Team 11                                       Team 11         
 
OFFICIAL 2009 SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS

Farmer & YoakamJOBsolutions   F&Y
Brian WesburyBrian Wesbury to Present  "Inflation, Deleveraging, and Recession" at Commercial Savings Bank Outlook

Commercial Savings Bank, in partnership with GreaterFindlayInc., is proud to announce that one of the nation's top 10 forecasters, Brian S. Wesbury, chief economist, First Trust Advisors L.P. will serve as the keynote speaker for this year's economic outlook luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, February 24 at the Findlay Country Club.

The internationally known economist will focus on the troublesome issues facing today's economy in "Inflation, Deleveraging, and Recession". The unemployment rate is rising, the auto and housing markets are in shambles.  The government is bailing out banks, printing money with abandon and handing out billions in stimulus checks.  But is the economy as bad as people think?  Is a government rescue going to work?  How long and deep will the recession be?  Should we fear inflation or deflation?  What about excess debt versus de-leveraging? 
 
More than one hundred business and civic leaders will be in attendance as Wesbury address these questions and more in what should prove to be an entertaining and informative event. 

RSVP to GreaterFindlayInc. at rsvp@greaterfindlayinc.com or 419-422-3313. Click here for more information.
Cost of Living Decreases In City of Findlay
 
Despite current economic conditions, living in the City of Findlay has become more affordable over the course of a year. According to the American Chamber of Commerce Research Association (ACCRA) 2008 Cost of Living Index, goods and services provided to Findlay residents in 2008 were less expensive than in 2007. The 2008 annual average composite index of 94.4 is down 1.1 percent from the 2007 annual average composite index of 95.5.

In comparison to its neighbor, Lima, Ohio, Findlay's cost of living is 2.6 percent lower than Lima's 97.0 composite index.

In a national comparison, the City of Findlay's composite index for grocery items were 106.2; housing 77.1; utilities 98.7; transportation 101.2; healthcare 97.7; and 101.1 for miscellaneous goods and services.

The Index is based on the six preceding components. The un-weighted average of data presented represents average prices submitted for the first three quarters of 2008. Prices covering almost 60 different items are collected quarterly by chambers of commerce, economic development organizations or university applied economic centers in each participating urban area.

For more information on the ACCRA Cost of Living Index, click here or contact GreaterFindlayInc. at 419-422-3313 or e-mail info@greaterfindlayinc.com.
Findlay Downtown Area Association Workshop

The Findlay Downtown Area Association (FDAA) will be hosting a FREE workshop on the Main Street Ohio Program, presented by Joyce Barrett, 7:30-9:30 a.m., Wednesday March 4 at the Findlay Inn & Conference Center. 
 
The workshop will provide insight on the Main Street approach, a comprehensive and balanced process to revitalizing and enhancing downtown areas.  Attendees will learn how this program, if adopted here in Findlay, could lead to meaningful and long-term change for the businesses located in the heart of our community.  
 
All attendees must RSVP to Ed Hartman at ehartman@findlaydowntown.com prior to Friday, February 27, 2009. 

For more information, contact Char Johannigman, FDAA Board President at 419-422-3412 ext. 26 or at director@artspartnership.com.   

 
The FDAA is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting growth and vitality in Downtown Findlay. 
Team 11
 
Get Noticed and Get Results with Jeff Beals

Author, Self Marketing Power: Branding Yourself as a Business of One, March 20, 2009

In order to get ahead, land a big client, or make a difference in the community, professionals need to establish and exploit their "personal brands." Today's marketplace is crowded and noisy, making it difficult to stand out. That's why Jeff Beals, a real estate executive, radio talk-show host, part-time college professor and newspaper columnist, has prepared an enlightening and entertaining presentation designed to give you the secrets of effective self marketing.

On Friday, March 20, learn how to:

· Promote your brand to your personal target audience
· Become a "celebrity" inside your sphere of interest
· Get better results from your networking efforts
· Harness the media to promote your brand
· Develop an expertise and become a sought-after speaker and source for news stories

Based on his book, Self Marketing Power: Branding Yourself as a Business of One, Jeff Beals' presentation is based on research, observation of highly successful professionals, and his own diverse career experience. Get noticed and get results. Learn how you can promote your brand and bring value to your organization.

When: Friday, March 20, 2009
Time: 8:30 - 10 a.m. Doors open at 8 a.m.
Where: Owens Community College Community Education and Wellness Center,  3200 Bright Road, Findlay

Cost: $29 for members; $35 for non-members.
Register: rsvp@greaterfindlayinc.com or 419-422-3313.
               Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance.


Look for your invitation in the mail. For more information visit www.greaterfindlayinc.com.
Employment Law Series with Bill Beach,Bill Beach Robison, Curphey & O'Connell

Beginning in March, GreaterFindlayInc. will present an Employment Law Series, educating small-to-mid size business professionals on current legislation impacting their business and their community. The series will be facilitated by Bill Beach of Robison, Curphey & O'Connell, specializing in employment law, labor, litigation and workers' compensation.
 
The following programs will be held at the Findlay
Inn & Conference Center. Cost is $15 members / $20 non-members. Dates and times are coming soon. Look for your invitation in the mail!

COMING SOON!

Current Issues for Employers With Less Than 15 Employees
1.  New Hiring Mandates
2.  Employment at Will Update
3.  How to Reduce Employee Related Risk
4.  Terminations and Lay Offs
 
Current Issues for Employers With 15 or More Employees

1.  New Hiring Mandates
2.  How to Reduce Employee Related Risk
3.  Terminations and Lay Offs

4.  ADA (ADAAA) and FMLA
 

Unemployment and Workers' Compensation Overview for All Employers
1.  Unemployment Law BasicsRCO
2.  Unemployment Strategies
3.  Workers' Compensation Law Basics
4.  Workers' Compensation Strategies
 
RSVP at rsvp@greaterfindlayinc.com or 419-422-3313. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance. For more information visit www.greaterfindlayinc.com.
Whole Hog Sausage Pre Sale Forms Available

The Agri-Business Committee will hold their annual Whole-Hog Sausage Fundraising sale on Saturday, April 4 during the 2009 Leisure Living Home Show at The Cube. Proceeds from the breakfast and sausage sale are earmarked for student scholarship awards to continue supporting the future of agriculture.

Pre sale order forms are available at the GreaterFindlayInc. office and at www.greaterfindlayinc.com. For more information or to learn how you can support the Agri-Business committee, please contact GreaterFindlayInc. at 419-422-3313.
Applications Now Available for 2009-10 Hancock Youth Leadership Session

 Applications are now being accepted for the Hancock Youth Leadership class of 2009-2010, with sessions beginning in August.  Hancock Youth Leadership is open to all sophomores in Hancock County and Findlay City schools who have a 3.0 or higher GPA.  Applications are currently available from Hancock County guidance counselors.  Applications should be submitted to the applicant's high school guidance counselor by April 1, 2009.

Hancock Youth Leadership is an affiliated program of GreaterFindlayInc., sponsored by the Hancock Leadership Alumni Association.  The Hancock Youth Leadership Program is an investment in the future of Findlay and Hancock County.  Its purpose is to enhance knowledge and develop leadership skills in a select group of high school students, motivating them to
become positive role models, active and committed to their civic responsibilities. 

HL Students will attend seven monthly sessions, beginning with an overnight retreat at Camp Glen in August, and a weekend service activity in December.  Session topics include agriculture, local government, diversity, business and economic development, justice and law, arts and media, public safety, health and human services, and volunteerism. 

For more information, call HYL Facilitator Angela Crist at (419) 422-3313 or visit the HYL website at www.greaterfindlayinc.com/memberinvolvement.

B2B

When: February 19, 2009
Time: Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Event starts promptly at 8:30 a.m.
Where: The Rocking U,
318 W. Main Cross St., Findlay
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members
Check and cash payment will be accepted at the door.

At this fast-paced networking event you will have the opportunity to meet up to 20 business professionals, one-on-one, in 5 minute increments. Business 2 Business Networking gives you the opportunity to make new business contacts, pass on helpful referrals and increase your company's exposure in the Greater Findlay region.

Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance; substitutions allowed. To register, call 419-422-3313 or email rsvp@greaterfindlayinc.com.

Save The Date: March 26 @ Blanchard Valley Industries
                         April 23 @ Country Inn & Suites
                         May 21 @ Northwest Physical Therapy

For more information or to host a Business 2 Business Networking event, contact Diana Musgrave at 419-422-3313 ext. 118 or at dmusgrave@greaterfindlayinc.com.
Feb. 18, 2009
Wesbury to Speak at Commercial Savings Bank Economic Outlook
Local Cost of Living Decreases
FDAA Workshop
Self Marketing Power Program
Employment Law Series
Whole Hog Sausage Sale
HYL Applications Available
Business 2 Business
Community Events
GFI Calendar of Events
Member Press Releases
Thank You To Our
E-News Sponsors















Flag City Online


 











workspace Concepts
















Pry Professional Group


















Guru India


















Friends Office

















Insight Advertising

















Winebrenner


Community Events

Carnival UF musical
February 18-22
Grimm Theatre, University of Findlay

Young Leaders Lunch Series
February 19, 11:45 a.m.
Findlay Elks Lodge

Sunset Hike
February 19, 6 p.m.
Oakwoods Nature Preserve

Urinetown The Musical
February 19-22, 26-28
March 1, 5-7
Fort Findlay Playhouse

The Toledo Symphony Orchestra
February 20, 8 p.m.
Winebrenner Theological Seminary

Country Rock Singer Natalie Stovall
February 21, 8 p.m.
Winebrenner Theological Seminary

Beads and Bowling: Wii Open Bowling
February 26, 6-9 p.m.
The Rocking U

Community Breakfast
February 27, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Primrose Retirement Communities

GRRROWL Junior Hockey
February 28, 4 p.m.
The Cube

Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone
February 28, 8 p.m.
Central Auditorium

GRRROWL Junior Hockey
March 1, 11 a.m.
The Cube

Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center
Saturdays & Sundays
January 3-February 28
16618 TR 208, Findlay

Boat Show
March 13-15
Findlay Village Mall

Ongoing Weekend Happenings

Open Mic Night
Fridays, 8-10 p.m.
Coffee Amici

Live Entertainment
Saturdays 8-10 p.m.
Coffee Amici

Wine Tastings
Fridays, 5-7 p.m.
The Wine Merchant

Beer Tastings
Saturdays 5-7p.m.
The Wine Merchant

Visit Findlay





www.visitfindlay.com

GreaterFindlayInc. Events

Business 2 Business Networking
February 19, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
The Rocking U, 318 W. Main Cross St., Findlay

Hancock Leadership Fundraiser
All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast

February 21, 8-10 a.m.
Max & ErmasFindlay Living Logo

Ribbon Cutting-Fins Seafood & Grille
Grand Opening
February 23, 5 p.m.
1801 Broad Avenue

Commercial Savings Bank Economic Outlook
with Brian Wesbury

"Inflation, Deleveraging and Recession"
February 24, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Findlay Country Club

Fresh Brewed Business
Team 11
March 3, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
Findlay Country Club

Findlay Downtown Area Association Workshop
March 4, 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Findlay Inn & Conference Center

Hancock County Safety Council
Violation of Specific Safety Rule (VSSR)
March 5, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Owens Community College

Farmers Share Breakfast
March 19
The Brugeman Lodge at Riverbend

Self Marketing Power
Branding Yourself as a Business of One
March 20, 8:30-10 a.m.
Owens Community College Wellness Center

Visit www.greaterfindlayinc.com/events for more information!

*To host a Business to Business networking event or a Ribbon Cutting, contact GreaterFindlayInc. at 419-422-3313.

**Nominate someone for the 2009 Small Business Awards: info@greaterfindlayinc.com
Member Press Releases
50% OFF HISTORIC HANCOCK COUNTY BOOKS
GreaterFindlayInc.'s Historic Hancock County books are on sale now! The illustrated history book provides a detailed look at Hancock County's history, dating back to 1812.  Purchase this piece of history for just $17.48, 50% off the original cover price! Place your order while supplies last at 419-422-3313.

GFI NEWS AND EVENT LISTINGS NOW AVAILABLE AT FINDLAYLIVING.COM
In addition to GFI's E-briefings and website, GreaterFindlayInc. news and events, including ribbon cuttings, can also be found at www.findlayliving.com under Business>GFI News. Also, be sure to look for GreaterFindlayInc.'s feature spread in each monthly publication of Findlay Living Magazine.

UF ECONOMIC SUMMIT PRESENTATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE
More than 250 business professionals attended The University of Findlay's Economic Summit today, Feb. 6, as well as several hundred UF students and some area high school students.
 
Click here to view a complete list of panelists and session topics. All sessions are available online for viewing.
 
The Economic Summit featured national experts who discussed factors leading to the current economic conditions.  Panelists pointed to the deregulation of mortgage financial markets in 1999 that allowed banks to loan money to people and companies that weren't good credit risks. Easy credit terms resulted in runaway spending by both companies and individuals and, eventually, to the collapse of all asset categories. Panelists predicted that the economy is expected to bottom out by the fourth quarter of 2009, and it may be as late as 2014 before things are "back to normal."
 
In addition, a session addressed the impact of the economic crisis on today's students in terms of financing education and finding jobs after graduation. Concluding the day was a discussion of the economic impact on the local business sector. Area business experts said credit is available, and the spirit of entrepreneurship and community partnerships are helping the Findlay community to remain strong. 
 
UNITED WAY YOUNG LEADERS SOCIETY EVENTS-FEB 19 & FEB. 26
The United Way Young Leaders Society Lunch Series will be held Thursday, February 19, 11:45 a.m. -1:00 p.m. at Findlay Elks Lodge.
           
Brian Haehl of Pry Professional Group will provide a financial planning overview, specifically addressing the needs and concerns of the "20 and 30-something" investor.  Brian will present up-to-date advice for today's markets. Main Street Deli will provide boxed lunches at $7 per person. 
 
To Register call the United Way office at 419-423-1432 or email youngleaders@uwhancock.org. Seating available on a first-come, first-seated basis.
 
Young Leaders Society also presents Beads and Bowling: Wii Open Bowling on Thursday, February 26, 6-9 p.m. at the Rocking U.
           
Mardi Gras doesn't have to end on Tuesday! Beads and Bowling will feature an evening of virtual bowling and buffet.  The newly remodeled west side of the Rocking U has been reserved for YLS. This "just-for-fun" networking event will start at 6 p.m.  A good-will donation jar will help cover expenses. Drinks will be available for purchase.  Questions, contact: youngleaders@uwhancock.org.
 
UF PRESENTS "THE INS AND OUTS OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP: TWO VIEWS FROM THE MALLETT FAMILY"-FEB. 19  
The University of Findlay's College of Business will host a community lecture at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, in Winebrenner Theological Seminary. "The Ins and Outs of Entrepreneurship: Two Views From the Mallett Family" will be presented by Michael Mallett, UF alumnus and president and CEO of Corporate Research International (CRI), and his father, Jerry Mallett, Ed.D., founder and curator of the Mazza Museum and professor of education at UF.
           
Michael Mallett has more than 15 years of experience in the market research industry and more than 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur. In both 2005 and 2006, CRI was named to Inc. 500's list of fastest growing private companies. CRI has annual revenues of more than $10 million and employs 194 people in Findlay.
           
Jerry Mallett has been instrumental at the University since 1968 when he joined the community as an assistant professor. He exercised entrepreneurship within an organization by founding the Mazza Museum more than 25 years ago and has seen it grow from four original pieces of art to more than 3,500 original artworks. Mallett also oversaw the nearly 10,000-square-foot addition to the museum that was completed in 2007. Mallett also is author or co-author of 54 books, of which approximately half are for children while the remainder are professional books for teachers and librarians.
 
For more information, visit www.findlay.edu or call 1-800-472-9502.
 
HPD SCHEDULES SUNSET HIKE AT OAKWOODS NATURE PRESERVE-FEB. 19
If you are tired of being stuck indoors, bring the family out for a brisk hike through the woods on Thursday, February 19. Enjoy the fresh air and twilight during this invigorating hike for your health led by Hancock Park District staff person, Stacie Roby. Interested individuals should meet at 6 p.m. in the parking lot at Oakwoods Nature Preserve.
 
For more information about this and other upcoming programs, view the HPD Seasonal Guide at www.HancockParks.com or call the HPD office at 419-425-PARK (7275) and "Discover Your Hancock Parks".
 
TOLEDO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCE AT UF TO FEATURE WORLD-CLASS PIANIST AND CONDUCTOR-FEB. 20
The Toledo Symphony Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, in Winebrenner Theological Seminary as part of The University of Findlay's Concert and Lecture Series. The performance, made possible in part by National Lime and Stone Co., will conclude the series for the academic year.
           
Stefan Sanderling will conduct the concert, which includes Piano Concerto No. 26 in D Major, "Coronation," by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Symphony No. 103 in E-flat Major, "Drumroll," by Franz Joseph Haydn.
 
Tickets are available from the UF Box Office; call 419-434-5335. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for senior citizens, $15 for UF faculty and staff and $10 for non-UF students. UF students may receive one free ticket with a valid UF I.D.
 
FINDLAY RECREATION DEPARTMENT HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL RECREATION SUMMIT-FEB. 24
The Findlay Recreation Department will be hosting the 3rd Annual Recreation Summit, 5:30-9 p.m. February 24, 2009 at Comfort Suites, 3700 Speedway Dr.
 
The summit was introduced in 2006 as an annual event to bring together all recreational partners as a meet and greet, to review the previous year's happenings and to communicate new policies, issues, successes, and field and facility usage in the Findlay Recreation community.
 
This year's Summit, planned in cooperation with Comfort Suites will include dinner, door prizes, year in review, sportsmanship awards, park & recreation rules and regulations, "Partner Perks" and more.
 
RSVP by Feb. 18 to 419-424-7176 or nflugga@ci.findlay.oh.us.
 
UF TO HOST PANEL DISCUSSION ON ALTERNATIVE ENERGY-FEB. 26
The University of Findlay will host a panel discussion on alternative energy at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, in Ritz Auditorium, located in Old Main. This event is free and open to the public.
           
The discussion will focus on the use of wind, solar and alternative energy as a means to lower our green house gases emissions and increase our planet's ability to become sustainable.
           
Panelists will include Don Sherer of Green Energy Ohio, Dale Arnold, director of energy services for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, and Mike Koralewski of First Solar Inc.
           
This is the second event is a series of events on issues of global environmental sustainability. For more information visit www.findlay.edu.
 
PRIMROSE COMMITS TO YEAR LONG FUNDRAISING EFFORTS TO BENEFIT FAMILY CENTER AGENCIES
Benefit breakfast held Feb. 27
Primrose Retirement Communities has committed to a year of fundraising to benefit The Family Center. Each month in 2009, Primrose will host a "Community Breakfast" with all proceeds going directly to the agencies of The Family Center.
 
Breakfast will be $5, collected at the door.  February's breakfast theme will be "Not Your Average Pancake Breakfast", which will include three different types of pancakes with various toppings, sausage, coffee and punch.  All proceeds will be donated by Primrose to The Family Center which supports 17 non- profit agencies. The breakfast will take place Friday, February 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
 
"It is our hopes to raise $10,000 by the end of the year, $5 at a time," said Shelly De Vreese, Primrose Retirement Communities Marketing Manager. "The idea is the power of one.  With tough economic times we must band together as a community and help those in need." 
 
Primrose Retirement Communities is Findlay's premier retirement community located at 8580 Township Road 237. For further information contact Shelly De Vreese at 419-422-6200 or Linda Lotz at 419-423-0286.
 
SAVE 15% AT CAR SPECIALTIES
Car Specialties, Ltd. offers professional auto paint, repairs and restorations including bumper repairs, panel repairs, scratches, chips, customer finishes, complete detailing and much more.
 
Visit www.carspecialites.us to view their picture gallery. Stop in, get a FREE quote and mention this offer to receive 15% off when you schedule your car, truck or motorcycle. Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
 
Car Specialties, Ltd. is located 410 E. Sandusky Street, Findlay. Call 419-423-2447 for more information.
 
5TH ANNUAL LUPUS GALA AND AUCTION-FEB. 27
The 5th Annual Lupus Gala and Auction will be held Friday, February 27 at the Findlay Inn & Conference Center. Door open at 6:30 p.m. Reservation Only.
 
Findlay Lupus Educational and Support Group Meeting will be held Tuesday, March 10 in the Marathon Room (SW corner of BV hospital pavilion entrance) at 6:30 p.m. Jim Steffen will motivate you by presenting a mental , spiritual and physical exercise program. This program is FREE and open to the public.
 
For more information or to RSVP call the Lupus Foundation office at 419-423-9313 or visit website www.lupusnwoh.org.
 
OWENS OFFERS COURSE ON ESSENTIALS OF LEADERSHIP
Owens Community College presents The Essentials of Leadership Course. This 16 hour program provides the essential communication skills to address key challenges of leadership: motivating employees, resolving conflicts, leading change and building trust within your span of control.
 
Course Schedule
March 19 Essentials of Leadership
March 26 Resolving Conflict
April 2   Leading Change
April 9   Building an Environment of Trust
 
Courses will be held from 8 a.m. to noon each day. Cost is $129 per course. Registration is due by March 15. For more information or to register, contact Peter Palko at 567-429-3155 or peter-palko@owens.edu.
 
MILLSTREAM AREA CREDIT UNION PRESENTS FINANCIAL WORKSHOPS
Millstream Area Credit Union presents the following 2009 Financial Workshops:
 
March 26- Shop for a Mortgage, Buy a Home
April 30- Buy a Car and Don't Be Taken
May 28- Financial Budgeting for Consumers
June 25- How to Build and Repair Credit
July 30- Identity Theft and Fraud Protection
September 24- Trust, Will, Estate Planning
 
All events will be held at the Findlay Inn & Conference Center from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information or to register, contact Katie Oler at koler@millstreamcu.com, 419-422-5626 ext. 106.        
 
CAMP FIRE USA ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE KID DAY-FEB. 27
It is that time of year again!  Camp Fire USA is looking for nominations for absolutely incredible kids who are middle school students in Hancock County.  This year the nominations can be submitted online.  Please go to www.campfireusa-nwohio.com and click on the link to nominate an absolutely incredible kid.  Nominations are due by Friday, February 27, 2009.  Winners will be presented an award at Camp Fire USA's annual "On Behalf of Youth" Award Luncheon on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at the Findlay Country Club. 
 
OWENS OFFERS AUTOMATION MAINTENANCE CLASSES
Owens Community College and TechKnowLogix LLC are pleased to announce a series of automation maintenance classes designed for maintenance people of all backgrounds and crafts to better understand and repair the newest equipment in their facilities.
 
Hydraulic Training (CEU 2.0) is a 20 hour course is designed for the maintenance person who trouble-shoots hydraulic problems on a variety of machines. Topics include schematics and symbols, pumps, pressure control, control valves, filters and contamination, troubleshooting techniques and more.
 
The classes will be held March 16 - 20, 2009. Two time sessions are available: 8 a.m.-noon or 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Classes will be held at Owens Community College, 3200 Bright Road, Findlay. Cost is $849.00/person.
 
To register, contact Peter Palko at 567-429-3155 or peter-palko@owens.edu.
 
EMPLOYERS' ASSOCIATION PRESENTS EMPLOYMENT LAW CONFERENCE-APRIL 2
The Employers' Association presents the Employment Law Conference, April 2, 2009 at the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons, Perrysburg, OH. The conference will feature a resource partner showcase, three sessions of presentations, lunch and a raffle drawing.
 
Session topics include: Developments in Labor Law; Civil Rights, Discrimination and New Protected Characteristics; The ADAA - The New Disabilities Law; The Federal Healthy Families Act; Retaliation in the Workplace; Job Descriptions - Developing, Implementing & Using; Strategies for Addressing Layoffs, Closings and Reductions in Force; Confidentiality, Trade Secrets and Other Restrictive Contracts; The Employee Free Choice Act; The FMLA - New Laws, New Regulations and New Forms; Workers' Compensation; Electronic Privacy and Related Issues in the Workplace.
 
Space is limited and registration is required to (419) 885-8505. Registration is $185 for early bird members (received by 3/19/09), $205 for regular EA Member and $275 for non-members. For more information contact Dave Tippet at dtippett@employersassociation.com or visit www.employersassociation.com.
 
BROWN LAUNCHES ECONOMIC RECOVERY WEB PAGE
Following Friday's passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) launched a web page to provide Ohioans with a digital platform to learn about the economic recovery package and its impact on Ohio. To access Brown's web page, please click here.
 
Brown's web page allows Ohioans to learn about the economic recovery package and find information about stimulus funding at both the federal, state, and local levels.
 
Brown's economic recovery page will be updated regularly to reflect funding information as it becomes available.
 
Brown announced the following statement in response to the passage of the recovery legislation:
 
"This bill accomplishes what we set out to do-rebuild our economy and put Americans back to work," said Brown. "This isn't a perfect bill but it is a significant jumpstart that our economy needs. It includes investments in Ohio's infrastructure which will provide immediate job creation and promote long-term economic development. It also provides relief to middle class families by lowering taxes and making college more affordable. This bill is the first of many steps we will take to rebuild our economy and address the housing crisis."
 
For full text of Brown's statement, please click here.
 
VOICES FOR CHILDREN ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES
Voices for Children, previously known as CASA/GAL of Hancock County, is accepting applicants for Court Appointed Special Advocate training for April. Anyone interested in applying should schedule to attend a training orientation on one of the following dates: Thursday, March 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, March 18 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; Tuesday, April 7 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; Wednesday, April 15 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
 
Court Appointed Special Advocates are ordinary people doing extraordinary work for abused, neglected, and/or dependent children. Volunteers research a child's circumstances by talking with people who know the child's history, reviews appropriate records, determines relevant facts in the case, and reports this information to the court to ensure the best interest of the child. Volunteers also monitor cases, making sure services are provided, court orders are carried out, and the court is informed of any new developments.
 
Although the final decision on a case always rests with the judge or magistrate, volunteers make recommendations and serve as independent, objective "Voices for Children".
 
For more information or to schedule for orientation, please call (419) 424-3262.
 
HERCULES TIRE CO. APPOINTS BILL TRIMARCO AS CEO
Hercules Tire Company, a leading marketer and distributor of private label and branded tires and a portfolio company of FdG Associates, announced today the appointment of William Trimarco as Chief Executive Officer effective March 2. Trimarco, an experienced executive with a strong distribution background, replaces Lawrence Seawell who resigned from Hercules recently to pursue other opportunities.

Trimarco joins Hercules from Larson-Juhl, a Berkshire-Hathaway company.  Bill played an integral role in building Larson-Juhl into the world's leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of picture frame moldings and has most recently served as President of International Operations.  He spent 27 years helping to grow Larson-Juhl from a single location to the global leader in its category with more than 60 locations in 17 countries.

For more information about Hercules, please visit www.herculestire.com.
 
HPD ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2009 SEASONAL AND PART-TIME POSITIONS
The Hancock Park District is looking for seasonal and part-time employees. All interested applicants must apply at JobSolutions located at 7746 CR 140, Suite B, Findlay, Ohio.  Seven (7) seasonal employees are needed in the parks this summer, and one (1) Service Ranger is being recruited for permanent, part-time position. Preference will be given to Findlay and Hancock County applicants, and those seeking careers in parks and recreation.
 
Job descriptions and applications are available on-line at www.HancockParks.com. See "What's New" or "Join Us" Job Opportunities sections and view or download job descriptions and employment applications.
 
HANCOCK COUNTY SUPPORT / ADVOCACY SERVICES SCHEDULE-FEBRUARY 2009
Support for L.I.F.E. (Love. Inspiration. Friendship. Encouragement)-Thursday, February 19, 3-4 p.m. at Focus On Friends.  Call Pastor Jim Williams w/ questions at 419-694-4435
 
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)-Every Monday, 4-5:30 p.m. at Century Health Annex (1908 N. Main St.) Hancock County's "NAMI Connections" peer support group.  Open to any individual diagnosed w/ a mental illness.  Call Gina Lewis (419-429-1423) w/ questions.
 
Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA)-Every Monday, 3-4 p.m. at The Family Center (1800 N. Blanchard Street), ROOM 111. A 12 step group for individuals and their loved ones living with both a mental health and substance abuse issue.  Call Don Illif (425-5050) or Deb T.(422-3711) w/ questions.
 
Develop your Advanced Directive for Mental Health Treatment-2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 1-2p.m. at Focus On Friends (509 Trenton Ave.) With Wanda Baughman and Jim Martin, trained facilitators.  Call Wanda at Focus On Friends(419-423-5071) w/ questions to sign up.
 
Celebrate Recovery worship & open share-2nd and 4th Weds, 7-9 p.m. at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church; Benton Ridge. A biblically based 12 step support group aimed at helping people on their recovery journey w/ their hurts, habits, & hang-ups.  Call 419-859-2000 w/ questions.
 
Reformers Unanimous-Every Friday, 7-9 p.m. at Cornerstone Baptist Church (8630 CR 140). A faith-based addictions program for people living with any addiction / habit.  Open to the public.  Call Mike Kissell (419-427-1400) w/ questions.
 
DBSA Support Group- Tuesday, February 24, 7p.m. at First Presbyterian Church (ROOM 209).  Open to those diagnosed with Depression or Bipolar Disorder, their friends, family members, or supportive others.  No pre-registration required. Call Becky (419-422-9381) w/ questions.
 
Persons Affected by a Loved one's Suicide (PALS) support group- Thursday, February 26, 7 p.m. at Blanchard Valley Hospital, 2nd floor Ruse Bldg. above the emergency room. This support group is free and open to anyone dealing with grief following a suicide.  Members of the group are also available for outreach to persons not yet ready to attend group.  For more information, call Nancy Stephani at Century Health,  419-422-3711.
 
Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Group- Friday, February 27, 11 a.m.at Birchaven Retirement Village (Wenner Conference Room), Findlay. Contact facilitators Jane Sherrick (419-425-3259) or Mike Thompson (419-425-3233) with questions.  Also, contact Marty Williman (419-425-5409) for information about support groups in surrounding areas.
 
Look for daily schedule of 12 - Step meetings (AA, NA, Al-Anon) in The Courier.  Meetings designated as "open" are open to the public.  Also, check out http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/findlayohioaa/ or call the AA hotline for Hancock & Wyandot counties: AA District 17: 888-683-9768.
 
Questions about the above or other Support and Advocacy Services, call Gary Bright, Director of Support and Advocacy Services at Century Health (419-425-5050 off. Or 419-889-8367 cell).  Email Gary at  gbright@centuryhealth.net  to be added to this email list and get the schedule electronically each month.
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