Locally Made Products in the Spotlight

Everyone knows that manufacturing has steadily declined in Ohio and the U.S. in recent decades.  That is true locally as well, but Muskingum County companies still produce an interesting and sizable variety of industrial and consumer products.  So, an effort is being made to increase awareness in the community about what those are.

A display with a sampling of local products has been set up at Colony Square Mall in a window in the corridor near the movie theater.  Actual products, photos and packaging are used to illustrate locally manufactured goods such as O-I made glass bottles, Conn's chips, Kellogg's food products, and Ohio Stoneware crocks.  The display also includes intellectual property - which of course is not commonly considered manufactured goods - from Muskingum County, such as works by area artists and software by Cerner.

Also, the chamber has established a page on its website - www.zmchamber.com - with a list of locally made products.  The list, which is nearly 70 companies long, includes links to more information about the companies on the list that are chamber member firms.  Industrial products from companies like AK Steel and Casting Solutions and consumer goods from places like Longaberger and Bloomer Candy are included.  The list also covers agri-business, with companies like Terra Cotta Vineyards, Huston Farms and two local greenhouse growers - McDonald's and Timber Run - included.  The web page can be found at this link or by going to zmchamber.com and entering the search term "made in".

The purpose of the display and the web page is to recognize the accomplishments of area production businesses and celebrate the creativity, ingenuity and craftsmanship of local people and companies.  The overall goal is to create a positive business environment for these companies and retain them in the community.

The project is funded by the Chamber's Muskingum Growth Partnership.  Two college student interns, Rachel Thomas and Brianna Burke, helped plan and implement the initiative over the past year.

TV Campaign Promotes Local Buying and Free Enterprise

Our latest TV campaign is hitting the airwaves as we speak.  It features local business people promoting the benefits of buying locally and celebrating the American tradition of free enterprise.  You can watch the videos (and our previous video campaigns) here.  Thanks to WHIZ TV for their support and cooperation, and thanks to the participating companies for making these TV announcements possible.

Options Exist to Reduce Workers Comp Costs

The cost of workers compensation coverage is commonly cited as a major burden when we do surveys of area businesses and talk to members.  But you do have some savings options available to you and now is the time to explore those. Please read on for more about the Chamber's workers comp program.

 

You can save significantly on your workers' compensation premium by joining the Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce workers' compensation program administered by CareWorks Consultants, Inc. (CCI).

  

We partner with CareWorks Consultants to deliver the most significant cost savings to our members. CareWorks Consultants embraces a results-oriented approach that fully integrates safety prevention and risk control with aggressive claims management to deliver a significant return on investment. The Chamber and CareWorks Consultants can analyze your company to determine the BEST workers' compensation premium-saving program for you.

• Group Rating - CCI's group rating program is the only plan endorsed by the Chamber.In 2012 the program's estimated return on investment averaged 533%. (see Safety Council information below, too.)
• Group Retrospective Rating - This program offers premium savings projected as high as 83% and can be a great alternative for companies unable to qualify for traditional group experience rating. (see Safety Council information below, too.)
• Deductible Program - This program offers discounts (up to 77%) on premium rates in exchange for accepting a specified deductible amount.
• 100% EM Cap -Companies becoming penalty rated for the upcoming policy year can have increases to their Experience Modifier (EM) limited, or capped, at 100%, thereby limiting rate and premium increases.
• Other Alternative Rating & Discount Programs -Drug-Free Safety Program, One Claim Program, Safety Council, Salary Continuation, and others.
• Self Insurance - Companies pay compensation and medical costs directly for work-related injuries avoiding escalating reserves and premiums charged by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. CareWorks Consultants serves more Ohio self-insured employers than any other third party administrator.

As a result of their best-in-class service, CareWorks Consultants has consistently maintained a 97% retention rate - one of the highest in the industry. Put their team to work for you. For a no-cost, no-obligation program analysis, please click here and complete the form. You may also contact CareWorks Consultants' Jason Bainum, toll-free, at 1-800-837-3200, ext. 7114, jason.bainum@ccitpa.com.   

ALSO, you can save on workers comp by participating in the Safety Council program.  More than 60 companies participate and save each year.  The deadline to join is this month - July 31 - so be sure to submit your enrollment form NOW.  Make note: Participants in Group Rating and Group Retrospective can now earn half the rebate for Safety Council too, so don't assume you are not eligible for both discounts - you now are!

Earn a Rebate On Workers Comp

NOW is the time to enroll in the local Safety Council program and earn a rebate from the state on your workers compensation premiums. The deadline to enroll is July 31, so read on about the program, and get your application form in this month. 

Safety Council is a program of the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation Division of Safety & Hygiene. Its purpose is to promote workplace safety through education, information and training, and to enable employers to earn a rebate on their workers comp premium in the process. In other words, the Ohio BWC believes that prevention of workplace safety and health issues is a priority and that employers who make an effort to maintain safe workplaces should be rewarded. The result for employers is a program that is an effective way to reduce workers comp premiums.

The rebate is earned by fulfilling specific annual requirements, which are specified here. The program offers employers two separate 2% discounts, or a total possible savings of 4%. The first is a 2% premium rebate for completing the program eligibility requirements, and the second is 2% performance bonus for employers who reduce their frequency or severity of claims by 10 percent or more below the previous year's frequency or severity, or employers who maintain both frequency and severity at zero. Rebate payments are sent by the Ohio BWC to employers who earn the rebate in the last quarter of each calendar year.

An enrollment form and more information are available at this section of the Chamber website.

Webinar on Health Care Law This Week

On July 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the Ohio Chamber's HR Academy will present a webinar on the Affordable Care Act and the recent Supreme Court ruling. HR Academy webinars are $55 for Ohio Chamber members and $110 for nonmembers. HOWEVER, the Ohio Chamber has agreed to extend the $55 Ohio Chamber member rate to our members as well.

The full title of this webinar is Not All Employers Are Created Equal, and Some May Not Remain Equal: Impact of the Affordable Care Act and the Recent Supreme Court Ruling on Different Employing Organizations. This webinar is being presented by John McGowan Jr., Jennifer Mills and Susan Whittaker Hughes of Baker Hostetler. This course has been approved for CLE credits through the Ohio Supreme Court and has been approved for Human Resource Certification Institute recertification credits.

To watch the webinar you will need to register on the Ohio Chamber website. To qualify for the Ohio Chamber member discount you will need to enter the discount code which is: Employers.

If you have any questions, please email Michelle Donovan at the Ohio Chamber or call her at 614-228-4201. To register, click here.

Business people often ask "Are there programs to help my business"?  They hear about economic development programs like tax incentives and government loans and the endless (and usually empty) promises of grants, and they logically want to know if they are missing out on programs from the government or non profit organizations that could help them financially. 

That's why we started a new newsletter called, simply, "Financial Assistance Programs".  It will be sent by email to the in-boxes of chamber members each month.  The newsletter summarizes programs that help the bottom line by cutting costs or providing new business opportunties. 

Examples include loan programs, tax credits, exporting opportunities, workers' comp discounts and equity investments.  Federal, state and local assistance programs are included.

Here's a link to our latest edition of the newsletter.

Oil & Gas Coalition Meeting Features Artex CEO

Over 70 business people attended a meeting yesterday to learn about the new Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition and hear from a leading oil and gas industry executive. 

Jerry James, president of Artex Oil Company based in Marietta Ohio, talked about the economics of the industry, what producers are active in Ohio, and his concerns about the Governor's proposal to raise the severance tax on shale oil and gas production.  James is also president of the Ohio OIl & Gas Association which is strongly opposed to increasing taxes on oil and gas since shale exploration is still in its infancy and unproven.  The Chamber is also opposed to increasing taxes on the industry since it could stifle economic investment in the state.

Information was also provided on the benefits of joining the coalition. The coalition has plans to conduct marketing activities at trade shows and in industry publications in order to help its members reach out to companies involved in the oil and gas production supply chain. The coalition website, www.muskingumshale.com, has more details on marketing plans for the group.

Membership Matters for June 15, 2012

Here's our latest member newsletter.  Topics covered in this edition include:

• Member News
• Welcome New Members
• Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition Meeting on June 21 
• Chamber-Jaycees Golf Outing
• Energy Cost Reduction Program Offered by MCBI 
• Stars & Stripes on the River
• Update Your Business Information
• Newsletter Highlights Assistance Programs
• Buyers Guide Promotes Your Business 
• Earn a Workers Comp Rebate Through Safety Education
• Get Chamber Updates in Your Inbox
• Special Logo to Highlight Your Membership
• "Support Local Businesses" TV Campaign 
• Anthem Health Insurance Program

Save This Date for Chamber-Jaycees Golf Outing

Oil & Gas Coalition Meeting on June 21

Please join us for an introductory meeting of the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition.  The purpose of this meeting is to explain the coalition’s goals, which are outlined below, and discuss marketing plans for the remainder of 2012.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

6:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Campus Center Building

Zane State University/Ohio University Zanesville

1425 Newark Road  Zanesville, Ohio

Admission is free to those considering joining the coalition

Reservations are required:  Call 455-8282 or email jmasterson@zmchamber.com

Special Guest Speaker

Jerry James, President & CEO, Artex Oil Company

Artex is one of the largest oil and gas producers in Ohio, and Mr. James has served as President of Artex since 1995.  Prior to assuming his current role, he held positions with various major oil companies in Texas, Louisiana and Wyoming, and served as a petroleum engineering consultant for James Engineering, Inc.  Mr. James also currently serves as President of the Ohio Oil and Gas Association (OOGA) and previously served as chairman of the Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program (OOGEEP).  Mr. James will be providing an update on the shale oil and gas industry in Ohio and discussing public policy issues affecting oil and gas exploration.

Coalition Goals:

·        Form a coalition of companies to cooperatively market their products and services and our community to firms producing gas and oil from the Utica and Marcellus shale.

·        Jointly advertise – through a variety of promotional methods and media – area businesses and their products and services to oil and gas producers and their suppliers and contractors.

·        Complement local development efforts to promote the Muskingum County area as an advantageous site for supply chain companies serving the oil and gas industry.

·        Support oil and gas production in the immediate area, the region, and Ohio.

·        Have a positive economic impact on the local economy.

For more information about joining the coalition visit www.muskingumshale.com

The Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition is a program of the Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce

Update Your Business Information with the Chamber

As the Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce prepares to print its 2012 Official Buyer’s Guide & Chamber Membership Directory, it is vital that we have your most up to date information.  Plus, it is important to your business that we have your current information on our member website and accurate contact information (email addresses, P.O. box numbers, etc.) in our member database.   

As a member, your company or organization is listed free of charge in both.  Our member listings in the online directory have been viewed over 30,000 times since January, so it is well-used resource for local business details. Please help us and help yourself by taking a few minutes to be sure we have accurate information about you!

TO UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION:

1. Request your login and password from jmasterson@zmchamber.com or dmatz@zmchamber.com.
2. Go to zmchamber.com and click the red member login button on the left side of the home page.
3. Review and if necessary update all your contact information. Be sure we have at least one email address for your business (see below).
4. Expand and customize your listing by clicking “Webpage Info” choice in the lefthand navigation menu.  This allows you upload photos, web links, logos, and detailed information about your products and services.

AT A MINIMUM: 

If you are not getting emails from us you are missing important and helpful information.  Please send us an email address today!  Send your email addresses - as many as you want from your organization - to jmasterson@zmchamber.com.  Newsletters, meeting announcements, and other updates are sent each month.  Email addresses are not sold or shared with anyone outside of the Chamber office.

Thank You!

Newsletter Highlights Assistance for Businesses

The Chamber has introduced a new newsletter called, simply, "Financial Assistance Programs".  The newsletter strives to answer the question "What financial help can I get for my business?".

Its purpose is to provide information about programs provided primarily by government agencies to businesses to help their bottom line.  The programs range from tax incentives, to discounts on things like workers' comp, to exporting assistance, to lending programs, and more.  In short, the focus will be on development incentives - rewards for creating jobs and growing - and other forms of assistance that help companies save money. 

Our plan is to compile the newsletter monthly and send it by email to all chamber members.

Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition Forming

The Chamber has formed a group called the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition, and we encourage you to consider joining.  The purpose of the coalition is to conduct marketing and advertising activities that will help local firms enter the supply chain for the oil and gas industry in Ohio. We want to help make Muskingum County a focal point for oil and gas related activity and we want to support area businesses in their efforts to do business with oilfield production and service companies. An annual fee paid by each member will go directly to coalition marketing projects. You can view the coalition's 2012 marketing plan here. LINK Although membership development is just getting started, many local firms are joining because they support our goals for the coalition and for this industry in Muskingum County.  You can see who is currently a member here. LINK Again, we encourage you to become a member of the coalition.  We welcome any local company or organization that either wants to become part of the oil and gas supply chain or just wants to support the economic impact that this industry could have on our community.  Please visit the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition website - www.muskingumshale.com - for a membership application or for more information

Monthly Art Walk This Friday

The Artist Colony of Zanesville holds an art walk downtown on the first Friday of each month in the evening, and it is the perfect opportunity for socializing, networking, and enjoying the local art scene. 

Its fun, its casual, and the artwork is first class.  You can start the evening at the gallery or venue of your choice, and make your way around town at your own pace.  There are of course a variety of antique stores, restaurants, and other businesses open, too, and the monthly entertainment line up includes adult comedy and music.

Again, this is great entertainment, a terrific networking opportunity, and the perfect way to support the arts. Please join us!

Pinterest Is Our Latest Social Media Venture

The Chamber has a Pinterest board now: http://pinterest.com/zmchamber/zanesville-and-muskingum-county-ohio/.  

Pinterest is a pinboard-style social photo sharing website that allows users to create and manage theme-based image collections such as events, interests, hobbies, and more. Users can browse other pinboards for inspiration, 're-pin' images to their own collections and/or 'like' photos. It allows users to save images and categorize them on different boards. You can follow other users boards if you have similar tastes. Popular categories are home design, fashion, and crafts.

Another popular category is Travel & Places, so we created a board to showcase the terrific and interesting things to see and do in Zanesville and Muskingum County.  We are just getting started and will be adding more photos as time goes on, so watch for updates.

Enjoy!

Zanesville's eternal flame is a tribute to Medal of Honor Veterans.  This is the only eternal flame memorial dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients in the United States.  The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government.  It is bestowed on members of the United States armed forces who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States.  The Flame is located in Zane's Landing Park in downtown Zanesville.

The latest Chamber newsletter was issued today.  Article topics include members news, welcome to new members, the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition, saving on workers comp using the Safety Council program, tourism development, and more.  You can read the full newsletter here.

Who and What is the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition?

The Muskingum Oil & Gas Coaltion is local companies joining forces to collectively market their products and services to the shale oil and gas industry in Ohio.  Their common goal is to enter the oil and gas supply chain and become suppliers and contractors to oilfield service companies, exploration and production firms, and their contractors.  Shale exploration is taking off in Ohio and Muskingum County companies want to be a big part of this industry and its positive economic impact.

Here's who is a member as of today:

Bob Sumerel Tire

Dennis & Nelson Insurance Group

Goss Supply & Goss Rental

Graham & Graham

H & W Trucking

JK Evans & Associates

Lang Employee Assistance Program

Micheli, Baldwin, Northrup LLP

Moyer Group, The/Merrill Lynch

RMX Freight Systems Inc

Shelly & Sands

Strauss Fence

Trans World Construction Services, Inc

Please visit www.muskingumshale.com for more information about the coalition.

Special Logo to Highlight Membership

Members!  Use this specially designed member logo on your web pages, emails, and printed materials to highlight your involvement in the chamber.  Why?  Because research shows that when customers know you are a chamber member they are more likely to do business with you.  Take a look at the statistics and download a copy of the logo here. Be sure to use the logo and take advantage of the credibility that comes from being a member.

Another Visitor Season Is Here

Travel and tourism is a big industry in Zanesville and Muskingum County.  In terms of employment, tax dollars and economic ripple effect, visitors have a very positive impact on our county every year.  Tourism is definitely an important economic development strategy for this community.

Plus, we are proud of our community and love to share all of its positive assets with our guests!  So thankfully, its time for another summer travel season which brings thousands of visitors to our area.  They come to do things like visit the Wilds or the Longaberger Homestead, compete in softball tournaments and rowing regattas, tour museums and historic sites, explore our state parks and artist's studios, and relax at area wineries and restaurants. 

And all that is just for starters. The diversity of things to do and see in Muskingum County is remarkable.  We are also now home to an impressive alpaca ranch, where high-end breeding stock are reared as part of an effort to grow the domestic supply of and market for alpaca fiber.  You can still buy pottery made in the local area for centuries and tour the now-modern production facilities, or join the Pottery Lovers for their annual exhibition and sale of antique art pottery.  We have bridges ranging from covered structures to the famous Y Bridge, which spans the Muskingum River.  The river itself is a destination for recreational boaters and is home to the Lorena Sternwheeler, a 100 passenger vessel that offers rides throughout the summer.

One post here cannot possibly capture the variety and diversity of attractions and activities that a visit to Muskingum County can offer.  Check out our visitor website, www.visitzanesville.com, for a complete list of things to do and places to stay.

Post-Seminar Thoughts on Oil & Gas Development

At our shale oil and gas supply chain seminar today, many interesting thoughts were shared by the presenters.  Here are a few:

• The development of the Utica shale play in Ohio is not in its infancy, it is in the embryonic stage.  In other words, it is all just barely getting started in comparison to other shale plays.
• Yet, once oil and gas exploration moves into this part of Ohio, it will do so rapidly.  The time to get ready if you intend to serve this industry is now.
• Safety was a theme that could not have been emphasized more.  These companies are serious about it.  Have the right certifications and be safe or you will not be part of this industry.
• Staffing up to meet the industry's needs could be tough because all employers will be after the same qualified people.  Drug testing is going to be a major requirement.
• Responsiveness is essential for industry suppliers, as is following through on what you promise to do.
• Most local companies have been successful by being responsive, customer-oriented, offering great products and services, providing fair pricing, and so forth.  Provide those same business practices and qualities in the oil and gas industry and you will be equally successful in that arena.

There were many more insightful pieces of information shared by our speakers.  These are just a few that come to mind.  If anyone who attended wants to share their take-aways, please do so.

Finally, many thanks to our presenters and our sponsors for making the program possible, and thanks to all who attended.  We appreciate your support.

Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition Launches New Website

The recently formed Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition has a new website, www.muskingumshale.com.  The site provides information about the members of the coalition and about the coalition itself, such as its goals, member benefits and marketing plans.  A member application is also included.  Membership is open to any chamber member business that wants to market to the oil and gas industry in Ohio.

For new businesses considering locating in Muskingum County there is a link to the site of the Zanesville-Muskingum County Port Authority, the community's economic development agency.  The site also connects to the Muskingum County Shale Oil and Gas Information Clearinghouse, which provides links to a wide variety of shale related websites.

The Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition is a partnership of local businesses formed to promote their products and services to the shale oil and gas industry and its suppliers.  Members share the goals of connecting local firms with producers and their suppliers, encouraging the formation of new enterprises to serve the energy industry, and generally making the community a focal point for energy development by attracting and retaining oil and gas related businesses.  

Chamber Stance on Oil & Gas Severance Tax

The Zanesville-Muskingum County, Ohio, Chamber of Commerce is opposed to increasing the shale oil and gas severance tax in Ohio at this time.

The Chamber is not opposed to Governor Kasich’s proposal to decrease the state personal income tax. There are compelling arguments in support of the Governor’s proposal. However, those points must be weighed against the opportunity to attain economic growth through shale oil and gas production and related commerce. Right now, encouragement of economic growth through this industry is the higher priority.

We are competing for oil and gas investment with other areas of the nation and the world, just like in all types of business attraction. Higher taxes will make it more difficult to compete with other places.

We are not willing to risk this new opportunity. We have the chance to experience unparalleled economic change in a part of the state that lags behind in employment, income and other critical measures. The increased job creation, business investment, supply chain growth, reinvigorated small businesses, and larger local tax revenue that would result from major oil and gas production could forever change that.

In the long term the Ohio shale play may become proven and profitable and additional taxes may be deemed necessary to accomplish other public policy objectives. Alternatively, this industry could provide the resources needed if allowed to grow unencumbered by new taxes. For now, our priority should be economic development through shale oil and gas production.

Tom Poorman
President
Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce

By Vote of the Board of Directors on May 8, 2012

Cash!

This is a blog post about a blog post.  Philip Campbell is a small business finance author who has a blog, and his specialty is cash flow management.  His latest blog post is called "3 really good reasons to put your focus on cash", and its worth reading.

In short, Philip says it pays to make it a priority to keep your cash levels under control.  When you run out of cash in business, your business is done.  Also, worrying about cash will cause you and your business to self destruct.  The solution is know where you stand so you can minimize the worry caused by uncertainty.

As Philip says, this is not about greed, its about peace of mind and keeping your business alive so you and your family can be safe and secure.

Philip donated several copies of his book "Never Run Out of Cash" to the Chamber several years ago, and its a very helpful read for any small business person.  We have a couple of copies left, and if anyone wants one just email tpoorman@zmchamber.com.

Income and Severance Taxes are Hot Topic

The Governor's proposal to reduce the state personal income tax in Ohio and pay for it by increasing the oil and gas severance tax is a hot topic right now.

On one hand, reducing the income tax is seen as a positive for a state that is trying to revitalize its economy by attracting businesses and talent.  On the other, paying for that by increasing oil and gas taxes is frowned upon by some because higher taxes could deter companies from investing in shale exploration.

So far, the state legislature has rejected the Governor's proposal, which is included in the budget bill.

Here is the explanation of the Governor's tax proposal.

And here is an explanation from the Ohio Oil and Gas Association about the issue.

So far our Chamber has not adopted a position on the issue.  But this is an important subject for the eastern and southeastern oil and gas producing regions of the state.  So we are studying both sides of the argument and may take a stance within the next few weeks.

Ribbon Cuttings A Reason to Celebrate

The month of May has a number of ribbon cutting events on the schedule, and we encourage all business people to turn out for these important occasions. 

Why are they important and why should you attend?

First, ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings serve a definite economic development purpose.  Part of building a positive business climate involves celebrating business growth.  We celebrate by holding these events, thanking the people making the investment, and recognizing their new contribution to the local economy.  That someone wanted to open a business or a new location in our community is a big deal, and we should treat it as such, especially if we want to see more of it.  What is honored in a country will be cultivated there, as Plato said.

Second, these events are a chance to promote your business.  Maybe that new business needs what you provide, and if not maybe someone else in attendance does.  The worst that can happen is you network for a few moments with people you already know, perhaps even existing customers.

Finally, and on a more personal level, any ribbon cutting is an exciting but stressful time in the life of a business and its owners, managers and employees.  They have made a big investment, incurred a lot of risk, and are counting at least in part on community support for their success.  Only those who have been there - the members of the business community - can really appreciate what they are going through.  Why not attend and offer your encouragement and assistance to a new business?  Maybe someone did the same for you when you started.

Great Slate of Speakers on Oil and Gas Opportunities

Take a look at the great slate of speakers we have coming for the May 16 seminar on the oil and gas supply chain.  Some real professionals will be here to offer their advice to area businesses.

Snapshot of the Oil Patch   

Kristy Hawthorne   

Director of Membership Services and Small Business Development
Ohio Oil & Gas Association  

Safety Guidelines   

Steven Miller
Environment, Health and Safety Director
Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

5 Steps to Success in Shale   

Joe Barone
President
ShaleDirectories.com  

Solving the Industry's Human Resources Challenges   

Bill Thompson, Managing Principal
Jeff Dressler, Managing Director
Marcellus Resource Group  

Understanding Master Service Agreements   

Ron Van Horn
Practice Leader, Oil & Gas
The Schauer Group

Understanding the Purchasing Process   

Daniel Etter
Procurement Manager, North East Operations
Halliburton Company

You can find all the details about the seminar here.

Exotic Animal Bill Passes Senate

Thanks to Senator Troy Balderson for leading the way on the Ohio Senate's passage of a bill regulating the ownership of exotic animals.  There were little to no regulations previously, and we all know after last year's tragedy that state of affairs could not continue.

We all wish the sad episode in which a local citizen and many animals lost their lives had never happened.  But at least we are fortunate to have leaders like Senator Balderson, Representative Brian Hill and of course Sheriff Matt Lutz and his deputies step up and deal with with the problem and its aftermath. 

Plus, an important gap in state law is being corrected - the proposal now goes to the Ohio House for consideration - and if our community had to play an involuntary but necessary role in highlighting the need for the new law, so be it.

Here's a link to the contents of the bill.  

Halliburton, Producers Carry On The Tradition

Halliburton is officially Muskingum County's newest corporate citizen.  As a $25 billion worldwide oilfield service provider, the company is an exciting addition to the area business community.  They will make a major investment and be a major employer.  Plus, their arrival could signal the start of a wave of more local economic growth as a result of shale oil and gas exploration in Ohio.

Halliburton has publicly stated their desire to hire local people and deal with local suppliers.  Job seekers can go to www.jobs.halliburton.com to search for openings.  We also strongly recommend contacting the Muskingum County Opportunity Center (455-4466) to review what job listings they have for Halliburton. On the business side, the firm has a supplier registration process that local businesses may want to investigate.  You can read about this at this section of their website. 

Interestingly, we have a local company that does some of the same things as Halliburton.  Producers Service Corporation in Zanesville is an employee owned company that provides fracturing and acidizing services during the drilling process.  Producers is a growing company, too, and we don't want to overlook them in the excitement about Halliburton. 

Producers' presence here since 1981 - and that of a number of other local firms that have long provided various oilfield services - also points out the extensive tradition we have as an oil and gas producing region. 

That tradition never died in Muskingum County, but now we are poised for its resurgence.  Many thanks to oil and gas industry companies like Halliburton, Producers, Anadarko Petroleum, and others for their new investments in the workforce and economy of Muskingum County.

What's Your Big Idea?

The MCBI Big Idea Contest is being held now, and the deadline for entries is fast approaching. 

The contest is a program of the Muskingum County Business Incubator, which wants to hear your best business ideas so they can help you pursue them.  The prize for the best idea includes cash and business incubation services.

To be eligible to apply, the applicant must live in the counties served by MCBI, which are listed at this website.  You can also find an application form there.  The application is simple to complete, and it asks questions such as what your innovation or invention is and what your target market will be. 

The deadline for applications is May 5th. Contact the Incubator with any questions.

Grant Available for Women Entrepreneurs

Grants for start-up businesses are virtually non existent.  But here's one from a private business owner and entrepreneur who wants to give back and help other women be successful.  The Eileen Fisher Business Grant Program for Women Entrepreneurs was launched in 2004.

"The program seeks applicants from wholly women-owned businesses that combine the principles of social consciousness, sustainability, and innovation to create new businesses or invigorate existing ones. In addition to those key social principals, applicants must have a solid business plan and a strategy for long-term growth."

The grants are $12,500 (five are awarded) and come with mentoring from professionals at the firm of clothing designer Eileen Fisher.  Check out this article for all the details. Note the May 15 deadline.

Education, Marketing, Development

May is going to be a very busy month for events and meetings, held both by the Chamber and by our affiliates and members.

Many people are so busy running their businesses that it is tough to attend outside events.  We understand that, and that is why events or meetings are just ONE way in which we deliver information and services.  In fact most member benefits do not require you to attend anything in order to receive value.  See our March 29 blog post for more on this subject.

For those that do want to attend, May is packed with opportunities for you to educate yourself and your employees, network and promote your business, and help celebrate development and growth in the community.  Take a look at our online calendar and you probably will find at least one or two activities that interest you.

Here's a summary of the May events and meetings, and again, visit our online calendar for the details.

Business Events & Meetings Schedule - May 2012

Education l Marketing l Development

For more information or to RSVP

call 455-8282 or email jriddle@zmchamber.com

 

May 1 – Tourism Team monthly meeting, Welcome Center, 9:30 am

May 3 – Ribbon cutting at renovated McDonald’s restaurant on Maysville Pike, 5:30 pm

May 4 – Ribbon cutting at Thrivent Financial, Masonic Temple Building in Downtown Zanesville, 11 am

May 4 – First Friday Art Walk, Artist Colony of Zanesville, Downtown Zanesville, 5 to 8 pm

May 6 -12 – Kathy McGhee and Nicholas Hill Exhibition and Creative Statements: Ohio Art Quilts 2012 Exhibition-Zanesville Museum of Art, National Tourism Week event

May 7 – Lt. Governor Mary Taylor addresses national health reform law for members of Chamber and Muskingum Valley Human Resource Management Association, Welcome Center, 11 am, please RSVP

May 8 – Presentation by State Tourism Director Amir Eylon at Chamber board of directors meeting, Welcome Center, 8 am, please RSVP, National Tourism Week event

May 9 – Muskingum Valley Human Resource Association meeting, presentation by Rich Gelin, US Department of Labor, about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, 8 am, please RSVP

May 9 – Author Visit & Luncheon: Michele Zavatsky, Author of Kids Love Ohio , John McIntire Library at 11:30 a.m. (Reservations needed) , National Tourism Week event

May 10 – Familiarization Tour including McDonald's Greenhouse, Spring Acres Alpaca Farm, John and Annie Glenn Historic Site and National Road-Zane Grey Museum-Leaving the Chamber Office at 9:00 a.m. (Reservations needed), National Tourism Week event

May 10 – Ribbon Cutting at the Alpacas of Spring Acres, 10:30 a.m., National Tourism Week event

May 10 – Open House at the new Muskingum Valley Health Center, Adair Avenue, 5 pm

May 11 – Artist Colony of Zanesville monthly meeting, Welcome Center 10 am

May 11 & 12 – Longaberger Spring Fling, Longaberger Homestead, National Tourism Week event

May 12 – Cookout Dinner, Terra Cotta Vineyards (Reservations needed), National Tourism Week event

May 16 – Shale Oil & Gas Business Opportunities seminar, fee to attend, reservations required

May 23 – Safety Council meeting, presentation and fire demonstration by Mid East Career and Technology Centers

May 23 – Horizon Telecom Lunch & Learn, “Exploring the Potential of Broadband”, free to chamber members, 11:30 am, please RSVP

May 23 – Ribbon cutting ceremony for expansion and tours at Economy Linen in Zanesville, 4 pm

EDIT: The McDonald's ribbon cutting has been moved the May 9.

"Destination: Excellence" is BWC Cost Reduction Program

More often than not, CEOs and business owners place workers’ compensation near the top of the list of cost drivers for their company.

Destination: Excellence is a program package designed by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) to help protect your workers and your organization’s bottom line by focusing on safety, accident prevention and return-to-work opportunities to bring injured workers back to work sooner. 

Destination: Excellence allows you to select from seven new and existing program options to customize a plan that addresses your specific needs. This “cafeteria style” plan aligns with BWC's top priority of preventing injuries and getting injured workers healthy and back to work sooner. A quick return to work saves money for employers, but more importantly it increases the chances of a positive outcome for injured workers. 

Click the following links to learn more about Destination: Excellence’s options and potential incentives.

• Industry-Specific Safety Program
• Transitional work
• Drug-Free Safety Program
• Safety councils
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Go-green discount
• Lapse-free discount
• Related resources

Introducing the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition

We are excited to announce the formation of the Muskingum Oil & Gas Coalition.  The coalition is a partnership of local businesses formed to promote their products and services to the shale oil and gas industry and its suppliers.   

Members share the goals of connecting local firms with producers and their suppliers, encouraging the formation of new enterprises to serve the energy industry, and generally making the community a focal point for energy development by attracting and retaining oil and gas related businesses.  

For more information on the coalition, including member benefits and a membership application, visit this webpage.

Welcome to New Members

Thank you and welcome to these new members of the Chamber.  They have each made an important investment in our organization, their business, and our community. 

You can find out more information about them at the online business directory at zmchamber.com. They join the more than 600 other Chamber members businesses that are also listed in the online directory.

Fun Factor Photo Booth

Sleep Outfitters

Wayne Garage Door Sales and Service inc.

The Dancing Divas

Matheson Tri-Gas

Deb Davis Graham (Olde Towne Realty)

Subway by SK & V

Trans World Construction Services, Inc

Meek Properties, LLC

Cindy Jacobs, Team Realty 1st

Thrivent Financial

Westwood Creative

Staples

Birkhimer Asphalt, LTC

Patriot Stainless Inc USA

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

Coulson Compression & Measurement Co., LTD

Howard Zwelling, Associate of Micheli, Baldwin & Northrup

Home Instead Senior Care

ACE Septic

Zane Trace Clean Care Uniforms

SERIF~creative

J Bar S Enterprises, LLC dba Margie B's

Southtown Gym

The Chamber "Brand" Can Build Your Business

We often say in our marketing messages, "Why be a Chamber member?  Because your customers care."  We say that because affiliation with the Chamber brand can help you attract customers.  And that is not just our opinion.

Chambers of commerce around the nation are respected and considered by most of the general public to be reputable business organizations that promote good business practices and economic growth.  Thus, the Chamber "brand" is strong and by joining you can associate your business with this positive perception.

Importantly, research shows that this can go right to your bottom line:

• Seventy percent (70%) of the respondents to a national survey said they believe that being a chamber member illustrates that a company uses good business practices.

• When consumers know that a small business is a member of the local chamber they are 63% more likely to patronize the business in the future.

• When consumers know that a restaurant franchise, for example, is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 50% more likely to eat at the franchise more often.

•  When consumers know that an insurance company, as another example, is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 43% more likely to consider buying insurance from it. 

•  It even works for manufacturers. When consumers know that an auto manufacturer, as a final example, is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 9% more likely to consider purchasing their next car from that company. 

And we can help you be sure your customers know you are a chamber member.  We provide tools - like a door decal, a member certificate, and a special member logo to put on your marketing materials - for your use.

So, the results are in:  Your customers do care if you are a chamber member or not, and you can build your business just by being a member.

Here's more information on the research done on chambers of commerce and the perception of customers.