Nearest Intermodal Facility: Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) and Norfolk Southern Rickenbacker Intermodal
Want to learn more about the demographics of Grove City? Visit our resources online
Manufacturing Day Recap Arts in the Alley Voice of Grove City Winners Arts in the Alley Winners Lists Eldorado Scioto Downs
CHAMBER DESK
Grove City Methodist Hospital (Located behind Target)
The OhioHealth Grove City Methodist Hospital campus includes 24/7 emergency care, heart and vascular care, and primary care from OhioHealth Physician Group. It’s just another way we’re bringing your best health within reach.
To learn more about the ways OhioHealth cares for Grove City, visit OhioHealth.com/GroveCity.
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 discuss advertising opportunities, contact the Chamber (614-8759762).
Your Board
Katie Antry Fleming Board Chair
Mellissa Forte Board Chair Elect
Lenny Frazzitta VP at Large
Greg Dawkins GC Chamber
Foundation President
Nick Connaughton Chair of Finance
Jeffrey Buskirk Chair of Government Relations
Ed Fleming Board Member
Nikki Fleming Board Member
Cathy Frederick Board Member
Brittany Hannigan Board Member
Amanda McCullouch Board Member
Brenda Newman Board Member
Carol Riffle Board Member
Andrea Ruede Board Member
Staff
President / CEO
Shawn Conrad
Events Manager
Marilyn Reiner
Events Operations and Marketing
Heather Brokaw
Member Services and Marketing
Kaziah Conrad
Letter from the President
Our event season is slowly winding down, and while we’re sad to see it all be over, we’re also excited to be working on our 2025 schedule!
We want to thank all of our generous sponsors and volunteers for making Arts in the Alley, The Voice of Grove City, The Arts in the Alley Community Parade, Boo Off Broadway, Farmers’ Market, the Chamber Golf Outing, the Annual Meeting, the WE: LEAD Women’s Business Forum, The Foundation Fundraiser, Manufacturing Day, our Grand Openings, Ribbon Cuttings, After Hours and Success in :60 Lunch ‘N Learns, the Southwest Community Leadership Program, our Young Professionals and all of the special events and programs that your GCACC holds throughout the year.
We love being part of a growing, vibrant community that has its roots well-established in its history but has its eyes on the future. Your GCACC is conscientiously working to be a highly relevant and pertinent part of Grove City and the surrounding area, and we thank each of our members for being a vital part of that plan.
We are here for you, Grove City – thank you for being here for us!
Celebrating Anniversaries
1 YEAR:
Grove City Tech Lab
KeyBank
Grove City Salon & Day Spa
All Fluffed Up Pet Salon
Moses Wambua
Options Medical Weight Loss
Kinetic Networking
New Life Baptist Church
Aplus Restore
Samuel Jefferson Contracting LLC
10 YEARS:
Tree of Life Chiropractic
20
YEARS:
Sam's Club of Hilliard-Rome Rd
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
The Flag Lady's Flag Store
J. Anthony's Salon Suites
ZenBusiness
Accurate Mechanical
Skinner Group Realtors
Prairie Kids Dental
Rise Yoga Ohio
Maronda Homes
South-Western Education Association
Pain Zero, Inc
Trucker Jons
Beartooth Remodeling
Buffalo Wild Wings, Grove City
The Dawg Shoppe
Mona's Eats n Treats
REAL TALK, Real Support
Wide Open Hearts
Best Roofing Company, LLC
Beulah Park
Start Talking Grove City
My Business Resource
Funky's Auto Group
Ohio Dominican University
Epcon Communities: The Courtyards at Mulberry Run
5 YEARS: 15 YEARS:
Fisher, Douglas & Kelley LLP
Brant Law Firm
Franklin County Banking Center
Attention new 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 upcoming 2024 issues.
Ads due on the 20th of the month prior to publication. Issues publish in even-numbered months- October and December remain for 2024!
All ads can be submitted digitally via email to Sarah, shann@katbroconsulting com
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
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
DADBOD FITNESS
With fitness in mind for the whole family, and a name showing fitness is for any body, DadBod Fitness’s services and classes range from private personal training and group sessions for adults, to their Kidsfit classes and youth strength and conditioning ideal for the kids. DadBod Fitness recently celebrated both their first business anniversary and the opening of their gym space.
4093 Hoover Rd., Grove City 614-551-4324 www.facebook.com/DadBodFitnessGC
THE DAWG SHOPPE FUNKYS AUTOMOTIVE
The Dawg Shoppe provides professional grooming services for your pet on an appointment-only basis. They can provide grooming and spa-type services for every shape and size of pup and are familiar with styles appropriate for particular breeds. Being appointment-only allows them to offer one-on-one attention to their two and four-legged clients, and offer alternate hours such as evenings or weekend appointments.
3967 Hoover Rd., Grove City 614-594-2240 www.thedawgshoppegc.com/
Located off of Route 62 just north of I-270, Funky’s Automotive is here to be your premier destination for purchasing a used vehicle Funky’s offers a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles and can help you find the best fit. Funky’s financing team is ready to help navigate the financial route while manufacturer-specific experts are on hand to help you learn the in’s and out’s of your new-to-you ride
2549 Harrisburg Pike , Grove City 614-277-2000 www funkysautomotive com/
Boo off Broadway returns Saturday October 26 for another year of family-friendly Halloween fun.
Held in the Town Center Park in Grove City, the fun will run from noon to 3pm. With fun plans still underway, attendees can look forward to games, activities, business booths, food trucks, and even a Halloween-themed movie.
The organization known as Kids Get Cancer Too will benefit from this year’s fun, and will be holding a Pie in the Face booth, too.
As of the beginning of October, approximately 50 businesses have registered to have a booth at Boo off Broadway. While space is limited, the Chamber may still be able to fit your business in. If interested, visit the Boo off Broadway webpage or call the Chamber Office at 614-875-9762.
Boo off Broadway wouldn’t be possible without its loyal sponsors to bring the happy haunts to life. Thank you to the sponsors on board as of press time: Presenting Sponsors: Shepherd Insurance Partners and the Katie Fleming Team at Howard Hanna Trick or Treat Street Sponsors: Skyward Contracting and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Keep up with the GCACC’s Facebook and Instagram (@gcchamber) and newsletters, and visit: https://www.gcchamber.org/boo-offbroadway/ for all the latest updates for Boo off Broadway.
GROUND BREAKINGS AND RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ending Summer with a Bang
Let’s congratulate and continue to celebrate our two mostrecent ribbon cutting celebrations!
September 13 was the ribbon cutting for Keller Williams. This celebrated their new location at 2051 Stringtown Road. Stop in, they’d love to see you and see how they can serve your real estate needs.
September 14 marked the ribbon cutting and grand opening for new business Columbus Powersports & Carts. They’re located at 2815 Home Rd. here in Grove City.
Rounding out September, Buffalo Wild Wings celebrated their ribbon cutting surrounded by their team and friends. Find them open now at 4274 Buckeye Parkway in Grove City.
Don’t forget that your business can also have a fantastic ribbon cutting, grand opening, and/or open house celebration. We love to work with members to mark these occasions, and to make it easier for everyone, we’ve pulled together everything you might need into one webpage.
Visit https://www.gcchamber.org/chamber-events/ for all of your event-related needs and we look forward to celebrating with you soon!
Celebrating a Grand Opening or Big Event?
Chamber Members, did you know we offer complimentary leadership participation at your grand opening, ribbon cutting, or other events? Boost your visibility and gain valuable support! Just contact us to add your event to our calendar and connect with the Chamber team. Together, let's make your event a success!
Inspiring students for job skills of the future
On Friday October 4, local students were introduced to the modern manufacturing world and the many jobs that come from it, all without leaving Grove City.
Roughly 100 high school-age students from the South-Western City School district participated in the student side of the Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce’s
Grove City’s Manufacturing Day was part of a whole host of manufacturing-related events as October 4, the first Friday in October, has been designated and celebrated as Manufacturing Day. From the national to local level, the manufacturing industry makes use of this day to showcase modern manufacturing to students and community members alike.
It was important to connect this manufacturing industry Chamber members with local students who will join the workforce before we know it, and are now aware of their local options in an important, but not always talked about, industry. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, nearly 13 million people are employed in the manufacturing industry as of August 2024.
The Grove City Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the many behind the scenes who assisted in making this first-ever Manufacturing Day in G City Another big thank South-Western City Schools, the City of Grove City, Electro-
CHAMBER EVENTS
Arts in the Alley: A Local Gem Shines Another Year
A hot one for sure, the 2024 Arts in the Alley was another great success of celebrating the arts and artistic talents of those local to Grove City, and those visiting us from surrounding areas.
Artisan vendors were able to kick off the festivities on Friday with their booths open to sell pieces and also demonstrate their work. Throughout the weekend, visitors could see first-hand how a variety of handmade, artistic pieces come to life and even meet the artists behind the pieces.
As always, Saturday kicked off with the Community Parade as businesses, school bands, civic groups and other organizations filled out the parade route, with locals taking in the fun along the streets. Ever creative, this year’s winners didn’t disappoint and can be found in our full list of winners.
Saturday also brought about the Voice of Grove City competition, which by the close of the day crowned Lynsey Brooks as this year’s winner. For full details, see our story all about this year’s Voice of Grove City.
Five shows featured all sorts of art and handcrafted items from members across our community and could be seen and also judged for placing (see our winners list). From each show, a piece featuring flowers is nominated for the Helena McComb Award, in memory of Helena McComb who was instrumental in Arts in the Alley’s beginning days. This year’s Helena McComb award went to Paula Blair.
Separate from the five shows, the Grove City Easel Award was presented to Jeff Grossman, and the People’s Choice Easel Award to David Lane. The Easel Award is an entity of the City of Grove City and the winning piece is displayed in City Hall and then entered into the City’s permanent art collection.
Keep reading this issue to see show winners, a recap of the Voice of Grove City, and view a thank you to our sponsors!
Thank you to this years’ sponsors!
We wouldn’t get far at all in holding Arts in the Alley without sponsors, so we owe them a huge thank you. If you see any of these business leaders around town or visit the business, feel free to give them an in-person thanks as well!
Presenting Sponsor: Heartland Bank
Entertainment Sponsor: OhioHealth
Kids’ Fun Street Sponsor: Mount Carmel
Parade Sponsor: WrightPatt Credit Union
Specialty Show Sponsors: Auto Service Experts OH by Sanderson Automotive LLC, Byers Chevrolet, The Goddard School.
Voice of Grove City Award Sponsor: Broadway Fireplace & Décor
Voice of Grove City People’s Choice Sponsor: BeLocal SW Columbus
Golf Cart Sponsors: Aladdin Shriners, Franklin County Banking Center
Street Sponsors: Butterfly Boutique, Gregory Electric, Shepherd Insurance, Skyward Contracting, South-Western Education Association
Patrons of the Arts: Plank’s on Broadway, Hirth Norris & Garrison, Jackson Township, Herlihy Moving and Storage, City Scene Media Group, Restored Church, WesBanco.
Another successful competition of The Voice of Grove City was held on the Saturday of Arts in the Alley. This year’s competition was powered by City Scene Media Group and Credit Union of Ohio, with support from Entertainment Sponsor OhioHealth.
Throughout the day, contestants showed off their vocal talents, gained insight on improving their skills, and of course had fun. “A great group of singers who were very helpful to each other,” as described by Trent Soles, Executive Producer, who facilitates the competition with a supportive team beside him.
As the competition builds over the years, numerous past winners will return in supporting roles, this year the 2022 and 2023 winners returning to support and work with the next group of vocalists.
Contestants gained stage and competition experience, in addition to time spent with various leaders and experts from the vocal music industry. But, given that it’s a competition, there are winners, so without further delay:
Winner of the 2024 Voice of Grove City: Lynsey Brooks.
Second Place: Shelby Lane Montalvo Third Place: David Zimmerman
People’s Choice Winner: Olivia Maynard
The top three winners were awarded monetary prizes at the values of $2500, $500, and $150, while People’s Choice received a monetary prize of $500. Monetary prizes were sponsored by Broadway Fireplace and Décor, and BeLocal SW Columbus respectively.
As mentioned before, Trent can’t put on this competition by himself so there are many others to thank for their hard work both on the day of the competition and in the days, weeks, and months prior. He would like to thank the Emcees: Blake Soles and Vicki Mapleand the Judges from the 1st round: Letitia Allen, Dylan Danieles, Josh Lee Powell, Traci Wurschmidt, Maria Pontones, and Isaac Young-- 2023 Voice of Grove City winner. A huge shout out to the voice coach this year, Cierra Jordan and the care team: Michele Soles (team lead), Cara Custer (2022 winner), Lauren Singleton (from Pontones Music). Last but definitely not least, thank you to the sound engineer Jeff Baumgartner
Winner of the 2024 Voice of Grove City: Lynsey Brooks
Second Place: Shelby Lane Montalvo Third Place: David Zimmerman
People’s Choice Winner: Olivia Maynard
View the Full Photo Gallery on our FB Page
CHAMBER EVENTS: ARTS IN THE ALLEY
And the Winners Are...
YouthArtShow Photography ShowWinners
PRIMARY K-2
Media
1st Alaina Dollins
2nd Iyla Headington
3rd Sadie Genson
Photography
1st Iyla Headington
2nd & 3rd Charlie Chaffins
INTERMEDIATE 3-5
Media
1st Anna Bize
2nd Emerson Kimble
3rd Maelyn Corbin
Photography
1st Esme Wanner
2nd & 3rd Carina Chaffins
GRADES 6-8
Media
1st Cassidy Russell
2nd Cora Young
3rd Xin Yan Ren
Photography
1st& 2nd Cordelia Wanne
3rd Cora Young
HIGH SCHOOL
2D
Adrianna McClung
Kailee Dunn
Raymond Curt Skeens
3D
Ella DeMesa
Bree Crumley
Sloan Genson
Color Photography
Kaylea Aites
Aliaksei Khiliutsich
Adrianna Merriman
B & W Photography
Christian Uhrig
Lukas Musk
Savannah Blevins
BEST IN SHOW
Xin Ling Ren
HELENA MCCOMB
Meagan Kraft
PEOPLES CHOICE
Kailee Dunn
2-D AMATEUR DIVISION
1st Place – Susan Baker - (Meadow Lark Bird)
2nd Place – Elizabeth Johnson (Libby) (Owl & Mouse
3rd Place – Steve Petty (A Day at the Park)
2-D PROFESSIONAL DIVISION
1st Place – Edith Dinger Watkins (Guardians of Splendor)
2nd Place – Jeff Grossman (Big Blue)
3rd Joellyn McSorley Place – (Garden in a Mason Jar)
Mobile
1st Ryan Mayle
2nd Julia Revilla
3rd Susan Baker
HM Tracy Hank
Amateur
1st Debra Farley
2nd Gina Spring
3rd Ryan Mayle
HM Jeffrey Sunderland
Professional
1st Danica Barreau
2nd Earl English
3rd Jeffrey Tadlock
HM David Bradshaw
Best of Show
Josh Arnold
Helen McComb nominee
Earl English
People's Choice
Tracy Hank
3-D PRO/AM (SCULPTURE)
1st Place – Harold Kountz (Large Mouth Bass)
2nd Place – Allison Delgado (Seafood)
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Danica Barreau
CraftArtShow
BEST OF SHOW
Amy Warner
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Helen Gillian
Needle Work Category 1:
1st Wendy Johnson
2nd Amy Lawson
Needlework Category 2:
1st Amy Warner
2nd Amy Hipple
Decoration:
1st Barbara Bell
2nd Tara Long
Quilt Show
BEST OF SHOW
Leslie Floyd
Wood:
1st Daniel Allman
2nd Nickolas Knue
Jewelry:
1st Amy Kountz
2nd Alecia Simmons
Painting:
1st Karen Roth
2nd Paula Blair
Other:
1st Beckie Neff
2nd Anna Stiles
ParadeWinners
2024 Community Award for Best Neighborhood Theme: The Fitness Movement
2024 Award for Best Parade Theme: Meta Church Grove City
2024 Wright-Patt Credit Union Award for Best Children’s Theme: Cub Scout Pack 136
2024 Arts in the Alley Award for Most Creative and Innovative: Grove City Rotary Club
2024 People’s Choice Award: Kay Kaho, Coldwell Banker
PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Patti Morlock
HELENA MCCOMB QUILT NOMINEE
Elizabeth Yates
AWARD OF MERIT FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CERTIFIED QUILT JUDGES
MARY LOU PAOLETTI
DUET (2 OR MORE PEOPLE)
SMALL
1ST MARSHA BEANE
2ND PATTY WELLS
3RD JOANN NEWSOME
HM JOANN NEWSOME
HM BOBBIE BROOKS
1ST TIME ENTRY IN ANY
QUILT SHOW
1ST ANITA ROBINSON
2ND ANITA ROBINSON
SOLO HAND QUILTED
SMALL
1ST JANICE EVANS
2ND RUTH FILBIN
3RD MARY LOCKWOOD
HM RUTH FILBIN
SOLO HAND QUILTED
LARGE
1ST MARY LOCKWOOD
2ND MARY LOCKWOOD
3RD RUTH FILBIN
HM GENEVIEVE HARRISON
DUET (2 OR MORE PEOPLE) MEDIUM
1ST MARSHA BEANE
2ND VIRGINIA MONROE
3RD SHIRLEY ALLEN
HM KATHY GORDON
HM DEBBIE CANNON FREECE
SOLO MACHINE QUILTED
SMALL
1ST DEBBIE YOUNTZ
2ND DEBBIE YOUNTZ
3RD PATTY ESTADT
HM PATTY ESTADT
HM AMY SWANSON
SOLO MIXED TECHNIQUES SMALL ITEM
1ST MARY LOU PAOLETTI
2ND PENNY MORRIS
3RD BRENDA MOCARSKI
HM PENELOPE MISHNE
HM SALLY SISSON
DUET (2 OR MORE PEOPLE) LARGE
1ST MARSHA BEANE
2ND PATTI MORLOCK
3RD SHIRLEY ALLEN
HM DEBBIE CANNON FREECE
HM DEB ARMS
SOLO MACHINE QUILTED LARGE
1ST AMY SWANSON
2ND ELISE BYERS
3RD AMY SWANSON
HM ELISE BYERS
HM BRENDA MOCARSKI
SOLO MIXED TECHNIQUES YOUTH
1ST ELIZABETH YATES
2ND KARALINE MISHNE
3RD OWEN YATES
DUET (2 OR MORE PEOPLE) EXTRA LARGE
1ST PATTY WELLS
2ND PATTY WELLS
3RD JULIE PEITSMEYER
HM VIRGINIA MONROE
HM TAMMY THORNTON
SOLO MIXED TECHNIQUES
1ST KAREN LANE
2ND PENNY MORRIS
3RD BRENDA MOCARSKI
HM SALLY SISSON
HM ELISE BYERS
The Experience of Arts in the Alley
The 2024 Arts in the Alley festival was a blast! It kicked off on Friday, September 20th in Historic Grove City at 5 PM with a fantastic concert featuring "THE TWYLIGHTS" on the Heartland Stage. From there, the fun just kept coming with the community parade starting the Saturday festival on Saturday morning at 9:30.
Throughout the weekend, there was non-stop entertainment, including the VOICE OF GROVE CITY FINALS, VOCALS BY CARA CUSER AND ISAAC YOUNG, and the CENTRAL CROSSING EXCELSIOR SHOW CHOIR, just to name a few.
The food options were amazing, with plenty of food trucks and vendors offering everything from American street food to funnel cakes, fresh popcorn, and kettle corn. And this year, we made sure there was plenty of convenient seating right in the middle of all the delicious food trucks.
Of course, we didn't forget about the little ones! Kids had a blast with activities like sun catcher design, dried flower bookmark creation, building their own Lego mini figures, spin art, and face painting.
And let's not forget the incredible art on display! Local vendors showcased and sold their amazing creations, including woodwork, fine art, jewelry, glass, soaps, macramé, leather, and tie-dye. There was something for everyone, from rare gifts for adults and kids to items for sports lovers, plant enthusiasts, and even pets. You can find a list of all exhibitors here: www.gcchamber.org/arts/
To top it off, prizes were awarded for various categories such as Photography, Youth, Craft, Fine Art, and Quilt, along with the prestigious Easel Award Premier Fine Art Competition. This year's theme for the Premier Fine Art competition was "LIFE IN GROVE CITY," and the winning artist will receive a $2,000 purchase award from the City of Grove City, with the winning artwork becoming a part of the City’s permanent art collection.
For more information on the 2024 Arts in the Alley Festival, check out www.gcchamber.org/arts/.The 2024 Arts in the Alley festival kicked off on Friday, September 20th in Historic Grove City at 5 PM. The festival began with a concert featuring "THE TWYLIGHTS" on the Heartland Stage. This was the first of many entertainment options that delighted the community. The community parade started the Saturday festival on Saturday morning at 9:30. The entire weekend was filled with more entertainment, including the VOICE OF GROVE CITY FINALS, VOCALS BY CARA CUSER AND ISAAC YOUNG, and the CENTRAL CROSSING EXCELSIOR SHOW CHOIR, to name a few.
Plenty of delicious food options were available, with no shortage of food trucks and vendors to keep the community fed. American street food, funnel cakes, fresh popcorn, and kettle corn were just some of the offerings. This year, plenty of convenient seating was provided in the middle of the perimeter of food trucks.
Children had just as much fun as the adults at this year's festival. Activities such as sun catcher design, dried flower bookmark creation, build your Lego mini figure, spin art, and face painting were among the plethora of activities available for the little ones.
Perhaps the highlight of the Arts festival was the art itself. Local vendors came out to showcase and sell their creative creations, including woodwork, fine art, jewelry, glass, soaps, macramé, leather, and tie-dye. This event had items for everyone, with rare gifts for adults, kids, sports lovers, plant enthusiasts, and even pets. A list of all exhibitors can be found here: www.gcchamber.org/arts/
Finally, prizes were awarded for contestants entering categories such as Photography, Youth, Craft, Fine Art, and Quilt, in addition to the prestigious Easel Award Premier Fine Art Competition. This year's theme for the Premier Fine Art competition required the artwork to reflect LIFE IN GROVE CITY. The winning artist will receive a $2,000 purchase award from the City of Grove City, and the winning artwork will become a part of the City’s permanent art collection.
More information on the 2024 Arts in the Alley Festival can be found at www.gcchamber.org/arts/.
By Sarah Hann
Amy Ankerson’s journey from majoring in hospitality and tourism management in Wisconsin, to working in marketing and now as the General Manager of Eldorado Scioto Downs here in Ohio has proven to be a winner of a path.
Familiar with working in a hotel, Amy liked the people aspect of the hospitality industry and the degree provided many options. One of those options being an opening with a casino near her hometown upon graduation. Amy began working her way up and into the arena of marketing. In Amy’s words, marketing allowed for creativity and some fun while also moving the needle of the business.
She, and her family, spent a year and a half in Missouri before jumping on the opportunity to move to Ohio/Eldorado Scioto Downs, and then eventually called up to be the general manager of the property. Along the way, Amy soaked in as much as she could about other aspects of business and properties, now bringing those experiences together to be involved in all areas. “It’s a little taste of everything.”
Leading from the Front “I would never not do anything my team does,” Amy said in regards to being the overall leader and setting a standard for others. She’s done a little of everything from painting restrooms to shoveling at the horse track as she leads by example.
In addition to leading by example, Amy believes in being approachable. She strives to be a resource for all team members, no matter what part of the property they work in or role they hold. As a woman in leadership (the first female GM at this property), Amy also sees an extra level of care she brings to her role as she strives to care for team members as a whole person, seeing it perhaps as a bit of the unique motherly care than can cross into the professional arena.
Always Growing and Changing
So much has happened in the six years since Amy joined Eldorado Scioto Downs. She noted there’s been a big project just about every year, especially since she stepped into the role of GM. To kick it off, she told us how the new grandstand project practically came with the GM role— the old grandstand was torn down within months of her becoming GM. In the following years, a sportsbook was added (which will celebrate two years in January 2025) and this year the addition of Guy Fieri’s Trattoria, a new sit-down dining experience done in partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, which opened in June. (Author’s note: Don’t miss the extra section exclusively about Guy Fieri’s Trattoria!)
The big projects give Amy another chance to have that taste of all aspects and see everything come together. As someone coming from marketing where thinking ahead is the name of the game, Amy uses that to her advantage as the next big thing is always in discussion and around the corner.
And, ‘the next big thing’ is and has to be around the corner. If it’s said that Las Vegas is always reinventing itself, so too would hold true for other gaming properties looking to deliver similar experiences across the US. Amy shared they’re always looking at different ways to change up the business as consumer behaviors all but demand it. Consumer behaviors in this industry are very unique and are constantly changing; saying ‘this worked last year’ isn’t a helpful phrase in gaming industry like it might be in other businesses. Community-minded
A point of pride for Amy, and likely many who work at Eldorado Scioto Downs, is the engagement the business has with the local community. Because they are a Caesars Entertainment property (the Eldorado-Caesars merger having happened summer 2020, no less), this allows them to make uses of funds allocated from the Caesars Foundation to donate in the community as seen fit.
But, it’s not all about spending Caesars’ money in the community. Amy pointed out some exciting and heart-warming interactions that have come about thanks to being community-minded. One includes volunteering with a local senior living center. Amy shared that in the past the racing director took some of the horses out for a visit with the seniors. Additionally Eldorado Scioto Downs has a change donation program to facilitate customer donations, with the benefitting group changing regularly and able to be suggested by guests. Many guests involved in other non-profit or community-focused organizations will also make sure of the meeting and gathering spaces at Eldorado Scioto Downs to hold their meetings or other events.
Our Guy Fieri’s Trattoria Meal
Fellow KatBro team member (and one of my best friends since middle school!) Danielle and I were able to enjoy an amazing meal at Guy Fieri’s Trattoria following my interview with Amy. Amy and her team were fantastic hosts making for a wonderful experience. So, let’s dig in!
I actually meant to order the spaghetti carbonara, part after Amy said it was a great choice, part because I was swimming in failed attempts at making my own red sauce at home and didn’t want to see red, and part because as a food-wine pairing person, I was feeling the white wine and cream sauce love at the time. But then our server Robert suggested a Lambrusco as I perused the wine menu… which unknown to him the red wine has a piece of my heart since I toured a Lambrusco-producing winery in Italy. So of course I said yes and then pivoted to ordering Tagliatelle Bolognese. Being the first item on the entrée menu might’ve looked like I was cheating or didn’t put thought into my selection, but anything with ‘Bolognese’ in the name sounded like a great dish to go with the Lambrusco I now had.
Danielle and I split the appetizer order of garlic bread—part of being friends for over two decades is knowing which appetizer your friend would pick and order it while she’s still en route! No surprise to me, Danielle ordered the chicken parmesan and out came the most massive plate of chicken parm either of us had ever seen. She paired it with a side order of spaghetti, but since it’s so big and so good, the chicken could easily stand alone or be paired with a different choice of side.
If you know how hard it is to find (good) gelato in Ohio (and, you also know there’s a difference between gelato and say, party pail ice cream), then you’ll appreciate the dessert menu. We both opted for the gelato, though different flavors, as it was too hard to turn down. Other highlights from the night’s dessert selection included cheesecake and tiramisu.
Guy Fieri’s Trattoria does like to heat things up in the spice sense, so don’t hesitate to ask about the spicy heat level if you’re unsure or you’re looking to compare tastebuds. The servers know the dishes and are happy to chat.
As two friends who hadn’t had a dinner out to just enjoy good food and friendship, this more than hit the spot. We’re both already plotting return trips while sharing the good word of this meal. I hope others who head to Guy Fieri’s Trattoria not only have a great meal, but have a fantastic dining experience.
A Career Road Ahead
Caesars as a whole additionally plays a role in facilitating and encouraging mentorship Amy provides and talent development opportunities available to all on the team. While this benefits the growth of Amy’s Eldorado Scioto Downs team, it also enables her to connect with other professionals across the Caesars brand. Despite physical distance, employees under the Caesars brand can make use of training, education, and development across the country.
As Amy considered advice she’d give to someone, whether coming into a new and big role or facing a challenge, she left us with these three winners:
“My measuring stick is happiness.” Amy shared the importance of loving what you do, and also finding the balance for the many things you love. If you’re scared, trust those around you.”
“Have a little faith, give yourself some grace.”
A Story of Healing
Diagnosed with breast cancer not long after being announced as Eldorado Scioto Downs’ new general manager, Amy kept moving along and treated appointments and treatments similar to a job in the priority given and how to manage the schedule. She chose to keep the news private at first, but was greeted with much support once she decided it was time to share.
One of the biggest things Amy and I talked about in regards to navigating a cancer diagnosis was the topic of help. As in, asking for help as the patient or patient’s family, but also offering help as the friend, co-worker, neighbor, etc., which really makes a great take-home point as October turns pink for Breast Cancer Awareness. Amy knew she’d need to ask for help when needed, but also experienced what it was like to simply have help given, even pointing out another parent in one of her kids’ class made a pan of lasagna seemingly out of nowhere, but it was still perfect timing.
So often we want to issue ‘blank checks’ of help—“let me know what you need”, “I’m here for anything!” and while those can still mean well, Amy suggested being more specific in the offer. When she was the patient, she and her family appreciated the more-specific actions, and now the one offering support, Amy said she’ll send dinner gift cards that also offer carry-out to make the mealtime a little easier. Try things like sending gift cards or sharing carpool schedules, or even “Are you home Thursday? I’d love to drop off dinner” as you reflect this month, and perhaps every month, on how you can support a friend or colleague going through a cancer treatment.
Located on Route 23, aka High Street, not far from Grove City, Eldorado Scioto Downs offers a little something for everyone from seasonal harness racing, gaming options, dining, and is connected to a Hampton Inn for convenient overnight stays. Learn more at: https://www.caesars.com/scioto-downs
“I was more scared of being GM than of cancer.”
FOUNDATION NEWS
It’s time to Fall for the Foundation
It’s almost time for the Grove City Chamber Foundation’s annual fundraiser, Fall for the Foundation.
This year the fun and fundraising will take place on Friday October 11 at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Grove City. Last year’s efforts raised over $28,000 for the Foundation’s scholarship efforts, and hope is high to match or exceed that value this year.
With a catered dinner, music by the Travis Brown Band and ample opportunity to socialize, for many this isn’t just a fundraiser but a chance to enjoy an evening out to enjoy good company and celebrate the Foundation.
But raising funds is certainly still the name of the game, and those in attendance will have ample incentive and opportunity. New this year is “Keys for the Cruise” in which keys will be sold for a lock box. The person with the key that unlocks the box will win a 3-4 night Bahamas cruise on MSC cruise line; special thanks to David Todd of Cruise Planners and others for putting this exciting feature together.
The chance to travel in the name of supporting the Foundation is still plentiful with four ‘signature’ trips available in the silent auction—a beach stay in the Dominican Republic, a chocolate tour-themed trip to Belize, a food-driven trip to Southern France, or a historic home stay in Lexington, Kentucky. Other local travel opportunities can be found in the silent and live auctions, including but not limited to a pair of tickets for the Bengals-Browns game in Cleveland in late October, and a pair of tickets to the Ohio State-Purdue football game in early November. All featured auction items can be found as posts on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GCChamberFoundation
In addition to Fall for the Foundation, the Foundation has one more 2024 scholarship deadline on December 13, 2024 for the Chamber Affiliate Scholarship. This scholarship is for current employees of Chamber member organizations, current individual Chamber members, and immediate family members of such employees or Chamber members. These scholarships support post-secondary school undergraduate, technical training programs, and post-baccalaureate programs. The applicant should be a current employee of a Chamber member company, an existing individual Chamber member, or an immediate family member of such an employee or individual Chamber member.
View the scholarship application and keep up with other opportunities on the scholarship webpage: https://gcchamberfoundation.org/scholarships/
By Sarah Hann
Since August, hospitality has been front and center in my life. Our family visited Biltmore Estate in August, I’m writing this from a resort beach (and then lobby once I overheated…) in Walt Disney World, and I certainly can’t leave out Amy and her team at Eldorado Scioto Downs. I’ve experienced the best of hospitality in the past couple of months.
As I alluded to in the article, Amy and her Eldorado Scioto Downs team completely impressed me with the hospitality and gracious welcome. I indeed felt like I was on the VIP list. While Amy told me about how many departments areas come together for the location to run, hospitality and putting forth a great guest experience is certainly an area where departments merge together.
I’m reminded what I love about hospitality-related fields—how you can really make a moment special for someone, make them feel welcome whether you’re a restaurant and harness racing/gaming operation here in Central Ohio, or a resort anywhere in the world. Seeing firsthand, I’m also reminded that while working in hospitality might not be the fit for me, it doesn’t mean we can’t live, work, and operate with the same kind of welcoming heart.
In our own businesses, workplaces, and homes we can still show hospitality to all we welcome into our homes or businesses. Even if your business has nothing to do with hosting others, you can welcome guests graciously. Even when I’ve got a cup in my hand, without fail Heather at the GCACC office offers coffee or water when I come to meet with the team. I feel genuinely welcomed into the office and that they’re happy to have me for the hour or two we’ll spend together.
Do customers or other business colleagues feel welcomed when they come to your place of business? Is the coffee strong, but the overall welcome stronger? We love VIP experiences, five-star meals, and towels folded into fun shapes, but the everyday gestures are just as important. A warm welcome, being prepared for your guests, and yes—even a hot beverage (though as I write this, I’ll take my coffee iced, thanks!). While you may not have a restaurant or hotel to your name, you can still be a host with the most.
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Buy tickets to our Annual Fundraiser Dinner & Show Dinner * Dancing * Silent & Live Auctions * Raffles https://gcchamberfoundation.org/foundation-fundraiser/
Buy apparel, blankets & more through our online store. tinyurl.com/gccfshop
Now selling a local favorite - Silverbridge coffee. Every bag (or box) of coffee you buy goes towards scholarships for 2024. Visit our site at https://gccfcoffee.square.site
As a member of GCACC you are offered discounted advertising within the chamber produced publications; our Business Connection E-Magazine, Business Weekly Connection e-newsletter, AND our social media channels. We are already reaching your target audience in the Grove City and Central Ohio area. Partner with your chamber by purchasing an annual ad package and save
O U R R E A C H
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