence public policy matters that affect the business climate.

2013 COMMITTEES


AGRI-BUSINESS COMMITTEE

MISSION STATEMENT:To promote a mutual understanding of, and appreciation for, Allen County’s largest industry – agriculture and its impact on the lives of all residents of Allen County.

Chairperson: Beth Seibert, Allen Soil and Water Conservation District

Committee meets on an as needed’ basis.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Supported the agricultural Wake, Rattle and Roll program at the Allen County Fairgrounds. • Worked with city, county and township officials, along with the Regional Planning Commission on land use issues

throughout the county. • Promoted agricultural career information/education whenever possible.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to support the agricultural Wake, Rattle and Roll program at the Allen County Fairgrounds. • Promote agricultural career information and education whenever possible. • Provide education opportunities on the connection between commodities and the consumer. • Identify the following agri-businesses representatives to serve on the committee:

1. Growing – Production/Producers2. Selling – Retail3. Input – Manufacturing, Sales and Service (Machinery, seed, fertilizer, feed, etc.)4. Processing, Transportation, etc.5. Machinery sales and/or service6. Grocery Markets

COMMITTEES • Focus on making the center of the City of Lima as attractive as possible. Work collaboratively with partners to enhance

the City of Lima entrance and continue the branding efforts to improve the image of the City of Lima.

• Identify the chamber’s strengths and value, marketing the return on investment for our members and educate our volunteers, members, and the community on the benefits of the Chamber.

• Prepare a study to evaluate the needs, finances and marketing of the City Club to sustain the success of the facility.

• Research and publish updated information regarding local wages, salaries, and other economic data and trends which is/would be an important service for our members.

• Focus on opportunities to promote Center for Business Services as an anchor for the downtown and be supportive of other development efforts in Downtown Lima.

• Develop a plan to educate our youth on the value and changing specialties of working in and learning trades.

• Continue partnerships with all entities within the Center for Business Services working together to accomplish goals for the betterment of our community.

• Continue to include social media components, the community brand and testimonials to communicate why businesses and individuals have chosen to locate or stay in Lima.

• Continue partnerships with all entities within the Center for Business Services working together to accomplish goals for the betterment of our community.

• Continue to facilitate communication between businesses and legislators focusing on legislative issues impacting businesses.

• Continue to developed ways to improve chamber operations.


ALLEN 2020

MISSION STATEMENT:Is a citizens based “grass roots” initiative to focus on building a vision for the future of Allen County

Chairperson: To be appointed

Committee meets quarterly.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Participated with United Way, Lima Public Schools and the Chamber’s Education Committee in purchasing Leapster

Educational computers for students. • Work with the Sustainable Communities and Lima Allen County Regional Planning Commission in the development of a

new website to measure outcomes for Allen 2020. • Interviewed community leaders and Allen 2020 taskforce team members to put together a report on the progress

made accomplishing the Allen 2020 vision.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to work with various groups to facilitate action steps to accomplish the visions of the ten task force teams. • Continue the work with the Sustainable Communities and Lima Allen County Regional Planning Commission in the

development of a new website to measure outcomes for Allen 2020 and health care initiatives. • Continue to foster collaboration and partnerships to advance the Allen 2020 visions. • Publish a document outlining what has been accomplished as related to Allen 2020 community visioning initiative.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

MISSION STATEMENT:The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee seeks to support preparation of all individuals for their future through the development of partnerships between business, industry and education so students can successfully enter the workforce upon the completion of their education.

Chairperson: Brittany Collier-Gibson, The Ohio State University at LimaCommittee will meet the third Wednesday of each month at 10:00 AM.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Expanded committee - Recruited members from every educational level (early childhood, middle/high school, post

secondary and adult) to serve on committee • Partnership created between Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and Allen Economic Development to create a

credentialed workforce through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math)�� Member of Strive Partnership in Cincinnati, Ohio�� Submitted Local Government Innovative Fund grant for $100,000 to create shared data system and county report

card from cradle to career • Created subcommittees

�� Opportunities: Identifying and documenting best practices related education and workforce development�� Advocacy: Being one voice for education in our community and sustaining the work �� Connecting: Aligning resources between business and education�� Building: Creating a seamless transition to workforce

2013 GOALS: • Submit articles for Education Bytes in Chamber monthly newsletter • Proceed with Strive Initiative (workforce development from cradle to career)


FINANCE COMMITTEE

MISSION STATEMENT:To accept fiduciary responsibility of maintaining a stable financial environment for the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and its affiliates. To provide sound financial guidelines and oversight, thereby enabling the L/ACCC to maintain business operations within the budgeted business plan.

Chairperson: John Renner, St. Rita’s Medical Center

Committee meets the third Thursday of each month at 12:00 p.m.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• Reviewed all financial operations of the Chamber and Chamber Foundation, ensuring that policies, budget and

financial goals are met.• Reviewed new and canceled members monthly, gauging performance to budget and validating financial reports.• Upheld the policy that each program will support itself financially.• Evaluated non-budgeted programs with expenses over $2,500.• Diversified the committee with persons having the expertise to deal with financial issues facing the Chamber,

especially in the areas of insurance and investments• Reviewed and approved policies and procedures for accounting guidelines as needed.• Evaluated revenue opportunities in Value Added Programs.• Developed and implemented means to increase revenue sources for the building fund. • Reduced Building Debt by $118,600.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to review and approve all financial operations of the Chamber and Chamber Foundation. These include

policies, budget, new and canceled members, annual audit, and financial goals. • Continue to uphold the policy that each program will support itself financially, and continue to approve non-budgeted

programs with expenses over $2,500. • Continue to approve capital expenditures over $2,000. • Continue to maintain diversity on the Finance Committee with persons with special expertise, and continue to maintain

a committee of at least 8 members. • Continue to review and approve policies and procedures for accounting guidelines as needed. • Continue to annually review committee mission and goals. • Remain financially sound with the increased cost of the new building. • Continue the capital campaign to raise money for the new building for the purpose of debt reduction and

enhancements. • Develop management strategies for maintaining new building and future expenses. • Take advantage of additional revenue sources. • Look at options for third floor if lease is not renewed.

COMMITTEES�� Pursue local, state, and federal funding for cradle to career initiative �� Resource mapping and creation of county report card

�• Build website to create menu of services for education and business partnerships�• Align programs and services to 2-3 goals per educational level�• Research funding opportunities to build collaborations amongst programs, services, and organizations

�� Participate in Foundation Center presentation at the library�� Presentations on initiative to service clubs, non-profits, business, etc.

• Utilize video for Careers in Manufacturing through STEAM �� Assist with projects and events related to STEAM

• STEAM Fair – hands on activities related to STEAM in downtown Lima • School and Business collaboration with STEAM projects

�� Classroom presentations, visit to local business, knowledge of career opportunities and presentations by students to employees

• Robotics Expo – showcase of YMCA robotics program for elementary, middle and high school programs


LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

MISSION STATEMENT:To develop an awareness and understanding of emerging local, state and federal issues that could cause a change in the business/quality of life climate; develop a position to inform members and the community; and, when advisable, develop a strategy to resolve the issue.

Chairperson: Phil Buell, Superior Federal Credit Union

Committee meets the Third Wednesday of each month at 3:00 PM

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Was a pro-business advocate for business members and sought out opportunities to support legislative efforts in

assisting local businesses. • Monitored local, state, and national business related issues affecting the community and provided feedback to state

and national organizations. • Held interactive Legislative receptions, debates, or topical forums to facilitate communication between businesses and

local, state and national elected officials. Programs included, but are not limited to: United States Senator Rob Portman, United States Congressman Jim Jordan, State Representative Matt Huffman, State Senator Keith Faber on State Issue 2, health care forum, Importance of Canada’s Oil Sands, and Allen County Commissioner debates.

• Further expanded and developed the regional business legislative Chamber Coalition. • Held legislative meetings with local and state legislative representatives at the Ohio Capital to discuss significant Lima/

Allen County issues. • Partnered with other local, state and national legislative organizations to represent the interest of business. • Sought out opportunities for dissemination of more legislative information to our members in a timely manner and

encouraged member involvement in legislative concerns. • Provided legislative updates periodically for the Wake, Rattle and Roll event and the Chamber’s monthly news

conference. • Developed a plan to inform and involve more chamber members in the legislative process and created a unified vision

that will focus on legislative issues impacting business. • Developed stronger relationships with elected officials through one on one meetings and attendance at events. • Expanded the readership and content of the Legislative Advocacy Report. • Organized a welcome breakfast annually after the November election for newly elected officials to meet with the

Chamber’s Legislative Committee. • Participated in the Ohio Chamber’s Action Alliance competition and supported the Great Lakes Initiatives.

2013 GOALS: • Be a pro-business advocate for business members and seek out opportunities to support legislative efforts in assisting

local businesses. • Monitor local, state, and national business related issues affecting the community and provide feedback to state and

national organizations. • Hold at least six interactive Legislative receptions, debates, or topical forums to facilitate communication between

businesses and local, state and national elected officials. • Further expand and develop the regional business legislative Chamber Coalition. • Plan legislative meetings with local and state legislative representatives at the Ohio Capital to discuss significant Lima/

Allen County issues at least once per year. • Partner with other local, state and national legislative organizations to represent the interest of business. • Seek opportunities for dissemination of more legislative information to our members in a timely manner and

encourage member involvement in legislative concerns. • Provide legislative updates periodically for the Wake, Rattle and Roll event and the Chamber’s monthly news

conference. • Develop a plan to inform and involve more chamber members in the legislative process and create a unified vision that

will focus on legislative issues impacting business. • Develop stronger relationships with elected officials through one on one meetings and attendance at events. • Expand the readership and content of the Legislative Advocacy Report. • Organize a welcome breakfast annually after the November election for newly elected officials to meet with the

Chamber’s Legislative Committee. • Participate in the Ohio Chamber’s Action Alliance competition annually.


LIMA AREA CHAMBER FOUNDATION

MISSION STATEMENT:To establish and operate non-profit educational programs in the Lima/Allen County area including without limitation the recruiting, development and training of community and civic leaders, the development and support of a small business enterprise center to train and assist persons interested in the operation of small businesses, and to support educational programs, workshops, seminars, information and research programs to assist community and business leaders of all economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Chairperson: Dr. John Snyder, The Ohio State University at Lima Campus

Committee meets as needed throughout the year. Annual Meeting held in October

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Supported the College Access program. • Supported the Allen Lima Leadership program. • Assisted with the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center. • Managed funding and leases for the Center for Business Services. • Supported the Allen County Community Branding Project. • Successfully raised funds for the Center for Business Services Capital Campaign.

2013 GOALS: • Raise awareness of the Lima Area Chamber Foundation. • Facilitate business partnerships with local school districts. • Support programs for youth and adult leaders. • Continue to work with the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center. • Provide a venue for raising money for community and business development. • Assist with sustainability for College Access and STRIVE (cradle to career) initiatives. • Monitor the agency leases, expenses and the financial sustainability of the Center for Business Services facility. • Continue to secure funding for the Center for Business Services Capital improvements.


ALLEN LIMA LEADERSHIP

MISSION STATEMENT:To be a catalyst to promote positive change in the Lima/Allen County communities by: Annually selecting a group of individuals with diverse backgrounds and developing their leadership skills and activities, providing a strong commitment to Lima/Allen County communities; Providing these individuals with an education which will improve understanding of community issues, institutions, self and others and training in advanced leadership principals; Establishing an invaluable resource to nonprofit, governmental and community organizations upon graduation of these individuals who have shared their educational and training experiences actively seeking positions of change on issues that affect and impede advancement of our communities, and promoting the A.L.L. graduates involvement in such issues.

The Allen Lima Leadership Group meets on a monthly basis September through June.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• Updated Website/YouTube – ALL leadership TV Channel.• Enhanced Social Media presence.• Successfully guided 2012 ALL Adult and Youth Leadership Classes through to graduation.• Updated ALL Alumni Profile Directory.• Continued to educate community on purpose/objective of the program.• Maintenance of current corporate memberships.• Graduation Celebration for 24th Anniversary year.• Recruited for ALL Adult and Youth Leadership Class of 2013.• Second Annual Danger Gate ‘A High Rock & Roll & Tail Gate Event’ to benefit the Allen Lima Leadership Programs.• 2012 Class Project “Visual Pride.” Sale of Mile Markers for the Rotary Riverwalk as fund raiser to enhance and improve

the esthetics of the downtown square.

2013 GOALS: • New tag line: Leading the Way for Twenty-Five Years. • New logo and enhanced printed and online program materials. • Continue to increase minority participation. • Increase and retain number of corporate memberships. • New Member Reception. • Designate project for ALL Class of 2013. • Diversity Awareness Workshop. • Recruit ALL Adult and Youth Leadership Class of 2014. • ALL 25th Year Graduation Celebration. • Prepare for ALL 25th Year Class Celebration. • Continuation of Danger Gate Fundraiser for ALL. • Increase awareness through social media outlets. • Continue to update Website/YouTube – ALL Leadership TV Channel. • Update Alumni Website and Database.


LIMA/ALLEN COUNTY COLLEGE ACCESS PROGRAM

MISSION STATEMENT:To provide free assistance to individuals of all ages from Lima/Allen County and surrounding counties in pursuing an education beyond high school with emphasis for those who are first-generation and/or low-income.

Chairpersons: Lela Harlow, retired-Junior Achievement & Nanette Weaver, Health Partners of Western Ohio

Committee meets the third Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Received $55,000 for GEAR UP extension through Feb 2012; Received $120,000 in additional grants and local donations

to continue to provide: advisors, tutors, resource center, campus visits, fee waivers, summer program and scholarships.

• Advisors assisted with college process at Apollo and Lima City Schools: 511 students participated in 1773 individual sessions, 363 students/parents participated in 30 events; 384 students at Lima Senior participated in 1,586 tutoring sessions.

• YMCA Annex Resource Center/Office assisted 68 individuals with ACT prep for 171 sessions, 17 parents attended workshops, 23 the computer lab and 11 the office.

• 21 Last Dollar Scholarships awarded in the amount of $500/high school senior from Allen County; to date - awarded 215 scholarships to total $107,500.

• Early awareness programs assisted 130 students in grades K-8 with summer program and hands on career fair with City Parks, UMADOP & Bradfield; assisted 300 in middle school explorations.

• Participated with the College Fairs, Black Achievers event, Martin Luther King breakfast, hosted College Goal Sunday, provided outreach to over 400 adults regarding the Bridge Class, GED/ABLE, and Community Connections.

• Regional high school financial aid nights presented by local college representatives.

2013 GOALS: • Submit grant proposals for local, state, private, and federal grants as appropriate – at least three grants written per

year. • Raise funds for the Last Dollar Scholarships and continue to award scholarships – award at least 20 scholarships per

year. • Raise awareness of the services provided by the College Access Program through promoting the website,

presentations to the local schools and service organizations, and media interviews – at least 5 presentations per year. • Collaborate with local guidance counselors to increase participation in the program – at least 5 communications per

year with counselors. • Enhance Resource Centers which provides assistance with college preparation (ACT prep, career searches, college

applications, and financial aid) – increase by 5% per year. • Expand the summer youth program particularly the hands on career fair – 5% per year.


WALTER C. POTTS ENTREPRENEUR CENTER

MISSION STATEMENT:To provide the education and skills necessary to support and sustain a small business; enabling the community to create significant jobs, provide economic stability and to enhance the community’s quality of life by encouraging small and minority businesses to stay, invest, and participate in the Lima/Allen County community.

Chairperson: Jed Metzger, Lima Allen County Chamber of CommerceCoordinator: Jessie Pope, Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS:• Successfully obtained 501C (3) not-for-profit exempt status for the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur Center.• Increased the number of minority, women-owned and small business clients assisted by 20 percent over previous 3

year average.• Developed marketing material for the Center.• Strengthened the partnership between the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Development

Center, Diversified Management Services, Inc., Minority Business Assistance Center and local businesses through improved training and communications.

• Renewed grant with the Small Business Development Center at Rhodes State College and the Minority Business Assistance Center Satellite arrangement with the Akron Urban League.

• Coordinator participated in the consolidated Small Business and Diversity Committee. • Hosted two successful training workshops that provided Start-up Business and MBE/EDGE Certification training to over

thirty (30) registrants. • Secured a grant with the Small Business Development Center at Rhodes State College and the Minority Business

Assistance Center through forming a partnership with the Akron Urban League.• Provided exceptional service to clients.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to strengthen the partnership between the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business

Development Center, Diversified Management Services, Inc., Minority Business Assistance Center and local businesses. • Develop a Mentoring Program consisting of experienced individuals from the local business community willing to assist

entrepreneurs with startup and small business growth concerns. • Increase participation in certification programs for small, minority and women-owned businesses by 25 percent. • Continue one-on-one Mentoring Program for individuals needing assistance for start ups, diversification, and

expansion. • Develop partnerships with local financial institutions, federal, state, and local government, and others to provide

venture start up capital resources. • Participate in Small Business Committee. • Develop and execute a strategy to increase growth in minority owned businesses. • Assist in the planning and support efforts to have a successful Community Enrichment Dinner in April.


LIMA YOUNG PROFESSIONALS LEADERSHIP BOARD

MISSION STATEMENT:To build relationships while attracting and retaining young professional talent to the greater Lima/Allen County area.

Board President: Michael Ley, Dennis Ley Insurance

Leadership Board meets the quarterly.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Maintained and developed the organization through four key action teams. • Continued forward momentum of the I Love Lima campaign with booths at events, regular TV and radio spots, as well

as Facebook posts, entry in the Allen County Museum’s Christmas Tree Festival, and community involvement. • Continued to offer monthly Professional Development Luncheons and Social Development Pub Club networking

events. • Highlighted organization through partnerships with Maverick Media, Clear Channel and Your Hometown Lima Stations. • Hosted Annual Green Tie Affair. • Continued partnership with the Mayor’s office through the YP Mayor’s Cabinet. • Developed speaking opportunities for membership through career day and campus visit programs. • Supported and assisted local non-profits and service club programs. • Enhanced usage of social media for events, program and community promotions. • Re-developed and enhanced the organization’s website – www.limayp.com.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to maintain and develop the organization through four key action teams. • Continue monthly Professional Development luncheons. • Continue monthly Social Development after hours. • Highlight organizations efforts through marketing efforts. • Continue to encourage member participation with civic organizations. • I Love Lima and Green Tie will expand on our work with the Sustainable Allen County Committee, helping create

indicators for the environmental aspect of our community, measuring the quality of our air, water, food, built environment and infrastructure.

• Hold Annual Green Tie Affair. • Continue partnership with the Mayor’s office and expand partnership to include county commissioners. • Update and maintain content for the organization’s website • Develop job shadowing and internship opportunities with middle and high school students within Lima City Schools

and the community’s local colleges. • Recruit local college students to the organization. • Research possibility of developing specific program directed toward college-aged individuals. • Continue to develop speaking opportunities for the YP membership. • Research and partner with additional community organizations to provide volunteers, assistance or awareness of

programs. • Implement Cash Mob program to enhance local businesses.


MANUFACTURER’S COUNCIL

MISSION STATEMENT:To promote the civic, economic and industrial position of those industries whose operations contribute significantly to the economic base, growth and welfare of the area served by the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce and the Allen Economic Development Group.

Chairman: Gene Heitmeyer, Colonial Surface Solutions, Inc.

Committee meets quarterly.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Focused the goals and objectives of the Manufacturer’s Council. • Monitored and was responsive to legislative issues and concerns affecting manufacturers, including partnering with

the Ohio Manufacturing Association. • Hosted meetings to discuss proposals to improve freight routing options in and around Lima, I-75 and 309 corridor

plans, the Regional Planning Commission’s proposed transportation plan for Allen County, marketing of food processing, marketing advance manufacturing, careers in manufacturing, regulatory and government reform.

• Hosted quarterly Manufacturer’s Council meetings and tour of facilities. • Discussed the standardization of the trades and how to promote careers in manufacturing. • Developed and provided networking opportunities among manufacturers.

2013 GOALS: • Continue development efforts and dialogue regarding transportation infrastructure and freight routing improvements

with local and regional governmental agencies and planning commissions. • Identify opportunities for manufacturing member companies to increase access to workforce training and

development. • In conjunction with the Legislative Committee, Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Ohio Manufacturing Association

engage local, regional, and state governmental bodies in discussion and communication of pertinent regulatory reform to improve the competitive environment Ohio manufacturing businesses face in the rapidly evolving economy.

• Provide multiple opportunities for our local manufacturing companies to network with each other and experience the rich diversity in businesses in our region.

• Promote careers in manufacturing and educational opportunities in manufacturing. • Promote quality of small and large manufacturers within our region and the rich history and tradition the

manufacturing has provided to our community. • Develop a list of area suppliers and organize a networking and product sharing event to enhance the current

manufacturer throughout the region.


MARKETING COMMITTEE

MISSION STATEMENT:To communicate effectively with our members and the community, and to serve our membership through focus groups and working with the Membership Committee.

Chairperson: Cindy Scott, Citizens National Bank

Committee meets every other month.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Continued to promote the Chamber’s 4 key messages and tagline. • Continued the Chamber Spotlight weekly on WLIO, WIMA, WCIT and monthly on GTV2. • Highlighted Chamber program activity and impact on the community & local businesses – include progress of new

facility. • Maintained and enhanced Chamber website through video, news feeds and social media integration. • Capitalized on trade partnerships and sponsorships with local media for event advertising. • Maintained and enhanced social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. • Maintained and promoted value-added media discount program for Chamber Members. • Utilized video, social media and website to communicate positive benefits of the Chamber and events through

testimonials and event/program highlights. • Developed advocacy update informing members of legislative issues impacting businesses. • Streamlined member email communications. • Developed budget for year-long advertising efforts partnering with local media to create marketing plan to highlight

Chamber programs, value-added benefits, discount programs, community development, advocacy, and more through Chamber member testimonials.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to promote the Chamber’s 4 key messages by focusing on one message quarterly and tie all events,

marketing, messages to that specific key point. Messages are: Advocacy, Networking, Opportunity and Building. • Market the Chamber’s website to members to increase usage – encouraging member to member utilization and to be

a resource for overall membership. • Continue to gather member and community testimonials to promote Chamber programs. • Continue the Chamber Spotlight on WLIO, WIMA, WCIT and GTV2. • Develop tracking method for utilization of Media Discount Program. • Spotlight Chamber committees to generate awareness of community outreach efforts and volunteer opportunities

through the Chamber. • Develop additional media opportunities with radio and print mediums. • Market business advocacy efforts and community impact programs in addition to our standard networking events,

seminars and annual programs. • Integrate social media marketing and develop technology-based solutions to enhance our member outreach; i.e.: video

newsletters, program overviews online. • Provide video testimonials to communicate why businesses located or have stayed in the Lima area. • Develop full year marketing/media plan.


MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

MISSION: To develop a strategy to communicate with members that will encourage retention of membership. Make recommendations of policy regarding membership issues to the Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees.

Committee meets the third Tuesday of each month at 4:00 PM

Committee Chair – Mike Powell, Sign Solutions of Ohio

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Held two personal visit retention campaigns to survey Chamber members and get valuable feedback. • Made contact with 300 Chamber members throughout the year. • Assisted in the recruitment of new members. • Discussed and reviewed new programs offered by Chamber to provide input for implementation. • Committee members provided video testimonies for use in Chamber social media.

2013 GOALS: • Make contact with at least 350 member companies throughout the year. • Continue to provide discussion during meetings regarding specific questions affecting Membership, including feedback

and new program ideas. • Schedule time for retention calls one half hour prior to monthly meeting and two personal visit campaigns with

current Chamber members. • Recruit actively involved members for testimonies in marketing Chamber programs and benefits. • Market tiered dues structure to small business members to encourage more participation. • Each Ambassador will recruit at least one new member. • Recruit three new members to serve on the committee with a commitment to be involved in Chamber events and

make contact with current members.


SMALL AND CULTURALLY DIVERSE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

MISSION STATEMENT:To assist small businesses in the region to develop and prosper through educational programs and networking opportunities

Chairperson: Mike Powell, Sign Solutions of Ohio

Committee meets the third Friday of each month at 8:00am.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Addition of committee members. • Merged small business and culturally diverse business committees to better serve membership. • Provided educational opportunities to benefit our small and culturally diverse business members. • Partnered with SBDC and LACCA to offer semi-annual “How-to” training seminars to build and strengthen small

businesses. • Hosted B2B First Impressions program, in conjunction with the Chamber’s GROW & ReInvent business expo, to partner

majority business representatives with diverse, women-owned and small business owners.

2013 GOALS: • Assist in the development of a business – to – business mentor program through the Walter C. Potts Entrepreneur

Center, Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Bluffton Entrepreneurial Center. • Continue to provide educational opportunities – traditional and non-traditional – to benefit our small business

members and create opportunities to share local resources. • Identify opportunities to offer meetings, seminars, and events to members by utilizing streaming video,

teleconferencing or virtual seminars. • Highlight small businesses through testimonials on the Chamber website, newsletters, etc. • Provide committee representation on the Chamber’s Award Committee for the Culturally Diverse Business of the Year

Award. • Hold focus group, panel discussion or networking event during the month of September to identify areas of

opportunity where the Chamber can assist our small and culturally diverse business members. • Update and market The Business Express to help educate small businesses to utilize the Chamber as their resource to

assist with issues. • Committee to visit with small business members to learn how to assist or what services the Chamber can provide to

members.


WAKE, RATTLE & ROLL COMMITTEE

Mission Statement: To serve as a community forum providing information on business issues and an opportunity for members to be recognized.

Committee meets the first Thursday of each month at 8:00 a.m.

Chair: Tim Stanford, Yocum Realty

2012 Accomplishments:• Focused on local issues and spotlighting area business success stories.• Increased number of people networking before and after the program by promoting networking opportunities.• Included segments on individual achievements, job creation, community projects, and community resources for

business growth and success.

2013 Goals:• Select speakers who can give a presentation with an upbeat, informative message on topics of importance to the

business community. • Promote strategies to develop and expand networking opportunities.• Identify opportunities to recognize local business success stories which will include business and organization

achievements individual achievement, job creation, community involvement, changes in leadership, and anniversaries. • Include historical segment on local businesses and business leaders.

WEST CENTRAL OHIO SAFETY COUNCIL

MISSION STATEMENT:To increase awareness and importance of safety to area businesses and the community.

President: Tony Daley, Spallinger Millwright

Membership meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month.Steering Committee meetings are held the 3rd Monday of the month at 4 pm.

2012 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: • Increased membership. • Coordinated membership meetings above the program requirements through the BWC. • Provided opportunities for the BWC to report to the membership on issues of interest. • Promoted the BWC at all membership meetings. • Continued the Ruth Kreher Scholarship Fund for two scholarships.

2013 GOALS: • Continue to increase membership. • Coordinate membership meetings above the program requirements. • Promote the different programs provided by BWC to all area employers. • Bring in a motivational speaker to increase safety awareness to area workers. • Continue the Ruth Kreher Scholarship Fund.

Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce144 South Main Street, Suite 100

Lima, Ohio 45801Phone: 419.222.6045 • Fax: 419.229.0266

www.limachamber.com

Date post:	23-Mar-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	nicole-scott
View:	221 times
Download:	3 times

2013 Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Business Plan

Documents