north coast business journal | may 2014

Focus on Huron and Vermilion:INSIDE

THIS MONTH

MARKETING: Show me the Numbers ............2

ESTATE: Retirement Plans for Small Businesses .........9

CHAMBER CALENDARS .... 10

INSURANCE: Workplace Bullying ........... 11

TAXES: Health SavingsAccounts.......... 15

WELL-BOOKED BUSINESS ........ 18

HR: Teleworking Employees ....... 21

SALES: Accountability . 25

LEGAL: Second Marriages – II .. 26

Standard Mail U.S. Postage Paid Tiffin, OH 44883

Permit #88

Published and Owned by Schaffner Publications, Inc.MAY 2014 Vol. 20 No. 5

“The Business Voice of Erie, Huron,Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca Counties”

POSTMASTER: TIMELY MATERIAL. PLEASE EXPEDITE.

Celebrating19 Years of Service

We’re a proud member of the following:Bellevue Area Chamber

of Commerce

Chamber of Commerceof Sandusky County

Elmore Chamberof Commerce

Erie County Chamber of Commerce

Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce

Genoa Chamberof Commerce

Huron Chamber of Commerce

Huron County Chamber of Commerce

Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce

Milan Chamberof Commerce

Oak Harbor AreaChamber of Commerce

Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce

Put-in-Bay Chamberof Commerce

Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce

Vermilion Chamberof Commerce

Willard Area Chamberof Commerce

Submitted by Mayor Eileen Bulan

The City of Vermilion is situated along the shore of Lake Erie and embraces the Vermilion River. The Vermilion River has marina facilities with more than 1,000 boat slips and ramps for easy access to Lake Erie earning Vermilion the title of the “Largest Small Boat Harbor on the Great Lakes.: This location, combined with successful efforts to maintain the City’s small town charm, has created a unique community that provides a wealth of attractions and events for both tourists and residents. I welcome everyone to visit our town this year.

The City is actively pursuing revitalization efforts throughout the entire community. We have been very successful obtaining grants citywide. We have just closed out our Neighborhood

Charting the Course of a Great Town

See VERMILION, Page 5

By Sheila Ehrhardt, DirectorHuron Chamber of Commerce

“The best is yet to come, and won’t that be fine,” is the refrain from a song made famous by the late Frank Sinatra. It’s obvious around Huron that our quaint, historic beach town is embarking on an exciting new era of projects and the best really is yet to come.

In the three years since the state-funded boat launch ramp opened, most of the 125 truck/trailer parking spaces are filled with fishermen nearly every weekend, seeking out the best that Lake Erie has to offer. They have provided a healthy boost to the city’s economy in the spring and fall months that used to be the off-season for tourists.

The massive warehouses and silos on the 9-acre

Huron: The Best is yet to Come

See HURON, Page 6

Photo by C. Ingemar Svala

By Jeffrey H. BrydenEditor

Spring -- signaling the start of many seasonal businesses in our area. And time for those businesses to consider getting more bang for their advertising dollar.

Grandpa Bryden used to tell me “… don’t forget the fundamentals.” He never missed the opportunity to remind me to learn the basics of math and English. He knew that mastering these “fundamentals” would set a good foundation for my future. Thankfully, while I privately snickered about this repetitive mentoring, I heeded his advice.

In business, a fundamental principle is getting what you pay for. Yet one elusive business area has always been in the promotion of your business or service. You know you need to advertise, and the media options are many. But which medium should you choose? Which will give you the greatest return on your investment?

John Wanamaker, a department-store magnate in the late 19th century, famously quipped that half the money he spent on advertising was wasted, but that he didn’t know which half. So, how can you get “both halves” of what you’re buying?

Every advertising vehicle that calls on you, print, broadcast, directory and outdoor, will tell you they represent the “number one” medium for your advertising dollars. So how can you tell what’s “fact” and what’s “fluff?”

A current television campaign suggests that used car buyers say “show me the CarFax” -- as a way to cut through the car dealer sales efforts and get to the heart of the car’s value/repair history. Similarly, I suggest you ask your media reps to “show me the numbers -- your audience verification.”

Broadcast media usually have audience numbers and market share information from recent rating sweeps. Indeed, the rates they charge are predicated on the ebb and flow of viewers and listeners in their area. You can compare the ratings, the audiences and the cost per rating point as a matter of cost efficiency.

Print media (magazines, daily papers and business periodicals) are less susceptible to these audience fluctuations. The best ones subscribe to annual or semiannual audits of their circulation – auditing both the number of readers and the demographic qualities of those readers.

Ask these print representatives for their most recent audit statement. See where the copies are distributed – does it match your geographic focus? Look at the quality of the reader – does their

income/education/profession look like your ideal customer? Are there extra readers above and beyond the original copy? (Many magazines and monthly periodicals have “pass-along” statistics – showing how many readers beyond the original recipient see each issue.)

The North Coast Business Journal has been audited for years. Here are some highlights of our most recent audit. We’re proud to share that:

NCBJ Readers are involved: Over 91 % indicate they “regularly read or look through each issue.”

NCBJ Readers involve others: Every issue has a pass-along of over 4.0 readers

NCBJ Readers use the ads: Almost 49% of readers say they “frequently purchase products or services from ads…”

NCBJ Readers are decision makers: Almost nine out of 10 (87%) “make or have influence over purchasing decisions” for their company

NCBJ Readers are upper income: 80% higher in “$100,000+ household income” than marketplace demographics

NCBJ Readers are better educated: 276% more “graduated college and completed post graduate” than marketplace demographics

Full details of the audit are available – Just call our Director of Sales, Krista Cheek at 419-734-4838. Ask her to “show you the numbers.”

2 May2014 North Coast Business Journal www.ncbj.net

Tell your Media Rep: “Show Me the Numbers"And Get the Most from Your Advertising Budget

Marketing

The Ohio Small Business Development Center at Terra State Community College is offering free, two-hour seminars, “Small Business Basics,” that will answer questions about starting, buying or expanding a small business.

This seminar will take the confusion out of your efforts and help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary steps. Learn the basics of: name registration, licensing, taxes, zoning, business entities, employees, insurance, financing and business planning.

The May schedule is:Wednesday, May 14– 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Seneca

Regional Chamber of Commerce (conference room), 19 W. Market St., Tiffin

Wednesday, May 21 – 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Erie County Chamber of Commerce (conference room), 225 W. Washington Row, Sandusky

Wednesday, May 28 – 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Terra State Community College (Building A, Room 314), 2830 Napoleon Road, Fremont

Small Business Basics seminars set for May

205 S.E. Catawba Road, Suite G, Port Clinton, Ohio 43452

419-734-4838 • Fax 419-734-5382

Publisher JOHN SCHAFFNER

Editor JEFFREY H. BRYDEN [email protected]

DirectorofSales KRISTA CHEEK [email protected]

AccountingManager ROBIN QUESADA [email protected]

Layout&GraphicDesign FARIN BLACKBURN [email protected]

MARK SCHAFFNER [email protected]

CirculationManager BRUCE DINSE

NorthCoastBusinessJournal is owned and published monthly by Schaffner Publica-tions, Inc., and is mailed free to chamber of commerce members in a five-county area: Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky, and Seneca counties. The editorial deadline is the 25th of each month, with the advertising deadline the end of each month. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed, written consent of the Publishers. We welcome submissions from readers in the form of letters, articles or photographs, although we reserve the right to edit and condense any articles submitted. Submissions should be sent to the editor at the above address. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like an item returned. We prefer material (copy & photos) to be submitted electronically.

“The Business Voice of Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca Counties”

www.ncbj.net North Coast Business Journal May 2014 3

WORKERS’ COMP MCO

SOLUTIONSTHAT LISTEN TO YOU 24/7

© 2014 Paramount Preferred Options

hmssolutions.com • 888-202-3515

2545 Farmers Drive, Suite 400 Columbus, Ohio 43235

1901 Indian Wood CircleMaumee, Ohio 43537

HMS-0037E

Wish your Managed Care Organization was more attentive? At Health Management Solutions, we work diligently to make sure your managed care program is as effective as possible.

We do this by:• Providing exceptional customer service and a 24-hour injury reporting line• Having a single, proactive point of contact for all your claim questions• Providing frequent, high-quality communication with you and your

injured workers• Returning injured workers to their jobs in a safe and timely manner

To learn how HMS can help your business, call Mike Pulsfort at 888-202-3515, Ext. 175, or Laurie Poston at Ext. 176. See what else our customers are saying at hmssolutions.com.

“Communication is the key to effectively managing workers’ compensation claims. HMS has been a knowledgeable and responsive MCO partner.”

– Stacey Bigelow, President, Advance Staffing Solutions

HMS170 8.46x10_0037E.indd 1 3/19/14 3:24 PM

Forbes recently released its 2013 list of America’s 25 Most Inspiring Companies, which included Goodwill for the second year in a row. The 2013 ranking by Forbes moved Goodwill up from #23 to #19 on the prestigious list.

A survey of 4,738 consumers were asked to rank which five companies they find most inspirational. It also asked them to describe their most recent encounter with each company. The goal of the survey was to find a correlation between successful companies and those brands or corporations that inspire their consumers.

“Thanks to the joint efforts of Goodwill agencies across the U.S. and Canada, consumers have come to understand that by shopping and donating at their local Goodwill store, they are investing in job opportunities and skills development training in their local community,” said Clare Opfer, Marketing Manager for Goodwill Industries in Sandusky. “The Forbes recognition is a testament to the inspirational work that all Goodwills do on a daily basis as we fulfill the Goodwill mission.”

Goodwill Named One of America’s Most Inspiring Companies by Forbes


Successful families depend on expert financial advice.

It’s time to talk to Payne Nickles.Did you know that without an estate

plan you run the risk that your property

and assets could be mismanaged or

even lost? It’s easy to put off making

financial decisions, but regardless of

your net worth, it’s essential to have

an estate plan in place. Payne Nickles

can help make it easier for you to

put your finances in order.

Estate Planning

Payne Nickles& Company

PN

certified public accountants & business advisors

Call one of our convenient locations:

Sandusky Office Norwalk Office419-625-4942 419-668-2552

www.pncpa.biz

The Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Port Clinton held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Lilly & Gert’s celebrating their grand opening of their new

location at 122 W. Second Street. Representatives from the City, Port Clinton Chamber and Main Street PC congratulated them and wished them many years of success.

Port Clinton RibbonCutting Held at Lilly & Gert’s


MAY PAINTING INC.Family Owned and Operated Since 1933

Serving Commercial & Industrial Accounts In NW Ohio

Specializing in:

STANDARD ARCHITECTURAL & MULTI-COLOR COATINGS

WOOD FINISHING

VINYL WALLCOVERING

WATER REPELLENT COATINGS

TWO COMPONENT EPOXY & URETHANE SYSTEMS

WATER AND SAND BLASTING

“Professional Painting Pays”419-332-1363 Toll Free 800-797-6252

446 N. Wood St., Fremont, OH 43420

www.maypainting.com

VERMILION, from Cover

And your ad could be working here too,

reaching over 25,000 business-focused

readers in fivecounties every month

Revitalization Grant, our downtown grant, and other grants for paving projects. The downtown grant allowed us to create a new park at our old ambulance garage site, known as Friendship Park. This Park is named for the first schooner on the Vermilion River in 1812. This park will hold a dedication ceremony on Thursday, June 19.

Our Parks and Recreation Board is focusing on improving all our parks. They have just recently provided beach access at Showse Park and have just applied for a grant for pervious pavement for the parking lot at that neighborhood park. They have also made major improvement at our other parks.

Our Parks Board members also have the vision to see the future for Vermilion. In 2011, the City of Vermilion Park and Recreation Board entered into a purchase agreement with the Inland Seas Maritime Museum to purchase this Lake Erie property for $1,650,000. They were able to do this with a donation from Karen and Larry Bettcher of $200,000 for the down payment. With the help of Western Reserve Land Conservancy, the City has since received a Clean Ohio Grant for $825,000. A fund raising committee was formed and raised the additional funds needed to purchase this property in the near future. It is vitally important that we acquire this property now for future generations to have public access to Lake Erie.

Our Port Authority has been actively working to improve all public dockage facilities along the Vermilion River. They operate a boat ramp and two transient dockage facilities along the river. McGarvey’s Landing and our Water Works Marina are located in downtown Vermilion. Major improvements have been made to both sites. This

past year, the river has been dredged by an Ohio

Department of Natural Resources grant so

that our river can have enough

depth for a l l

boats. If you arrive by boat, you can enjoy a walk to the local shops and restaurants. If you are here on Friday in the summertime, you can enjoy watching a family movie in our downtown park along the riverfront. If you arrive on a Third Thursday, you can enjoy all kinds of bands playing music at the storefronts downtown. It will remind you of a simpler time, enjoying an ice cream cone, walking along the beach and just relaxing in our small time.

Some other events that are held in Vermilion each year are the Vermilion Harbour Triathlon/Duathlon which is held in August in Linwood Park and the Vermilion Ice-A-Fair that is held in February of each year. Other community traditions are the Woollybear Festival and the Festival of Fish and Historic Summerfare. Our Christmas in July celebration begins with Santa Claus arriving by river boat. Additional annual events include a Gardeners Fair, the Vermilion River Trout Stocking, the Rubber Duck Dash 500, the Corvette Show and much more. Beginning in July of each year, a local market is held at Victory Park each Saturday. This is an open air market that provides residents and visitors the opportunity to purchase home-grown fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, local meat and cheese. The Arts Guild of Vermilion promotes local artists and craftsmen by featuring rotating exhibits and offering classes and workshops.

The City of Vermilion has successfully built consensus and cooperation among the many groups and individuals who make up the community. Volunteers have been very successful in the process of making improvements to the city. Organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Vermilion, Friends of Harbour Town and many civic organizations continuously work toward improving the town’s appearance, while maintaining the historic character. They also work together to bring many tourist activities to the community.

Working with local and regional organizations, Vermilion markets its assets to customers, potential

investors, new businesses, local citizens and visitors. Promoting a positive image encourages consumers and investors to live, work, shop and invest in Vermilion. The City works with the Erie County Economic Development Committee, Team Lorain County, Main Street Vermilion and Erie Regional Planning Commission to promote economic development in Vermilion. Working with local and regional organizations, the city creates innovative and cost effective measures to promote the town as an ideal location to live, visit and operate a business.

The City of Vermilion also relies on many volunteers to make our town a welcoming place to visit or live. We have a very active Main Street Vermilion in Bloom organization that provide improved landscaping, citywide flower beds and beautiful hanging flower baskets. Another group known as “The Shore Thing” are volunteers who work every day in the summer at Main Street Beach, cleaning the beach, providing beach chairs and umbrellas and serve as ambassadors to our city.

Just in the last couple years, another group of volunteers came forward and approached City Council about having a Tree Commission. Because of all their hard work and dedication, Vermilion became a Tree City in 2012 and will be honored again this year.

As you can see, we are working very hard in partnership with all our volunteers, local organizations, residents and businesses. I invite you to visit Vermilion. Stop by my office on the corner of Main and Liberty Avenue. I would be happy to meet with you and tell you all about Vermilion. We truly are a GREAT Town on a GREAT Lake as well as being named the BEST HOMETOWN by Ohio Magazine for this year.

HEY!I'm working

hereC a l l K r i s t a a t t h e N o r t h C o a s t

B u s i n e s s J o u r n a l a t 4 1 9 - 7 3 4 - 4 8 3 8


Design/BuildDevelopment

Commercial/RetailEducational

Industrial/WarehousingManufacturing

OfficesHealthcare

Senior CareWorship Facilities

Metal Buildings

www.telamonconstruction.com

5505 Milan Road, Sandusky, Ohio 44870Phone: (419) 626-1111

Toll Free: (888) 904-4600

ConAgra site, just north of the ramps, have been completely cleared and a walkway has already been created around the western perimeter of the property. Developers are beginning to knock on the doors at City Hall and soon an exciting new construction projects will line the horizon along the river.

Currently visitors have to jig and jog their way down Main Street to reach the Huron Pier. That will be a thing of the past when the North Main Street Extension is completed. City Manager Andy White’s dream has long been to create a miniature version of our old shopping district and work will begin this summer on creating a new street and establishing a row of shops in a straight line north from the parking lot north of the boat basin. Huron’s Main Street, as we once knew it is making a comeback.

The city took possession of the old Showboat property recently after several years of legal wrangling. White wasted no time in clearing the riverfront site and plans are under way to create a gassy park-like area and provide more parking spaces for folks wanting to walk the mile-long pier leading out to the Huron Lighthouse. The beacon light looks much different

than traditional lighthouses but it draws thousands of visitors each summer and walkers throughout the year.

The sound fiscal planning laid out by White and members of the Huron City Council has put the city on sound financial footing; while still completing many major capital improvements

Among them are: widening of Rye Beach Road near Sawmill Parkway to improve safety and accommodate traffic flow. A 1.25 mile, former foot path, north of U.S. 6 on the west side of town has been paved, allowing walkers and bicyclists to travel off-road between Woodlands School and the High School.

All of these improvements are a part of the city’s master plan, a $9 million undertaking aimed at luring businesses and residents to the city by linking several core city landmarks, parks, and neighborhoods, while improving waterfront features. White has been very successful at controlling costs while directing considerable effort and a very serious approach to infrastructure planning along with community and economic development.

Stay tuned. The best really is “yet to come” for our quaint little beach town.

HURON, from Cover

Call Krista at 419-734-4838or email [email protected]


Heart Center

1111 Hayes Avenue, Sandusky firelands.com/heart

The time it takes you to be transferred to an out-of-areafacility has a direct effect on the damage that your heartexperiences and even on your chance for recovery orsurvival.

Firelands Regional Medical Center Heart Center is theonly heart center in the area that...

...offers these advanced care services 24/7 if you needthis level of care;

...has a full team of heart specialists available locally;

...has a comprehensive, long-standing record of topperformance for our local heart program.

Start your care at the Heart Center that can provide allthe care you need.

Firelands Regional Medical Center is the only complete Heart Center in the region

that provides cardiac catheterization, interventional cardiac stent procedures

and open heart surgery–On-site, 24/7.

Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Interventionalists

Cardiologists

Staffed by a Team of Experienced

Heart Specialists

Anthony DeRiso II, MD

Ryan Christofferson, MDW. Scott Sheldon, DO

Hassan Ibrahim, MDMichael Lyster, DO

W. Patrick McGuinn, MDMourhaf Traboulssi, MD

From Sandy GriselExecutive DirectorVermilion Chamber

Come visit Vermilion and experience the picturesque sights of our quaint Little New England town. Enjoy an ice cream cone while walking the beautiful beaches along Lake Erie or attend events throughout the season. Kick off the spring season in May with our Annual Chocolate & Wine Walk as well as the 3rd Thursdays series, Music, Flowers and a sunset in downtown.

We head into summer with a big bang with Annual Festival of the Fish Fireworks shot over beautiful Lake Erie. Festival of the Fish is held annually over Father�s day weekend. Enjoy our FREE Concerts in the Park series starting every Sunday in July and ending in August. New to Vermilion this year will be Dancing in the Streets held at Main Street Beach.

We welcome the fall with our Annual Woollybear Festival hosted by Fox 8 and Fox8 meteorologist Dick Goddard. On a quiet Sunday where over 150,000 visitors come to Vermilion to help celebrate a fuzzy little black and orange caterpillar, as we wait in anticipation as the Woollybear predicts our upcoming winter weather as folklore says.

Before we say hello to winter and goodbye to the beautiful fall foliage we �Fall in Love with Vermilion� with our annual Progressive dinner. Stroll through the many unique shops downtown while sampling many different cuisines. Plenty to do and see in Vermilion, OH if just a relaxing day at the beach, a stroll down the sidewalk or dinner out on the town, Vermilion is the place to be!

“Vermilion, A GreatPlace to Drop Anchor for aday… a week… or a lifetime.”

Photo by C. Ingemar Svala

Main Street Vermilion, Inc., established as an Ohio Main Street program in 2007, is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Vermilion’s historic commercial and residential district. Its committees enhance the design and beauty of the downtown, organize events, assist owners and businesses in their preservation and economic revitalization efforts and market Vermilion as a destination.

In 2013, Main Street Vermilion received 2 Heritage Ohio awards. Main Street Vermilion’s Design Committee was awarded “Best Design Project” for fliers the committee developed to educate downtown businesses and building owners about signage, facades, historic preservation and other design issues. Judy Kernell, Main Street Vermilion Secretary, Arts Guild member and Farmers Market Manager received the “Volunteer of the Year” award from Heritage Ohio.

Vermilion in Bloom, a Main Street

Vermilion committee, plans, plants, waters and maintains the hanging baskets and beautiful flowers in the downtown area. The flowers are purchased with donated funds and maintained and watered on a daily basis through the efforts of volunteer watering teams. In 2013, Vermilion in Bloom volunteers purchased flowers for 154 hanging baskets and 40 containers and gardens. The volunteers have already been busy planting the flower boxes for the bridge and preparing the beds for planting in May.

Exciting things are in store for visitors and residents alike in 2014 because of Main Street Vermilion. The first, coming on April 26th, is the 10th Annual Vermilion in Bloom Gardeners Fair at Sailorway Middle School on Route 60 and Sailorway Drive.

This summer will mark the return of the Main Street Vermilion Farmers Market. Located in Victory Park in

downtown Vermilion on Saturdays beginning June 28th, the Market hosts special events each week and has on average over 29 vendors and a food cart. The hours are 10 am - 3 pm.

New this year at Main Street Vermilion is lighthouse passports and stamps from the United States Lighthouse Society. Visitors who visit the historic Vermilion lighthouse may receive a stamp to commemorate their visit at the Main Street Vermilion office, 685 Main Street.

The Main Street Vermilion Arts Guild also has several special events planned, beginning with the ArtShop event on Saturday, May 31st. Artists will be in shops all over Vermilion to tempt you with their skills. Many artists will be doing demonstrations. This event is in conjunction with the Lorain Art Initiative’s Follow the Fish

Art and Adventure Trail. (www.followthe fish.com)

Fun to watch and participate in is the 7th Annual Harbourtown Triathlon/Duathlon on August 16th and 17th in Linwood Park. The Saturday event is for kids and the Sunday event is men and women. Linwood Park is the premier Triathlon/Duathlon location voted best venue in Ohio by participants. For more information visit www.hfpracing.com.

No matter what time of year, there is always something to do in Vermilion. From flowers to art to the hosting of events and promotion of Vermilion as a destination, Main Street Vermilion is making a difference!

Learn more about Main Street Vermilion and our “small town on a great lake” at www.mainstreetvermilion.org.


PAGING ALL DOCTORSPAGING ALL DOCTORS

30 Year Fixed30 Year Fixed 3% Down3% Down--No PMI!No PMI!

MEMBER FDIC

The above rates applies to in house portfolio loans only. 4.882% APR based on $500,000 loan amount; 3% down; 0 point. 3 % down available on PURCHASE of single family owner-occupied

homes only. Construction loan guidelines apply to all construction loans. Automatic transfer of payments from a First Federal demand checking donor account required. Payment example:

$500,000 loan amount; 4.875% rate; 360 monthly payments of $2,646.04 which includes principal and interest only. RATES AND OFFER SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

www.firstfedlorain.comwww.firstfedlorain.com

Lin Schaefer Lin Schaefer

207 W. Washington Row 207 W. Washington Row SanduskySandusky

419419--626626--55765576 NMLS # 562899NMLS # 562899

Main Street Vermilion, Inc.

Submit stories for the North CoastBusiness Journal by e-mailing

[email protected]


Douglas GildenmeisterSenior Vice President,InvestmentsRaymond James

If you’re self-employed or own a small business and you haven’t established a retirement savings plan, what are you waiting for? A retirement plan can help you and your employees save for the future.

Tax advantagesA retirement plan can have significant tax

advantages:• Your contributions are deductible when made• Your contributions aren’t taxed to an employee

until distributed from the plan• Money in the retirement program grows tax

deferred (or, in the case of Roth accounts, potentially tax free)

Types of plansRetirement plans are usually either IRA-based

(like SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs) or “qualified” (like 401(k)s, profit-sharing plans, and defined benefit plans). Qualified plans are generally more complicated and expensive to maintain than IRA-based plans because they have to comply with specific Internal Revenue Code and ERISA (the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974) requirements in order to qualify for their tax benefits. Also, qualified plan assets must be held either in trust or by an insurance company. With IRA-based plans, your employees own (i.e., “vest” in) your contributions immediately. With qualified plans, you can generally require that your employees work a certain numbers of years before they vest.

Which plan is right for you?With a dizzying array of retirement plans to

choose from, each with unique advantages and disadvantages, you’ll need to clearly define your goals before attempting to choose a plan. For example, do you want:

• To maximize the amount you can save for your own retirement?

• A plan funded by employer contributions? By employee contributions? Both?

• A plan that allows you and your employees to make pretax and/or Roth contributions?

• The flexibility to skip employer contributions in some years?

• A plan with lowest costs? Easiest administration?

The answers to these questions can help guide you and your retirement professional to the plan (or combination of plans) most appropriate for you.

SEPsA SEP allows you to set up an IRA (a “SEP-IRA”)

for yourself and each of your eligible employees. You contribute a uniform percentage of pay for each employee, although you don’t have to make contributions every year, offering you some flexibility when business conditions vary. For 2014, your contributions for each employee are limited to the lesser of 25% of pay or $52,000. Most employers, including those who are self-employed, can establish a SEP.

SEPs have low start-up and operating costs and can be established using an easy two-page form. The plan must cover any employee aged 21 or older who has worked for you for three of the last five years and who earns $550 or more.

SIMPLE IRA planThe SIMPLE IRA plan is available if you have 100

or fewer employees. Employees can elect to make pretax contributions in 2014 of up to $12,000 ($14,500 if age 50 or older). You must either match your employees’ contributions dollar for dollar--up to 3% of each employee’s compensation--or make a fixed contribution of 2% of compensation for each eligible employee. (The 3% match can be reduced to 1% in any two of five years.) Each employee who earned $5,000 or more in any two prior years, and who is expected to earn at least $5,000 in the current year, must be allowed to participate in the plan.

SIMPLE IRA plans are easy to set up. You fill out a short form to establish a plan and ensure that SIMPLE IRAs are set up for each employee. A financial institution can do much of the paperwork. Additionally, administrative costs are low.

Profit-sharing planTypically, only you, not your employees,

contribute to a qualified profit-sharing plan. Your contributions are discretionary--there’s usually no set amount you need to contribute each year, and you have the flexibility to contribute nothing at all in a given year if you so choose (although your contributions must be nondiscriminatory, and “substantial and recurring,” for your plan to remain qualified). The plan must contain a formula for determining how your contributions are allocated among plan participants. A separate account is established for each participant that holds your contributions and any investment gains or losses. Generally, each employee with a year of service is eligible to participate (although you can require two years of service if your contributions are immediately vested). Contributions for any employee in 2014 can’t exceed the lesser of $52,000 or 100% of the employee’s compensation.

401(k) planThe 401(k) plan (technically, a qualified profit-

sharing plan with a cash or deferred feature) has become a hugely popular retirement savings vehicle for small businesses. According to the Department of Labor, an estimated 61 million American workers are enrolled in 401(k)-type plans with total assets of about 3.2 trillion dollars. (Source: Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration Fact Sheet, June 2013.) With a 401(k) plan, employees can make pretax and/or Roth contributions in 2014 of up to $17,500 of pay ($23,000 if age 50 or older). These deferrals go into a separate account for each employee and aren’t taxed until distributed. Generally, each employee with a year of service must be allowed to contribute to the plan.

You can also make employer contributions to your 401(k) plan--either matching contributions or discretionary profit-sharing contributions. Combined employer and employee contributions for any employee in 2014 can’t exceed the lesser of $52,000 (plus catch-up contributions of up to $5,500 if your employee is age 50 or older) or 100% of the employee’s compensation. In general, each employee with a year of service is eligible to receive employer contributions, but you can require two years of service if your contributions are immediately vested. 401(k) plans are required to perform somewhat complicated testing each year to make sure benefits aren’t disproportionately weighted toward higher paid employees. However, you don’t have to perform discrimination testing if you adopt a “safe harbor” 401(k) plan. With a safe harbor 401(k) plan, you generally have to either match your employees’ contributions (100% of employee deferrals up to 3% of compensation, and 50% of deferrals between 3 and 5% of compensation), or make a fixed contribution of 3% of compensation for all eligible employees, regardless of whether they contribute to the plan. Your contributions must be fully vested.

Another way to avoid discrimination testing is by adopting a SIMPLE 401(k) plan. These plans are similar to SIMPLE IRAs, but can also allow loans and Roth contributions. Because they’re still qualified plans (and therefore more complicated than SIMPLE IRAs), and allow less deferrals than traditional 401(k)s, SIMPLE 401(k)s haven’t become popular.

Defined benefit planA defined benefit plan is a qualified retirement

plan that guarantees your employees a specified level of benefits at retirement (for example, an annual benefit equal to 30% of final average pay). As the name suggests, it’s the retirement benefit that’s defined, not the level of contributions to the plan. In 2014, a defined benefit plan can provide

Retirement Plans for Small BusinessesEstate

See ESTATE, Page 12


BellevueChamBer of CommerCe

1 MonthlyLuncheon BobDiBiasio, Sr.V.P.PublicAffairs ClevelandIndians. TheWillows

erie CountyChamBer of CommerCe

5 GalleryofAchievers InductionLuncheon: 11:30a.m. PlumBrookCountryClub

ChamberGolfLeague Kick-offRound: 4:00p.m.,Woussickett GolfCourse.

9 BreakfastofChampions: 7:30a.m.,PlumBrook CountryClub. Advanceregistration requiredbyMay7th.

14 BusinessAfterHours: 5:15p.m. ProvidenceCareCenters HayesAvenuefacility.

GenoaChamBer of CommerCe

8 Monthlymeeting 7:30amatRayzCafé.

31 GenoaHomecoming Celebration Veteran’sPark

huron CountyChamBer of CommerCe

8 SafetyCouncil, Generalrisk/Service, 7:30am,chamberoffice,RSVP

BoardofDirectors,4:00pm

12 Ribboncutting, Noon,NorthwesternMutual, 1110CastaliaSt.,Bellevue

14 MembershipCommittee 8:00am

15 SafetyCouncil Manufacturing,7:30am

21 EducationComm. 8:00am

22 HenHouse/Now&Then RibbonCutting/AfterHours, 5:00pm-7:00pm, 100NorthWestSt.,Norwalk

Kelleys islandChamBer of CommerCe

3 DerbyDay-AllIsland

10 EMSSpaghettiDinner BagtheMoon15-17NestwiththeBirds KIAudubonClub17 Beer&ChocolateTasting KIBrewery

SafetyServiceDay CasinoDock

marBlehead PeninsulaChamBer of CommerCe

15 AnnualSpringBanquet CatawbaIslandClub SocialHourat6:00pm Dinnerat7:00pm GuestSpeakerJeffSondles, OperationsDirector, LibertyAviationMuseum

18 First-EverDogShow Registration:11:45am Judgingstartsat1:00pm Location:BarkUntilDark, 310S.BridgeRoad

29 ExecutiveMeeting 10:00am,ChamberOffice

oaK harBorChamBer of CommerCe

3 CommunityCleanupDay DowntownOakHarbor- 9a-11a

8 BusinessOverBreakfast RiverviewHealthcareCampus 7:30a-9a

15 BoardMeeting ChamberBuilding 7:30a

Port Clinton areaChamBer of CommerCe

5 CommunicationsCommittee meeting8:30am

6 AdministrationCommittee meeting8:30am

VolunteerWalleyeFestival training5:00pm8 OrganizationCommittee meeting8:30am

9 BenefitsCommittee meeting8:30am

12 ChamberBoard meeting8:30am

13 DesignCommittee meeting8:30am

14 WalleyeFestivalCommittee meeting8:30am

15 MainStreetPortClinton Boardmeeting8:30am

20AmbassadorCommittee meeting8:30am

22-26 WalleyeFestival DowntownPortClinton

sandusKy CountyChamBer of CommerCe

7 Membership&Marketing Meeting,3p.m.

16 BAH-MudHensGame, 7p.m.,406W.Washington Street,Toledo

20 FinanceMeeting, 12:30p.m. ExecutiveMeeting, 1p.m. FoundationMeeting, 12:45p.m.

22 PropertyMeeting, 9:30a.m.

27 AmbassadorMeeting, 8a.m.,Hall&Wylkan

27 Health&Wellness Meeting,2p.m.

28 ChamberBoard Meeting,7:30a.m.

seneCa CountyChamBer of CommerCe

6 SenecaCounty IndustrialManagement CouncilMeeting(IMC) 5pm.RSVP

12 SenecaCountyJobFair 1:30to6:30pm. County-wideJobFair.

14 SmallBusinessBasicsSeminar 9:30amto11:30am

16 AmbassadorMeeting Noon,ChamberofCommerce

20 SenecaCounty HumanResource AssociationMeeting 11:30am.,St.FrancisHome

29 RibbonCutting& AfterFive CulliganofTiffin 5:00-7:00pm. 400WentzSt.,Tiffin.RSVP

vermilionChamBer of CommerCe

3 Chocolate&WineWalk 11am-5pm $20perperson:

15 3rdThursday’sMusic, FlowersandaSunset DowntownVermilion 6:30pm-sunset.

17 MotherDaughterTeaLuncheon (FundraiserfortheFestival oftheFishQueens PageantScholarship) @Tiffany’sFlowers 11am-2pm

CHAMBER CALENDARS for May

Submitted by: Mark T. ReillyWorkplace bullying can cause

emotional and physical damage to employees; such damage often includes feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which can lead to a n x i e t y , d e p r e s s i o n , hypertension or m i g r a i n e h e a d a c h e s . Bullying can also cause financial damage to your company. According to the 2010 National Health Interview Survey, workplace bullying costs employers $4 billion every year. You may end up with legal fees if a victim makes a legal claim against the bully or your company. You may need to send a victim to counseling to help with anxiety, stress or depression. Or you may need to send your employees to classes for anger management, leadership training or sensitivity training to encourage a bullying-free workplace. But bullying can cost you a lot more than legal fees or employee counseling. The following are more ways workplace bullying can affect your company financially.

Decreased ProductivityBullying directly affects a victim’s

confidence and is likely to decrease his or her productivity at work. Victims may also experience high anxiety, which can be very distracting and even debilitating.

Reduced productivity is bad for business and can lead you to discipline the employee, take away responsibilities or possibly terminate him or her. You may not realize the employee is being bullied, and therefore do not have the chance to offer any counseling or other assistance.

Increased AbsenteeismA bullied employee may go to great

lengths to avoid a high-stress situation at work. Calling in sick or using a large amount of paid time off

at once are common tactics used to avoid a bully.

Other employees may have to make up the extra work, possibly resulting in overtime, complaints or even more bullying behavior. An excessive number of lost working days benefits no one.

High Employee TurnoverA 2014 survey by the Workplace

Bullying Institute found that for 25 percent of respondents, the best solution to stop bullying was to quit their jobs. Nineteen percent of the respondents felt forced to quit when circumstances were made deliberately worse.

Each time an employee leaves the workplace, you have to recruit, hire and train a new employee. An unstable work environment like that is expensive and time-consuming, and can be exhausting to existing employees.

Workplace bullying also causes a decline in morale for employees who are not victims of bullying. These employees may be less likely to interact with others in fear of being bullied themselves, and this may create a hostile or uncomfortable work environment. This could cause the workplace to have higher turnover rates as employees throughout the company suffer the effects of a not-so-happy work environment.

Negative Impact on Company’s Reputation

Victims of bullying are likely to talk to friends or family about what is going on and how they feel about it. This information can spread quickly and sour your company’s public image.

A poor public image is especially destructive to a company that depends on the public for patronage, such as a restaurant or a landscaping company. A negative image can also deter jobseekers from applying to your company, making it more difficult to recruit new employees.


The Staggering Cost of Workplace BullyingInsurance

Bullying PreventionYou can control the risk of bullying in your workplace by following

these tips:1. Develop a workplace bullying policy (and follow it). Use clear

language to define what behavior your company considers to be bullying.• Include information on how to report bullying.• Document, investigate and follow up on every report of bullying.• Make it clear that employees will not be retaliated against for

reporting bullying.2. Establish expectations of appropriate behavior and the consequences

for employees who fail to comply with those expectations.3. Provide training, education, information and awareness on

workplace bullying for all employees.4. Provide clear job descriptions that include an outline of the specific

roles and responsibilities for each position within the workplace.

We Can HelpDiversified Insurance Service is your resource for handling workplace

bullying and minimizing the effects it can have on your business. Contact us today at (800) 848-2788 to learn more.


At its Safety Awards Banquet held at Ole Zim’s Wagon Shed in late April, 63 members of the Sandusky County Safety Council received a total of 89 safety awards from the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation’s Department of Safety & Hygiene either for having zero lost-time accidents/illnesses during 2013, or for making significant reductions in such lost-time incidents.

Twenty members received Special Awards for operating at least 500,000 hours and at least 6 months with no lost time incidents, led by Sandco Industries of Fremont, whose employees have worked 2,760,211 accident-free hours beginning on 10/20/1988 and running through 12/31/2013, and by The Croghan Colonial Bank with 2,225,766

incident-free hours between 8/11/2006 and 12/31/2013.

ABC INOAC Exterior Systems, LLC, Sandusky County, Terra State Community College and Wynn-Reeth, Inc. were all recipients of award certificates in three categories; Special, 100% and Group.

The Sandusky County Safety Council is one of 80 councils throughout the state of Ohio that operate under the auspices of the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Safety councils are designed to encourage safety in the workplace by providing safety-related educational opportunities at monthly meetings and elsewhere.

Membership in the Sandusky County Safety

Council is open to all businesses in Sandusky County and surrounding areas. July 1, 2014 marks the beginning of FY15 and the enrollment period for new members. A 2% refund on workers’ comp insurance premiums will be available in FY15 to qualified members that meet the requirements of “active participation” in Safety Council, with an additional 2% discount possible for qualified members that have a significant decrease in the number and/or severity of lost time injuries. Further information about the Sandusky County Safety Council can be obtained by contacting Jim Miranda at the Chamber office, 419-332-1591, or [email protected].

Safety Council Members Receive Safety Awards

The Chamber held its Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 5th at the Bellevue Society for the Arts.

Congratulations to the following award winners: • Commercial Award – Twin Lakes Golf Course & Restaurant• Community Enhancement Award – Bellevue Rec Club• Corporate Citizen of the Year – Quality Welding, Inc.• Distinguished Service Awards – Bellevue Police Department,

Bellevue Fire Department and Bellevue City Street Department• Citizen of the Year – David & Virginia Robinson

Bellevue ChamberAnnual Meeting Peerless Ovens of Sandusky Ohio has

been serving the restaurant industry for over 95 years. Peerless is a family owned business, manufacturing ovens for the food service industry. Pizza shops, bakeries, food trucks, bars, Mexican and Italian restaurants are just a few examples. Peerless Ovens are available in gas and electric and in a wide range of sizes and configurations to fit the needs from the smallest to the largest of operations. Counter and floor models are offered. Industrial ovens are also available for environmental (e.g. soil

analysis) and heat process applications. Peerless has reached many new markets

with the launch of their website in the late 2000’s. This site has guided Peerless Ovens into new markets such as orthotic applications, soil drying and general industrial applications. The web site (http://www.peerlessovens.com) features many testimonials of satisfied customers along with a video library including demonstrations and video testimonials, giving visitors as chance to see Peerless Ovens at work.

Peerless OvensMarks 95th Year!

an annual benefit of up to $210,000 (or 100% of pay if less). The services of an actuary are generally needed to determine the annual contributions that you must make to the plan to fund the promised benefit. Your contributions may vary from year to year, depending on the performance of plan investments and other factors.

In general, defined benefit plans are too costly and too complex for most small businesses. However, because they can provide the largest benefit of any retirement plan, and therefore allow the largest deductible employer contribution, defined benefit plans can be attractive to businesses that have a small group of highly compensated owners who are seeking to contribute as much money as possible on a tax-deferred basis.

As an employer, you have an important role to play in helping America’s workers save. Now is the

time to look into retirement plan programs for you and your employees.

This information was developed by Broadridge, an independent third party. It is general in nature, is not a complete statement of all information necessary for making an investment decision, and is not a recommendation or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Investments and strategies mentioned may not be suitable for all investors. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC does not provide advice on tax, legal or mortgage issues. These matters should be discussed with an appropriate professional.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC.

ESTATE, from Page 9

The Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Port Clinton held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Cielo Grande celebrating their grand opening at 117 Madison Street in downtown historic Port Clinton. Representatives from the City, Port Clinton Area Chamber and Main Street PC congratulated them and wished them many years of success.

Ribbon Cutting Held at Cielo Grande Tapas Bar


Business Journal of WC Ohio

Fostoria Office419-436-4085

Findlay Office419-427-0622

Tiffin Office419-443-8287

Toll Free888-435-1234

• Group Medical Plans• Health Management

Programs• Prescription Drug Programs• Group Vision & Dental Plans• Short & Long Term Disability• Group Life, AD&D• Voluntary Benefits• Online Benefits Enrollment• 401k Retirement

corporateonebenefits.com

Our UNIQUE EXPERTISE is customized group health insurance

program consulting


By: Jeffrey J. Rosengarten, CPA, CFEPayne, Nickles and Company

Given the ever-escalating cost of providing employee health care benefits, I am writing to advise you of a more cost-effective method of providing these benefits; namely, a health savings account (HSA). For eligible individuals, HSAs offer a tax-favorable way to set aside funds (or have their employer do so) to meet future medical needs. Here are the key tax-related elements:

• contributions you make to an HSA are deductible, within limits,

• contributions your employer makes aren’t taxed to you,

• earnings on the funds within the HSA are not taxed, and

• distributions from the HSA to cover qualified medical expenses are not taxed.

Who is eligible? To be eligible for an HSA, you must be covered by a “high deductible health plan” (discussed below). You must also not be covered by a plan which (1) is not a high deductible health plan, and (2) provides coverage for any benefit covered by your high deductible plan. (It’s okay, however, to be covered by a high deductible plan along with separate coverage, through insurance or otherwise, for accidents, disability, or dental, vision, or long-term care.)

For 2014, a “high deductible health plan” is a plan with an annual deductible of at least $1,250 for self-only coverage, or at least $2,500 for family coverage. For self-only coverage, the 2014 limit on deductible contributions is $3,300. For family coverage, the 2014 limit on deductible contributions is $6,550. Additionally, annual out-of-pocket expenses required to be paid (other than for premiums) for covered benefits cannot exceed $6,350 for self-only coverage or $12,700 for family coverage.

An individual (and the individual’s covered spouse as well) who has reached age 55 before the close of the tax year (and is an eligible HSA contributor) may make additional “catch-up” contributions for 2014 of up to $1,000.

A high deductible health plan does not include a plan if substantially all of the plan’s coverage is for accidents, disability, or dental, vision, or long-term care, insurance for a specified disease or illness, or insurance paying a fixed amount per day (or other period) of hospitalization.

HSAs may be established by, or on behalf of, any eligible individual.

Deduction limits. You can deduct contributions to an HSA for the year up to the total of your

monthly limitations for the months you were eligible. For 2014, the monthly limitation on deductible contributions for a person with self-only coverage is 1/12 of $3,300. For an individual with family coverage, the monthly limitation on deductible contributions is 1/12 of $6,550. Thus, deductible contributions are not limited by the amount of the annual deductible under the high deductible health plan.

Also, taxpayers who are eligible individuals during the last month of the tax year are treated as having been eligible individuals for the entire year for purposes of computing the annual HSA contribution.

However, if an individual is enrolled in Medicare, he is no longer an eligible individual under the HSA rules, and so contributions to his HSA can no longer be made.

Contributions may be made to an HSA by or on behalf of an eligible individual even if the individual has no compensation, or if the contributions exceed the individual’s compensation. Contributions made by a family member on behalf of an eligible individual to an HSA (which are subject to the limits described above) are deductible by the eligible individual in computing adjusted gross income.

Further, on a once-only basis, taxpayers can withdraw funds from an IRA, and transfer them tax-free to an HSA. The amount transferred can be up to the maximum deductible HSA contribution for the type of coverage (individual or family) in effect at the time of the transfer. The amount so transferred is excluded from the taxpayer’s gross income, and is not subject to the 10% early withdrawal penalty.

Employer contributions. If you are an eligible individual, and your employer contributes to your HSA, the employer’s contribution is treated as employer-provided coverage for medical expenses under an accident or health plan and is excludable from your gross income up to the deduction limitation, as described above. Further, the employer contributions are not subject to withholding from wages for income tax or subject to FICA or FUTA. The eligible individual cannot deduct employer contributions on his federal income tax return as HSA contributions or as medical expense deductions.

An employer that decides to make contributions on its employees’ behalf must make comparable contributions to the HSAs of all comparable participating employees for that calendar year. If the employer does not make comparable contributions, the employer is subject to a 35% tax on the aggregate amount contributed by the employer to HSAs for that period.

Contributions are comparable if they are either: (1) the same amount; or (2) the same percentage of the annual deductible limit under the high

deductible health plan covering the employees. For these purposes, comparable participating employees (1) are covered by the employer’s high deductible health plan and are eligible to establish an HSA; (2) have the same category of coverage (either self-only or family coverage); and (3) have the same category of employment (either part-time or full-time). (IRS regs provide detailed guidelines for comparable contributions.)

An exception to the comparable contribution requirements applies for contributions made on behalf of nonhighly compensated employees. Under this exception, an employer may make larger HSA contributions for nonhighly compensated employees than for highly compensated employees.

Employer contributions are also excludable if made at the election of the employee under a salary reduction arrangement that is part of a cafeteria plan (i.e., a plan which allows you to elect to use part of your salary towards a variety of benefits). Although contributions to an employee’s HSA through a cafeteria plan are treated as employer contributions, the comparability rule does not apply to contributions made through a cafeteria plan.

Earnings. If the HSA is set up properly, it is generally exempt from taxation, and there is no tax on earnings. However, taxes may apply if contribution limitations are exceeded, required reports are not provided, or prohibited transactions occur.

Distributions. Distributions from the HSA to cover an eligible individual’s qualified medical expenses, or those of his spouse or dependents, are not taxed. Qualified medical expenses for these purposes generally mean those that would qualify for the medical expense itemized deduction. If funds are withdrawn from the HSA for other reasons, the withdrawal is taxable. Additionally, an extra 20% tax will apply to the withdrawal, unless it is made after reaching age 65, or in the event of death or disability.

Distributions from an HSA exclusively to pay for qualified medical expenses are excludable from the gross income of the account beneficiary even though the beneficiary is no longer an “eligible individual,” e.g., the individual is over age 65 and entitled to Medicare benefits, or no longer has a high deductible health plan.

As you can see, there are many benefits for contributing to an HSA Plan but there are many rules that go along with them. Please consult your tax advisor for more details regarding the benefits and rules for Health Savings Accounts.

(Authors note: This article is not intended to offer professional tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor.)

Health Savings AccountsTaxes


In this moment . . .Nothing compares to the sense of pride you feel when

unlocking your business first thing in the morning.

When it comes to protecting your passion, it doesn’t matter if you saved money in 15 minutes.

It doesn’t matter if the business down the street has the

What matters right now is the quality of your independent

Call us today to learn more about the many different Business

12788 (7-12)

800-848-2788 • www.divinsurance.comElmore • Fremont • Ottawa • Port Clinton • Whitehouse

Murray & Murray Co., LPA, held a dedication ceremony in late April to commemorate the firm’s installation of a solar array on the roof of its Sandusky office building and to emphasize the importance of renewable energy. The Murray & Murray array is the largest in Erie County.

U.S. Representative for the Northern Ohio 9th Congressional District, Mrs. Marcy Kaptur, one of the longest standing representatives in the U.S. House and a long champion of renewable energy, headlined the occasion. Representative Kaptur commended Murray & Murray’s efforts in installing the system as, “setting a stellar example for other firms, institutions, and households on how the private sector can lead a constructive transformation of our way of life ...initially, the advanced solar roof installation will produce 1/3 of the power used by the firm and its adjacent marina on an annual basis.”

David Miller, of Edison Solar and Wind of Milan who installed the solar array spoke about the dire state of diminishing fossil fuels. As a result, he emphasized the absolute necessity of pursuing renewable energy sources. Mr. Miller later presented Murray &

Murray with a framed portrait of the firm’s office and solar array to acknowledge the firm’s efforts and leadership in the area of energy conservation.

Dennis E. Murray, Jr. announced during the ceremony that just this week the system reached the milestone of generating 45,000 Kwh, well on its way to annual production of over 180,000 Kwh.

The firm’s system includes 494 solar panels generating 250 watts. All of the components have ARRA ratings and are almost entirely made in America. Through the web-based SolrenView monitoring system, anyone can see up-to-the-moment results of the Murray & Murray solar array at: http://www.solrenview.com/SolrenView/mainFr.php?siteId=2527 .

The array is part of the firm’s ongoing efforts to implement and promote sustainable energy consumption, for which Murray & Murray was designated as a Green Certified law practice by the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s Green Initiative Committee, which promotes law office adoption of efficient energy use and other environmentally responsible programs.

MEANS BUSINESS!Reaching over 25,000 readers in

five counties every month

Almost nine out of 10 (87%) "make or have influence over purchasing decisions" for their company

NCBJ readers are decision-makers:

SanduskySolar Power Shines


nomsdrs.com

Accepting New PatientsCall 419-502-DERM (3376)

to schedule an appointment

Services Include:• General Dermatology (skin conditions)• Dermatologic Surgery

Most major insurance plans accepted including all Medicare plans

NOMS Healthcare is pleased to welcome the office of:

Thomas E. Fleming, M.D. Board Certified, American Board of Dermatology

Beautiful, Healthy Skin at any age.

NOMS Healthcare Dermatology • 2500 West Strub Rd., Suite 350 • Sandusky. OH

Monday, June 18, 2012

Memorial Charity Golf Classic

Save the Date!

419-625-5269

makes a difference.

Countless opportunities forStein Hospice to make a Difference for

you and your loved ones.

From pain relief to grief support, we bringour services to wherever the patient callshome. And we do so immediately andaround the clock.

Please Call Stein Hospice So We Can Make a Difference.

Benefiting:

CATAWBA ISLAND CLUBARTHUR HILLS 18-HOLE COURSE

JUNE 16, 2014 For more info Erie/Huron Golfers

Contact:Amy Skolnik 419-625-5269 [email protected]/Lucas/Seneca/San-dusky/Wood County Golfers

Tom Bloom 419-862-4233 [email protected]


By Cathy Allen

“It’s not an accident that successful people read more books.” So says Seth Godin, an author whose ideas are fresh and radical… and revelatory. The North Coast Business Journal published summaries of two of his books - Tribes and We Are All Weird - in this space last year. This month we offer two more. Godin’s books are short and read like emails from a friend. He doesn’t use the dense academic style typical of much of my reading list. He’s conversational, funny, and persuasive. He’s also popular with the younger, social media-savvy generation including Tony Hsieh, the Zappos CEO whose book Delivering Happiness I summarized in February. The first book below absolutely changed my life for the better, and the second has the potential to do the same. I urge anyone who is feeling a little stuck to pick up one of these and treat yourself to a bit of your own awesomeness.

The Dip: A Little Book that Teaches You When to Quit (and When to Stick) by Seth Godin, Portfolio/Penguin, 2007.

SUMMARY: Many projects in life start out fun and exciting: a new job, an initiative at church, a volunteer commitment. Maybe the task isn’t 100% enjoyable, but if we can see we are having some positive impact, we will stick with it even after it becomes difficult. At some point, however, effort expended can begin to exceed the rewards. This “Dip” is almost inevitable and it is absolutely no fun. Our enthusiasm is replaced by a sense of fatigue or even irritation. We are ready to quit. But should we? Mom said “winners never quit.” Was she right? Godin’s answer is “not always.” Sometimes winners do quit… they pull the plug on a dead end project to preserve their time and energy for efforts that are more likely to be successful. Other times they dig in, reorganize, tack differently. Determining whether to stay or go is as simple as answering this question: “Is the pain of the Dip worth the benefit of the light at the end of the tunnel?”

KEY LEARNINGS:Some situations really do present no opportunity

for a win, and when that is the case the best strategy is to cut our losses and move on. Other times it will be better to put one’s head down and soldier through a rough patch. Knowing when to do what can be difficult. Having the courage to make the decision and implement it is what separates moderately successful people from those who are truly effective in their lives.

Being in a Dip – when the amount of effort we are putting in isn’t producing the results we want – is

not something to just ride out. It is a time to lean in, to think strategically, to try different things, to exhaust all options. It is only then that we will know whether the desire to quit is just a reaction to the difficulties or whether new tactics and more energy will produce the results we seek.

Sometimes the way to save a project that has become difficult is to quit all of the little side projects that are keeping us from putting our full focus and talent on the main priority. Quitting is especially productive when doing so preserves resources for whatever is most important.

Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? By Seth Godin, Portfolio/Penguin, 2010

SUMMARY: The days when having a decent job meant earning a good income but taking no responsibility for decision-making are long since gone. Our society and economy have changed to the point where every individual who wishes to make a difference and prosper must actively create their place in it. Those who identify and work from the talents and unique genius that make them special and valuable will do well, while those who seek merely to function adequately at a job invented by others will fall behind. Godin believes that the creative force, which he refers to as “making art,” truly does exist within all of us and he implores us each to find it and maximize it for the benefit of all. An artist, to Godin, is one who gets things done. The book is an effort to help readers identify and overcome whatever resistance they experience along the way to becoming indispensable. “We need your contribution,” he says.

KEY LEARNINGS:It is now nearly impossible to earn a good living

while following the instructions of others, performing well in a pre-defined role. To truly prosper, we must each find a way to add value to those around us – whether independently as entrepreneurs or as innovative standouts within larger organizations.

Special talents are not rare. We are not all world-class dancers or genius commodity traders, but we all have some passion burning within. That passion is the seed of a unique gift that can be

developed – by anybody with the drive to do it – into a marketable art form. By the time most of us enter our teen years, our belief in our inherent specialness has been drummed out of us at home and especially at school.

A tried and true path to genuine innovation is mastery of traditional knowledge and methods. The reason a Paul McCartney, or a Bill Gates, or a Frank Lloyd Wright can reinvent their field is because they were first experts in the old forms.

Resistance is pervasive, rooted in our neurology and fueled by well-intentioned loved ones all around. Perfectionism is a form of resistance, as

are fear of the unknown, hypersensitivity to criticism, procrastination, and unwillingness to learn new things.

Overcoming internal and cultural resistance is the first step to becoming a linchpin. Next actions include developing one’s unique gifts (or product or value-added proposition), “shipping” it – which means sharing it with others, building a network of supporters, and leading the way into uncharted territory. This can all be done from within an organization or as an independent practitioner.

We must all make a choice in our lives – to fit in, get along and do OK, or to be innovative, standout, and prosper. The second path takes a lot of hard work and emotional energy, but can be hugely rewarding. There is no roadmap, but Godin does outline seven specific abilities those who wish to be linchpins should develop: 1) providing a

unique interface between members of the organization, 2) delivering unique creativity, 3) managing a situation or organization of great complexity, 4) leading customers, 5) inspiring staff, 6) providing deep domain knowledge, and 7) possessing a unique talent.

Cathy Allen is the owner of Creative Option C, LLC, a consulting firm in Marblehead dedicated to helping nonprofit and governmental agencies build organizational capacity. To learn more about how Creative Option C can help your group, call 419-732-1770 or check out www.CreativeOptionC.com. Cathy celebrates her life-long love of books at www.WhatIsCathyReading.com. She invites visitors to download her two-page summaries, comment on her book review blog, like her Facebook pages, or “friend” her on Goodreads.com.

The Well-Booked Business


If you’re suffering from chronic back or neck pain, Cleveland Clinic Spine Surgery at Fisher-Titus can help. This clinical affiliation combines the surgical expertise of spine surgeon Dr. Don Moore and Cleveland Clinic’s best practices and resources. Now you can access the advanced care you need without traveling far from home. At Fisher-Titus Medical Center, we’ve got your back — right in your own backyard.

For more information on spine care at Fisher-Titus, visit fisher-titus.org/spine.

CONNECT WITH US

WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK.

Dr. Don MooreCleveland Clinic Spine Surgeon

Call

419-660-0198to make an

appointment.

34 Executive Dr. Norwalk, Ohio

TERRA STATECOMMUNITY COLLEGEwww.terra.edu


FURNACE • A/C • GEOTHERMAL • WATER HEATERS

800-589-3366

Same great rate; It’s never too late!

No overtime orafter hours charges!

24 HOUREMERGENCY SERVICE

With coupon. Not Valid with otheroffers or discounts. Expires 4-15-14

Bayside Comfort • 800-589-3366

48 MONTHSSAME AS CASH

The Modern Library at the Heart of Huron By Benjamin Reid, Library Director

When spending time at the Huron Public Library, in the heart of Huron’s Old Plat district between Williams and Center Streets, it is difficult to imagine that pundits and futurists are proclaiming the decline of the public library. Libraries across the country, with Huron Public being no exception, are booming, in spite of the seeming ubiquity of the Internet, the rise of eBooks, and the thought that community is an idea from a former generation. In 2013, Huron Public Library had an impressive rate of usage. Local patrons borrowed more eBooks and eAudiobooks than ever before, a 28% increase from 2012. By taking advantage of our 16 public computers and building-wide WiFi network, members logged on for 13.5% more computer sessions than in 2012. 8,097 community members attended library-sponsored programs and classes, for a 7.5% increase from 2012. Even as the Library increased its focus on technology through digital downloading and technology classes, circulation of physical items was up by 10.4% from the previous year. But numbers can be misleading; the truth is clear when observing the vitality of the library and its visitors. Huron Public Library is focused on people and the collaborative library services provided to the residents of the City of Huron, Erie County, and the surrounding areas.

The doom and gloom pundits are not all wrong, some aspects of library services are changing, but we see that as opportunity. Traditional reference services are changing, thus HPL is developing methods to help the community with individual needs, such as Book a Librarian, a service which encourages patrons to make appointments for

individualized reference questions or more in depth technology training. Huron Public Library employs some of Huron’s best tech experts, available to assist with questions or welcome community members to ongoing group technology classes. The way a community interacts with its library is also changing. A digital presence means the library is always open online. You can download a book or magazine or access a specialized database from home on your computer or device.

Some things do not change so quickly. Communities still need physical places to gather, to hold meetings or events, or just to run into old friends. Local organizations often make great use of the facility by reserving our meeting rooms, an important community resource. Despite the popularity of eBooks, people still read books, which are durable, long lasting and efficient containers of information. People continue to learn effectively through hands-on instruction and discussion. Our programs can be traditional, such as book groups or knitting clubs, as well as forward thinking. We hope you will join us for a demonstration of 3-D printers and discussion about the future of manufacturing on August 7th at 7pm.

Modern libraries, with some services that are available 24 hours a day, are generally open more hours than they were historically. Not only is Huron Public Library open 66 hours per week, but the Library is, truly, open for business. Join us for individual or group technology training, discover

our collections or those available through the 44-library CLEVNET system, support the Friends of the Huron Public Library through a sponsorship, or discuss your ideas for community collaborations. We are interested in working with your business to encourage the expansion of our community by supporting the completion of your next goal. Huron Public Library is a key part of the landscape of economic development in the City of Huron. A library like HPL encourages growth, in real property values and in a community’s sense of itself and its culture. If you no longer have your own library card or if a trip to the library is not currently included in your weekly schedule, make a point to visit. There is so much to discover.


By: Steven J. Krisfalusy,Sr. Management & HR Consultant,Beringer Group LLC.

In the not too distant future, this is an option you should consider for your business and employees, especially small businesses. It will also give you access to a labor pool of people who normally you would not have.

Obviously, there are certain jobs/positions that require the person to be on site most of the time. At the same time, many of those jobs/people often have administrative responsibilities that can be done from home such as: Invoicing, ordering parts & materials, production & MRP planning to name a few.

With the weather conditions in NW Ohio, not being able to come into work (Level 3) are becoming more frequent. That does not take into consideration any personal or family issues the employee may face that can require their presence at home. Too often the bad news is that their business responsibilities often “stop” when that occurs. That creates a liability of the business to be reliant on any one person – not a good thing.

What is TeleWorking? Working from home or away from the office is a flexible work arrangement

that enables an employee, to work distantly from the employer’s location all or part of the time. Teleworking is also an option for bad weather days and days that require an adult present in the home for events such as furniture delivery days, furnace cleaning days, and mid-day doctor appointments.

What are some of the challenges to having someone teleWork?

Employee self-discipline: Being able to separate personal from work time while at home is a huge challenge for most. Being distracted or the lack of having a separate area from the normal household are just 2 of the biggest challenges facing the employee, not to mention the owner. A key to success is to allow those people who are independent, need minimal supervision and or are self-starters the opportunities to do so.

Managing a Teleworker: Most employers find this aspect extremely challenging and holding people accountable from an arm’s length is another one of the big challenges. The best way to address this is to address it even before it starts. Setting clear expectations and measureable ways to stay on top of things will alleviate many issues down the road. This is where having clear policies & procedures in place (that everyone follows) are a huge benefit.

Technology: There are two sides to this challenge, the employer’s technology and that of the employee. The employer must have the capabilities

for someone to log into their system in a secure way. There are a variety of ways to accomplish that inexpensively that also allow others/owner to log in from wherever. The next involves the employees’ home computers capabilities but the biggest problem is usually the “broadband” speed. Even if the company has adequate broadband speed to allow seamless communications, that does not mean the employee does or even has access to higher speeds where they live – not to mention the additional costs. Without adequate broadband speed the connection will not only be slow but it will often time out, resulting in attempts to reconnect multiple times. That greatly impacts productivity.

Teleworking is nothing new and many-many large corporations have been taking advantage of this additional employment method for decades. Now the same technology is available and affordable for most. If set up properly from the beginning, it can open up many new options for the business. Raising the importance of the HR or Human Capital side of things early on will pay additional dividends beyond TeleWorking.

The Beringer Group LLC is a diverse team of experts that help the small & mid-range business community for HR & Business Growth issues as part of their legacy. 440-552-6599 www.sjkberinger.com

Human ResourcesTeleWorking Employees

Can I Enroll In Health Insurance Coverage At Any Time?

Q: Can I enroll in health insurance coverage any time I want?

A: No. If you want to buy coverage directly from a health insurance company, the company is required to offer you coverage only during an annual open enrollment period except if you have a “qualifying event” that allows you to enroll outside of the annual open enrollment period. If you have coverage through an employer, you must enroll in your employer’s health plan during your employer’s open enrollment period, although you can enroll at other times of the year if you have a qualifying event.

Qualifying events occur when a person loses coverage for one of the following reasons: the person is covered as a spouse or dependent on an employer plan and the employee passes away; the person is covered by an employer policy and the employee loses coverage because of a reduction in working hours or employment termination (whether voluntarily or involuntary); the person loses coverage because of a divorce; the person becomes entitled to Social Security benefits; a dependent child becomes too old to stay on a

parent’s plan; the person gains citizenship, leaves incarceration, or gains status as an Indian tribe member; the person moves outside his or her current insurer’s coverage area; a change in income or household status affects the person’s eligibility for federal health insurance subsidies or cost-sharing reductions; a person loses coverage because his or her employer goes bankrupt.

Marriage or the birth or adoption of a child can also be qualifying events, allowing you to add a new spouse or child to an existing plan. Also, if you qualify for Medicaid (generally available to individuals and families with incomes of less than 138 percent of the federal poverty limit), you can apply for Medicaid without restrictions at any time of the year.

Q: Do the rules about open enrollment periods and qualifying events apply to coverage under the new Affordable Care Act?

A: Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, insurers are required to offer coverage to anyone who applies only during open enrollment periods, except when a qualifying event requires an insurer to offer coverage outside of an open enrollment period.

Q: When are the open enrollment periods if I

want to buy insurance from an insurance company for me or my family?

A: If you want to buy coverage directly from an insurance company, the 2014 open enrollment period ended on March 31, 2014. The next open enrollment period (for 2015 coverage) will begin on November 15, 2014 and end on February 15, 2015, unless you have a qualifying event before that date.

Q: When are the open enrollment periods if I get coverage from my employer? A: When you are first hired, you may be able to enroll in employer coverage immediately or you may have a waiting period of up to 90 days. If you do not enroll at your first opportunity, you will have to wait until your employer’s next open enrollment period, which occurs once each year, and you may face tax penalties. Your employer will send you a notice before the open enrollment period about when you need to apply. If you miss your employer’s open enrollment period, you will need to wait for next year’s open enrollment, unless you have a qualifying event before that date.

Q: What are my options if I have a qualifying event?

Law You Can Use: Health Insurance Coverage

See CONSUMER, Page 31


Q: What is a health care power of attorney? A: A health care power of attorney (HCPOA) is a legal document authorizing a person you trust (your “agent”) to make health care decisions with or for you in any health care situation (involving, for example, hospitals, nursing homes, dentists, doctors, pharmacists and EMTs).

Q: When can my agent make health care decisions? A: Depending on the option you choose, your agent can make health care decisions with or for you: with you, beginning immediately and at any time for as long as the HCPOA is in effect; for you, beginning immediately, but ending on a specific date (following surgery, for example, or continuing if, on the end date, you cannot make health care decisions for yourself); for you, but only when you cannot make health care decisions for yourself.

Q: What if I want to name a different agent? A: You can execute a new HCPOA, which automatically revokes the earlier document.

Q: Will my agent make choices I would want? A: Your agent must make decisions consistent with your HCPOA instructions, but it is wise to discuss your wishes with your agent.

Q: Can my agent make any and all decisions about my health care treatment? A: No. For example, your agent cannot:order the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment unless two physicians confirm you are in a terminal condition or permanently unconscious state with no reasonable possibility of making decisions; order the withdrawal of artificially or technologically supplied nutrition or hydration unless you are terminally ill or permanently unconscious and two physicians agree that nutrition and hydration will no longer provide comfort or relieve pain; order the withdrawal of health care treatment you have previously consented to, unless the treatment is no longer helpful; order the withdrawal of treatment given for comfort care or to relieve pain; or (if you are pregnant) refuse or withdraw informed consent to health care, if either would end your pregnancy, unless the pregnancy or health care would create a substantial risk to your life or two physicians determine that the fetus would not be born alive.

Q: Can my health care power of attorney agent make end-of-life decisions for me?A: Yes. Many people use a living will to directly dictate their end-of-life instructions, which removes the burden of end-of-life decisions from your health care power of attorney agent. If, however, you choose to have only a health care power of attorney, you are authorizing your agent

to make all health care decisions, including the use or termination of life-support and artificial nutrition and hydration, subject to the restrictions noted above.

Q: Must I choose a family member to be my health care power of attorney agent? A: No. You may appoint any adult you wish, except for your doctor or the administrator of a health care facility in which you are being treated, or any employee of your doctor or a health facility in which you are being treated. Q: Can I use a health care power of attorney to take care of my mother’s finances?A: No. You must use a different (“financial”) power of attorney document to address your mother’s business affairs.

Q: Can I use a health care power of attorney to nominate a guardian for me, my minor children, or my adult disabled children?A: Yes. With a health care power of attorney, you can usually avoid the need for a guardian, but you can nominate a guardian through this document. Your guardian should be someone you trust to handle your person, your estate, or both (and those of your minor or adult disabled children). You may also allow the guardian you name to nominate a successor guardian.

Q: Where can I find a health care power of attorney form? Can I draw up my own? A: The Ohio State Bar Association has developed standard health care power of attorney and living will forms with Midwest Care Alliance, the Ohio State Medical Association, the Ohio Hospital Association and the Ohio Osteopathic Association. For a copy of these forms, visit www.midwestcarealliance.org or ask your physician or attorney. You do not have to use the standard form, but the standard form is widely recognized, and includes the necessary specific language required by Ohio law.

Q: What do I do after I complete my health care power of attorney? A: Make several copies. Keep copies with your

personal papers and in your car, and give copies to your agent, family members, your physician and your lawyer.

This “Law You Can Use” column was provided by the Ohio State Bar Association. It was prepared by Lima attorney Michelle Baumeister. Articles appearing in this column are intended to provide broad, general information about the law. Before applying this information to a specific legal problem, readers are urged to seek advice from an attorney.

Law You Can Use: Health Care Power ofAttorney Names Agent to Make Health Care Decisions


It’s usually not hard to pinpoint the moment when a conversation goes south. Often, that downward spiral begins with a question. Maybe you ask a colleague, “Why did you format the report like this?” Or you ask your spouse, “Are your parents coming to dinner again?” Or you ask a stranger on the bus, “Could you move over?” These questions—and many others—may have seemed innocent when they were coming out of your mouth. But fail to provide context, emphasize the wrong word, or just forget to add “please,” and you’re suddenly in hot water.

Yes, questions can be tricky territory. The colleague in the scenario above gets defensive, the spouse assumes you hate her parents, and the stranger hears, “You’re taking up too much space, fatso!” Communication consultant Geoffrey Tumlin says abrupt questions and the unanticipated responses they trigger are a peril of the times we live in.

“Consider the ease with which we can turn to the Internet to answer virtually any question,” says Tumlin, author of the new book Stop Talking, Start Communicating: Counterintuitive Secrets to Success in Business and in Life (McGraw-Hill, August 2013, ISBN: 978-0-0718130-4-4, $20.00, www.tumlin.com). “It lulls us into thinking that questions are simple and that answers exist to meet our needs.

“Plus, it’s not always easy to divine another person’s intent behind a face-to-face query—and the task is that much harder in the digital age, where we so often lack visual cues and the ability to gather immediate feedback,” he adds. “And the frantic pace of life today just isn’t conducive to thoughtfulness or deliberation, which are two prerequisites of effective questioning.”

Tumlin says questioning is a higher-order communication skill that we haven’t taken seriously for centuries. The days of Socrates masterfully using questions to lead a conversation are long past. Yet even in 2014 we can make an effort to improve our questioning skills—and the first step is to curb our tendency to ask faulty questions.

“In general, faulty questions are those we ask to indulge our personal, ‘I-based’ cravings to get an answer, to hammer home a point, or to satisfy a narrow, personal curiosity,” Tumlin explains. “Whether they’re critical, tactless, unwanted, offensive, embarrassing, intrusive, or loaded, these types of questions are likely to stifle dialogue and can cause relationships to deteriorate.”

Instead, he says, focus on what you can learn from or about another person. This “we-based” perspective, which reflects a broad curiosity about the person or topic you’re discussing, will fuel more meaningful conversations and develop richer relationships.

Here, Tumlin shares seven specific tips to help

you improve your questions:Clarify your intent. The inimitable Yogi Berra

once said, “You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going because you might not get there.” Once you untangle that quote, you’ll have to admit that Yogi was right. It’s especially important to know where you’re going before you ask a question, because opening your mouth thoughtlessly can put distance between you and the other person. Think about what you’re trying to learn, as well as your motives and the possible effects of your question, before you ask it. Remember, I-based questions are often better left unasked.

“The perception of a meaningful underlying intent is vital to effective questioning,” confirms Tumlin. “If you believe you’re asking a good question but still sense uncertainty in your conversational partner, clear it up by saying something like, ‘I’m trying to figure out how we might improve our future client pitches,’ or, ‘I’d like to know more about the way you work so our collaboration can be more effective,’ or, ‘I want to learn how the Smithfield presentation went off track so we can try to win them back.’”

Get and give permission. No one likes to have their personal space invaded. When you’re asking questions, remember that personal space isn’t just physical. It can extend to others’ memories, beliefs, identities, motives, etc. Before entering these territories conversationally, don’t overlook the simple idea of asking permission: “May I ask you a question?”

“You can also tell the other person he doesn’t have to answer,” comments Tumlin. “For instance, you might say, ‘Can I ask you some questions about the Smithfield account? You don’t have to answer them if you don’t want to.’ Giving people a sense of control in the conversation and a choice about answering often helps them feel like the conversational ground is safe for responding.”

Ask open questions whenever possible… If you are trying to gather information and expand your understanding, you’ll want to encourage the other person to talk more, not less. That’s why open questions, which are designed to be answered in paragraphs, not in a few words, are so helpful. They give the other person freedom to respond and help you to avoid unintentionally shutting off helpful information.

“Asking, ‘Did you feel like the Acme presentation went well?’ is structured to produce a yes-or-no response,” explains Tumlin. “Even if the respondent tells you more, the question focuses attention on the success of the past presentation, when what you really need to talk about may be something the presenter heard the client say to a colleague or perhaps a funny feeling the presenter has about the client’s new marketing director. These things might come out in response to a closed question

about the presentation, but the responder would have to make an effort to swim against the tide of the closed question.

“Remember, people are busy, so when we ask questions that can be answered in a few words—when we give them the ability to take a shortcut as opposed to a more extended response—they’ll often take it,” he adds.

Here, according to Tumlin, are some of the most versatile open questions:

• What do you think?• How do you feel about this?• What else should I know?• What questions can I answer?“Additionally, you can readily construct open

questions by using the phrases how did, how was, please describe, please explain, please discuss, and please tell me more,” Tumlin adds. “For example: ‘Please tell me more about your idea.’ ‘How did you feel about that?’ ‘Please discuss the Gatorville account proposal.’ ‘Please explain your conclusion in more detail.’”

…and use closed questions prudently. Despite Tumlin’s warning not to use closed questions too frequently, he admits they can be helpful in the right circumstances. Closed questions (in other words, those that can be answered in a handful of words) are easy to spot because they often start with words like who, when, where, is, or do: “Who can help us get this done?” “When is the project due?” “Where do I get more information?” “Is this the job you want?” “Do you like your boss?”

“Closed questions are useful for simple informational queries (‘When is the meeting?’ ‘Is Sally still our HR contact?’), for limiting the range of potential responses, or for expediting a conversation,” he shares. “But be very careful not to slip into the habit of closing off your questions when you are trying to establish dialogue and encourage conversational participation.”

Be polite. You’ll notice that please occurs frequently in many examples and phrases above. This is pragmatic etiquette. (Yes, your mother was on the right track when she insisted that you use “please” and “thank you.”) Remember the stranger on the bus? When you asked, “Could you move over?” you got an icy glare in response and then suffered through an uncomfortable 20-minute ride. What if instead you said, “I’m sorry, could I please trouble you to move over just a bit? Thank you so much!”

“It’s very simple—so simple, in fact, that you may be tempted to overlook it—but making a point to be polite when asking questions can greatly change the outcome,” says Tumlin. “Adding a please to your questions helps to signal your positive intent, can foster trust, and can reduce reflexive resistance.”

Let people talk. In a

Are Your Questions Sabotaging Your Relationships?

Most people don’t put much thought into the questions they ask—a mistake that can cause relationships to deteriorate and misunderstandings to abound.

Geoffrey Tumlin shares seven tips to help you become a better questioner—and as a result, build better, more productive relationships at work and at home.

See RELATIONSHIPS, Page 28


No Train, no GainIn early April, the 8th Annual Heavy Rescue 101

was held at the Huron County Fairgrounds. This training event was sponsored by the EHOVE Adult Career Center’s Fire Academy and the Northern Ohio Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (F.O.O.L.S.), a Firefighter organization dedicated to the traditions of the Fire Service, and preparing the future of the Fire Service.

The Northern Ohio F.O.O.L.S. attendees were fed, hydrated, and receive the best training all for free due the commitment of this organization. The Huron County Fair Board donated the use of the fairgrounds for this event since 2007. EHOVE Fire Academy provides instructors, equipment, and continuing education credits to attendees.

This was the 8th year of this training event. To date, over 2100 Firefighters and responders have trained at this free training event. This is the only known free training event of this kind. There are other similar events with fees of $350 to $600 per attendee. The objectives of the event are to educate attendees in vehicle extrication, tool use, vehicle identification/hazards, working with tow operators, vehicle stabilization, and more.

“Without the dedication of the many people, organizations, and companies involved, we could not offer this one of a kind training,” said EHOVE Fire Training Coordinator Jamie Starcher.

In the past 8 years, attendees have come from 11 states including Canada and one from the UK. This

year’s event brought responders from Maryland, Texas, Illinois, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Indiana. Responders from 67 Fire Departments were trained.

Industry representatives from rescue equipment manufacturers brought the latest equipment for the attendees to train with. Holmatro Rescue Systems, T-N-T Rescue Equipment, and Hurst Rescue Equipment were on site allowing trainees to use their equipment to learn new skills and perfect old ones.

Instructors from Maryland, Texas, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and EHOVE Fire Academy were on site to train attendees on extrication and rescue. Stations were set up to simulate numerous vehicle accident scenes. This training included: basic vehicle extrication, intermediate vehicle extrication, advanced vehicle extrication, bus extrication and commercial vehicle extrication. The attendees were free to move about the training site and spend as much time at each station as desired. The basic vehicle extrication station was

very popular with 29 cars being used at that station alone.

Milliron Auto Parts from Mansfield, hauled 52 cars (after they removed glass, fuel, oil, and fluids) to the Huron County Fairgrounds for use in the training event. The cars were hauled by tractor trailer six at a time. Milliron hauled 2 loads a day starting on April 1 through April 4. They then hauled the 52 mangled cars back to Mansfield from April 7 through April 9. We were able to load 8 cars for the return trip. This donation of equipment and labor to this training event is an example of the dedication that owner Carl Milliron has made to the Fire Service. Milliron Auto Parts have hauled vehicles for use in this training event for 4 years.

John Miller with Miller Mobile Wrenching

(Norwalk), donated his time and equipment to haul in the commercial vehicles used in the training. R&L Carriers donated a commercial vehicle, Ohio Eastern Express donated a semi tractor and trailer for use also. The Northern Ohio F.O.O.L.S. purchased a bus for use. Miller Mobile Wrenching took care of towing all commercial equipment to the site and also removed the commercial vehicles at the end of the training. Miller Mobile Wrenching has been involved in this event for 8 years.

Rich’s Towing (North Ridgeville) was on site demonstrating their air bag recovery system for use in commercial vehicle stabilization and moving to assist Firefighters with rescue.

Heitche Boys Crushing (Collins), Hanko Construction (Wakeman), Fishbaugh Farms (New London), Dalton Farms (Wakeman), and Cory Case Construction (Norwalk) donated equipment used to load/unload, move vehicles, create some of the most challenging accident scenes, and clean up. These companies have been involved in this event for 8 years.

On April 4, EHOVE conducted a 3 hour training session relating to motor vehicle accidents and rescue. This year’s event was titled “Response Safety”. Sgt. Tony Myers of the Ohio State Highway Patrol lectured on the hazards, legal issues/responsibilities, and incident/roadway safety. Responding to and returning from emergency scenes is the most dangerous function of emergency responders. Firefighters, EMTs, and tow operators learned from Sgt. Myers case studies, actual “struck by” incident investigations, and much more. Jamie Starcher, EHOVE Fire Academy instructor, finished the evening with training and documentation for emergency vehicle operators. There were 135 responders that attended this training from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

To learn more, call 419.385.5721, ext. 6001or visit toledozoo.org/groupsales

GATHERING PLACES in wild spaces! From fun to formal, your Zoo makes group events better. Need a boardroom setting for a small group? Theatre-style seating for many more? A perfect place for a company picnic? No problem.

You can choose wild spaces in our Arctic Encounter®, African Lodge, Indoor Theatre or Nairobi Events Pavilion. And a tasty twist with the Zoo’s award-winning catering and baking staff.

®


Sales

B2B Sales Boost recently had a consulting engagement where the company wanted to increase their competitiveness and profitability. We discussed how we could determine our best options. I suggested that we identify a subset of their employees to talk with. Who to better make suggestions as to how to improve a company’s competitiveness and profitability than the employees working for the company? To the credit of the President of this company he decided to not talk with a subset of his employees but rather to talk with each and every one of his employees. He recognized that they would have the best ideas and observations since they are in the trenches every day. It was a very good decision on his part and represented a significant investment of his employee’s time. However, it also showed that he valued ALL of his employee’s views and opinions.

Some of the feedback from the team was that the majority of the employees were significant contributors. However, there was a perception that some small number of employees were not contributing like they could or should be.

Let me ask you a question. What happens to the morale of a company if the employees feel that some are carrying the cargo and others are not? That some employees must work extra hard or extra hours to cover for the employees that are not doing their job? What happens to the work habits of the good workers if nothing is done regarding discipline of the slackers? Is the throughput/productivity of the entire team negatively impacted even more severely over time? You bet it is!!

WE PUT IN PLACE AN EVALUATION PROCESS WHERE EACH EMPLOYEE WOULD BE EVALUATED ON EVERY JOB BY THE JOB SUPERVISOR. THEY WOULD BE EVALUATED ON A 1-5 RANGE.

1 = Results achieved far exceeded the requirements of the job in all areas2 = Results achieved consistently exceeded the requirements of the job in all key areas3 = Results achieved consistently met the requirements of the job and exceeded the requirements in many areas4 = Results achieved consistently met the requirements of the job Unsatisfactory5 = Results achieved did not meet the requirements of the job Like Golf the lower the score the better the evaluation. If the employee worked for multiple job supervisors they would be evaluated multiple times and the evaluations would be averaged.

The results of these evaluations would have an impact on potential raises (someone rated a “1” would receive a larger raise and in less time than someone rated a “4.”)

Without management doing these evaluations the slackers keep on slacking. Worse, the good workers performance ends up moving in the direction of the slackers since they see there are no negative repercussions for doing so. Therefore, not only are we now holding all of the employees accountable, but we are rewarding the ones that are most contributing to the competitiveness and profitability of the company. Isn’t that the way it should work?

Is your company as competitive as it should be? Which way is your profit margin headed? What are you doing about it?

Roger Bostdorff is the President of B2B Sales Boost, LLC. He spent over 30 years with IBM in sales and sales management. B2B Sales Boost is a consulting company helping organizations improve their sales and overall business processes. You can find more about B2B Sales Boost on the web at www.b2bsalesboost.com or calling 419-351-4347. If you would like to receive the B2B Sales Boost Newsletter please send an email to [email protected]

Accountability

By Roger Bostdorff

RISEing Entrepreneurs – A networking and speaker seriesThe RISEing Entrepreneurs networking and speaker series aims at bringing

together our area’s small business and entrepreneur community to increase innovation and collaboration. It is an opportunity to network, share ideas, and learn from other entrepreneurs. People who may be interested in starting their own business or are curious about what it takes to be an entrepreneur are encouraged to attend.

The RISEing Entrepreneurs networking and speaker series is an initiative of ECEDC’s business incubator, the Regional Incubator for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship (RISE). For the past 3 years, because of our close partnership with Bowling Green State University (BGSU), RISE has been strategically located at BGSU’s Firelands campus. Additionally BGSU continues to provide access to its vast educational resources and faculty to entrepreneurs countywide.

ECEDC’s executive director, Peter Zaehringer, says “we’re excited to partner with our friends at the Erie County Chamber of Commerce. With this partnership, we will be able to provide the best possible solution for Erie County entrepreneurs, before and after they open their new business - after all our RISE Incubator is all about creating successful and sustainable businesses”.

Chamber President John Moldovan stated, “RISE is a great resource for local entrepreneurs, and is a significant contributor to any economic growth that we experience in Erie County and the area. We’re pleased to be part of this effort, and do our part to continue assisting in these businesses’ success, once they’ve become established.”

ABOUT THE ERIE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (ECEDC):

Our vision: Erie County will be an engine of economic growth through a collaborative, regional approach focused on growing the business presence in specific, targeted industries, while ensuring a high quality of life that preserves and respects the region’s history and natural resources, and provides exceptional opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to live and work in our community.

ABOUT THE REGIONAL INCUBATOR FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP (RISE):

Located on the BGSU Firelands campus in the Cedar Point Center, Huron, Ohio - RISE works to grow jobs and spearhead economic development in Erie County by linking business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to regional service providers who have expertise in business start-up, development and acceleration. RISE is a comprehensive resource hub that offers free business development assistance to area business owners and individuals interested in starting new entities, including but not limited to viability analysis, business plan development, environmental analysis, access to capital, sales and marketing support, employee training and development, and supply chain management. Funding for RISE is provided from both private and public partners including the Randolph J. & Estelle M. Dorn Foundation, Frost-Parker Foundation, Wightman-Wieber Charitable Foundation, Erie County Community Foundation, Murray & Murray Charitable Foundation and Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church Foundation.


Legal

This is the second part of an article relating to problems with second marriages and the transfer of assets at death. Here is a partial list of assets and the potential problems when titling is not updated.

NO WRITTEN AGREEMENT.Most couples made a handshake and a kiss and promised to see that the

other’s children would get everything that belongs to them. They are probably telling the truth but they have no idea of the results that can occur without planning. The following is a partial list of the titling of assets and the adverse results without proper planning.

JOINT AND SURVIVORSHIP ACCOUNT, TRANSFER ON DEATH ACCOUNTS.The titling of accounts is crucial to proper planning. These accounts will go

as set forth on the signature card. Many times an account created for the convenience of the spouse or the child will be transferred automatically to the other surviving spouse or child of the deceased. Large accounts can end in the wrong hands with the check of the box on the signature card.

LIFE INSURANCE.It is imperative to know who the named beneficiary is. If not updated upon

the death of the primary beneficiary, the wrong person may receive the funds. Live insurance is a great planning tool but neglect as to who is the proper primary and contingent beneficiary can have bad consequences.

IRA, 401K’S AND OTHER LIKE ACCOUNTS.These accounts all have designated beneficiaries. Many individuals forget to

update or make an informed decision as to who is second in line if the first designated beneficiary should predecease the owner. This type of account is also a great tool in planning but one must know who will inherit.

REAL ESTATE.Improper titling of real estate can have disastrous consequences. People

think their real estate is titled one way only to find out it not. Remember that a property titled as joint and survivorship will go to the survivor. It does no good to place who is to get the real estate in your will if you have already titled it as joint and survivorship, On the other hand, real estate passing under a will to the children can be subject to the probate statutory rights of the new surviving spouse and the children may be forced to buy back their parent’s property.

MOTOR VEHICLES.A simple asset such as an automobile can go to the wrong person. A man

had a 1929 Ford that was supposed to go to his son. He didn’t provide for that in writing. At his death, the surviving spouse is allowed by law two motor vehicles automatically. Of course the son of the second wife convinced his mother that her husband must have wanted her to have the antique car and she elected to take title to the car as provided by law. She has since passed away and the car looks great in HER son’s garage. If dad had titled that car in his name,” transfer on death” to his son, it would be in his son’s garage today.

THE PROBLEM.Placing names on accounts can avoid probate but the account can go to the

wrong person. Careful planning should be done to insure that the right beneficiaries are in place upon the second to die. A review upon the first death should be completed to insure the desired result.

Jeff Roth is a partner with David Bacon and associate Jessica Moon of the firm ROTH and BACON with offices in Port Clinton, Upper Sandusky, Marion, Ohio and Fort Myers, Florida. All members of the firm are licensed in Ohio and Florida. Mr. Roth’s practice is limited to wealth strategy planning and elder law in both states. Nothing in this article is intended for, nor should be relied upon as individual legal advice. The purpose of this article is to provide information to the public on concepts of law as they pertain to estate and business planning. Jeff Roth can be reached at [email protected] (telephone: 419-732-9994) copyright Jeffrey P. Roth 2014.

SECOND MARRIAGESPart Two By Jeff Roth

Mercy Tiffin Hospital Receives Laboratory Accreditation Mercy Tiffin Hospital’s Laboratory Department has been awarded

accreditation by the Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on the results of a recent onsite inspection.The laboratory’s manager, Pam Kin, was advised of this national

recognition and congratulated for the excellence of the services being provided. Mercy Tiffin is one of more than 7,000 CAP-accredited laboratories worldwide.The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early

1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.During the CAP accreditation process, inspectors examine the

laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff

qualifications, as well as the laboratory’s equipment, facilities, safety program and record, in addition to the overall management of the laboratory. This stringent inspection program is designed to specifically ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients.As the leading organization for board-certified pathologists, the

College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. With more than 18,000 physician members, the CAP has led as the gold standard in laboratory accreditation for more than 50 years with more than 7,600 CAP-accredited laboratories in 50 countries. Find more information about the CAP at cap.org. Follow CAP on Twitter at @pathologists.

For more news and articles go to www.ncbj.net


2013 Chamber and Main Street Award Recipients AnnouncedThe Port Clinton Area Chamber presented five awards at

their Annual Dinner in front of a record crowd of over 180 who came out to honor businesses and individuals in the community.

The 2013 Lighthouse Award, which recognizes a business who has made an outstanding contribution in their field, was presented to Common Grounds. Liberty Aviation Museum and P.O.R.T.S. were also nominated.

Three nominees were selected for the 2013 Outstanding New Business Award including the Cakery’s Bakery, Ciao Bella, and JT’s Catawba Cafe. Ciao Bella was presented the award.

The 2013 Beautification Award, which recognizes a business that has significantly contributed to the aesthetic enhancement of the Greater Port Clinton community at their place of business, was presented to Portage Resale Center. Bays Edge and the Friends of the Ida Rupp Public Library were also nominated.

The 2013 Citizen of the Year was Devin Michael Kohlman. This award recognizes an individual who through her hard work and achievements have contributed to the citizens and/or well being of the business community of Ottawa County. Other nominees included Diane Belden, Reggie Langford, and Paul Shaw.

The nominees for the 2013 Business of the Year were the Baumann Auto Group, Erie-Ottawa International Airport, and Magruder Hospital. This is the most prestigious award given which recognizes the overall contribution of the business to the Chamber, the community, and the business environment of the Port Clinton Area including Ottawa County. The 2013 Business of the Year was presented to the Erie-Ottawa International Airport.

Each year, Main Street Port Clinton recognizes a business and a volunteer that have made a positive impact in our historic downtown. The award winners are striving to promote, preserve, and improve downtown historic

Port Clinton as a vibrant center for businesses, entertainment and cultural activities for residents of the community and visitors to the area. The 2013 Main Street Port Clinton Business of the Year is Slater’s Madison Street Pub. John Madison was recognized as the 2013 Main Street Port Clinton Volunteer of the Year.

Mosser Construction, Inc. and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 3 have been awarded the Don Conaway Partnering Award for their exceptional partnering achievements on the Erie County Venice Road Railroad Overpass Project in Sandusky, Ohio. The award is an ODOT statewide partnering award and recipients are recognized at the annual Don Conaway Conference in Columbus.

The $8.4 Million Erie County Venice Road Railroad Overpass Project is a rail/highway grade separation of US 6/SR 101 over the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks. A mile and a half of new roadway alignment was built, an at-grade crossing was closed, and portions of city streets were rebuilt and improved.

The project also had to meet other award criteria such as Subcontractor Involvement in the Partnering Process; Safety Record of the Project; Challenges Encountered and Means to Overcome; Mitigation Efforts to Reduce the Risk of Claims; Project Completion on Time and Within Budget; Value Engineering Change Proposals; and Demonstration of Partnering Values.

The Don Conaway Partnering Award selection process is conducted by the ODOT OCA (Ohio Contractors Association) Partnering Steering Committee, comprised of ODOT Central and District Offices, OCA, and contractor members. The Erie County Venice Road Railroad Overpass project has also been submitted for the International Partnering Institute Award which will be awarded later this spring.

Mosser Construction, Inc., and ODOT District 3 Win Don Conaway Partnering Award

The Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner on Thursday, April 10. A record crowd of over 180 people gathered at the Catawba Island Club for a delicious meal, to learn about the accomplishments over the past year, and celebrate Chamber members during the Awards Program.

During the Chamber’s annual meeting, Lee Vivod with Huntington Bank and John Coppeler with Flynn Py & Kruse LPA were elected to serve a second 3-year term on the Board. Todd Almendinger with Magruder Hospital and Lance Woodworth with the Jet Express were elected to serve their first full-term on the Board. Vice-President of Main Street Port Clinton Aimee Slater-West with Slater’s Madison Street Pub will serve on the Board representing Main Street.

The other current members on the Chamber’s Board are as follows: Tom Ervin, Skipper Bud’s; Doug Focht, Focht Construction; Shannon Hopkins, Mr. Ed’s & Dock’s Beach House; Chuck Miller, Baumann Auto Group; William Moore, Erie Shoreline Properties; Ottawa County Commissioner Jim Sass; Christie Sewell, Civilian Marksmanship Program; and Jeff Wingate with Rock Ledge Inn.

Chamber Officers elected for the 2014/2015 are: Christie Sewell with Civilian Marksmanship Program, Chairman; Lee Vivod with Huntington, Past Chairman; William Moore with Erie Shoreline Properties, Vice-Chairman; and John Coppeler with Flynn Py & Kruse LPA as Treasurer.


On The MoveShoemaker Joins Sandusky County Chamber

The Chamber welcomed Christina Shoemaker, as its Operations Coordinator! Shoemaker is from Fremont, Ohio and attended Terra Community College where she majored in Accounting and Management. She spent the last 15 years working at BAS Broadcasting and the former WFRO-FM 99.1/WOHF-AM 900 Wolfe Radio Company. She is married to Paul Shoemaker, has 4 children and 7 grandchildren.

Sprouse Insurance Earns Grange Senior Partner DesignationSprouse Insurance has earned the Senior Partner designation from

Grange Insurance, placing the agency in an elite group. This honor recognizes Grange’s independent agent partners for their excellent partnership and performance. Sprouse Insurance has been a Grange partner for 40+ years. Less than

300 of Grange’s 3,600 agencies have earned Senior Partner status in 2013, making Sprouse Insurance among the top 12 percent of all Grange agents.

Leading the Port Clinton Chamber in 2014!

world filled with constant chatter—both spoken and digital—silence is a rarity, and it often makes us uncomfortable. When there’s a pause in conversation, your first impulse may be to jump into the breach and fill it with whatever words first come to mind. But especially when you’re asking important questions, do your best to tame that impulse and hold your tongue.

“People require some space to absorb information, formulate their responses, and deliver them effectively,” shares Tumlin. “So sit back and let your good questions work their magic. Don’t

sabotage your questions by being afraid of silence. A pause following a good question usually signals contemplation, not consternation. If you jump in too quickly, you shortchange the process.”

Use nudges liberally. Nudges are stand-alone phrases like tell me more, I see, and go on, which are often used following an open question to maintain the smooth flow of information.

“Nudges are a simple but effective way to keep a line of inquiry active,” comments Tumlin. “They’re also a good way to let the speaker know that you are paying attention. People will almost always be

willing to share more if they believe that you are receptive and interested.”

“Without a doubt, learning to ask better questions will improve your relationships at work and at home,” concludes Tumlin. “You’ll avoid some conflicts and you’ll insert less confusion and anxiety into your conversations. Better questioning skills will reduce resistance to your queries and will help you establish more productive and meaningful dialogue.”

RELATIONSHIPS, from Page 22


EHOVE Board President Wins Award

Paul R. Lockwood II, a board member of North Point Educational Service Center and Board President of EHOVE Career Center, was presented with the Ohio School Boards Association’s Award of Achievement at a regional spring conference on March 26. The Award of Achievement is given to school board members in recognition of their commitment to training and leadership activities on their boards of education and region and statewide OSBA activities.

In its 59th year, OSBA leads the way to educational excellence by serving Ohio’s public school board members and the diverse districts they represent through superior service, unwavering advocacy and creative solutions. For more information, contact OSBA or your local school board members.

On The MoveFirelands Resident Wins Scientific Paper Competition

Roxanne B. Rogers, DO, Family Medicine Resident with Firelands Regional Medical Center’s Medical Education Program was recently honored for her submission “Burning Mouth Syndrome” to the Ohio State Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (Ohio ACOFP)/CORE FM-RPAC paper competition.

Originally from Fenton, Michigan, Dr. Rogers is in her third year as a Family Medicine Resident at Firelands Regional Medical Center. Dr. Rogers completed her undergraduate education in neuroscience at Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Colorado and received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, West Virginia.

Boucher Joins as Branch Manager of FNB Bellevue Office


Mercy Tiffin Honors Donors The Mercy Tiffin Foundation honored

donors for their generosity to the hospital and Foundation recently at the annual Donor Appreciation Celebration.

“It was a pleasure for us to have the opportunity to recognize those whose contributions are so important to our hospital,” said Lynn Detterman, Mercy rural division president & CEO. “Donated funds are more important than ever today and we are fortunate to have generous and caring donors who value quality healthcare in Tiffin and Seneca County.”

Bernie Steinmetz, Manager of Development, Donor Relations, and Volunteers, served as

MC for the event and welcomed guests. Rich Traunero, vice chair of the Mercy Tiffin Foundation Board of Trustees, thanked those in attendance on behalf of the Board.

Lynn and Bernie presented Dale Thornton with the 2014 Mother Mary Bernardine McMullen Leadership Award. This award was established in the spirit of Mother Mary Bernardine McMullen who demonstrated admirable leadership skills with the establishment of Mercy Tiffin Hospital in 1913. AT RIGHT: Donor Appreciation from left to right: Lynn Detterman, Dale Thornton and Bernie Steinmetz

Didelot Named Distinguished Teacher at BGSU FirelandsBowling Green State University Firelands College

honored one of its best at the 45th Annual Recognition Program held Friday, April 25, in the Cedar Point Center. Julie Didelot, Castalia, a sociology lecturer at BGSU Firelands, was honored as the 2014 Distinguished Teacher.

The award is one of the highest honors the college can bestow as the recipients of the Distinguished Teacher Award are nominated by students and selected by a committee of their peers.

Didelot has been employed at BGSU Firelands

since 2007, starting as an instructor and promoted to lecturer in 2012. Her courses include Deviance and Social Control, Social Problems, Social Science Inquiry of Gender, Introduction to Women's Studies, and others. She also taught at Terra State Community College from 1999 through 2007.

Didelot earned a master's degree in college student personnel and a bachelor's degree in sociology from BGSU. She also holds a graduate certificate in women studies and is currently completing a doctoral degree in sociology from BGSU.

On The Move

Fran Boucher has 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. She will assume the daily management of the branch retail staff for the Bellevue location. Throughout her career, she has experience as a Teller, Loan Processor (Commercial/Consumer), Consumer Loan Officer and Branch Manager. Boucher lives in Norwalk with her husband.

Cate Knipp wins ProMedica’sMary Miller Hayes Leadership Award

Cate Knipp is the 2014 recipient of the ProMedica Memorial Hospital Mary Miller Hayes Leadership Award. Knipp is the executive director of the Sandusky County Communities Foundation.

Knipp has held many leadership roles in Sandusky County. Currently, Knipp is the executive director for the Sandusky County Communities Foundation. She has also served on the Chamber of Commerce of Sandusky County – where she led the team that developed the Northcoast Business Expo. Knipp was honored by the chamber as their first Clark Ambassador Award recipient.

Through the years, Knipp has committed herself to some of Sandusky County’s most important institutions. She currently serves on the development committee for the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center; she is chair of the ProMedica Memorial Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, and has served as leader to various other committees while serving the foundation.

A longtime resident of Sandusky County, Knipp was born and raised on her family’s Iowa farm. Later, she moved to Fremont and eventually settled in Lindsay with her husband Daryl, where they reside at the Knipp family farm. Knipp has two daughters, Mickenzie and Megan, and five grandchildren.


Business Advisory Services u Business Valuation ServicesLitigation & Accounting Fraud Support u Tax Return Preparation

Account & Financial Reporting u Bookkeeping and Payroll

Payne Nickles & CompanyPNcertified public accountants & business advisors

Let us know how we can help your business. Visit our website at pncpa.biz or call one of our two convenient locations.

Norwalk: 419-668-2552 Sandusky: 419-625-4942

Call Ted Kastor

(419) 465-4611

CONSTRUCTIONQUESTIONS OR NEEDS?

employee owned

e s t a b l i s h e d 1 9 6 2

FFCUbcNCBJ0111.pdf 1/25/11 3:02:31 PM

FFCUbcNCBJ20111.indd 1 1/28/11 11:37:24 AM

Membership Eligibility Required Federally Insured by NCUA

Christopher D. palmerBranch Manager/Sales

Lawyers Title Insurance Corporation402 Columbus Avenue | Sandusky, Ohio 44870

phone: 419-626-4475 fax: 419-626-8333toll free: 800-442-7767 mobile: 419-656-1209

email: [email protected]: www.palmerltic.com

Derek SprouseCertified Insurance Counselor, Commercial & Farm Specialist

SprouseAgency.comCell: 419-680-2082

The Leader in Roofing Serviceswww.JBRoofingCo.com • [email protected]

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS1480 South CR 594, P.O. Box 520 • Tiffin, OH 44883

419.447.1716 • 800.472.0969BRANCH OFFICE

8185 W Green Meadows Drive N,Lewis Center, OH 43035

Training · Facilitation · Consulting · Coaching

Board Governance · Leadership Team Building Staff Engagement · Strategic Planning

Cathie Leimbach President

8888 Bank St., Vermilion

440.967.9679 [email protected]

Business Communications ServicesVoice, Data, and Video Systems

Stephen Euton - GM North Central Ohio 29 West Main Streeet Norwalk, Ohio 44857e [email protected] 419.663.8088

www.Frontier.com

A: You can enroll in your employer’s coverage, if available, you can buy coverage directly from an insurance company, or you may be able to convert the insurance coverage you are losing into an individual policy you can keep. Q: If a qualifying event occurs, can I wait as along as I want to enroll in coverage?A: No. After a qualifying event, you must enroll in employer coverage within 30 days or get individual coverage within 60 days. If you fail to do so the special opportunity to enroll ends, and you may have to wait until the next open enrollment period. Q: If I have questions, where can I go?

A: Ask your employer’s human resource staff, an insurance company or an insurance agent to get more information. You can also visit the Ohio Department of Insurance website at www.insurance.ohio.gov or call its consumer hotline at 800-686-1526.

This “Law You Can Use” column was provided by the Ohio State Bar Association. It was prepared by Douglas L. Anderson, an attorney in the Columbus office of Bailey Cavalieri LLC. Articles appearing in this column are intended to provide broad, general information about the law. Before applying this information to a specific legal problem, readers are urged to seek advice from an attorney.

CONSUMER, from Page 21

For more news and articles go to www.ncbj.net


At the Memorial Hospital Pain Management Center, our experienced care team is committed to treating our patients with the empathy and respect that they deserve. Improving the lives of individuals with chronic pain is our #1 priority.

� Neck, back and joint pain� Work related injury� Pain and headaches from whiplash� Persistent pain after surgery

� Muscle spasm pain� Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (also known as RSD)� Arthritis pain� Nerve damage pain

� Chronic pelvic pain, including Interstitial Cystitis� Shingles pain� Fibromyalgia� and much more.

at the Memorial HospitalPain Management Center

NO PAINIS YOUR

Choose Memorial Hospital totreat and manage your chronicpain related conditions.

GAIN

We diagnose and treat:

419.332.7321 � memorialhcs.org715 S. Taft Avenue � Fremont, Ohio

Every patient. Every day. Every encounter.

north coast business journal | may 2014

Documents