​In 2013, Rodney Wrocklage was on the search for quality screen printed apparel for his business. Unable to find exactly what he was looking for, due to either quality or accessibility issues – he took matters into his own hands. After a small investment and some trial and error, Rodney started doing his own screen printing. Soon, he was selling more screen printed t-shirts than the products he originally embarked on this adventure for. This was the creation of Hi-Point Graphics. A couple years later in 2015, Rodney’s future wife Andrea joined the business and he says “things only went up from there!” Hi-Point Graphics became the first printer locally to offer an online ordering platform. Soon after, they purchased their first automated press and continued to bring in supporting processes to increase in-house offerings. Hi-Point Graphics members received a Graphics Pro 2021 professional certification and recently received a People’s Choice Award for Screen Printing at a Spring Expo.

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, small businesses face a number of challenges. From limited resources to fierce competition, the challenge to stand out in a crowded industry can seem nearly impossible. However, there is a powerful tool that is often overlooked, but is essential to overcoming roadblocks and achieving success, networking. Although it is no secret that there are countless benefits to having a strong network, until you realize the power it has for your small business, why devote time out of your busy schedule to it?

Wearing the many hats of a small business owner can often feel lonely. However, having a network of like-minded entrepreneurs who understand the journey and can offer support and encouragement can alleviate the feeling of isolation and providing a sense of community.

Networking allows small business owners to learn from others in the industry who have faced similar challenges and overcame them. It provides an opportunity to share ideas, best practices, and saves you hours not having to search for the latest industry trends to stay up to date. But it doesn’t stop there, through networking, small businesses can also gain access to valuable resources and open doors to collaborate with other businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals in related and complementary industries. These collaborations often lead to partnerships, joint ventures, and shared resources enabling you to expand your reach and capabilities.

Having a strong network also boosts your brand’s reputation and enhances your brand image. By participating in networking events and contributing to discussions, small businesses are seen as knowledgeable, reliable, and trustworthy. If you’re ready to open doors to new opportunities and generate more leads, but don’t know where to start, join us Thursday, June 8, 2023 for a 2-hour workshop as we learn from consultant, speaker, and author Chris Borja on how to become a stronger networker. Sign up online here!

The Chamber’s HR Group hosted three panelists during a lunchtime discussion on hiring and retaining employees on May 19 at Richwood Bank in Bellefontaine. Panelists Justin Dinovo (Citizens Federal Savings & Loan), Karen Tron (PCPI Plastics), and Rob Underwood (Indian Lake Schools) shared their best practices for finding qualified applicants, conducting meaningful interviews, and creating an atmosphere of understanding to encourage employees to stay. All panelists stressed the importance of company culture to retain employees. Rob Underwood, Indian Lake Schools Superintendent, shared: “We always ask in interviews, ‘How do you react in stressful situations?’ and the interview group gets to hear that answer. So if an employee reacts differently than they said in their interview, we can go back and say, ‘What’s changed? Because in your interview, you said this. So how can we get closer to that original reaction?’”

Quarterly HR events are planned for the remainder of 2023. Additional event information will be posted to the Chamber’s event calendar when it becomes available.
This panel discussion was a joint effort of the Chamber’s Pursuit of Excellence Series and HR Group. The Pursuit of Excellence Series is sponsored by Ascend Consulting and Open Road Renewables and the HR Group is supported by HBD/Thermoid, Inc. Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible!

Applications for the 2023-2024 class will be available starting in mid-June. Contact Chamber Director Lydia Hess for additional information.
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Congrats again to our Leadership Grads!

Welcome to Logan County, Adventure Trails! Owners Doug & Emily Olsen knew they had to buy this campground as soon as they saw the beautiful natural terrain. With ponds and beaches, 66 acres of hiking trails, and a variety of options for all types of campers, Adventure Trails is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing retreat into nature. We are proud to have you in our community and congratulations on your recent ribbon cutting!

Learn more and book your reservation at www.adventuretrailsohio.com

​The Chamber team celebrated with Wrangler Matt and the staff at Marmon Valley Farm in Zanesfield on May 7 at the opening ceremony for their newest building, the Orchard Barn. The construction project is a part of the farm's "Vision for the Valley" campaign. The Vision for the Valley campaign will increase both overnight and daytime capacity, as well as expand the number of restrooms. The camp experience will be enhanced by additional and/or remodeled activity pavilions, and increased security measures, including outdoor lighting and cabin locks.

Marmon Valley Farm is located outside of Zanesfield on State Route 292. Learn more about their family friendly activities and camp offerings at www.marmonvalley.com. 

Please join us in congratulating A New Leaf Florist on being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce May 2023 Business of the Month! Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday, May 14 so make sure to check out A New Leaf Florist if you’re still looking for that special gift.
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Chad shared his story of personal encounters with suicide and loss - and the lessons he learned from his experiences - during an interactive discussion with attendees. He provided mental health statistics and outlined resources for those struggling with mental health issues, including 988, the national 24-hour suicide and crisis lifeline. 

​Logan County Safety Council meetings are held on the third Thursday of every month and are free to attend. More information on Safety Council is available here.