Columbus Chamber Blog: Information about economic development, economic and business trends, Columbus workforce, programs, events and the Chamber of Commerce in and around Columbus, OH

YOU ARE INVITED: Columbus Region Logistics Industry Job and Internship Fair

2010-03-10T12:00:00-05:00

The Columbus Region Logistics Council, an initiative of the Columbus Chamber, invites employers and job seekers to a Logistics Industry Job and Internship Fair.

DATE: March 26, 2010
TIME: 9 a.m. - noon
LOCATION: CSCC's Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio

The logistics industry is very important in the Columbus region, and it currently accounts for 13.8 percent of the non-public workforce here. It is expected to continue to grow. The industry covers many facets, from entry level to mid-management and leadership positions. Among the most needed and available positions in the industry include:

- Operations managers and supervisors
- Facilities and maintenance leadership
- Compliance coordinators
- Program managers
- Business developers
- Drivers and warehouse workers
- Office administrators and customer service
- Pricing and track and trace

The Columbus Region Logistics Council and the Columbus Chamber are working together to support the growth of this industry. Industry experts recognize the need to assist job seekers and employers in matchmaking.

Email Erin Henson at ehenson@aldenlaw.net to register.

Confirmed employers included:

- The Limited
- I-Cat Logistics
- MORPC
- ODW Logistics
- Cardinal Health
- Pacer International
- McGraw-Hill

Other community partners include:

- Columbus State Community College
- OhioMeansJobs.com

Member Spotlight: Lamit Industries

2010-03-08T12:00:00-05:00

About Lamit Industries: Lamit Industries has been producing structural insulated panel (SIPs) since 1989. We’ve been at the same location on Columbus’ southside since our doors opened. We’re the sister company of Tectum Inc., located in Newark, Ohio. Our customers include residential and commercial builders, several national restaurant chains, and patio /sunroom markets to name a few.

Why We’re Chamber Members: We wanted to become more involved with the community and other local businesses, as well as raise our company profile in and around central Ohio. Not many people know we are here producing a green building friendly product that is great for residential and commercial buildings.

Fun Facts About Our Company: More than 50 percent of Lamit’s full-time employees have been with the company between 10-20 years! We are one of the largest contract laminators in the country, producing over two million square feet per year.

Featured Product/Service: SIPs are high-performance building panels for walls, roofs, and floors in residential and commercial buildings. Each panel is made using expanded polystyrene (EPS) sandwiched between two structural skins of oriented strand board (OSB).

SIPs are starting to catch on with builders and homeowners in and around central Ohio. They are proven to reduce energy bills by 50-70 percent because the structure is 15 times tighter than traditional stick framed construction. We have design and engineering capabilities to go along with superior customer service. Our sales manager and technical director personally visits every job site.

For more information visit www.lamitindustries.com.

Young Professionals Spotlight: ASCEND: The Black Professional Association of Columbus

2010-03-05T15:00:00-05:00

Each month, the Columbus Chamber spotlights a local young professional or professional organization to showcase what they offer, how to get involved and when to check out their next event. For the month of March, ASCEND: The Black Professional Association of Columbus is featured.

When and why was ASCEND started?

ASCEND began in February 2008 as a monthly networking mixer for young African American professionals in Columbus. The goal was to help individuals develop business and social relationships, and ultimately build a supportive community of entrepreneurs and businesspeople.

Why should I become a member?

If you enjoy meeting new people, learning about resources that will be helpful to your career, and are interested in making a positive contribution in your community, you'll enjoy being a member of ASCEND. Membership is free and open to the public. We still host our monthly roundtable and networking reception, as well as other events throughout the year.

Our events help you build new relationships, and provide information that's helpful to your career or business. If you were to ask a member about what our meetings are like, they'd say that ASCEND is a very welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds and career levels, and that the people you'll meet are genuinely interested in helping you succeed professionally.

How do I become a member?

Membership is free, and our monthly roundtable is open to the public without a registration fee. To become a member, simply visit our website at www.ascendbpac.com, or sign up at one of our events.

Tell me about your upcoming events.

Our March roundtable is going to be a great event for small business owners and entrepreneurs. We'll be presenting information about free resources available online, as well as organizations that provide consulting and development support for small business.

We're working with our partners to coordinate our April and May events, which will focus on marketing and branding tips for small business, and effective career search strategies for young professionals.

What are some successes or cool facts about ASCEND?

ASCEND has been growing steadily since our inception in 2008. We're expanding our focus from networking and relationship, so that we can offer more educational and professional development opportunities for young professionals. We'll also be reaching out to the community at large, by providing information about personal finance and home ownership.

One of the biggest misconceptions about ASCEND is that membership and participation is limited to African-Americans. We're an inclusive organization, and we encourage people of all backgrounds to participate. For business, government, and nonprofit leaders who would like stronger representation and presence in urban neighborhoods, it's a great way to reach key influencers within the city of Columbus. If you're in an HR or recruitment role, we're also a direct connection to diverse, talented young professionals looking to grow in their career fields.

Where can I go to learn more?

Please visit our website at www.ascendbpac.org to learn more about us and to RSVP for our upcoming events. We're also on Facebook and LinkedIn, so be sure to add us to your network.

To learn about nearly 60 other local YP and professional organizations, view the Columbus Chamber's directory of YP and professional organizations.

2010-03-03T17:00:00-05:00

Did you know there are financial incentives and other benefits available to companies who hire individuals with disabilities?

Get information and details about hiring individuals with disabilities by attending a breakfast hosted by the Ohio Business Leadership Network (BLN). The Mission of the Ohio BLN is to provide employers with valuable information and resources enabling them to enhance their diversity initiative through successful recruitment, selection, training, and retention of a workforce that includes qualified individuals with disabilities. Learn more about:

- Business Leadership Network
- Benefits of membership to employers
- Free upcoming trainings and professional development activities

Jewish Family Services extends an invitation to all local employers to attend the Business Leadership Network Breakfast. Learn how you can tap into more resources for hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities. Find out how local employer partners can share resources to get the best talent!

WHEN: March 9, 2010 from 8:30-10:30 am
WHERE: The Capital Club’s Ambassador Room, 41 South High Street (Huntington Building downtown)
PARK: Huntington Center Parking Garage recommended (approx. parking cost is $4)
HOW MUCH: The event is free to attend
RSVP: Online here

If you have questions, contact Lora Fish (LFish@jfscolumbus.org or 614/559.0161) at Jewish Family Services.

Hope to see you there!

Member Spotlight: PrevaHealth

2010-03-01T14:00:00-05:00

About PrevaHealth Wellness Diagnostic Center:

Nearly all of the causes of death and disability develop over many years and are preventable if they are detected early. The single best test for identifying cardiovascular disease and most cancers in their earliest stages is the EBT scan. The test is accurate, quick, and painless. PrevaHealth offers the only EBT scanner in Ohio. Non-invasively, without drugs or needles, this simple test accurately identifies early-stage cardiovascular disease and many types of cancer - years before they are detectable with any other test. Hospital-based screening - stress testing, EKG, etc., focus on detection of late-stage disease where surgical intervention is most likely. These tests are often invasive, uncomfortable, expensive and inaccurate. PrevaHealth looks for the underlying disease at the earliest stages - when they can be halted or reversed.

Why We're Chamber Members:
PrevaHealth understands the value of connecting with the Columbus business community through the Chamber, and we believe our services can be of great value to other members. While all of us are at risk for these preventable diseases, the sobering fact is that business people may be at elevated risk due to their stressful lifestyles and (usually) sedentary jobs. Our tests can help them. Also, our wellness programs provide corporations a guaranteed ROI by keeping employees healthy and out of hospitals.

Fun Facts About PrevaHealth Wellness Diagnostic Center:
It is very likely that your doctor has already had one of our scans. As General Electric's "National Training Center" our unique service attracts CEOs, professional athletes and leading physicians from around the country. PrevaHealth's EBT cardiac scan is the most accurate and only FDA approved modality to identify coronary calcium in its earliest stages. Within minutes of their scan, patients can view their images and personally see areas of disease or concern. Your doctor receives specific clinical recommendations based on the results of your test.

Featured Product/Service:
March is colorectal cancer awareness month. PrevaHealth's virtual colonoscopy is more accurate, less invasive, more comfortable and about 1/3 the cost of optical colonoscopy. We simply offer the most clinically accurate and cost-effective approach to preventive healthcare available anywhere today-and we offer a special discount for employees of Columbus Chamber members. Normally, the HeartScan costs $445, the Complete Vascular Analysis (body scan) is $845, and Virtual Colonoscopy is $895. For Chamber members, the HeartScan is discounted to $395, the Complete Vascular Analysis is $750, and the Virtual Colonoscopy is $780.

Visit www.prevahealth.com or call us at 614-652-5888 for more information.

Your Chamber: Fast Forward to 2020

2010-02-24T15:00:00-05:00

By Ty Marsh, President & CEO

Today the Columbus Chamber took an exciting look into the future, unveiling an unprecedented initiative called Columbus2020! at our annual meeting.

The Columbus2020! strategy is designed to take our region to the next level, using the basic elements of economic development – attraction of new companies; expansion of existing companies; creation of new companies; and the enhancement of workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life. The new organization – Columbus2020! – will be the quarterback for our economic development efforts. Led by Alex Fischer, president and CEO of the Columbus Partnership, Columbus2020! will coordinate our region’s efforts toward growth and prosperity, which include a focus on business attraction and national marketing.

The Chamber is pleased to be an integral part of the Columbus2020! strategy. Our focus will be on serving the existing businesses of our region. This focus is especially important given that 60-90 percent of all new jobs are created by the companies that are already doing business here. While this is not a new concept, it will be enhanced greatly under the Chamber’s new mission. In fact, we’re currently working on a dynamic strategy to support businesses throughout the region. Watch our Web site, this blog, and our publications for updates as we progress with the plan.

Keep in mind, this is a collaborative, community effort. For it to be successful, we need you to be successful. We need you to prosper. And we need you to participate with us. So, talk with us. Share your challenges and observations. Let the Chamber help. And in turn, you’ll help the entire region.

Our best days are still ahead. And Columbus2020! will fuel our engine. I invite you to join in the journey to 2020 with us.

Member Spotlight: Libre

2010-02-22T13:00:00-05:00

About Libre: Libre is a new business that sells specialty clothing items to dialysis, chemotherapy, and other infusion patients. The clothing is made specifically for those patients who are tired of ruining their own clothing or having to change for treatments, and can be worn any time of the day! It's our way of trying to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during treatment and their activities that follow. Most patients have a typical lifestyle, and our clothing helps ensure comfort and function, and eases the burden of treatment days with the proper clothing!

Why We’re Chamber Members: We recently joined the Chamber after being approached by a member and having the Chamber recommended to us. We spent time discussing joining, and realized that because of all the resources, knowledge, and expertise from everyone involved, it would be a great choice. Since we are still in the beginning stages of our venture, it is stress-relieving and comforting knowing that there are so many people willing to give their time and advice to help us out. Along with that, there is a feeling of reciprocity knowing that we are bringing a new innovation to the table and are now part of a business community. We are able to engage with others who we may be able to partner with or help out. We want to see and help Columbus grow and show that it's a friendly small business city. Having all of that at our disposal is the biggest reason why we decided to join.

Fun Facts: Libre’s concept originated from co-founder Megan Stengel while watching her mother go through dialysis several times a week. Her mother, Teresa, was frustrated from ruining clothing in order to receive treatment and still lacked comfort during the four hour process. The idea developed came about in an entrepreneurship capstone class in the Fall of 2008 at Miami University, where the four founders developed the business plan for a university competition. After winning the business competition that semester we decided to proceed on with it due to all the support we had from faculty and how great of an opportunity we knew it was! All four founders are between the ages of 22 and 23 years old and graduated in May 2009 from Miami University. Also...Libre means "open" and "free" in several languages. This refers to a literal opening in our clothing as well as the way patients feel while wearing the clothing. They have the freedom to wear what they want any time of the day without letting treatment hold them back from their daily activities.

Featured Product/Service: As previously mentioned, our company sells specialty clothing to customers going through dialysis, chemotherapy, and other infusion treatments. Our clothing is a "specialty" item due to the hidden access that we provide and specify for each patient. Although we do have some competition, we have separated ourselves from them through classic designs, comfortable fabric, hidden access, and the functionality of wearing our clothing throughout the day. Libre products are developed with the customer in mind as we strive to ease the burden of treatment days. We are committed to giving back to different foundations that work alongside of us, as well. Our goal is to make each patient's life a little more "Libre"!

For more information, visit www.libreclothing.com. We also have a Fan Page on Facebook, a blog, and a Twitter account.

The Columbus Chamber member spotlights put the focus on member businesses, their presence in the Columbus Region, what they do and how they’ve involved at the Chamber. To submit your member business for a member spotlight contact the Chamber's marketing department.

Learn about Ohio’s new job matching system - OhioMeansJobs

2010-02-17T16:00:00-05:00

The Ohio Department of Development and COWIC/Job Leaders invite you to learn about Ohio’s new job matching system, OhioMeansJobs. This FREE, user-friendly, on-line service can assist you in finding well-qualified, Ohio-based talent.

DATE: March 19, 2010 TIME: 9:30 am – 11:30 am

PLACE: Westerville Public Library, 126 S. State Street, Westerville, OH

DETAILS: Mark Birnbrich, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services-OMJ Project Manager, will demonstrate this Web site LIVE. You will learn:

How to post your job openings
How to post your employment events
How to access 8 million resumes
How to customize your resume searches
How to increase recruitment speed and efficiency
How you can search beyond Ohio’s borders

RSVP: By email to Lona Helfrich or by calling 740-397-7177, ext 1315. Please respond by March 18.

The Columbus Chamber is proud to partner with OhioMeansJobs.

Discounts and Deals on Entertainment, Food and Events

2010-02-16T19:00:00-05:00

By Robbie Banks, Young Professionals Manager, Columbus Chamber

Are you a young professional who is looking for something fun to do in Columbus at a discounted price? Most people who know me know that getting a sweet deal makes me giddy with excitement. I love spreading the word so that others can also take advantage of money-saving opportunities. See below for a few savings opportunities that can help you save some dough on entertainment, food and events. Enjoy!

"Two For Fun Days" at the Arena Grand Theatre (this is one of my favorite deals that used to be offered only on Tuesdays).

THE DEAL: 2 tickets, 2 sodas, a medium popcorn and a pizza with 2 toppings for $25.

HOW TO GET THE DEAL: It must be a secret because this special is not listed on the Arena Grand Theatre's Web site. All you have to do is ask for the Two For Fun Days when purchasing your tickets in person. The special is offered all day Monday through Thursday.

BalletMet Columbus' MetPass

THE DEAL: Are you 22 to 35 years old? Crunched for cash, but still enjoy a night at the ballet? Purchase a MetPass for only $20 and receive up to two tickets to each show of the season for half the single ticket price! Plus, get all the benefits of a Subscriber: discounts on Academy classes, discounts at local restaurants, discounts to arts organizations, passes to rehearsals and Subscriber only events and much more!

HOW TO GET THE DEAL: To purchase a MetPass click here to order online or call the BalletMet Subscriber Services Office at 614.229.4848.

Young Professionals Ticket Offer (ages 21-35) for COSI's Imagination Celebration 2010 (Saturday, March 13, 2010, 7pm-11pm, at COSI)

THE DEAL: Purchase one individual ticket at the regular $200 price and receive a complimentary individual ticket for a guest.

HOW TO GET THE DEAL: Go to http://www.cosi.org/donors-sponsors/donor-events/ and enter “YP Offer” as your Gala Promotional Code and Robbie Banks' name as your referring contact in the Gala Referral field. To purchase over the phone, please contact Christy Zistler, Development Coordinator at COSI, at 614.629.3124 and mention the offer.

If you will be unable to attend the Gala this year but would still like to support COSI, please visit COSI’s ALL NEW ONLINE AUCTION at http://www.cosi.org/online-auction/ for a chance to bid on incredible experiences like VIP Tickets to the 2010 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show or an amazing Getaway for two to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Dine Originals Week (March 8-14, 2010)

THE DEAL: Forty locally-owned restaurants will feature a special fixed price menu for either $10.10, $20.10 or $30.10 during Dine Originals Week. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a new restaurant or revisit a favorite! I recommend Chamber member restaurants: Banana Bean Cafe, Cotters Restaurant at the Arena, The Refectory, Spinelli's Deli, Surly Girl Saloon, Tip Top Kitchen and Cocktails and Worthington Inn.

HOW TO GET THE DEAL: View the participating restaurants' menus and make reservations here.

Member Spotlight: Plante & Moran

2010-02-15T12:00:00-05:00

About Plante & Moran: 

Plante & Moran is among the nation’s largest certified public accounting and business advisory firms, providing tax, audit, risk management, financial, technology, business consulting and wealth management services. Plante & Moran has a staff of more than 1,600 professionals in 21 offices throughout Ohio, Michigan and Illinois with international offices in China, Mexico and India.

Why We’re Chamber Members:

Plante & Moran currently employs nearly 125 staff members in Columbus and has experienced more than 400 percent growth in the 11 years that we’ve been in Central Ohio. With deep roots in Columbus, Plante & Moran supports the Chamber’s initiatives to build a better business community to attract and retain top talent.

Fun Facts about Plante & Moran:

Plante & Moran has been named to FORTUNE’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for 12 consecutive years. In this time, Plante & Moran has tripled its client base and doubled its staff, all while maintaining a culture that promotes staff development. The result is lower turnover with unparalleled longevity and trust that drives exceptional results for our clients.

Featured Product or Service:

Plante & Moran offers comprehensive professional services including tax, audit and accounting, real estate advisory, business management consulting and much more to the healthcare, manufacturing, distribution, real estate, construction, financial services, higher education and not-for-profit industries. For more information, visit www.plantemoran.com.