July 2009 - West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance
Transcription
July 2009 - West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CINCINNATI, OH PERMIT #5400 THE JULY 2009 VOL. XXVIII ISSUE VII 7617 Voice of America Centre Drive West Chester, Ohio 45069 July Calendar of Events 10th Women 4 Women M Café at Wingate by Wyndham, 11:30-1pm 14th Monthly Member Luncheon Wetherington Golf and Country Club, 11:30am-1:30pm 28th Networking Power Hour Chamber offices, lower level, 12-1pm Member Orientation Chamber offices, lower level, 3:15–5pm 30th Member Appreciation Business After Hours Ronald Reagan Lodge at Voice of America Park, 5-7pm MEMBER APPRECIATION BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Thursday, July 30th Voice of America Park See page 18 for details CONNECTING PEOPLE AND POSSIBILITIES IN WEST CHESTER AND LIBERTY TOWNSHIPS AND THE I-75 GROWTH CORRIDOR 2 23 On the Cover The West Chester Chamber Alliance Women’s Group celebrates a milestone this month – over 10 years in existence. Congratulations Ladies! Pictured on the cover are photos from W4W meetings. If you are interested in participating in W4W meetings, please contact Kathy Rambo at 513.777.3600 or see page 6 for more information. Chamber Staff & Associates JOE HINSON, IOM, President & CEO EXECUTIVE [email protected] MARGE WIMMER, Administrative Coordinator [email protected] MIKE POWELL, Finance Director [email protected] LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SPECIAL EVENTS & MARKETING MEMBERSHIP KERRY MURRAY, Leadership Development Director [email protected] KENDRA WILBURN, Impact 21 Facilitator [email protected] KATHY RAMBO, Vice President/Special Events [email protected] ALISON MIUCCIO, Marketing Director [email protected] KENNI BLACHÉ, Membership Services Director [email protected] JAY D’ARCY, Senior Membership Account Executive [email protected] BRUCE WEINBERG, Membership Account Executive [email protected] BOB WIWI, Small Business Advocate BUSINESS [email protected] ADVOCACY GEORGE GLOVER, Government Relations [email protected] West Chester Chamber Alliance Executive Board 2009 CHAIR TOM FARRELL – Alternative Computer Technology, Inc. VICE CHAIR RONDI TSCHOPP – Five Visual Communication & Design SECRETARY CHRIS WORRELL – Graydon Head TREASURER MIKE COMBS – Ossege Combs & Mann, Ltd. DEBORAH BRENNEMAN – Thompson Hine LLP JOE HINSON – West Chester Chamber Alliance TOM HOLDING – Lincoln Financial Advisors CAROL KING – West Chester Medical Center CHAR MASON – Cincinnati Children’s Liberty Campus CHRISTINE MATACIC – Liberty Township Trustee KAREN MUELLER – HORAN GEORGE REES – George Rees Hospitality Group DR. ROBERT SOMMERS – Butler Technology & Career Development Schools KENDALL WRIGHT – Entelechy Training and Development, Inc. July 2009 West Chester Chamber Alliance Sustaining Sponsors e West Chester Chamber Alliance salutes our Sustaining Sponsors. We acknowledge the following members and thank them for their support of the Chamber, its programs, events and services provided to the businesses and organizations of this area. S U N DAY M O N DAY T U E S DAY W E D N E S DAY T H U R S DAY WC Chamber Business Action Committee 4pm | WC Chamber Todd Board Room Butler Technology & Career Development Schools Mercy Hospital Faireld 1 GOLD Liberty Township Trustees 6pm | Liberty Township Administration Building West Chester Township SUPER SILVER SILVER Amylin Ohio, LLC Fifth Third Bank First Financial Bank, NA HORAN Liberty Township The Pulse-Journal SUPER BRONZE Cincinnati Children’s Liberty Campus Clark-Theders Insurance Agency, Inc. Employers Choice Plus Graydon Head Guardian Savings Bank, FSB Huff Realty Kemba Credit Union Kinker Eveleigh Insurance Agency McGill Smith Punshon, Inc. Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Consultants, Inc. Planes Companies PNC Bank UnitedHealthcare West Chester Medical Center BRONZE S AT U R DAY WEST CHESTER CHAMBER ALLIANCE OFFICES CLOSED DIAMOND Cincinnati Bell IKEA National City Bank F R I DAY BUTLER COUNTY OFFICES CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF INDEPENDENCE DAY Butler County Board of Commissioners 7pm | Village of New Miami Council Hall 5 12 6 7 Lakota Board of Education 7pm | Lakota Central Ofce, Thunderbird Room Members Monthly Luncheon 11:30am | Wetherington Golf and Country Club West Chester Township Trustees 6pm | Township Hall, 9113 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd WC Chamber Alliance Government Issues Committee 8-9am | WC Chamber Todd Board Room 14 13 8 21 20 15 22 12pm | WC Chamber Alliance ofces, lower level Member Orientation 3:15-5pm | WC Chamber Alliance ofces, lower level Trustees 27 6pm | Township Hall, 9113 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd 28 4 10 11 16 17 18 24 25 Butler County Board of Commissioners 9:30am | Work Session, Commission Chamber, 315 High Street, 2FL, Hamilton WC Chamber Alliance Networking Power Hour 26 9 3 W4W 11:30am-1pm | M Café at Wingate by Wyndham, 7500 Tylers Place Blvd, West Chester 45069 Butler County Board of Commissioners 9:30am | Commission Chamber, 315 High Street, 2FL, Hamilton Liberty Township Trustees 6 pm | Liberty Township Administration Building Butler Tech Board Meeting 7pm | PSEC, 5140 Princeton-Glendale Rd, Liberty Twp. 19 2 Butler County Board of Commissioners 9:30am | Commission Chamber, 315 High Street, 2FL, Hamilton Ambassadors’ Meeting 11:30am | WC Chamber Alliance ofces, lower level 29 23 Butler County Board of Commissioners 9:30am | Commission Chamber, 315 High Street, 2FL, Hamilton Member Appreciation Business After Hours 5-7pm | Ronald Reagan Lodge, Voice of America Park 30 31 Allegra Print & Imaging | Alternative Computer Technology, Inc. | Atrium Medical Center | AurGroup Financial Credit Union | CAI Insurance Agency | CORT | Elegant Estates, LLC Custom Homes | Focused Capitol Solutions, LLC | Four Bridges Country Club | Frost Brown & Todd | Halcomb Benets Agency, Inc. | North Side Bank & Trust Company | Oscar Event Center | Ossege Combs & Mann, Ltd. | Park National Bank | Rippe & Kingston CO PSC | Schiff Kreidler-Shell Insurance | Schumacher Dugan Construction Co. | SCORE | TriHealth Corporate Health | US Bank | Xavier University – Williams College of Business Stop by the Chamber ofce to see our Sustaining Sponsorship Sign donated by Hightech Signs - 513.874.5223 THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 22 3 Renewing Members AKOS Promotions, Inc. Christine Smith 122 West Main Street Mason, OH 45040 513-398-6324 Donald A Reisenberg Ltd, CPAs Andrew J Nurre 9003 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd West Chester, OH 45069 513-779-2054 Areawide Wellness Associates Barbara J. Fischer 8227 Paddington Court West Chester, OH 45069 513-759-0070 Flowers by Nyla Nyla Kramer PO Box 414 West Chester, OH 45071 513-779-1166 AurGroup Financial Credit Union Kelly Culp 8811 Holden Blvd Faireld, OH 45014 513-942-4422 Haire Bohmer Wealth Management Group LLC David B. Haire 9075 Centre Point Drive West Chester, OH 45069 513-942-9700 Bonesh Grill Dave Rankin 7706 Voice of America Centre West Chester, OH 45069 513-755-2303 Costco Wholesale Christina Cox 9691 Waterstone Blvd Cincinnati, OH 45249 513-774-9452 From the desk of LaRosa’s - West Chester & Liberty Twps Amy Sloan-Holt 100 Crisler Ave Data Managment-Suite 3 Crescent Springs, KY 41017 859-341-8342 Strategic Advantage Training, LLC Sandler Training Authorized Franchisee Bob Rosselot 8612 Charleston Woods Dr Mason, OH 45040 513-342-1769 Liberty Grand Villas Susan Neff 941 Chatham Lane, Ste 100 Columbus, OH 43221 614-457-0200 Tangi’s Salon Marci Tangi 7334 Tylers Corner, Ste 400 West Chester, OH 45069 513-755-6556 Maronda Homes Doug Partington 4710T Interstate Dr Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-860-2300 The HealthCare Connection Bob Gallagher 1401 Steffen Ave Cincinnati, OH 45215 513-483-3085 Intech, LLC Dan Winterhalter 8878 Brookside Dr., Ste 101 West Chester, OH 45069 513-779-5700 Rippe & Kingston CO PSC Chad Williams 1077 Celestial St Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-977-4595 The Quandel Group Kevin Apling 225 Pictoria Dr, Ste 100 Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-754-1700 James R. Cryder DDS.MS James R. Cryder 7100 Sennet Place, Ste F West Chester, OH 45069 513-755-9100 Savannah Center at Chappell Crossing Mark Wallisa 8812 Beckett Rd West Chester, OH 45069 513-860-4142 New Members Aladdin’s Eatery Patty Sabino 9344 Union Centre Blvd West Chester, OH 45069 513-874-1302 Restaurant Heritage Link Brands, LLC Selena Cuffe 8687 Rupp Farm Dr West Chester, OH 45069 323-375-9566 Retail - Specialty Lynn McInturf Associates Sue Shields 1114 Race St Cincinnati, OH 45202 859-620-2928 Training, Sales & Leadership The Concept Nails & Spa Meggie Lee 4858 Union Centre Pavilion Dr West Chester, OH 45069 513-860-3986 Salon & Spa Cincinnati Stoneworks Don Engel 7776 Service Center Dr West Chester, OH 45069 513-777-7090 Countertops Imperative Consulting, LLC Mark A Fryer 5151 Poets Way Liberty Twp, OH 45011 513-324-3809 Consulting Mariner’s Inn North Brian Kenney 7967 Cincinnati-Dayton Road West Chester, OH 45069 513-755-8600 Banquet/Reception Facility City Publications Ron Newcomb 1123 Waters Edge Dr Centerville, OH 45458 937-350-5171 Advertising & PR Agencies Just Ask & Consider It Done Lisa Davies 8047 Paddington Ln Cincinnati, OH 45249 513-469-1810 Concierge Services Mr. Good Guy LLC Larry Davis 10129 Zumstein Ave Camp Dennison, OH 45111 513-295-3113 Restaurant Delivery The International Society for Six Sigma Certications Tim DeRosett 9902 Carver Rd, Ste 203 Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-834-8332 Professional Services Fortress evolved records management Tim Black 165 West Crescentville Rd Cincinnati, OH 45246 513-551-1183 Document Destruction KBI Medical Supplies Keith Bussey 1000 Old Harshman Rd Dayton, OH 45431 937-256-7334 Medical Equipment & Supplies Mr. Rooter Plumbing Nazek Salem 6777 Lakota Lane Middletown, OH 45044 513-939-1200 Plumbing Services & Supplies Lakefront at West Chester Carrie Riley 4637 Wyndtree Dr West Chester, OH 45069 513-860-1740 Apartments/Condominiums Phelan Insurance Agency, Inc Brent Phelan 6070 West Chester Rd West Chester, OH 45069 513-874-7490 Insurance Agency Liz Craciun & Associates Liz Craciun 9891 Montgomery Rd #252 Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-604-9297 Consulting Relay Express Ryan Sacksteder 498 Commercial Dr Faireld, OH 45014 513-860-2555 Delivery Service FranchiseMart Corinne George 7875 Montgomery Rd Cincinnati, OH 45236 513-791-6962 Consulting - Business & Management Fresh Coat Painters Dennis Ripp 7723 Tylers Place Blvd PMB110 West Chester, OH 45069 513-898-9661 Interior Decorators - Painting Tower Wireless Dwayne Carter 6862 Liberty Plaza Dr, Suite 100 Liberty Township, OH 45044 513-282-4211 Communications-Wireless/mobile Transworld Systems Inc. Cecil Dye 1717 Dixie Highway #490 Ft Wright, KY 41011 859-331-1957 Collections Services Value Place Hotel - Faireld Tracey Rahe 6816 Faireld Business Dr Faireld, OH 45014 513-860-1222 Hotels/Motels Value Place Hotel - Sharonville Tracey Rahe 4020 Hauck Rd Sharonville, OH 45241 513-769-9500 Hotels/Motels Joe Hinson, IOM – President & CEO Ask the Question: “How are we doing?” We have already reached the mid-point of 2009 and we’re cautiously optimistic about the second half of the year. Depending on who you speak to or the message you subscribe, the economy is showing signs of improvement or, the business climate has not improved at all. Either way, now is a good time to take stock of your business. It’s essential to access the bottom line and culture of your organization to keep it healthy. Though there may be an uneasiness to do so by some, and/or it may be a new venture for others, being proactive by gauging the health of your business (especially in these challenging economic times) can make a difference in what direction you steer your organization. To help you with your analysis, look below for questions from four strategic areas to review; Key Financial Drivers, Understanding Your Business, Company Culture and Political Climate. We have also included samples of action plans to help you with your implementation. 1 KEY FINANCIAL DRIVERS Questions: What makes us money? What costs us money? What’s our short and long term vision? What are our key strategies? How are we performing? Action Plans: Review the financial reports and key indicators. Assess anything that’s unclear about the operation’s financial performance. Spend time with your financial team to talk about specific economic drivers and key indicators. 2 UNDERSTANDING YOUR BUSINESS Questions: What functions directly affect our fiscal performance? What’s the primary role of each functional department/area? How do their strategies affect our overall performance? Action Plans: Access your working knowledge of each department/area. Identify the appropriate department/area experts. Schedule an informational interview with each expert. Prepare for the interviews by drafting an outline of issues and questions. THE Now is a good time to take stock of your business 3 COMPANY CULTURE Questions: Do we value everyone’s ideas? How hierarchical are we? Do we promote cross-functional development (cross training)? Does our culture promote open and honest communication? Action Plans: Reflect on your own view of your culture and seek insight from colleagues. Judge how well the culture aligns with your own belief system. Gauge your potential for long term success in the existing culture. 4 POLITICAL CLIMATE Questions: How political is our work environment; across departments, divisions and company wide? How does our culture align with our company values and goals? Are we overly influenced by certain agendas? Are we all good stewards of the organization? Action Plans: Draw your own conclusions about the political environment. Ask others throughout your organization for their opinions. Observe how others behave. Determine how well the climate feels, then decide whether to change it or leave it alone. Our goal through Chambernomics is to keep your organization solvent during these tough economic times. We have pointed out in past articles the importance of distinguishing your organization from your competition. Though this is important in securing market share, making sure your house is in order is “job one” to weather this economic storm. By doing so, your organization can be positioned for even greater success in the future. Thank you for being a valued member of the West Chester Chamber Alliance. Best wishes for your future success! West Chester Chamber Alliance Mission Statement A regional community leader promoting business innovation and growth, advocating free enterprise, addressing issues of regional and community significance and leading our members to a higher quality of life. THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 4 West Chester Chamber Alliance VOICE THE e VOICE is published monthly by the West Chester Chamber Alliance, 7617 Voice of America Centre Drive, West Chester, Ohio 45069. SpotlightOn CHAMBER MAIL Telephone: 513.777.3600 | Toll Free: 877.WCHESTER Fax: 513.777.0188 | www.westchesterchamberalliance.com PUBLISHER ..................................................................................Joe Hinson EDITOR................................................................................... Alison Miuccio ASSISTANT EDITOR .................................................................... Ali Fischetti PHOTOGRAPHY...................Murray Multimedia Resources, LLC, Kenni Blache CONTRIBUTING WRITERS .................................. George Connett, Rob Heglin, ......................................................................... Craig Jones, Linda Schneider DESIGNER ......................................................................Cox Ohio Publishing ()#*)#( $%&#'' !"""# /0%%#' +,,+,,-%%. $%!$&'% # ! !" # "$ )"# !! ( %& % $ $ * )" -'.*% , #%() $%#+ '# & /+0 &. 1 ,- & *% #+ & % & 06(788879)) ! & 52 !! 234 1 # 1$ /,)"0, -% Postmaster/Address Changes Send address changes to West Chester Chamber Alliance, 7617 Voice of America Centre Drive, West Chester, Ohio 45069. Attention: West Chester Chamber Alliance or email: [email protected]. Advertising When Steven Kehoe of Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC began his business it was with a simple focus – to listen, educate and guide. 27+ years later this focus still holds true and is, perhaps, even more poignant given today’s economic conditions. � , ## $%#+ & : &; % < -# = # 3 &% % , 2 2 # $ 1 %#2 -*.&&% , $%#+ ## % #% & #1 2% 788879)) # 06( 452 3 2 Interested in sponsoring a ChamberMail? Contact Alison Miuccio at the Chamber 513.777.3600 or [email protected]. Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC is an independent financial services firm that assists their clients with every aspect of their financial lives providing comprehensive and personal service. “Our firm offers a broad array of financial planning assistance both personally and for your business,” said Larry Blundred, the newest partner. Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC can offer businesses their expertise in areas such as employee benefits and pension plans, executive benefits, financial consultation and family business strategies to name a few. Financial planning and investment, as well as retirement and estate planning, are some of their available personal financial services. Chamber members can advertise in The VOICE and reach more than 1000 leaders in the southeastern Butler County business community. For cost and specics, call Alison Miuccio, 513.777.3600 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions In October of 2008, Steven Kehoe was named “Five Star: Best in Client Satisfaction Wealth Manager” by Cincinnati Magazine. “Our NEED INSIGHT ON JOINING GREATER CINCINNATI’S MOST COMPLETE COUNTRY CLUB? The VOICE is mailed to Chamber members as a benet of membership. Additional subscriptions are available to Chamber members at $75 per year. Non-member subscriptions are $100 per year. For information, call 513.777.3600. Pictured left to right are Steven C. Kehoe, Alex Mills, Tom Keller, Larry Blundred. success is based on a 3-step consultation process we use with every client – whether it be a multi-employee business, a family or individual,” states Steve Kehoe, President & CEO of Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC. The first step with each client is the initial assessment meeting. By asking questions and listening, Kehoe is able to learn about his clients’ problems and objectives. Next, they educate their clients by providing them with knowledge on the available resources that can help them. The third and final stop is guidance by helping their clients choose the resources and solutions to solve their particular situation. “By listening, educating and guiding, Kehoe is helping businesses, families and individuals reach their financial goals….THAT, is the most rewarding part of the business for me,” said Steven. Holding true to their mission to educate, Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC also offers many educational outreach programs and classes throughout the year. These sessions are complimentary and open to the community. Future topics include “Real Estate As Part of Portfolio” and “What is Asset Allocation?” Please visit their website at www.kehoe-financial.com for further details on presenters and locations. Through consistent effort and a reputation for integrity, Kehoe Financial Services has built a solid base of satisfied clients. If you are looking for a company to listen, educate and guide you or your business contact Kehoe Financial Advisors at 513.481.8555. Submissions Articles, advertisements and inserts for The VOICE must be received at the Chamber ofce by the 1st of each month to be included in the upcoming edition. No article in this news magazine may be reprinted without the permission of the West Chester Chamber Alliance. Karen Sacksteder Kehoe Financial Advisors, LLC Subscriptions are included in the annual dues of each Chamber membership. 21 West Chester Township LINDA SCHNEIDER Cox Ohio Media 513.755.5064 [email protected] e o J / n w - noo m a a 9 JaEvevry Friday from of most e the hip! k a m s o ule how t ember sched Learn Chamber m 7.3600 to your at 513.77 y nson ored B oe Hi Spons Call J We’ve got plenty! Four Bridges Country Club, currently accepting Members For more information or to schedule your tour, call Donna Myers at 759-4620 www.fourbridges.com FOUR BRIDGES 8300 Four Bridges Drive, Liberty Township, Ohio 45044 THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 20 Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings WEST CHESTER MEDICAL CENTER West Chester Medical Center senior leadership and local officials including The West Chester Chamber Alliance, cut the ribbon on Friday, April 24 for the official dedication of the hospital. The hospital opened its doors to patients on May 11. BtoB Solutions Opens Midwest Office Michael Stater, a 4-year Chamber Member, has launched a consulting business that is part of a national group of service providers called BtoB Solutions. “Organizations are experiencing a profit erosion due to lost compliance savings, process inefficiencies and lack of operational controls and visibility. Our Free analysis will reveal these opportunities and help redirect these dollars back to the bottom line,” Stater said. BtoB Solutions supports standardized best practices on a single centralized web-based vendor neutral platform. These programs can help your business achieve a 5% to 40% savings on your purchasing and processing costs. Michael will be working with corporations, healthcare organizations, school districts and municipalities in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. For more information, contact Michael Stater at 513.779.8930 or [email protected] New Staff Member at Alternative Computer Technology QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL 7687 Doc Drive West Chester, OH 45069 Qdoba Mexican Grill combines fresh ingredients with an innovative combination of sauces, salsas and marinades to create non-traditional, fast-casual Mexican fare. Their executive teams were on hand to celebrate their West Chester grand opening. UNITED DAIRY FARMERS 6300 Cincinnati-Dayton Road Liberty Township, Ohio United Dairy Farmers is your neighborhood store that combines the nostalgia of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor with all the benefits of a modern convenience store. The newest location in Liberty Township is the 184th store for the Cincinnati based stores. Alternative Computer Technology (ACT) of West Chester has added Clark Choate to their staff as a technical support specialist. Clark comes to them with excellent technical credentials and is a welcome addition to the staff. For more information, please call 513.755.1957 or visit www.altcomp.com. Horizon Payroll Services Jon Wetherill has been awarded the designation of Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) by the American Payroll Association. The CPP signifies a high level of professional experience and competence in the payroll field. The CPP designation is awarded based on the successful completion of a comprehensive 4-hour exam, in addition to documented experience in the payroll profession. There are only slightly more than 9,000 practicing CPPs nationwide. For more information, contact Jon Wetherill at [email protected]. Reach Out Lakota It may be summer, but Reach Out Lakota is planning the Fall 2009 Back-To-School Program now. This program has provided school supplies to students in need in our community for over 15 years. You are invited to help continue this valuable service to our community by making a donation of new school supplies to Reach out Lakota by August 1st. In addition to the need for school supplies, many local families experience additional hardship during the summer. This is primarily caused by an increase in child care and grocery expenses because their children are now at home during the day. For this reason, the pantry often experiences an increase in the need for food during the summer. For more information on how you can help and to see a list of items needed, visit www.reachoutlakota.org or call Rachel Kuntz at 513.755.2899. THE 5 People AndNews Savannah Center Adds To Staff Gretchen Battson has joined Savannah Center as the new Sales Manager who will be responsible for corporate and association markets. Gretchen has over 8 years of sales experience in the hotel/meetings industry, the last 5 of which were at the Sheraton Cincinnati North in Sharonville. Gretchen can be reached at 513.977.5945 or [email protected]. Carrie Lefker is Savannah Center’s new Client Services Manager with 8 years of experience in the meetings industry; the first 6 years as an Event Manager with the Marriott Kingsgate, and the last 2 as Convention Sales Manager with the Northern Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau. Carrie can be reached at 513.977.5942 or [email protected]. Mark Wallisa, General Manager said, “There are a number of other changes in progress for Savannah Center and I am confident that these staff additions have made enormous strides in the right direction, and we are extremely optimistic about the future.” Cox Ohio Repositions Sales Force Under New Brand The Sales and Marketing Division of Cox Ohio Publishing has changed its name to Cox Ohio Media to better reflect their multimedia capabilities including direct mail, commercial print, Yahoo! Behavioral Targeting, and Dayton B2B magazine. “We’ve added audience by continuously expanding our suite of products,” said Rob Rohr, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Cox Ohio Media. “We’ve had a multimedia sales force for years, and now reach nearly 1.1 million adults monthly online and in print.” Cox Ohio Media Consultants provide customers with customized needs analyses and recommend the best strategic solutions to deliver more audience and the highest ROI. For more information, please visit www.coxohiomedia.com. THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 6 19 CHAMBER Congratulations on the 10-year anniversary of the West Chester Chamber Alliance Women’s Group! Women for Women (W4W) is the West Chester Chamber Alliance women’s group that focuses on the need for women to balance business, home and all aspects of their life. W4W brings women together to engage in networking, discuss women’s issues and address topics that are pertinent to women’s lives both at home and at the office. Our meetings focus on the four W’s—Work, Wealth, Wisdom and Wellness. At each session, we enjoy networking time, discussions and a presentation that addresses the “W” topic of the month. Join us at this month’s W4W meeting on Friday, July 10th from 8am-9:30am at M Café at Wingate by Wyndham (7500 Tylers Place Blvd, West Chester). This meeting will focus on both “Work & Wisdom” as Kathy Rambo presents Business Luncheon Protocol & Etiquette. The cost for this session is $20. RSVP by Wednesday, July 8th to Kathy Rambo at 513.777.3600 or [email protected]. VISION ChamberVision, a service of the West Chester Chamber Alliance is available to be viewed 24/7 at www.westchesterchamberalliance.com. ChamberVision is hosted and produced by Dean Miuccio of Dean Miuccio Productions, LLC. This interview-style program showcases Chamber members; who they are, what they do for our community and what the community can do for them. It Pays To Have More Members Like You! We are looking for more members like you. Our membership referral program is a great opportunity to help grow your Chamber and your business. A growing membership strengthens the organization’s impact as it advocates on issues of importance to business. To show our appreciation, we want to thank you with Chamber Bucks! With each paid membership, referred by you, we will present you with West Chester Chamber Alliance Chamber Bucks ($25 value, good for 1 year). We value your membership and would appreciate your help to grow the membership of the West Chester Chamber Alliance. For a referral form, please go to www.westchesterchamberalliance.com or pick one up at one of our monthly luncheons. ChamberVision has sponsorships available! For more information, please contact Alison at 513.777.3600 or email [email protected]. :@/6 a C/P -aR Pc P/aY .6@a@/ GETTING CONNECTED & STAYING CONNECTED NEED A SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATE? Bob is an advocate for you and your business, whether you are just starting out or are ready to expand to the next level! Contact Bob Wiwi at the West Chester Chamber Alliance 513.777.3600 [email protected] " 62.6L P@2`@.CO.6 @i 8.Xy \iI P.XX " 9bbiO`@OO. RiiX6 @i 8.Xy \iI +IR " #C.b@6 ZLi R2IXR ,`2. The West Chester Chamber Alliance is a “character First... it Starts With Me.” The West Chester Chamber Alliance recently teamed-up with Character Council of Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky to become the area’s first “Chamber of Character.” Chamber staff members participated in a “Success through Integrity” workshop where they built awareness of good character, were introduced to the 49 Character Qualities, and identified core strengths and opportunities for growth. The first goal of the Chamber is to internalize the 49 positive character qualities and exemplify high business standards to its members and the community. “We are honored and excited to be working with the West Chester Chamber Alliance as our first ‘Chamber of Character.’ What an excellent opportunity to lay the foundation for a regional business culture based on good character, ethics and excellence,” said Mary Andres Russell, Character Council of Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. Each month, the Character Council promotes 1 of their 49 character qualities. This month, the highlighted Character quality is “Gentleness (vs. harshness) showing consideration and personal concern for others.” So this month, to practice and promote “gentleness,” the Chamber will: SM/ ,y/iyY/ <P26@- yMPYi6iyMR a@ 9U55 P/aY@R /^yiP/26 iI2 aD/c@6 @i Pi2X <i2 RiI PP@M @M/ <IYY 6Iyyi2@ i< @MiI6ac%6 i< YizaY ac% ca@PicaY 2/aY /6@a@/ /Qy/2@6 ]iI2 9U55 aD/c@ P6 RiI2 a%Oiza@/ @i M/Yy RiI D/@ @M/ ^i6@ OaYI/ iI@ i< @i%aR/6 c/P 2/aY /6@a@/ ^a2X/@ HUFF Realty Union Centre 6192 Muhlhauser Road (513) 644-4833 www.HUFF.com THE • Show good manners • Look for ways to ease the pain of others • Be a peacemaker Interested in more information to learn how to become a “Business of Character,” please contact the Character Council at 513.467.0170 or visit www.charactercincinnati.org. Character First! denitions used by permission. www.characterrst.com THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 18 7 Chamber Advisors Corner Update Your Brand and Save Money Preferred Providers Listed Alphabetically MEMBER APPRECIATION Thursday, July 30th, 5-7pm Question: Does your company have a tired trademark, outdated marketing literature, nondescript packaging, unfocused advertising or a cluttered website? Maybe, in this economic climate, there is no room in the budget to address these issues. Or perhaps you’re afraid of making changes because you have an established identity in the marketplace. Answer: COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Tom Farrell, [email protected] Join us for a special Member Appreciation Business After Hours – where we can let you know just how much you are appreciated as West Chester Chamber Alliance members and volunteers! CELL PHONE AND LONG-DISTANCE Matt Tontrup, [email protected] Please come by, enjoy food from City Barbeque, network and see a few friends. Add this special date to your calendar because you certainly don’t want to miss being our guest. Hope to see you there! WORKERS COMPENSATION Ben Herndon, [email protected] It’s time to meet with an experienced, knowledgeable graphic designer. Not only can a fresh look be developed economically, it can be done so in a way that excites your audience, retains your established identity, gives you an edge on the competition and maybe even saves you money! Established brands periodically update their look with subtle nuances that reflect the current visual vocabulary. These may include slight letterform changes, refinements to dated symbols & icons and integration of current graphic elements. The purpose is to reinvigorate the brand and create vitality and visual interest without the loss of the established brand identity. Now, for the money-saving part: First, a designer can make a thorough and careful analysis of all visual communication including marketing literature, letterhead/business cards, labeling/packaging, advertising and signage that might uncover costly or inefficient processes or specifications. Secondly, a designer can propose strategies to trim these production costs, while maintaining quality and enhancing aesthetics. And, finally, the introduction of a fresh look may be done incrementally, on an “as needed” basis. Perhaps a new employee needs business cards, the office is running out of letterhead, important content is missing from the brochure or a critical presentation is in the offing. Perception is reality. Buyers of products and services are keenly attuned to what is current and cutting edge and what is stagnant and passé. If you are the leader in your industry why not take steps to ensure you are perceived as the leader as well. Name recognition and image are important parts of the equation and passivity may be costly in the long run. OFFICE SUPPLIES ���������������� ���������������� ������� ������� �������� ��������������� ���������������� ������������������������ �������������������������������� ����������������������������� ����������� Mark Your Calendar! Heather Frazier, [email protected] GROUP HEALTH CARE For more information, please call the West Chester Chamber Alliance at 513.777.3600 ��������������������������������������������������������������� 2009 Golf & Tennis Classic Monday, October 5th at Wetherington Golf and Country Club Please contact Kathy Rambo for more information on participating in or sponsoring this event – 513.777.3600 or [email protected] Your brand identity communicates on many levels. Engaging, thought-provoking imagery doesn’t always have to be an expensive proposition. Let a design professional help you energize your company, increase your presence in the marketplace and stimulate sales. Let’s get YOUR audience excited about YOUR company and YOUR products. GEORGE CONNETT Connett Design 513.379.5948 [email protected] ��������������������������������� THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 8 17 What’s New in West Chester Township A snapshot of recent developments by West Chester Development Council www.westchesterdevelopment.com West Chester Works with Partners in Prime to Develop Activity Center for the Community. “We look forward to developing programming, activities and an atmosphere that will make the new activity center a comfortable and energized place,” said Steve Schnabl, CEO of Partners in Prime. West Chester Township is currently negotiating a use agreement with Partners in Prime and the agency will soon kick off fundraising efforts to support some renovations to the building. While the building will be usable in its current state, some modifications will make it even more efficient, according to Mr. Schnabl. West Chester has committed some funding support to modifications of the entrance into the building from Cox Road to improve access. The new library at Union Centre is set to open at year’s end. A multi-generational center with programs and activities that appeal to all - this is the goal as West Chester works with Partners in Prime to plan for re-use of the Cox Road library building. The approximately 15,000-square-foot building owned by West Chester, will be vacated soon with the opening of the new expanded library in the community’s downtown district at Union Centre. West Chester Township Trustees want the building to be a special place where residents of all ages could gather for great programming, meetings and more. “When we offered public forums on the re-use of the library building what we heard consistently was an interest in having a place where many groups could meet and where there were programs offered for all segments of the community,” said Township Administrator Judi Boyko. “Partners in Prime has embraced this concept and we look forward to working with them.” Partners in Prime has been contracted by West Chester Township for many years to provide services and programs for the senior citizen community. The non-profit agency has locations in Fairfield, Hamilton and West Chester. Road Construction Season Begins Beckett Road project largest in the community The start of summer brings the start of summer road projects throughout Butler County. West Chester Township works closely with the Butler County Engineer’s Office to address the infrastructure needs of the West Chester community. The largest road improvement project taking place this summer in West Chester is on Beckett Road between Union Centre Boulevard and Smith Road. Crews will work to ease the curve near the entrance to Beckett Park, add turn lanes at the park, replace a culvert and add a bike path. The cost of the project is nearly $1.4 million and is funded through the TIF District. Construction crews are expected to mobilize on May 26 and the project is expected to be complete by October 1. There will be road closures as part of this project. Closures will be in effect from June 15 through August 15. Specific information about detours and closures are now available. For details and updates on this and other projects, visit www.westchesteroh.org, www.bceo.org or call the Township’s information hotline at 513.759.3036. Other West Chester road projects include: Cincinnati-Dayton Road at Dimmick and UCB Turn lane additions, traffic signals Crescentville Road at Ohio 747 Intersection improvement, additional turn lane. Hamilton-Mason Road, Cincinnati-Dayton to I-75 Widen to 5 lanes I-75, Cincinnati-Dayton Road to Middletown limits Widen to 4 lanes each direction and upgrade interchanges Ohio 747 at Devitt Drive and Interstate Drive Install signals and construct connector road between deadends at Devitt and Interstate. Port Union Road near LeSaint Drive – Westbound lane addition Tylersville Road – Culvert replacement Union Centre Blvd., West Chester Road to Muhlhauser Add lane in each direction update Five-Year Financial Forecast As required by the Ohio Revised Code, Ohio school districts prepare a five-year financial forecast of general fund operational revenues and expenditures. The forecast is submitted by the Treasurer/CFO to the Ohio Department of Education by October 31 of each fiscal year. Updates are required between April 1 and May 31 or more frequently when significant changes occur. The Board of Education is recognized as the official owner and has ultimate responsibility for its development. A recommendation to update its forecast was made to the Lakota Local School District Board of Education at its May 26, 2009 meeting. A change in circumstances and the availability of additional information have resulted in this forecast revision. That information includes, but is not limited to, the most recent actual revenues and expenditures, 2008 reappraisal property values, updated effective tax rates, a significant revision to forecasted enrollment, an updated staffing forecast based upon the new enrollment data, salary adjustments for staff, phase out of personal tangible property and debt issued for a HB264 energy conservation project. ������������ As a result of nearing the end of our natural levy cycle, which is about 4 to 5 years, district expenditures exceeded revenue for each of the forecasted years. This is primarily due to flat funding from the State of Ohio where we do not receive additional funds when new students attend our schools as well as local property tax revenue which does not grow with increases in property values because of state law. Schools are a service business. As such, most of the district’s resources are dedicated to salaries and fringe benefit expenditures. Expenditure increases are due to offering competitive wages and benefits to attract and retain experienced and qualified staff that provide excellent instructional and support services. In addition, inflationary increases for utilities, fuel, equipment and teaching materials and supplies are included. The annual operating deficit reduces available cash balances to the point where the district forecasts a negative cash balance by the end of fiscal year 2011. State law requires schools to operate with positive cash balances. It is recommended that school districts maintain a 30-60 day cash reserve. The negative cash balance signals the need for decisions in the near future regarding a combination of additional revenue and expenditure reductions. CRAIG JONES Treasurer, Lakota Local School District [email protected] ��������������������������������������� ����� �������������������� ��������������������� ������������������������ ������������������� ������������������������ �������������������� ������������������������������������������ ���������������������� ������������������� ������� ���� ������ ������������� ������������� ������������ ������������� �������������������������������������������� �������������������� ������������������� ������������������������ ������������������������ ��������������������� ��������������������������������� ���������������������� Union Centre Blvd. at Imagination Blvd. Install new signals at intersection �������������������������������������������� THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 16 9 McDonald’s 7723 Tylers Place Blvd. #187 West Chester, OH 45069 What’s New in Liberty Township www.liberty-township.com Receives Statewide Recognition Liberty Township Embarks on Brand Development and Landscaping Projects as Ohio ACTE’s 2009 Image Award Winner The Ohio Association for Career and Technical Education (Ohio ACTE) announced that Joe Hinson, President & CEO of the West Chester Chamber Alliance is this year’s Image Award Winner. The Image Award, bestowed annually to one recipient statewide, recognizes individuals who have brought positive attention to the career-technical and adult education fields, enhancing the image of career-technical and adult education and career and technical educators. Terry Jaspers (front left) owner of McDonald’s in West Chester and Liberty Township, hosted West Chester Chamber Alliance members at Business Before Hours. McDonald’s continues to offer innovative and convenient services; Wi-Fi is a perfect example. With their fast and friendly food service, you can enjoy the possibility of staying connected with business associates, colleagues and the office. Hinson received this award for his efforts to promote career-technical education in the Southwestern Ohio Region. He has proactively engaged Chamber resources to promote Butler Technology and Career Development Schools, economic development and workforce development. mesh Restaurant In collaboration with Butler Tech and Miami University, Hinson initiated the Southeastern Workforce Academy. The academy is a joint venture that created a facility to support small and mid-sized companies seeking workforce development. He has promoted workforce development to companies coming into the area, leading to increased business in the Butler Tech Adult Workforce Division. 6200 Muhlhauser Rd. West Chester, OH 45069 Liberty Way comes to Liberty Township Hinson also actively promotes the work of Butler Tech within the community as well as statewide through the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. He serves on task forces, participates in strategic planning and supports career-technical components in the Chamber’s Leadership Programs. On Thursday, May 14, 2009 the Butler County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution to change the name of Hamilton-Mason Road (between Butler-Warren Road and Cincinnati-Dayton Road) to Liberty Way. This decision was made unanimously and is in effect immediately. “The involvement and support of business leaders like Joe Hinson is crucial to the success of Ohio’s economy, and his tireless support of career-technical education solidifies the relationship between careertechnical education and economic development,” said Christine Gardner, Executive Director of Ohio ACTE. mesh continues to be the perfect destination where creative cuisine and good company can be savored. West Chester Chamber Alliance members experienced both at Business After Hours. Pictured here is Angela Walker (center) celebrating with fellow Chamber members. Hinson will be recognized by his peers in career-technical education at the All-Ohio Conference, July 28, 2009, in Columbus, Ohio, at a special ���� luncheon for state award winners. ������ ������������������������������� ����������������������� & STAYING CONNECTED JAY D’ARCY ������ ������� GETTING CONNECTED ������ ������������������ ����������������� ������������������������������ Last month Liberty Township embarked on a top 2009 priority for the Board of Trustees – the development of a new logo and brand. The Township has hired Margo Jacob Design to assist in its creation. Township Trustees, staff and the Economic Development Committee (made up of Township residents and business owners) have worked closely with the design team to identify the Township’s target audiences, values and community assets. This foundation will then be used to craft key messages and to develop a new graphic mark to be used in brochures, the web site and Township signage. Be on the lookout for the Township’s facelift in the next few months! SENIOR MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jay is one of your first points of contact when you join the West Chester Chamber Alliance and a great resource for getting involved. In his role, Jay provides insight into how the Chamber can benefit both current members and prospective members, If you need more information on how to GET CONNECTED, contact Jay at 513.777.3600 or [email protected]. New street signs designating the road as Liberty Way will begin to pop up over the next few weeks. Liberty Township is working in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Butler County Engineer’s Office on the new signage. Residents and businesses will continue to be updated on the progress; however we encourage people to contact our office at 513.759.7500 if there are questions. Residents and businesses along the new Liberty Way are reminded that they should not file a change of address with the United States Post Office. In addition, residents and businesses have been told they will receive mail addressed to either road name. The Post Office encourages residents/ businesses to notify correspondents of the new road name, however the Post Office will maintain a record that shows both names and therefore mail addressed to either, will reach mailboxes. THE Liberty Township appreciates the support received from a majority of the property owners along the new Liberty Way as well as the greater community. With the Liberty Interchange opening in less than a year, it’s an exciting time for our community as we prepare to welcome new development along I-75. We believe enhancing the brand of Liberty Township will help achieve the goals set forth in the Township’s comprehensive plan. Special Collaboration Brings New Sidewalk to Liberty Township Neighborhood A new sidewalk is under construction along Dutchland Parkway in Liberty Township thanks to the collaborative efforts of Lakota Local Schools, Butler County Engineer’s Office, Butler County Healthy Living Coalition and Liberty Township. The local group tapped into the National Center for Safe Routes To School (NCSRTS) in an effort to promote and encourage safe walking and biking to school and received a grant as part of the NCSRTS’ first round of funding last year. The new sidewalk in Liberty Township will be a key connector to Woodland Elementary, Liberty Junior School, Lakota Family YMCA and Liberty Park. “The new sidewalk promotes walkable communities, healthy lifestyles, community togetherness…all in a neighborhood full of school-aged children,” said Andy Meyer, Senior Zoning Coordinator/Planner. The new sidewalk is being constructed between the Woodland Elementary School entrance and Dutchland Blvd. Completion is expected later this month. Woodland Elementary School plans to host a “Walk Home from School Day” in October to encourage more children to safely walk to and from school. 5K Race Liberty Township is excited to host its annual 5K Race as part of our 4th of July Festival! Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 4th. The day begins with the 5K Race followed by the 4th of July parade and family festival at Liberty Park. We look forward to seeing you there! 8:30am - 5K Race begins at Liberty Park 10am - Parade begins at Lakota East High School 11am–3pm - Festival at Liberty Park Visit www.liberty-township.com for more information. THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 10 15 Small Business Concerns Small businesses typically have smaller marketing budgets, which makes it more difficult to increase their brand awareness. To help in these tough times, here are some inexpensive marketing tools that might help your business: Google Adwords https://adwords.google.com/select/KeywordToolExternal You can utilize this for your website. This tool can help find the most popular keywords related to your business. If you click on the “Website Content” portion you can check the keywords for your site, and how often they were used in the past month. PHOTO GALLERY Visit www.westchesterchamberalliance.com to view our brand new photo gallery! This new gallery features photos from all four of our major events: The Annual Dinner & Awards Gala, Business Expo, Golf & Tennis Classic and the Women of Excellence Awards Dinner & Gala. So get online and check it out! Angie’s List https://company.angieslist.com/Default.aspx Angie’s List is a great way to get your company’s name out. Click on the “Create Account” button to get set up and check to see if there have been any customer feedback postings. Encourage your customers to post on Angie’s List to improve your company’s image. If you receive a certain amount of positive ratings, you become eligible for Angie’s List awards! Yahoo Answers http://answers.yahoo.com/ Photos are courtesy of Murray Multimedia Resources. For more information, contact Mike Murray at 513.779.4223 or visit www.MurrayMultimediaResources.com Type in key words that pertain to your company and then write responses to questions that have been asked. Your Yahoo account name should relate to your company and if your company website can be of assistance be sure to add it in your response. Facebook.com & MySpace.com www.facebook.com & www.myspace.com Set up an account under your company name and then make friends. You can search for business contacts; send out informative messages to your connections, and much more! Craigslist www.craigslist.org Set up an account, then post adds selling your product or service and make sure to post a new add every 45 days. We have had responses within 24 hours and best of all it is free! AND don’t forget about www.westchesterchamberalliance.com - a great place to get news on West Chester & Liberty Townships, along with all the networking events that are being held at the Chamber! a Your #1 moving company a Headquartered in West Chester a The premier office moving and household relocation company since 1921 a Local, National, International moving and storage a Office moving, interior design and project management a Dedicated to manage your move from start to finish I hope you find these tips to be helpful for your business and if you have any questions, feel free to contact me! ROB HEGLIN Frank’s Glass 513.829.8284 [email protected] 513-759-6000 Visit our website for all your moving and relocation needs www.planescompanies.com/wcchamber THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 14 11 Community Leadership Programs Currently Taking Applications for September Start Both SEBC Leadership 21 and Leading Edge connect leaders to each other and to our community, and enhance leadership skills. SEBC Leadership 21 is for leaders who want to learn more about their community and themselves in order to be more effective as leaders. Leading Edge is designed for young professionals in the first decade of their career, who want to understand their community and acquire skills that will give them an edge with their careers. One of these leadership programs would be of benefit to you or someone on your staff. Applications are available at www.westchesterchamberalliance.com. The application deadline for both SEBC Leadership 21 and Leading Edge is July 15th. For more information on the programs, please contact Leadership Development Director, Kerry Murray at 513.300.1179 or [email protected]. ������� �� ������� ���� ������� ������� �� ������� ���� ������� ������������������� ������������������� ������������������������������������� SEBC Leadership 21 Graduates Class 10 ��� ���� ���� ���� ��� � ����� ��� � ����������� ���� ����� � ����� ��� � ����������� ���� ����� ��� ���� ���� ���� ��� ��� ������������ � ��� ������������ � ����������� ��� ������������ � ��� ������������ � ����������� The members of the 10th class of SEBC Leadership 21 and Leadership alumni gathered at Muhlhauser Barn on May 20th for a graduation reception and ceremony. West Chester Township and the Leadership Alumni Association sponsored the graduation which included the announcement of the class project to build Leo’s Garden at the Voice of America Park. AK Steel was the presenting sponsor for the program. �������������������������������������������� ��������� Leading Edge, the Program That Prepares Young Professionals to Lead Graduates Class 2 Leading Edge’s final session on “Building Positive Business Relationships,” was capped by a graduation reception and ceremony at mesh. Members from Leading Edge Class 2, along with representatives from the Inaugural Class, will help to expand this network of young professional at the West Chester Township Thursday evenings’ “Party in the Park.” Mercy Hospital Fairfield was the presenting sponsor for the program. GETTING CONNECTED & STAYING CONNECTED ��������������������������������������������� ������������������ ���������������� ��������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ����������������������� ����� ��������� ������������ ������������ ������� ������������������ ��������������������� BRUCE WEINBERG MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Bruce is one of your first points of contact when you join the West Chester Chamber Alliance and a great resource for getting involved. In his role, Bruce provides insight into how the Chamber can benefit both current members and prospective members, If you need more information on how to GET CONNECTED, contact Bruce at 513.777.3600 or [email protected]. ������������������������������������������������������� �������������������� THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com 12 13 Luncheon Recap This Month’s Luncheon Tuesday, July 14th Wetherington Golf and Country Club 11:30am – 1:30pm John Pepper, CEO of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, chairman of the board of The Walt Disney Company and former chairman of the executive committee of the board of directors of The Procter & Gamble Company, opened his presentation during the Chamber’s June Monthly Member Luncheon by explaining that any time you enter an organization, there is a unique “Smell of the Place.” Not in a literal sense of the word, but rather in the “scent” of the overall environment. He continued by defining the four characteristics that create this unique “Smell of the Place.” The first is stretch. Are you and your employees stretching yourselves to be the best asset for your company? Second is support. Do you and your employees support one another? Do you support your clients or customers? Third is discipline. Are you disciplined in your career? Are you disciplined in your behavior? And fourth is trust. Where does trust fit into the equation for you, for your employees? In 1995, just one year after John was appointed to Chairman at Procter & Gamble, he took in the unforgettable scent of the Freedom Center. “We all share in the experience of having encountered something outside of our family and career that moves us to act. That, for me, was the National Freedom Center.” John soon accepted the role of CEO for the Center. His desire and mission was to bring life to the story of freedom’s heroes. The key to success would be inform and inspire others to take action just as he had. “Young people are particularly impacted by the Center. School groups are fundamental to our success. This is why we offer free tours to our local 5th – 8th grade students,” stated John. This program has been so successful that it has grown to now include several distance-learning sessions, which will provide educators with up to 30 hours information to be incorporated in their school environments. Chicago, Boston and Miami-Dade area schools are some of the many schools that have chosen to embed the Center within their teaching curriculum. Luncheon Sponsor National City Bank - (left to right) - Nicholas Cook, Mark J. Shooner, Aaron Pember, Michael Reed, Jenny Tatman, Brian D. James and Stephen M. Vovak. Luncheon Sponsor Butler Tech - pictured here is Amy Waldbillig, Vice President of Adult Education, speaking on behalf of Butler Tech. Join us this month for our July Member Luncheon at Wetherington Golf and Country Club. Our guest speaker will be Tracey Wilder, Director of Strategic Partner Solutions, Agility Recovery Solutions, courtesy of Peak 10. Tracey will be speaking on Disaster Preparedness and Crisis Management and specifically, “Lessons Learned from Hurricane Ike and the 2009 Ice Storm.” At this luncheon, we will also honor the Police and Sheriff’s Department of West Chester and Liberty Townships. Next Month’s Luncheon Tuesday, August 11th Luncheon Speaker John Pepper. Wetherington Golf and Country Club 11:30am – 1:30pm Chamber President & CEO Joe Hinson (far right) is pictured here with the newest members of the Chamber (left to right): Ken Saunders, Search Engine Experts LLC; Mary Mehringer, Otterbein Retirement Living Communities; David Myers, HQ Global Workplaces; Gary Codeluppi, Ross Group Inc.; Jillian Kelley, Fitworks Fitness Center. Luncheon Emcee John Brenzel. Many celebrities who have toured the facility now work to encourage more Americans to make the Center a part of their family activities. Former first lady, Laura Bush remarked, “The National Freedom Center is a cornerstone of the American conscience.” It is a place where we not only learn from our past, but from our present as well, so that we might work together to correct the indignities for future generations. Former president Bill Clinton stated, “Our common humanity matters more.” Highlight Committee - Golf & Tennis (left to right) - Mike Powell and Kathy Rambo, West Chester Chamber Alliance; John Thompson, Global Signs Company; Jose Castrejon, McGill Smith Punshon; Stephanie Adams, Mt. Pleasant Retirement Village; Kevin Quinn, Laser Smith; Susan Moorman, AAA Ohio Auto Club; Dorothy Roth (seated); Michele Stoffer, First Financial Bank; Jeri Tappan, Hampton Inn & Suites; Brian Ratliff, Event Management & Production Services, LLC; Eric Willman, Fifth Third Bank; Jon Wetherill, Horizon Payroll; Ali Fischetti, West Chester Chamber Alliance. While the voices of the children have kept the Center open, it continues to be financially challenged. John encouraged us to: learn more about the Center (www.freedomcenter.org), visit and revisit the museum, share our experiences with our family and friends, and consider becoming a member. As John noted, “I believe we dare not fail to remember our history. I believe in its power to teach heroism, courage and cooperation.” Golf & Tennis Display Table - Pictured (left to right) are the Golf & Tennis Committee Co-Chairs Jeri Tappan, Hampton Inn & Suites; Eric Willman, Fifth Third Bank; and Jon Wetherill, Horizon Payroll. MARGO JACOB Margo Jacob Design, LLC Join us next month for our August Member Luncheon at Wetherington Golf and Country Club. Our guest speaker will be best selling author Todd Sebastian. Todd’s topic will be “Tell Your Clients Where to Go! A Practical Guide to Providing Passionate Client Leadership.” Our luncheon emcee will be Michael Davis, Speaking CPR. How To RSVP RSVP on our website at www.westchesterchamberalliance.com or email Marge Wimmer at [email protected]. Luncheons are held the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm. Cancel before noon on the Monday before the lunch to avoid being charged. $25 - for members and employees of member organizations who RSVP by the Friday before each Luncheon $30 - for members who RSVP after Friday at 5:00pm $50 - for non-members Pay by check, Mastercard, VISA or Discover and avoid the registration line. Special dietary needs will gladly be taken care of by letting us know when you RSVP for the luncheon. 513.312.8362 [email protected] A shot of the crowd at the June Monthly Member Luncheon at the Savannah Center. THE THE www.westchesterchamberalliance.com www.westchesterchamberalliance.com