GCACC Business Connection Fall 2023 Issue

BUSINESS BUSINESS CONNECTION CONNECTION

@ GroveCityOhio

#GC123

CITY DEMOGRAPHICS

Population: 42,366

Median Age: 40.1

Population Over 18: 79.5%

Population Over 65: 17.7%

Number of Households: 18,029

Median Home Value: $244,151

Average Income Per Household: $111,247

Want to learn more about the demographics of Grove City? www.grovecityohio.gov/resourcesandtourism/communityinformation/

RECOGNIZING MEMBERS

Oldest Black-owned business, located in Grove City, recognized as a National Legacy Business.

A historic African American-owned business located in central Ohio has recently been named a National Legacy Business. E.E. Ward Moving and Storage in Grove City, which has a rich history dating back to its involvement in the Underground Railroad, is among the 68 small businesses recognized by the U.S. Small Business Association for their contributions to their communities and impressive growth over time. With a humble beginning of two horses and a wagon in 1881, E.E. Ward has evolved into a successful, coast-to-coast full-service moving company, showcasing the potential for small businesses to flourish with dedication and hard work. The federal agency’s efforts to support small businesses are admirable, and they continue to encourage and highlight these establishments that have made a positive impact on society.

Starting with just two horses and a wagon, the company has grown over the last nearly 140 years into a thriving multi-million-dollar award-winning moving corporation. Throughout the evolution of E.E. Ward, we have never lost sight of the principles of excellent service and giving back to the community on which it was originally founded. We pride ourselves on our excellent service, and we have the credentials to back it up for when you’re doing a “moving companies near me” search. E.E. Ward’s historical past is part of the company culture today that continues to inspire its promising future.

Learn more and read their history at https://eeward.com/about/

YOUR CHAMBER

Chamber Business Connections is published bi-monthly by the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce with revenue from member dues, advertising, and sponsorship. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the content in this publication, by any method or purpose whatsoever, without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Only chamber members can advertise in Chamber Business Connection. To plan advertising contact the chamber.

Your Board

Chris Moscato President

Katie Antry Fleming President Elect '24

Greg Dawkins GC Chamber Foundation President

Nick Connaughton VP Finance

Nikki Fleming 2023 VP at Large

Jeffrey Buskirk 2023 VP Government Relations

Kay Anderson

Mellissa Forte

Shawn Harris

Brenda Newman

Carol Riffle

Andrea Ruede

Trent Soles

Lynn Weita

Letter from the Director

Arts in the Alley 44 is in the books! This long-running, awardwinning event is not only a favorite of our community but of people from all over Ohio and neighboring states. The list of thank you’ s is nearly endless but please join me in thanking some of the incredible volunteers, vendors, businesses, and Chamber partners who make this massive 3-day event happen.

First and foremost is the Chamber events team, Marilyn Reiner, and Heather Brokaw who work endless hours to make all of the details for this and all of our events come together.

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Heartland Bank, Entertainment Sponsor, OhioHealth; Kid’s Fun Street Sponsor, Mount Carmel; Parade Sponsor, Wright-Patt Credit Union.

Thanks also to our supporting sponsors Zangmeister Cancer Center, Broadway Fireplace and Décor, Byers Chevrolet, the Goddard School, Telhio, Sanderson Automotive, and Franklin County Banking Center. We absolutely couldn’t make it happen without our volunteers along with the Parade team led by Betty Potts, and our Voice of Grove City team led by Trent Soles.

Our 100+ artists and show chairs created a viewing and shopping paradise for everyone. Putting the physical event together including tents, porta-potties, electrical, water, etc. are our friends from the City of Grove City, the Grove City Service Department, Jackson Township FD, Grove City Division of Police, Gregory Electric and our bestie, Bill Fenner.

Staff

Executive Director

Shawn Conrad

Events Manager

Marilyn Reiner

Administrative and Events Coordinator

Heather Brokaw

Member Service Specialist

Kaziah Conrad

Thousands of kids had a blast on Kids Fun Street thanks to Crosslink Church. And of course, everyone ate well thanks to our community service organizations and concessions providers.

Thank you to the 750 businesses that make up the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce and to our amazing community who support those businesses and our events throughout the year. Our event visitors from Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, New England, Virginia, and elsewhere all understand now, why Grove City has been awarded the ‘Best Hometown’ 3 times!!

RECOGNIZING MEMBERS

Celebrating Anniversaries

1 YEAR:

Soapbox Global Laundry

Edwards Pressure Washing & Handyman Services

TVM Health Empowerment

Personal Healthcare Concierge

Brenda Newman

Kaitlyn Propst

Oakmont Investment Properties

Michael Sabatino

The Marcus Project

AAA-Travel | Grandview Ave

The Provisus Group at Morgan Stanley

Wealth Management

Michelle Cross

Precise Billing

Buckeye Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Garth Fanus

Magical Adventure Parties

The Parrett Group | Cutler Real Estate

Michelle Pittsenbarger

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Covenant Church

Resen Refillery and Natural Market

Bin There Dump That

Minnow Finance

Print Syndicate, Inc.

KC Administrative Services

The Honest Chimney Company

Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids

Laura Connerton

Grove City Tech Lab

KeyBank

All Fluffed Up Pet Salon

Grove City Salon & Day Spa

Homes on the Hill CDC

R.L. Wurz Company (WB Construction Products)

Ford Construction, Inc.

Keller Williams Consultants Realty- The Shroyer Group, Caroline Shroyer

Power Shack Gym

10 YEARS:

Dawson Southwest Dentistry

Laura Lanese

Love Chiropractic

5 YEARS: 15 YEARS: 20 YEARS:

Southwest Lawn

Attention new 2023 Chamber members!

Don’t forget that your GCACC membership includes one free half-page ad for this publication, the Chamber Business Connection, so don’t miss out on running your ad in one of the remaining 2023 issues.

December Issue (Submit ads by Monday November 20)

All ads can be submitted digitally via email to Heather, heather@gcchamber org

Need an ad? E-magazine creative team KatBro can lend a hand contact content@katbroconsulting com

The Chamber online calendar: https://business.gcchamber.org/events/calendar

Our Grove City-area Texas Roadhouse, located near I-71 off of Stringtown, is celebrating 10 years of serving up delicious food to Grove City residents and visitors alike. It’s also ten years of community and families gathering together to celebrate and share a meal. With classic entrees and specials, diners return for their favorite foods and outstanding service… and the rolls with the butter!

4155 Parkway Centre Drive, Grove City 614-539-7427

www.texasroadhouse.com/locations/440grove-cityoh

One of our newest members has been there so they can help you dump that! Bin There Dump That specializes in dumpster rentals that are residential-friendly. Several sizes are available based on your needs from a little bit of home clean-up to a big remodel job. They expertly place the dumpster based on your project and also sweep your driveway for any stray debris from the clean out process.

87 Front Street, Building 5, Groveport 624-581-9750

columbus.bintheredumpthatusa.com/home

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Power Shack Gym is celebrating five years of GCACC membership this fall. Power Shack Gym first began in 1990 and has grown to four locations around Central Ohio. Gym members rave over the balance of a laid back and welcoming atmosphere paired with the equipment and coaching to make serious strides in fitness and weightlifting. In addition to traditional “walk in” gym services, personal training is also available.

4048 Parkmead Dr., Grove City 614-771-6034

powershackgym.com/home

TEXAS ROADHOUSE BIN THERE DUMP THAT POWER SHACK

NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT

The Marcus Project

Celebrating one year of GCACC membership, we want to introduce you to The Marcus Project. They are dedicated to serving the Columbus area one warm coat at a time.

Their overall mission is “to help children and families in need by creating opportunities, sourcing necessities, and building a feeling of significance.” Much of this is currently focused on connecting kids in need with warm coats for the winter, but The Marcus Project is interested in serving children and families in many ways as they make connections.

With cold weather approaching, they would surely love your help whether with winter coats or any other winter-related projects that may arise. Interested volunteers can reach out via https://www.themarcusproject.org/involved

Learn more about The Marcus Project: Web: https://www.themarcusproject.org/

Email: info@themarcusproject.org

Phone: 614-440-6975

SOUTHWEST LEADERSHIP

SWCL is Now Open for 23-24'

he 2023-2024 SWCL will host its Introduction & Open House session on Thursday October 12th. Learn the how’s and why’s of serving in the Grove City Community. Meet, mingle, learn, and have fun – we’ll look forward to seeing you there.

This valuable year-long leadership course provides valuable experience and an opportunity to see ‘inside’ various community functions and organizations to learn how they operate, and how their leaders lead

Those interested in joining the 2023-24 class should register by Thursday Oct 12, 2023 Classes will meet the second Tuesday of every month from October-June (the final class date is graduation) Class locations will vary in order to meet with the many community entities in their own spaces For more details email Heather at heather@gcchamber Or call the Chamber at 614-875-9762 Southwest Community Leadership Class Open House and History of Grove City - Oct 12, 2023 (gcchamber org)

Learn more and register here: https://business.gcchamber.org/events/details/southwest-community-leadership-class-sign-upsdeadline-3253?calendarMonth=2023-10-01

As seen in photos from the 2022-23 class, classes included sessions on City Council and local government and learning from community leaders such as Jackson Twp Fire Department Chief Randy Little and Grove City Division of Police Chief Eric Scott. The class also completes a year-long project and concludes with a graduation celebration.

BOO! IS BACK

by Sarah Hann

Boo off Broadway makes its annual return later this month!

Join GCACC members as we scare up some family-friendly Halloween fun for the community! Our previous years hosting have been a big hit and we anticipate another exciting year.

Members set up booths both in showcase of their business and as trick or treat stops; many have hosted carnival-style games in previous years. We’re constantly adding new ways to have a not-so-scary good time, so you won’t want to miss what our Chamber team and our members put together in 2023!

As of press time, businesses can still sign up to participate and join the fun, registration is available on the Boo off Broadway website: https://www.gcchamber.org/boo-off-broadway/

We want to thank the sponsors who have jumped on board thus far to make this Boo off Broadway another success. Thank you to presenting sponsors Shepherd Insurance Partners and KL Home Team at Howard Hanna. We also want to thank the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Southwest Public Libraries, Credit Union of Ohio, Creative Mobile Interiors, Cutler Real Estate, Monterey-Optalis Health & Rehabilitation Center, and Wright-Patt Credit Union.

Keep an eye on social media this month (@gcchamber on Facebook and Instagram) and the Boo off Broadway website (https://www.gcchamber.org/boo-off-broadway/) for more updates as we approach the event!

Save these details to join us:

When: Saturday Oct. 28

Where: Town Center Park (3359 Park St )

Time: 12-4 pm

Numerous awards were handed out across the five art shows. Best in Show Photography went to Jeffrey Sunderland, Best in Show Craft went to Paul Courtright, Best in Show Quilt went to Marsha Beane, and Best in Show Youth went to Paige Knupp. Additionally from each show a nominee for the Helena McComb Award was selected. To be considered for the award, the entry must feature flowers honoring the late Helena McComb’s love of all things floral. The nominees were: Earl English (Photography), Rosemary Cline (Quilt), Patricia Morlock (Craft), Allison Delgado (Fine Art), and Isabella DeLaCerda (Youth). Allison Delgado’s fine art entry was chosen as the winner of the 2023 Helena McComb Award.

The City of Grove City Easel Award is a separate competition of its own with the winner receiving a cash prize but also having their piece entered into the City’s permanent art collection. This year’s winner is Evangelia Philippidis, with Jeff Grossman receiving the People’s Choice Award.

This year’s Arts in the Alley Community Parade featured five award categories, with the following winners: Arts in the Alley (Most Creative & Innovative) : Kay Kaho Coldwell Banker

People's Choice Crowd Pleaser: Fairy Tails Pet Salon

Best Community Float or Parade Theme: The Grove City Library

Wright Patt Best Childrens Theme: The Grove Church

Showmanship Award: The Columbus Ghostbusters

Overall, the 44th Annual Arts in the Alley Festival proved to be a celebration of art, creativity, and community, and we look forward to what next year's event will bring. Be sure to mark your calendars for next year and join us Friday Sept. 20-Sunday Sept. 22, 2024

To view a complete list of winners across the weekend competitions of Arts in the Alley, visit: https://www.gcchamber.org/arts/

This

Competing and placing well since 2021, this year the Voice of Grove City title went to Issac Young. In addition to his work yielding success, Issac also took him the $2,500 cash prize.

Rounding out the top three were Tracy Roese in second and JJ Price in third. Taking home this year’s People’s Choice Award was Madelyn Jarrell. All the contestants brought their own unique sounds in addition to energy and passion for their vocal art.

As it the way with the Voice of Grove City, the judges provide constructive feedback so that contestants can learn and improve to continue furthering their vocal music journey. Voice of Grove City contest organizer Trent Soles has strived for positive experiences since the beginning.

“Our goal with the Voice of Grove City has been to create a positive learning experience for all contestants whether they win or not,” Trent said.

This year’s contest was all held on Saturday of Arts in the Alley, making for a day full of music and positivity. In addition, special thanks go out to Broadway Fireplace and Décor for their award sponsorship, and a big thank you to the many judges and volunteers for sharing their time and experience to this event.

Didn’t get to see The Voice of Grove City this year? Want a sample of all contest entries? Visit www.voiceofgrovecity.com to view the initial entry videos submitted by contestants.

Year’s Voice of Grove City Winner This Year’s Voice of Grove City Winner Year’s Voice of Grove City Winner Shows Us That Persistence and Hard Shows Us That Persistence and Hard Us Persistence and Work Pays Off Work Pays Off Work Pays Off

There’s even an enticing financial incentive for businesses that choose to hire an intern through the State of Ohio. Companies that participate in the program will have two-thirds of each intern’s wages reimbursed up to $7,500 as part of the Ohio Third Frontier program. Each company can hire up to four interns per round and be reimbursed up to $30,000.

“This is a great opportunity for businesses, especially considering that we’ll pay most of the salary,” said Lydia Mihalik, the director of the Ohio Department of Development. “It’s truly a win-win for all parties who participate in this program.”

Intern backgrounds range from communications and data analysis to business operations and software development, and companies can be technology-focused or simply have a technological need to qualify.

By matching companies with interns, there is a mutual benefit for both businesses in need of assistance at an affordable price and for students looking to gain important hands-on experience.

Through 12 rounds of the program, 860 interns were hired. Of those, 81% were African American, Asian, Hispanic, other ethnicities, and white females.

According to Karen Cornelissen, who is the Vice President of Operations at Adyptation, her company was drawn to the internship program because of its focus on building diverse and inclusive teams. Adyptation, which creates software solutions for healthcare providers, is located in Miamisburg.

“We value diversity because we know that it produces a more inclusive, accountable work environment and that a plurality of perspectives and experiences increases our ability to build software solutions that meet the needs of our end users,” Cornelissen said.

“The program not only saves companies time and resources they would otherwise spend searching for candidates, it also puts them in contact with student professionals from a variety of backgrounds and with a variety of experiences whose skills are a match for the company’s needs.”

For more information and to apply, visit TechIntern.Development.Ohio.Gov.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.

Who is The Buckeye Ranch?

In 1956, the Women’s Juvenile Service Board developed a long-range plan in response to the increased number of boys who were coming before the Franklin County Juvenile Court due to the behaviors they were exhibiting. Then, we viewed those behaviors as delinquent. Today, we know those behaviors were a result of trauma inflicted upon them, as well as mental health challenges. The Women’s Juvenile Service Board responded with a solution for those children in the 1950’s that was both innovative and ahead of its time: They designed a residential treatment center for boys.

In 1958, a 75-acre farm on Hoover Road in Grove City was purchased and named The Buckeye Boys’ Ranch and three (3) years later began serving 13 boys. By 1991, services expanded to include girls and families and was renamed The Buckeye Ranch, Inc. This expansion and renaming occurred right before the retirement of the late, Dr. Les Bostic, who served as the founding Executive Director.

The Buckeye Ranch has grown to serve over 5,000 children, youth, and families annually with mental health, education and child welfare needs in Grove City and six other locations in Ohio and employs over 550 employees. While known for our residential mental health treatment in Grove City, our continuum has expanded to meet the changing needs of the community. Today, it includes Integrated Care, Child Welfare, and Community & Education-Based mental health service lines. This expanded continuum is aimed at prevention and early identification of mental health in schools, mental health services brought to the youth and family in their home and community, and services focused on child well-being and permanency. Only youth with the most acute mental health needs are served on our treatment campus in Grove City.

Increase of Youth Mental Health needs:

The growth of The Buckeye Ranch is directly related to what we have seen nationally; an increase in mental health needs among our children since the early 2000’s. It was exacerbated by the pandemic and most likely parents, like me, became more aware of their children’s behavioral changes as they were together working and attending school from home.

In December of 2021, the US Surgeon General issued an Advisory of Children Mental Health Crisis further exposed by COVID-19 pandemic (Protecting Youth Mental Health). This report came out around the same time that the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Children’s Hospital Association in 2021, made a declaration of a National Emergency in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (National Emergency in Child and Adolescent Mental Health).

This crisis is a national trend and Ohio’s children are not excluded. Our Central Ohio community is fortunate to have several reputable providers along with Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Behavioral Health Pavilion to serve these youth. Their data demonstrates that Ohio’s children accessed their psychiatric crisis services over 8,000 times in both 2021 and 2022. The care these youth require is critical. In the last decade, visits to the Emergency Department for youth who deliberately harm themselves rose by 329% and attempts at suicide rose by 49% (NIH.GOV).

The Buckeye Ranch and Nationwide Children’s Services have partnered for several years to support children in this community. In the last few years, we have discussed the struggle with this gap in our behavioral health continuum of care for some of the children with the highest mental health needs despite both of us being well known service providers for these youth. Since psychiatric residential placements have not existed, children are left with no other option than to remain in psychiatric inpatient units longer than necessary. Inpatient units are not programmed for longer stay patients, thus preventing children from receiving the best or most appropriate level of care and preventing other children access to the inpatient beds and services they need. As a result, an average of 140 children on any given day seek these intensive services outside of Ohio, causing additional stress for them and their family.

Ohio is actively addressing this gap in services through the OhioRISE initiative to include the implementation of Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF). The Buckeye Ranch recognized a PRTF level of care as a missing and critical piece in our Residential Mental Health continuum of care. The Buckeye Ranch Board of Directors convened in early 2021 and strategically decided to answer the community’s need for a solution that would meet the modern mental health needs of today’s youth. As a partner in this work, Nationwide Children’s Hospital committed to co-creating a solution for these youth, reflecting our commitment to the children and families in our community.

In-patient child and adolescent beds are often full which then requires hospitals to bed patients in medical beds that are not the best or most appropriate placement.

Some patients stay too long. An acute psychiatric inpatient unit is not programmed for longer stay patients. It is also difficult for patients to see other patients leaving when there is no opportunity for them, but they do not meet acute care psychiatric criteria. This also causes a bottleneck in the system that prevents access to inpatient beds for an appropriate acute care case. Estimates are that 300 children did not access inpatient psychiatric services based on this gap.

Ohio requires a level of care to bridge inpatient psychiatric and residential with an inpatient level of intensity in a residential facility. Currently children must get this care out of state.

Ohio is in the midst of a placement crisis and has young people sleeping in the lobbies of county Children Services offices due to their high acuity needs. Foster care crisis forcing kids to sleep in offices (Part 2) - Urbana Daily Citizen (urbanacitizen.com)

Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF) provide the bridge between inpatient hospitalization and community-based care for children and their families with high acuity needs. Care is provided 7 days a week, 24 hours a day under the direction of a physician and delivered by mental health and other physical health professionals. The programming offers a highly structured and intensive mental health service provided in a setting where children stay in a community-like environment. Their treatment includes living among peers, receiving educational programming, and developing healthy and independent coping skills. In-state care closer to the youth’s home increases family engagement and involvement in therapy as well as care coordination among the multiple support systems in a child’s life.

Discharge planning with a Child and Family Team for returning a youth to their family begins at the time of admission. This means the youth and their caretakers develop a plan that will support stability in their home and community post discharge. The Buckeye Ranch’s PRTF will treat the whole child and family and place them at the center of the care team. We bring the child’s community into the PRTF to make for a more natural treatment environment. We work with our state and local partners to coordinate care and provide interventions on the forefront of mental health care. We will be able to keep children closer to their communities and families which facilitates involvement of important supports.

Like our founders on the Women’s Juvenile Service Board, we believe in an innovative and progressive strategic approach to mental health care and organizational growth. To modernize the psychiatric and medical level of care and educational needs of youth receiving treatment, we plan on a $35 million dollar investment in our Grove City campus. In addition to the capital investment, the PRTF will create new professional opportunities for those interested in behavioral healthcare for a broad range of positions including nursing, licensed clinical therapists, mental health technicians, and administrative support teams. The PRTF will consist of four (4) distinct mental health treatment communities with twelve (12) bedrooms and a 4-bed crisis and stabilization unit, as well as administrative offices for youth admissions.

Future vision of The Buckeye Ranch

Our mission to restore hope and provide healing is rooted in our vision to raise healthy children, youth, and families. We believe that through our coordinated services we can assist families who are urgently seeking help. We know that without access to this critical care, families, and communities struggle to keep their children safe and supported. When families experience their hope restored, they can begin their journey of healing and contribute to a thriving community.

Our children urgently need our help. They are screaming to us to help them with their mental health needs through their behaviors of self-harm and attempts at suicide. We cannot turn away. Please join us in this response to our children’s cries for help.

If you are a local resident or business who would like to invest in a solution for youth with acute mental health needs, please donate at www.buckeyeranch.org/invest or email us at development@buckeyeranch.org.

Written by Vickie Thompson-Sandy, President & CEO

Support the Foundation in Providing Scholarships

Join us on October 20 for “Fall for the Foundation”, the annual fundraiser night for the Grove City Chamber Foundation.

Tickets are on sale now—both single tickets and entire tables with seating for eight. Attendees will enjoy a delicious dinner, entertainment including Tracy Carter and Michael Kent, a reverse raffle, silent auction, and of course time to socialize with other Chamber members and members of our community.

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-annual-foundation-fundraiser-fall-for-the-foundation-tickets643849460067

Key items in this year’s silent auction include: Club-level seats for the November 5 Cleveland Browns’ home game against the Arizona Cardinals, a Belize “Chocolate Lovers” trip, a Kenya Safari trip, a Dominican Republic villa trip, a Mount Kilimanjaro adventure trip, and a historic Kentucky home stay trip. Keep an eye on Facebook (@GCChamberFoundation) to learn more about these items and any others that may come in closer to the event.

In addition to the Fundraiser, the Foundation has one more 2023 scholarship deadline. Friday December 15 is the deadline for fourth quarter Chamber Affiliate scholarship applications. To apply for it, or to learn about 2024 opportunities, visit: https://gcchamberfoundation.org/scholarships/

To support the Foundation Scholarships visit their website GCChamberFounation.org

CITY NEWS

MeettheCandidatesForum: AnOpportunityforVotersto EngagewithGroveCity'sFuture Leaders

The Meet the Candidates Forum is an exciting opportunity for voters to directly engage with Grove City's future leaders. With a focus on business and development, this event provides a platform for citizens to voice their concerns, ask questions, and gain insight into the visions and plans of the candidates running for various offices in the city. It's a chance to have a real impact on the future of Grove City by getting to know the individuals who will be representing and making decisions on behalf of the community. Don't miss this chance to be an active participant in the democratic process and help shape the future of our city.

As the political race in Grove City heats up, it's important to get a brief overview of who the candidates are. These individuals vying for various offices in the city are not just politicians; they are city politicians who have the power to shape the future of Grove City, in addition to local residents. With their unique visions and plans for economic and business growth, they are the ones who will make important decisions on behalf of the community.Read on to meet who (as of press time) will be in attendance at the October 11 event.

The candidates

For Mayoral candidacy we have Richard "Ike"Stage and Christine Houk. Our current Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage is a Lifelong resident of Grove City, except for short stint in Ashland, Ohio and Louisiana. Charter member and one of the founders of the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as the second President. Also, Charter member and one of the founders of the Grove City Area Community Improvement Corporation. Charter member and one of the founders of the South Western City Schools Educational Foundation. Proud member of The Ohio Commodores. An organization founded by Past Governor James A. Rhodes for the purpose of fostering economic growth in Ohio. Lifelong member and served two terms as President St. John's Lutheran Church. Current board member and Past Chairman of The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. Received the William Anderson award for outstanding board member. Board member of the Franklin County Convention Authority. Secretary/Treasurer of the Central Ohio Mayors and Managers Alliance. Member of the American Legion Post 164 and the Grove City Elks.

His running opponent Christine Houk is an accomplished financial professional and civic leader. She and her husband have operated an accounting firm in the Town Center of Grove City for 23 years, cultivating countless relationships with businesses in the region. Christine is currently serving her second term on City Council, where she has filled the role of Safety, Finance, and Service chair as well as Council President. She is a member of the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, the State Treasurer's Regional Advisory Board, and Treasurer of South-Western City Schools Educational Foundation. Christine has served on several boards including Grove City Town Center Inc., Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce, Visit Grove City, and Grove City Community Club, in addition to many citizen-led committees. She is particularly proud of leading the team who drafted the City’s Action Plan to Promote Mental Health and Prevent Substance Use Disorders, chairing the inaugural Mistletoe Market, and originating the Chamber’s WE:LEAD Business Forum (celebrating 12 years in 2024!).

Richard "Ike"Stage Christine Houk

City Council Candidates

For Ward 2 we have Randy Holt, a retired Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and was part of the Global Technology organization with more than 40,000 employees globally. Randy spent 27 years at Nationwide Insurance working in IT and Claims management and spent two years running operations for a venture capital insurance industry start up. Randy was asked by the Mayor, Ike Stage to participate in the Grove City Scholarship Fund project. Randy served on the committee to create the charter and was selected to lead the committee. Randy has assisted with the implementation and distribution of more than 100 scholarships in excess of $250,000 for local residents. Randy was elected to the Grove City Council in the November 2019 election and is running for re-election on the ballot in November 2023.

In Ward 4 we have two candidates up for election. Melissa Anderson, a committed working professional, adeptly balances her career with the responsibilities of motherhood, actively nurturing and guiding her four school-aged children within our vibrant community. She is deeply entrenched in her children's school and sports activities, actively participating and supporting their growth.

With over 22 years of experience in business and agency marketing, as well as operations, Melissa has honed her skills in team leadership, managing substantial budgets, and spearheading intricate, high-profile projects. Her community leadership extends to her invaluable service on nonprofit boards and in executive trustee leadership roles, illustrating her unwavering dedication to the causes she champions.

Her opposing candidate is Roby Shottke, a Retired teacher, principal, and Executive Director of Curriculum for SWCS. He has been a City Councilman for the past 8 years. Past Council President and current Lands and Zoning Chairman. Previously served on the GC Planning Commission, MORPC Trustee, and GC Park Board Member. In ward 5 we have Rodney Dew, he is married to a lifelong Grove Citian, Rosalie, for 46 years. Rod has been active in multiple community service programs such as American Legions, Kiwanis, and Jaycees. Rod has also volunteered his time to charitable organizations such as the Special Olympics.

For City Council at large we have Jodi Burroughs and Aaron C.Schlabach. Jodi is a 30 year resident of Grove City, Jodi Burroughs is one of the partners at Grove City Brewing Company & Plum Run Winery here in the heart of Grove City along with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours in southeast Ohio, providing educational zipline eco-tours, creating fun and memorable experience to visitors across multiple generations within Appalachia Ohio, for the past 15 years.

To read more about the candidates and the event visit https://www.gcchamber.org/2023-meet-the-candidates/

Meet the Candidates on October 11, 2023

Doors open at 6:30 | Event is 7:00pm – 9:00pm

ARC Industries: 3705 Marlane Drive, Grove City, OH 43123

Melissa Anderson

Randy Holt

Rodney Dew Roby Schottke

Aaron C. Schlabach Jodi Burroughs

Press Release: SBA Names Ohio Department of Development as 2023 State Trade Expansion Program Awardee $400,000 Now Available to Support Small Business Export Growth in State of Ohio

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — The U.S. Small Business Administration just announced Ohio will receive $400,000 through the SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant program to support small business export growth statewide. Ohio’s allocation is a portion of the $20 million in funding awarded to state international trade agencies throughout the country via a competitive application process. Locally, the Ohio Department of Development will administer these funds to help provide small businesses with the information and tools they need to succeed in export-related activities. Exporting activities include participating in foreign trade missions, market sales trips, designing international marketing campaigns, participating in export trade show exhibits, and attending training workshops, as well as other important means of engagement.

“Ohio has a reputation around the world for excellence in products and workmanship, and we’re excited to continue to support Ohio’s small business export initiatives through the SBA STEP grant,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. “This program has benefited so many Ohio businesses by assisting them to expand their reach and sustain success through exports, like Hartzell Hardwoods, which was recently awarded the SBA Great Lakes Region Exporter of the Year.” Hartzell Hardwoods in Piqua, Ohio, long recognized as a worldwide leader in walnut and top-quality thick lumber, has been an innovator and leader of the hardwood industry since 1865. The company’s team received more than 90 hours of counseling, trainings, and research assistance from the Ohio Department of Development’s Small Business Development Center Export Assistance Network to help expand their global reach. Director Mihalik visited Hartzell Hardwoods in May and congratulated the team on their being awarded the SBA Great Lakes Region Exporter of the Year and presented officials with a commendation from Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted during Small Business Week.

Development will use this STEP funding primarily to support Ohio small businesses and provide financial assistance for businesses promoting their products and services internationally through the Export Training Grant and the International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE) program.

The IMAGE program provides grant funds to eligible businesses to engage in eligible export promotion activities. Companies can access up to $10,000 in 2024 grant year funds on a 50% reimbursement basis. For details about the IMAGE program and to apply for grant funds, visit the Ohio Department of Development’s IMAGE webpage.

The STEP funding will also be used to:

Assist with educational opportunities for companies who are new to export or maybe looking for new ways to maximize international opportunities.

Provide necessary assistance to alleviate some of the financial burden small businesses incur by selling internationally. Provide state-sponsored booths at some of the largest international trade shows and work with partners on trade missions around the world.

Recruit for the State of Ohio booth at Arab Health 2024 in Dubai, UAE from Jan. 29-Feb. 2.

This year marks the 70th year the Small Business Administration has supported American corporations. On this occasion, we celebrate the aid the SBA has provided including 11 years of STEP funding, which has awarded over $235 million. Since 95% of the world's consumers and two-thirds of all purchasing power are located outside the United States, this grant program plays a critical role in providing access to capital, access to markets, and access to buyers.

For additional information about the STEP program, visit www.SBA.gov/STEP. To learn more about Development’s IMAGE program and the specific offerings, visit our web page

Now Open in Grove City!

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR UPDATE

to prevent workplace hazards in warehouses, processing facilities, distribution centers, and high-risk retail establishments

In the past 10 years, warehousing and distribution centers have experienced tremendous growth with more than 1.9 million people employed in the industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows injury and illness rates for these establishments are higher than in private industry overall and, in some sectors, more than twice the rate of private industry

“Our enforcement efforts are designed to do one thing: lead to permanent change in workplace safety,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker “This emphasis program allows OSHA to direct resources to establishments where evidence shows employers must be more intentional in addressing the root causes of worker injuries and align their business practices with the goal to ensure worker health and safety.”

Under this three-year emphasis program, OSHA will conduct comprehensive safety inspections focused on hazards related to powered industrial vehicle operations, material handling and storage, walking and working surfaces, means of egress and fire protection The program will also include inspections of retail establishments with high injury rates with a focus on storage and loading areas; however, OSHA may expand an inspection’s scope when evidence shows that violations may exist in other areas of the establishment

In addition, OSHA will assess heat and ergonomic hazards under the emphasis program, and health inspections may be conducted if OSHA determines these hazards are present.

Inspected establishments will be chosen from two lists One includes establishments with industry codes covered under this emphasis program The second consists of a limited number of retail establishments with the highest rates of injuries and illnesses resulting in days away, restricted duty or job transfer

State plans are required to adopt this emphasis program or establish a different program at least as effective as the federal model

Learn more about solutions to common industry hazards

Learn more about OSHA.

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