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Fayette County Ohio

Oct 20
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10.20.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates
Good afternoon.
Below are a few bullet points from Gov. Mike DeWine’s update today:
  • The Governor recently asked the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to approve a second dividend for both public and private businesses. This request was approved and beginning on Friday, October 23rd, checks totaling over 1.3 billion dollars will be mailed to Ohio businesses. Please be on the lookout for a non-descript envelope from Ohio BWC. Many of the first-round dividend checks have yet to be cashed. These dividends are NOT sent via direct deposit.
  • Governor DeWine announced the state is working on additional programs that will utilize the CARES Act funding to help those struggling with bills and for our struggling small businesses. We anxiously await those announcements, promised at the end of this week.
  • The new Long Term Care Community dashboard will be going live on the coronavirus.ohio.gov. webpage shortly. This will allow friends and loved ones to see if a specific facility has new or updated rules regarding visitation.

171 individuals were tested yesterday in the Pop-Up testing event held at the Fayette County Fairgrounds. Our next testing opportunity will be held Monday, October 26th from 10am – 2pm at the fairgrounds. This testing is free and open to the public.

As you will see in the graphic above, Fayette County is currently ranked the fourth highest county for active coronavirus cases. Please continue to do your part to take care of yourself and each other.
Stay safe and enjoy your Tuesday evening.
Julie
Oct 19
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OSU South Centers IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

By News
October 19, 2020
Members and Friends,
Please read below for an important announcement from our OSU South Centers:
Financial Planning Course Available to Ohio Businesses
Starting and running a business is a challenge, and more than half fail in the first four years. The economic volatility of recent COVID-19 disruption has amplified confusion, anxiety, and fear.
A six-session virtual course in financial management can give participants the tools and confidence needed to manage their businesses by the numbers. The program is called Profit Mastery, and it provides independent business owners financial perspective and tools to take advantage of opportunities and deal with challenges.
Participants will attend six virtual sessions, beginning Oct. 29 and also will have access to the Profit Mastery online video curriculum. Any business that has been open at least one year and is interested in exploring new opportunities to increase profitability and manage cash flow during the coronavirus pandemic should attend.
The cost for the course normally is $895, but the Ohio Small Business Development Centers have worked with Profit Mastery so that 400 Ohio businesses will be able to participate at no cost.
To register and for more information, please CLICK HERE.
As always, please call the office if you have any questions. This is a great opportunity and one I hope you will utilize, should you have a need.
Make it a great Monday,
Julie Bolender
Oct 13
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10.13.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates
Good afternoon.
If you follow our social media, you’ve seen the ‘shop local’ reminder posted today. Many of the large retailers are beginning the holiday shopping season today with deals and bargains.
NOW MORE THAN EVER, our local retailers and service providers need your business! NOW MORE THAN EVER, marketing your business online is imperative!
BUSINESS OWNERS – would you take a moment and share our post on your business page? It is up to all of us to promote local and help raise awareness of the great things available right here in Fayette County! Share our post and add a quick blurb about one of your specials or gift ideas!
Today, the Governor announced Fayette County is second in the state for active cases of the coronavirus. Many families are very ill; many businesses are struggling to maintain healthy staff. It is important to do all we can do to stop the spread. If at any time you need COVID-procedure signage for your business, please call. I will print them out and deliver, or I can send signs in electronic format for you to print. It is important that we post reminders around our workplaces and shops.
The risk level guidelines for the public can be found here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/static/OPHASM/COVID-19-Risk-Level-Guidelines-GP.pdf

Newly Updated Forgiveness Application

The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, released a simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $50,000 or less. This action streamlines the PPP forgiveness process to provide financial and administrative relief to America’s smallest businesses while also ensuring sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

Get the details by clicking this link.

Secretary of State Frank LaRose visits Walmart DC #7012

Walmart has partnered with the Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose’s office to distribute necessary PPE to Ohio’s county boards of elections as they prepare to administer the upcoming election. 800,000 masks, 27,000 gowns, and 29,000 face shields were donated/purchased by Governor DeWine to help keep voters and poll workers safe.
Distributions were coordinated from Walmart’s Washington Courthouse Distribution Center.
“Businesses across Ohio have stepped up to make sure voters and election officials have the PPE they need to be ready this election day – and this is no exception. I appreciate Walmart’s work to help ensure voting will be safe in Ohio!” said LaRose.
“We build a better community when we all participate in our federal, state and local elections. Walmart encourages associates and customers to participate in the election process by helping to provide the tools and information they need to vote,” said Adam Becker, General Manager of the Walmart Distribution Facility in Washington C.H. “We are honored to help protect the health and safety of poll workers and voters throughout the state.”
Secretary LaRose previously issued the Ohio Voting Safety Plan to Ohio’s 88 county boards of elections, setting forth safety requirements for early and Election Day voting, as well as recommendations for voters, to run a safe and healthy election this fall. Other companies have donated masks and hand sanitizer this past month, with Ohio Department of Health distributing the sanitizer to the county boards.

 

Oct 09
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10.06.2020 Update

By News

New business, new member, grant opportunities and today’s top Chamber news!

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of meeting with representatives of Fayette County‘s newest business, DIS-TRAN Steel. We are excited about the industry and careers they pledge to bring to Fayette County. Below is a press release from DIS-TRAN. I ask that you share the information regarding their upcoming career fair and expansion to Fayette County. Please also visit our Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and share the career fair post!
One of the country’s leading steel pole manufacturers is expanding operations and opening a new steel plant in Washington Court House. DIS-TRAN Steel, a Louisiana-based company, will move into an existing facility at 1629 Old US 35 SE, according to an announcement from the company, and will produce tapered tubular steel poles for the electric utility industry.
The expansion provides the space and manpower needed for DIS-TRAN Steel to better serve its customers in the Ohio Valley, Northeast and Upper Midwest parts of the United States, according to the release. Over the next five years, DIS-TRAN Steel plans to hire 200 new employees in Washington C.H. to provide high performance products for its customers unique and ever-changing needs.
“We’ve monitored the market for a long time. There is a strong demand for steel to maintain and expand the electrical grid and Ohio is strategically the best location for DIS-TRAN Steel to grow, not just our products and services, but also our team,” said Donnie Roberts, PE, president of DIS-TRAN Steel.
The facility will give DIS-TRAN Steel an additional 58,000 square feet of space on a 25-acre lot.
Jarrod Gemar, VP of business operations for DIS-TRAN Steel, said the company will reach full production capability within the first few months of 2021.
“This expansion is intended to build the foundation for the future of our company, and we see this growth as vital to supporting our customers in the development of America’s utility infrastructure. We chose Washington Court House because we thought that this community best shared our values and culture, as well as, provided the skilled workforce necessary to support our growth plans. We look forward to working together with local businesses and officials to provide significant opportunities for local workers and set the stage for future growth.” says Gemar.
DIS-TRAN Steel officials said they excited about the expansion and the potential it brings to the community and surrounding areas.
“The Fayette County Commissioners are grateful to DIS-TRAN Steel for the large investment and quality new jobs this project brings. Working with the City of Washington Court House, we are pleased to support such an important project and welcome the business to our community,” said Dan Dean, chairman of Fayette County Board of Commissioners.
The company is looking to hire 40-50 immediate new team members and will host a Job Fair Oct. 20 and 21. Candidates interested in registering for the Job Fair can do so at https://web.distran.com/job-fair-registration

County Commissioners announce CARES Act Grant Program

The Fayette County Commissioners recently announced a small business grant program, funded by the CARES Act, for county-based businesses. If you are a business owner with 25 or fewer employees, and suffered loss due to the pandemic, please fill out the application and return to the County Commissioners office or the Chamber of Commerce office. Each grant award is worth up to $10,000.00 and questions regarding the application can be directed to the Commissioner’s office or by calling the chamber at 740.335.0761. Click the green button below to access the application.

County CARES Act Grant Application

Oct 08
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10.08.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates, News
Good afternoon.
Earlier today, we learned Fayette County is transitioning from an orange level to a red level under the Public Health Advisory System.
What does this mean for your business?
Our community?
Business and school continue. It is important that you take a moment to take inventory of your procedures. Are employees wearing masks, provided adequate time to wash and sanitize their hands, and are they provided appropriate time at home if they are sick? Are you sanitizing on a regular basis or in between customers? I have lists of recommended procedures for various industries and am happy to share, should you have a need.
If at any time you need COVID-procedure signage for your business, please call. I will print them out and deliver, or I can send them in electronic format for you to print. It is important that we post reminders around our workplaces and shops. Old habits die hard, and we are still not used to masks!
Here are the indicators as provided by Governor DeWine’s office:
▪ New cases per capita (290.9 cases per 100,000 residents)
▪ Sustained increase in new cases (.7 average cases on 9/21 to by 7.3 by 10/5)
▪ Proportion of cases not in a congregate setting
▪ Sustained increase in outpatient visits (1.1 average visits on 10/1 to 2.4 on 10/6)
The risk level guidelines for the public can be found here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/static/OPHASM/COVID-19-Risk-Level-Guidelines-GP.pdf
A statement from Fayette County Public Health with helpful information can be found by clicking this link.
Oct 04
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10.02.2020 Update- CARES Act Grant Program

By COVID-19 Local Updates, News

National Manufacturing Day

Happy National Manufacturing Day! The mission of Manufacturing Day is to promote modern manufacturing practices and jumpstart new approaches to growing the manufacturing talent pool. Over the next decade, there are expected to be 3.5 million job openings in manufacturing, with a growing skill shortage.
The main priorities of Manufacturing Day as listed by the Manufacturing Institute are:
  • Change the perception of careers in manufacturing to reflect its true status as the most advanced, high-tech industry in the country.
  • Re-establish the U.S. as the global leader of manufacturing education.
  • Advocate for education and job training policies that strengthen the U.S. manufacturing workforce.
The ultimate goal is to help manufacturers build a steady pipeline of qualified and diversified manufacturing talent to help build and support local economies for decades to come.
Our Fayette County Economic Development Director Godwin Apaliyah and City of Washington Economic Development Director Chelsie Baker have provided opportunities for high school students to tour various manufacturing companies around Fayette County in years past. Unfortunately, with our current pandemic, that has not been a possibility this year. Regardless, we celebrate our manufacturing companies and the strength and growth they bring to our county.

County Commissioners announce CARES Act Grant Program

The Fayette County Commissioners recently announced a small business grant program, funded by the CARES Act, for county-based businesses. If you are a business owner with 25 or fewer employees, ordered to close and suffered loss due to the pandemic, please fill out the application and return to the County Commissioners office or the Chamber of Commerce office. Each grant is worth up to $10,000.00 and questions regarding the application can be directed to the Commissioner’s office. Click the green button below to access the application.

County CARES Act Grant Application
Sep 24
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09.24.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates
In today’s update from the Governor’s office, we learned of new guidelines for several sectors. At 12:01 a.m. today, the revised ‘Dine Safe Order’ became effective. This revision permits restaurants to resume the use of their self-service food stations. The order can be read in its entirety HERE.
Additionally, the Department of Aging announced today that indoor visitations would begin in residential care facilities. All visits must be scheduled in advance and will be in a designated visitation area. Two visitors are permitted per resident per visit, and visits will last for 30 minutes to allow more residents to have visitors. This change will begin on October 12, 2020 and further information can be found at www.coronavirus.ohio.gov. We are reminded to contact the care facility we wish to visit for their specific rules and regulations.
Lt. Governor Husted announced that athletic teams will now be permitted to participate in more than one competition per day. This allows for teams to resume double-header events.
During this National Small Business Week, I would love to promote YOU! There is still time to contact me if you wish to feature your business on our Chamber of Commerce Facebook page! Let’s tout the great things you are doing for your staff and community! Please email your submissions to julie@fayettecountyohio.com or give me a call at 740.335.0761. Please DO NOT reply directly to this email.
Again, please use this Small Business Week as a reminder to support those who support our community. When you find yourself in need of a good or service, please SHOP LOCAL, DINE LOCAL, THINK LOCAL!
Make it a great evening, Fayette County!
Julie
Sep 22
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Recovery, Adaptation & Innovation | Small Business Week

By News No Comments

Recovery, Adaptation & Innovation

While it looks different than celebrations of the past, this week is National Small Business Week. Unfortunately, we are unable to celebrate together, but rest assured we are celebrating your resiliency and success. If your business is a member of the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce and you would like me to feature your story on our Facebook page, please contact me! I would love to share why you opened your business, your favorite part of your workday, or why you feel Fayette County is the best fit for you. Email your submissions to julie@fayettecountyohio.com or give me a call at 740.335.0761. Please DO NOT reply directly to this email.
At our fingertips is a valuable resource, free to all small business owners. Melissa Carter, Business Specialist with the OSU South Centers Small Business Development Center is available to assist you. As you may remember, Melissa speaks at many of our educational events and is also available to you on a one-on-one basis. Join Melissa this Thursday, September 24th for a free Zoom webinar aimed at preparing your business for the upcoming Holiday season. The event is free to attend but you must register. Details can be found by following THIS LINK.
As you will remember, I shared information from the City of Washington Court House regarding their CARES Act Grant program for small businesses. I am pleased to announce the Fayette County Commissioners will also be providing grants to those businesses who qualify and are located outside the City of Washington Court House. Details regarding their program will be announced next week and forwarded to you as they are available.
Director of Economic Development Chelsie Baker reminds business owners that these grants are up to $10,000 each and are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications can be picked up at the City Building during regular business hours or downloaded at the link provided below. Additionally, Chelsie is available to answer questions by calling 740.636.2340 or via email at cbaker@cityofwch.com.
Please use this National Small Business Week as a reminder to support those who support our community. When you find yourself in need of a good or service, please SHOP LOCAL, DINE LOCAL, THINK LOCAL. Together we will continue to rebuild and revitalize.
Make it a great evening, Fayette County!
Julie
Sep 16
Love0

09.15.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates, News No Comments
September 15, 2020
Good afternoon!
I am pleased to pass along information from the City of Washington Court House regarding a small business grant program for those located within the City of Washington Court House.
“This program has been provided to allow the City of Washington C.H. to assist small businesses throughout the City, with the financial hardship imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to help pay the costs of business interruption required by closures and/or costs suffered to meet guidelines put forth by the Ohio Department of Health in reopening, due to the pandemic. This grant is made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). Assistance is in the form of a grant.”
Director of Economic Development Chelsie Baker reminds business owners that these grants are up to $10,000 each and are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications can be picked up at the City Building during regular business hours or downloaded at the link provided below. Additionally, Chelsie is available to answer questions by calling 740.636.2340 or via email at cbaker@cityofwch.com.
Make it a great evening, Fayette County!
Julie
Aug 28
Love0

08.27.2020 Update

By COVID-19 Local Updates, News No Comments
August 27, 2020
Good afternoon!
The Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation announce the Diversity & Inclusion Technology Internship Program that reimburses eligible companies for two-thirds of a intern’s wages, up to $10,000. The program has been expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow for remote-work internships.
This program is open to tech companies and any company with a technology-related need. This is an opportunity to help build your company’s talent pipeline for the future while also filling your current staffing needs at a low cost.
Company applications remain open through September 8, 2020.
For more information and to apply, visit this website today.
As a reminder, enrollment in TechCred ends Monday, August 31st. This is a great opportunity to upskill your employees and position your company for growth.
To support Ohio businesses and workers’ changing needs during this period of economic recovery, the following changes have been made to the TechCred program:
  • To make TechCred more flexible for upskilling new hires, employers are no longer required to list employee names when applying for TechCred. Instead, they will identify the number of current or prospective employees they will upskill.
  • To account for possible staffing changes, employers who were awarded in the October 2019, January 2020, and March 2020 rounds of TechCred may now substitute employees listed in their original application.
  • Employers awarded in October 2019 and January 2020, who had credential programs interrupted by the crisis, may request to extend their 18-month award eligibility timeline.
  • Employees can now earn multiple credentials during each application period.
Further information can be found here or by calling our office.
HFC Safety Council Meetings return Wednesday, September 2nd
A friendly reminder that our FY21 HFC Safety Council year starts next Wednesday, September 2nd, with a few familiarities and a few changes!
What’s the same:
  • Quality, educational presentations on important and relevant topics
  • Networking with fellow tri-county businesses
  • Regional BWC representative connections and support
  • Fun meeting incentives – we’ll be giving away two $50 local gift cards to participants each meeting!
  • Typical meeting schedule (first Wednesday of the month from 12PM – 1PM)
What’s new:
  • All of the meetings in FY21 (September 2020 – June 2021) will be 100% virtual using the Zoom platform
  • There will be no BWC rebate for performance or participation
  • No meeting credit, CEO attendance, or semi-annual reports requirements (silver lining!?)
  • No need to pay for lunches (those with credits from last year’s pre-paid option will be contacted) – think of this as an incentive to invite as many people as you would like, at no cost!
Like many other things this year, we know that this is new and different, but we look forward to bringing you quality programming throughout the year and hope that you still choose to join us each month! If you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of the managing Chamber directors or email info@hfcsafetycouncil.com
COVID-19: Surviving a Pandemic
Wednesday, September 2nd, 2020
Time: 12PM – 1PM
Location: Zoom!
All HFC meetings are free and open to all, but registration is required
Access: Upon registration, you will receive access to the virtual meeting
This presentation focuses on the mental health aspects associated with COVID-19 to include increased fear and anxiety that could be occurring associated with the trauma and change that we face daily. This presentation will go over in part, stress reactions, how to handle them, and how to prevent them. The objective of the presentation is to understand the mental health aspects associated with COVID-19 and give the audience tools to help them minimize the impact.
Speaker: Kristen Dickerson; Statewide Manager for Health, Wellness, and Special Programs for Ohio BWC
Kristen has worked in both the private and public sector at all levels of the government and within hospitals. She has obtained a bachelor’s in microbiology, with an MPH, and PhD in Epidemiology as well as being a registered nurse and certified lab technician. In addition to working with biowarfare in the army and serving in the Public Health Service, she has been a regional infectious disease epidemiologist, infection preventionist, quality improvement coordinator for the prison system in Ohio, and a program administrator for population health programs in addition to being a visiting professor and subject matter expert for Chamberlain School of Nursing.
UPCOMING HFC MEETINGS (stay tuned for more details!):
October 7th: Eye Safety with Dr. Ballard, Hillsboro Family Vision
November 4th: “Modernizing Your Safety Training” with VING
December 2nd: “Crisis Management for Business Leaders” with Hennes Communications
Make it a great evening, Fayette County!
Julie