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Citizens National Bank broke ground June 11 on a 15,000 square foot expansion of their existing Operations Center, located just off I-75 in Bluffton, OH. The addition will provide approximately 24 new offices for the building which currently houses the banks Operations, IT, Compliance, Marketing and Call Center departments. According to J. Michael Romey, President/CEO the bank has seen continued growth over the past years and the additional staff that requires has caused a shortage in office space with the existing facilities. As we plan ahead, our goal is to make sure we have adequate backroom support and comfortable workspaces for our staff in order to ensure success for future growth opportunities in existing and new markets.

This expansion will offer us that opportunity. The project is expected to take nine months. Upon completion, the building will be approximately double the size it is today and allow some departments currently housed in the Bluffton branch office to move to the new facility. We look forward to the flexibility adding this new space will provide in allowing us to move forward with further expansion and providing more support for our sales staff in the future, states Romey. With offices in Bluffton, Celina, Defiance, Elida, Findlay, Lima, Springfield and Van Wert, Citizens National Bank has assets totaling more than $580 million and has been serving the communities of West Central Ohio since 1920.

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Construction has started on the new main office of The Fort Jennings State Bank in Fort Jennings. The Bank was founded in 1918 and its first location was in the building that now houses the Post Office in Fort Jennings. The existing bank building was constructed in 1970 when the Bank had $3, 000,000.00 in assets. An addition was added on in 1990 when the Bank had $34,000,000.00 in assets. Currently the Bank has over $150,000,000.00 in assets and has grown to five locations. The new building will be 9,125 sq. ft. in size. Completion is scheduled for late Spring, 2013. www.businessjrnl.com

Educate management on how to recognize a scam

By Neil Winget, President BBB One of the goals of any companys management should be the education of its employees on how to recognize the schemes and frauds that are being operated by unscrupulous organizations. Businesses, churches, and charitable organizations are being bilked out of millions of dollars by all kinds of scams every year. Being able to recognize the scam when it is presented to one of your associates is the main line of defense. Some of these schemes are very sophisticated and are not easy to immediately get a fix on them. Everyone is familiar by now with the paper pirates, toner phoners and fake invoice rip offs so lets look at a couple of the lesser known and better disguised schemes: The gift-horse scam tries to create mistrust. The scheme begins when the caller tricks an employee into accepting a gift, or some other free item, along with a reference to merchandise or services. The company then receives overpriced, unordered merchandise followed by an invoice with the employees name. When the invoice hits the employees desk, its overpriced but, fearing trouble with the boss; the employee writes the check and does not report it. At least, this is what the crooks count on. This is one that, while rare, has happened in our region. Its the moving scam and is almost always done via telemarketing by a young woman who claims her fathers business is being moved to another town. They have supplies and equipment they do not want to move and will sell at cost or below and even quotes specific prices. The supplies are shipped but the invoice is much higher than the quoted price, claiming the quoted price was per item not per box. Training and due diligence by employees and associates can stop all business scams at the gate but it takes education and a certain amount of skepticism.

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Niswonger celebrates five years of entertainment

Celebrating five years of entertainment, inspiration and education the Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio is pleased to announce another outstanding line up of quality entertainment for the 2012-2013 Season. The NPAC has, over the past five season been thrilled to bring to Van Wert artists that included Marie Osmond, Amy Grant, Charlie Daniels Band, Tony Orlando, and shows straight from the Broadway stage such as Annie, Porgy and Bess, Fiddler on the Roof and more. The success of these seasons has been due in part to our many sponsors and patrons. The NPAC is pleased to partner with this years season sponsor, Statewide Ford Lincoln of Van wert. Kicking off the2012-2013 season is the Gala Celebration V weekend September 14 and 15th featuring Irish Tenor, Ronan Tynan. On Friday Tynan will give a presentation at 7:00 pm as he shares his inspirational life story as a paraplegic athlete, physician and singer. On Saturday, Tynan presents a Gala Celebration V concert backed by the Lima Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 pm. This weekend is sponsored in part by Times Bulletin Media and 1st Federal Savings Bank. On Thursday, October 4 at 7:30 pm, legendary coach Bob Knight discusses his life and career events, his mentors, and the students he has taught through his years of coaching. This lecture series event is sponsored in part by Lee Kinstle GM and the Fan 93.1 fm. The Little Sisters of Hobeken return to Van Wert in Dan Goggins Nunset Boulevard on Sunday, October 14 at 3:00 pm. Featuring the star of Laverne & Shirley, Cindy Williams this adventure features all new songs, audience participation and heavenly humor. Then bring the family for a one-of-a-kind black-light puppet show as John Tartaglias Imagin Ocean brings a magical undersea adventure to the NPAC on Saturday, November 3 at 1:00 pm. Tank, Bubles and Dorsel are best friends who just happen to be fish and they are about to set out on a remarkable journey of discovery. Jam packed with original music this show is a blast from the first big splash to the last wave good-bye. The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus will bring a free Veterans Honor Concert to the NPAC on Thursday, November 8. This free ticketed event will again be a patriotic salute to those who serve as well as a mixture of all genres of music and song from the musical ambassadors of the army straight from Washington DC. Tickets will once again be available for free with the coupon from sponsors Times Bulletin Media. The holiday season at the NPAC is again packed with something for everyone to enjoy and kicks off the day after Thanksgiving with the Oak Ridge Boys Christmas show, November 23 at 7:30 pm. Their annual Christmas show includes the Oaks greatest hits as well as tried and true holiday songs that people expect to hear. This show is sponsored in part by T-102.1 fm, Van Wert Federal Savings Bank and KennFeld Group. On Thursday, December 13 Jay, Jimmy and Merrill Osmond take the stage at 7:30 pm for Christmas with The Osmonds. Performing in front of world-wide audiences for 50 years, the brothers bring their Osmond harmonies to Van Wert for a Christmas show full of holiday festivities. This show is sponsored in part by Times Bulletin Media. Join us on Thursday, December 20 at 1:30 pm for a lecture by Legend Lore presenter, Ceci Wiselogel on the Legends of Christmas. She presents a festive program where the legends and customs of the season come to life. From why we kiss under the mistletoe to believing in the jolly old elf itself, its a surprising education in all things Yule! Then its fun for ogres and ogresses of all ages as Shrek-The Musical comes to the stage in Van Wert direct from Broadway on Saturday, December 22. With shows at 2 pm and again at 7 pm, this show is sure be great family holiday fun. This musical is sponsored in part by 1st Federal Savings Bank.

Jazz again fills the NPAC music hall as Russ Freeman and The Rippingtons come to town on Saturday, January 26 at 7:30 pm. This Grammynominated American contemporary jazz band is celebrating 25 years of great music. This show sponsored in part by Koch Law Office and the Jim Robideau Family. Spend Valentines evening with your special one enjoying one of Americas leading adult contemporary artists. Christopher Cross brings his smooth ballad hits, such as Sailing and Ride LikeThe Wind to the NPAC for a romantic night of music on Thursday, February

See NISWONGER, page 4A

Volume 21, No. 7 Publisher Donald R. Hemple Contributing Writers Jeffrey Gitomer Advertising Donald R. Hemple
The Business Journal is mailed to the top business leaders in the 11-county region of West Central Ohio. Although information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. Information expressed in The Business Journal does not constitute a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any products. Copyright, The Business Journal of West Central Ohio, 2006, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission of editorial, photographic or other graphic content in any manner is prohibited. The Business Journal is published monthly at 405 N. Main St., Delphos, OH 45833

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Niswonger (Continued from page 3A)

14 at 7:30 pm. This show is sponsored in part by WDOH Lite Rock 107.1 fm. The Golden Dragon Acrobats return to the NPAC on Saturday February 16 for two shows at 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Cirque Ziva featuring the Golden Dragon Acrobats will thrill audiences of all ages with their amazing feats of performance and graceful beauty. Then its a total string experience as Bowfire takes the stage on Sunday, March 10 at 3:00 pm. Featuring high energy, dance and show stopping music this show is an experience not to miss. Ceci Wiselogel returns this spring for a second presentation on Remembering Rockwell on Thursday, March 14 at 1:30 and 7:30 pm. Explore the life and works of one of Americas greatest illustrators Norman Rockwell. This lecture will be the next best thing to a Rockwell museum visit. One of the most requested Gospel groups comes to the NPAC on Sunday, March 24 at 7:00 pm. Ernie Haase and Signature Sound bring their unique blend of harmonies and joyful message to Van Wert in a much anticipated concert. This show sponsored in part by WTLW-TV. Emmy Award-winning comedienne Vicki Lawrence, and her most endearing character, Mama, come to Van Wert on Friday, April 5 at 7:30 pm for an evening of laughs. Lawrence, the singer/entertainer who sang the hit The Nights the Lights Went Out In Georgia, shares her hilarious experiences from Carol Burnett during the first half of the show. Then Mama takes the stage during the second half and you can just expect the unexpected! The lecture series wraps up with one of National Geographics favorite presenters and photographers, Joel Sartore on Sunday, April 21 at 3:00 pm. Sartores entertaining presentations blend humor with powerful conservation messages and award-winning photography of wildlife and the places they inhabit. The lecture series is sponsored in part by grants from Paulding Putnam Electric, Wal-Mart and Midwest Electric, Inc. April ends with a bang as Gordon Goodwins Big Phat Band presents a night of high energy music that brings the best of the big-band and orchestra jazz giants of the past 70 years. On Saturday, April 27, Gordon Goodwin, the musical composer of the incredibles will offer a music animation workshop prior to the 7:30 pm concert. The season finale will be a Rock and Symphonic Spectacular as the stars from Londons smash hit musical We Will Rock You and a full orchestra present The Music of Queen on Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 pm. The season also features a previously released Community Concert Series highlighted with The Lennon Sisters on October 6, the Rodney Mack Philadelphia Big Brass on October 20, Igudesman & Joo: A Little Nightmare Music on November 11, American Spiritual Ensemble on February 22 and American pianist, Thomas Pandolfi on May 5. These five shows are currently on sale for one low series price of $60. Niswonger Performing Arts Center members may purchase their Grand Series packages beginning today, June 15. The Grand Series, which offers 20% off the single ticket price, goes on sale to patrons Wednesday, June 21 and includes tickets for Celebration 5 Gala Lecture & Concert, Nunset Boulevard, ImaginOcean, Oak Ridge Boys Christmas, Osmond Brothers Christmas, Shrek, The Rippingtons, Christoper Cross, Cirque Ziva, Bowfire, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Vicki Lawrence, Gordon Goodwins Big Fat Band, The Music of Queen, Coach Bob Knight, Joel Satore, CeCi Wiselogel. The Select Series packages are available to NPAC members starting Thursday, June 22. The Select Series goes on sale to the public Wednesday, June 27. This build your own package offers varying levels of discount depending on the number of shows purchased. The box office will be open from noon 6pm on June 27 for patrons convenience. Tickets for single shows begin approximately 90 days prior to show date. Visit the website at npacvw.org for show ticket release dates. Series and tickets can be purchased at the Box Office, located in the Grand Lobby of the Niswonger Performing Arts Center at 10700 State Route 118 S., Van Wert, Ohio. Just 35 minutes from Fort Wayne, Indiana or Lima, Ohio. Box Office Summer Hours are Tuesday through Friday, Noon to 4PM. For more information stop in, call 419.238.NPAC (6722), visit the website at NPACVW.ORG, of find us on Facebook.

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Nineteen Roselawn Manor employees honored for service

SPENCERVILLE, Ohio Rarely in todays world of employment, can an organization boast of employee longevity. Yet Roselawn Manor, managed by HCF Management Inc., Lima, Ohio, recently honored 19 employees for over 20-plus years of service to the care community, at the exclusive annual Platinum Club Celebration held in Lima, Ohio. According to Chuck Okorowski, Vice President of Human Resources for HCF Management Inc., Employee longevity is one of the unique characteristics of Roselawn Manor which results in the outstanding level of quality of care that is provided to the residents. HCF is honored to have such a dedicated team of care providers working for them. Overall, HCF recognized over 340 employees who have twenty or more years of service with HCF. The employees were honored with a celebratory luncheon, awards and a special cloisonn pin. Shanna Holland, Roselawn Manors administrator, is pleased to recognize the following employees for their devotion to providing outstanding care to our residents: Joyce Maag, 37 years; Susan Tidwell, 33 years; Sue Laman, 31 years; Marcia Grothause, 29 years; Jeanne Somers, 27 years; Annette Mullins, 25 years; Miriam Davis, 25 years; Marcia Perkins, 25 years; Paula Ball, 24 years; Teresa Perkins, 24 years; Mary Savidge, 24 years; Cheri Wells, 23 years; Penny Buckmaster, 22 years; Karen Keeling, 22 years; Gwen Clark, 22 years; Ruth Hurst, 21 years; Jennifer Holmes, 21 years; Nancy Elling, 20 years; and Deb Schwartz, 20 years. Roselawn Manor has been serving the community for over 70 years with excellent and innovative rehabilitative and skilled nursing services.

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OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO

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July 2012 TheBusinessJournal 5A

Commercial Real Estate

Commercial property investors have sunnier outlook for 2012

(Bloomberg) U.S. commercial financial crisis, according to Moodys. property investors are shedding their pesThe instability in global economies simism about 2012, with almost half ex- causes investors to look to hard assets Brian Holter, Broker pecting healthy profits this year, according and income-producing ones at that, Mitch Linda May, Agent to a survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers Roschelle, head of PricewaterhouseCooDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL REALTY NEEDS: 419-305-3986 LLP. perss real estate advisory practice, said Brian Holter, Broker About 49 percent of respondents said in an e-mail. U.S. commercial real estate lmay@brunsrealty.com Linda May, Agent they expected good, very good or excel- is viewed by many investors as a stable, www.brunrealty.com L/COMMERCIAL SALES lent earnings for the year, up from 42 per- risk-adjusted bet in todays volatile global 419-305-3986 cent in November, the New York-based environment. lmay@brunsrealty.com accounting firm said in a midyear update The survey, conducted from May 8 to L/COMMERCIAL LEASE www.brunsrealty.com of its annual report on commercial real May 15, showed value increases for all CALL ME FOR ALL OF YOUR INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL REALTY NEEDS: major property types multifamestate trends. The percentage of investors five expecting fair to abysmal returns dropped ily, warehouse and distribution, offices, COMMERCIAL PURCHASE to 27 percent from 37 hotels and retail. Apartments and wareINDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL SALES percent. CALL ME FOR ALL OF YOUR The results suggest the worst may be houses led gains. which has sputtered Investors industrial RTY MANAGEMENT INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL REALTY NEEDS over for the market, 2011. A recovery in properties in were drawn to and highINDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL LEASE since the middle of hot-bed energy U.S. commercial-property prices slowed tech markets such as Austin, Texas, and INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL PURCHASE SALES in the first quarter as concern over Eu- Californias Silicon Valley, where job ropes debt crisis limited financing for gains, leasing demand and retail growth INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL LEASE deals, Moodys Investors Service said on are expected to lead the country, RoPROPERTY MANAGEMENT have climbed 28 percent schelle said in the report. May 24. Values INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL PURCHASE since the market bottomed in January Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the gov2010, following a recession and the 2008 ernment-sponsored mortgage companies, are becoming a more reliable source of financing for multifamily deals, according to the survey. Commercial mortgagebacked securities and so-called mezzanine lenders, who offer higher-interest loans as a bridge between senior mortgages and a down payment, were also seen as improving sources of funds. Among leading cities for investment, Washington, D.C., had the biggest decline in outlook. It was rated No. 1 in the November report. We bring electricity to life. Possibly too much real estate at very high prices, combined with the possibility of the federal governments cuts, has left a bad feeling in investors minds, Roschelle wrote. Buyers are showing interest in larger markets that were among the most damaged in the recession, according to Roschelle. Detroit, which ranked 51st in November, had one of the biggest gains in investor sentiment, behind only Boston Sidney Office Muncie Office Lima Office and Houston. 840 S. Vandemark Rd. 3100 E. County Road 350N 2250 Central Point Parkway The report, produced with the WashSidney, Ohio 45365 Muncie, Indiana 47303 Lima, Ohio 45804 ington, D.C.-based Urban Land Institute, 937.498.2357 765.284.1594 419.222.1109 is based on interviews and survey responses from about 950 real estate investors, developers, lenders, brokers and consultants. The midyear update was based on 195 people surveyed for the November www.sidneyelectric.com OH LIC #21016 report.

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July 2012

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Napoleon mfg. reshoring jobs

B&B Molded Products, Inc. (B&B), with operations in Henry County, is working with customers to return jobs to the US that were previously outsourced overseas. The company has established a reshoring initiative designed to support product needs of customers while at the same time lowering their costs and improving their profitability. Significant improvements in product quality and operations performance are also being realized, according to the company. B&B is a custom injection molder of thermoplastic materials. The company was started in 1992 by two entrepreneurs in Napoleon, Ohio. B&B was first housed in a 5,000 square foot facility and has since moved and expanded to a 55,000 square foot plant. The company has approximately 90 employees on three shifts. B&B manufactures hundreds of parts and products for the commercial, plumbing, electrical, dispensing, janitorial, and automotive markets. According to the company, B&B has obtained significant success in bringing jobs back to the US. To date, the company has returned over 10.2 million production units to the US workforce. It started with problem parts, stated John Hartford, general manager, B&B. A company had parts tooled up overseas and had issues. It was such a critical component that they decided to bring it back to the US in order to figure out the issue and resolve it. Thats where we got our first few opportunities. B&B works with customers to assess their total cost of offshoring or outsourcing parts and components overseas. The company has set up a tool to assist this process. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) evaluation is used to prepare an analysis at the start of a project. We have a worksheet available to show our clients these processes side by side, stated Ty Whitacre, director of business development. Were able to show them a cost comparison. Hartford also added there are many factors people do not consider when the move is discussed. Were trying to get everyone to think of all the costs associated with bringing that component in from overseas, he explained. Increased transportation costs because of fuel. How much inventory carried with the transit times. Many different things come into play. Another thing many companies fail to take into consideration is the cost of getting the project started, particularly when there are trips involved. You can spend $20-$30,000 before you know it, stated Hartford. Thats just qualifying for a vendor from overseas. How many people does the company have to send? How long will they be gone? The price of an airline ticket is very expensive, but that comes up for too many customers when they are already in the middle of the deal. According to Hartford, the company has had experience with customers who receive a container and there is a quality issue with the product. However, there is already another container in transit, which is a significant cost issue for the customer. Usually you have to increase inventory because of transit time, stated Hartford. Anything unexpected will drive up costs significantly. The process B&B goes through with its customers is in four phases. The first phase is the TCO evaluation where design goals and quality requirements are discussed. The second phase is a cost analysis and timeframe

Economic Development

analysis with expected results identified. The third phase deals with technology optimization, as well as other considerations, including the preparation of a quote. In phase four the company deals with product release and product management. We really start that process by asking a whole series of questions to find out what the customer has, explained Hartford. A lot of times we find the customer doesnt own the tooling for a lot of the products being made overseas, so we understand each situation is different on what they have and what their goals are. We walk through the different scenarios on the evaluation and address each of the issues. Hartford also explained customers have certain expectations when they tool up something overseas. They assume theyre going to get it a lot cheaper up front and spend less, he noted. They think all they have to do is sell them. Were finding with customers is that it doesnt always work out. The tooling always seems to take longer with things like sending samples.

See RESORING, page 11A

We invite you to find a new Center for your company

Henry Countys central location puts you in the middle of not only Northwest Ohio, but the entire Midwest. For more information on what Henry County can offer you, your company and your employees, contact CIC Director Ralph Lange at (419) 592-4637 or online at www.hencoed.com

Henry County!

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Transportation assets still an advantage for NW Ohio

Long before European settlers arrived in NW Ohio, native Americans used the rivers for travel and commerce. Locations like Defiance became central meeting places because of the confluence of these rivers . While the modes of transportation have evolved over the centuries, transportation assets are still a powerful influence on population and commerce. Whether you talk about water, highway or rail, NW Ohio is well-prepared to handle the new international product flows in a global economy. There is a new emphasis on maintaining and expanding Ohios transportation network and agencies like the Toledo Metropolitan Council of Governments are taking an active role in planning and coordinating NW Ohios future transportation system. TMACOG works closely with the Ohio Department of Transportation to map out growth patterns and plan for both public mass transit assets and traditional highway and rail routes. When CSX rail executives went looking for a site to build a proprietary, bi-modal transfer facility in 2009, the port of Toledo and the outstanding federal and state highways of NW Ohio immediately drew their attention. Southern Wood County quickly rose to the top of the rankings because of the proximity of I-75 and the nearness of the Toledo lake port. The new CSX North Baltimore facility is a real catalyst for transportation planners involved with the movement of both international and domestic freight through the Midwest. The long-awaited U.S. Rt. 24 highway project will be completed in September, providing a safer, faster route from Ft. Wayne to Toledo for both personal travel and freight. Logistics companies recognize the enhanced Rt. 24 corridor as the most efficient truck route from the SW U.S. to Michigan and into southern Ontario. In Defiance County one logistics company has already started construction on a new shipment facility. Consolidated Grain & Barge, Mandeville, LA announced in February, 2012 that they are building a new $22 million rail shipment facility on the CSX main line within sight of new U.S. Rt. 24. Phase one of this project will load grain onto unit trains for transport to southeast livestock producers. Later phases of the project may involve the shipment of manufactured goods to and from the Defiance area. Defiance County officials look for additional logistics projects in the future.

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Napoleon business to move and expand

Ice Creations, LLC has announced its move from Woodlawn Avenue, Napoleon to the former Napoleon Creamery Building on East Washington in downtown Napoleon. About a year ago, Steve Lankenau came to me and suggested we might need a new location. I didnt think so at first, but after the idea was planted, I began to realize our current location was holding back the growth of our business. With its previous use and cooler space, the Creamery was a logical choice, stated Chad Hartson, owner. Also working with Lankenau, a commercial real estate specialist with RE/MAX Exclusive was Ralph Lange, Henry County CIC director. Ralph did a great thing suggesting Chad invest in a professional business plan. The plan gave Ice Creations answers to many questions, and gave us all direction to help Chad with his goals, stated Lankenau. Ice Creations is both an artistic endeavor and a manufacturing business. They have two primary lines of business. Ice Creations is primarily known for the ice sculptures it sells all over the United States. It also has a bagged ice business that it intends to grow with its expanded capacity. Extensive renovations of the new facility are beginning and should be completed by late summer. Though unspecified, the company expects to add employment. The Ice Creations project is being financed primarily through private funds. It is also making application to the County Revolving Loan Fund and workign with the Downtown Revitalization Grant Program for reimbursement for certain improvements. the City of Napoleon is providing a $7,000 moving allowance as its contribution to keeping this growing business in Napoleon. This is a great local success story, stated Lankenau. He literally started this business in his garage and has built a great business. Hes an artist, hes a businessman, and I think hes a great asset to this community. Using everything from chainsaws to specific tools created for ice carving. Hartson is known as one of Americas leading ice carvers, according to the company. In 2005, he won first place in the World Ice Carving Championships in Fairbanks, Alaska. Using computerized technology, Ice Creations creates original artwork and replicas of logos and existing designs. They can also work in color. Hartson often works with colleges and culinary schools to teach and demonstrate his craft.

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Providing the best access to major markets for centuries

St. Marys, Ohio is a city built on transportation and trade. Its prime location on Tax incentives Municipal utilities at competitive rates Fiber optic technology anywhere in the city

There is a reason its all about location when it comes to business. It Matters.
Discover why seventeen Fortune 500 companies have selected to locate their businesses in the Findlay/Hancock County region. For a decade, the Findlay/Hancock County region has ranked in the top 20 Micropolitan Areas in the U.S. for new and expanding facilities.

Its easy to access your markets from Findlay/Hancock County Ohio

CSX Intermodal Gateway is located just to the North of Findlay. More than 66% of the U.S. population relies on intermodal rail containers to deliver goods and services we use every day. Learn more at www.nationalgateway.org. Our location, in the heart of the Midwest, provides easy access to 60% of U.S. markets, all located within a 600-mile radius. Findlays local airport boasts a 6,500 runway and can accommodate corporate jet trafc. In addition, four commercial airports are located within a 90-mile radius.
For more information, contact Anthony P. Iriti, Director, FindlayHancock County Economic Development at 419.422.3313, or email airiti@FindlayHancockED.com

US 33 and progressive local government have attracted substantial foreign investment, and local companies are continuing to expand. New investors in St. Marys benefit from:

Sites for your new location or expansion are available now. Once you experience St. Marys, you too will want to stay in the city Where Living is a Pleasure. For more information on all St. Marys has to offer, contact: Industrial and Community Development Manager 101 East Spring Street 419-394-3303 ext. 3117 St. Marys, Ohio 45885 scrotty@cityofstmarys.net

Susan Crotty, CEcD

FindlayHancockED.com
Copyright 2011 FindlayHancock County Economic Development

www.stmarysdevelops.com

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Reshoring
(Continued from page 8A)
He stated that a the company may explain they can make a sample in six weeks, but the customer may not see it for eight weeks simply because of transportation time and then arrival. If the customer then does not like the sample, it can go back and forth. What was supposed to be 12 weeks on your schedule can turn into an additional three or four months, he stated. Another issue Hartford discussed was the timing of getting the finished product to the US. The product might be crisis related, he stated. If you dont have the product to support during that time and its on a boat somewhere in transit, once it arrives, its already too late. A lot of times we find customers that if their products arent on their shelves, people are going to get it elsewhere. Its a speed to the market. Also, if you compare side by side products, stated Whitacre, the Asia product is not always cheaper. We try to instill that in our customers and I think it is really starting to catch on. There are numerous benefits to reshoring business back to the United States. In many cases, people will try to do business within a 200-300 mile radius. Thats drivable in a day, stated Whitacre. If there is a sudden increase in demand for a product, you can drive a little while to get to the supplier and work out what its going to take to increase production. Thats a sales opportunity. He added, Youve done that in a day instead of getting on an airplane to Asia or even trying to talk it over on the phone where there is the possibility of communication problems. The company would also have the advantage of time with the ability to see the facility on a regular basis. If that company has direct employees overseas which inspect the facility regularly, that is expensive. Reshoring minimizes the hidden costs, stated Hartford. Of course you cant always say that there wont be additional costs if the business is here, but the hidden costs will be reduced significantly. Hartford also discussed a recent customer which brought in product from overseas. It was an assembly, but sales on the product were growing and it couldnt keep up with demand. Also, in the middle of that there was a quality issue. B&Bs first instance was to solve the quality issue in order to take it and make it function the way it needed to. It continued the discussion on the steady growth items and gave consideration to build new tools, beginning production in the States. It was an eight month process, but the company constructed new molds and doubled the cavitations, taking lead time down from three months to four weeks for the company. According to Hartford, B&B has seen continued growth with existing customers and new customers with its reshoring project. It hired an additional 20 people in 2011.

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Coldwater Machine Co. LLC / 911 North Second Street, Coldwater, OH 45828 / Phone: 419.678-4877 / Fax: 419.68.3565 / Email Us

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