​Bobcat Multi-Works is a family-owned and operated company that has become a trusted name across 14 counties for its exceptional septic and excavation services. Celebrating over 25 years in business, their story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep connection to Logan County.

Steve and Audrey Moody never planned to start a business - they were farmers raising a family in Logan County. With Steve working as a semi-truck driver and Audrey at a factory, they decided to make a change they thought would be best for their family. In 1999, they took a bold step toward entrepreneurship, starting Bobcat Multi-Works with the only financial help being a loan for their first Bobcat machine.

In those early days, Steve worked during the day while Audrey managed the household, billing, and marketing. She would go through the phone book to call friends and neighbors to let them know about their new venture. In the evenings, they traded off – Audrey would go to work at the factory and Steve would be home to take care of the kids. Bit by bit, their hard work paid off. What started as a two-person operation now boasts a team of skilled operators and office staff, serving a growing client base with reliability and care.

Bobcat Multi-Works has grown from a small, local business to a company registered in 14 counties. Their range of services includes:

• Septic System Pumping, Installation, Repair, and Maintenance: Trusted by homeowners and businesses alike for keeping septic systems running smoothly.
• Line Jetting and Inspection: Ensuring pipelines are clear and functional with state-of-the-art equipment.
• Porta-John Rentals and Dumpster Services: Providing clean, dependable solutions for events and construction sites.
• Excavation Work: Tackling projects of all sizes with expertise and precision.
  
  

Through years of experience, Bobcat Multi-Works has earned a reputation for its professionalism and commitment to excellence. Clients know they can count on the Moodys and their team for friendly and efficient service.

Steve and Audrey have lived in Logan County their entire lives, and their love for the community is evident in everything they do. The business operates from their home property, where old barns and outbuildings have been transformed into operational spaces. For the Moodys, Logan County isn’t just where they do business—it’s home.

This connection to the community has helped them build strong relationships with their customers, many of whom have been with them since the beginning. Despite their expansion into new territories, Logan County remains at the heart of Bobcat Multi-Works.

Bobcat Multi-Works is more than a business; it’s a family legacy. From day one, Steve and Audrey planned for their children and grandchildren to play a role in the company’s future. Today, the second generation is stepping into leadership roles, learning the ins and outs of the trade and carrying forward the values that have made the business a success.

“Our plans from the beginning were to create something for our kids and eventually grandkids,” says Audrey. “We’re sticking to those plans.”

While Bobcat Multi-Works has received formal awards and recognition over the years, Steve and Audrey agree that the most meaningful accolades come from satisfied customers. Positive feedback and word-of-mouth referrals have been the foundation of their growth and success.

Starting a business from scratch is no small feat, and the Moodys have learned plenty along the way. Their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

• Dream Big: Don’t let fear stop you from pursuing your goals.
• Build a Support Network: Seek advice from other business owners who can offer guidance.
• Stay Resilient: Success takes time, effort, and a willingness to adapt.
  
  

Joining the Logan County Chamber of Commerce was an easy decision for Steve and Audrey. As proud members, they appreciate the opportunity to stay connected with local events and initiatives while promoting their business. Being part of the Chamber has also allowed them to network with other businesses, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Bobcat Multi-Works is proud to be “#1 in the #2 business,” but their dedication goes far beyond their humorous slogan. Whether you need septic services, excavation expertise, or reliable rentals, they are here to help. Their dedication to quality service, community, and family makes them a shining example of local business success.

Please join us in congratulating Bobcat Multi-Works for being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce December 2024 Business of the Month!

If you accept the Gift with Purpose challenge, here’s how to participate:

• Between November 4 and December 24, buy at least one gift from a small business in Logan County. We think you’ll be amazed at what you can find at local stores!
• Most retailers will have “I Supported Local” tags to fill out with your name to show your community that you support local businesses.
  1. The first 250 tags will be displayed throughout the holiday season at the Chamber office in downtown Bellefontaine – so make your purchase early!
  2. If you include your phone number or email address on the back of the tag, you’ll be entered to win one of our prizes of a Chamber Choice Check. Prize winners will be selected on December 18.
• Our “I Supported Local” frames will be rotating between retailers all season. Take a photo with the frame and your purchase and tag the Chamber for an additional entry into the prize drawing!
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So go ahead – support local and gift with purpose this season!
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If​ you’re in West Liberty and craving a home-cooked meal in a place brimming with local charm, look no further than Liberty Gathering Place, located at 111 North Detroit Street. Established in 1995, this cozy restaurant has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly three decades—and it’s set in a location with even deeper roots. The building itself has been home to a restaurant since the 1940s, starting as The Betty Lane Restaurant and later becoming Dajolee's. The evolution of this beloved spot mirrors the community it serves, and in March 2023, it embarked on a new chapter under fresh ownership by Ashley Shaffer.

​Liberty Gathering Place traces its origins back to 1941, when The Betty Lane Restaurant first opened and was run by Cora Saltz. The restaurant was then sold to Rose Emma Smith and her son Dan, and was renamed to Dajolee’s. In the 1970’s, the Smith’s purchased the adjoining building and expanded to include the banquet room which eventually sold to Delbert and Kathy Fullencamp. ​

Beyond breakfast, the restaurant offers lunch and dinner with a menu full of hearty, classic dishes. The staff takes pride in crafting each meal, and the community takes pride in supporting the restaurant. Liberty Gathering Place has been recognized as a Business of the Month by the West Liberty Business Association, a testament to the commitment the community has to the restaurant, and also the restaurant back to the community. Recently, Ashley donated a peanut butter pie to be auctioned off to benefit a local community member and impressively raised $16,200 in donations - another testament to its deep community ties.
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As Liberty Gathering Place looks to 2025, they’re excited to introduce new items to the menu, expand into catering, and hit the road with their newly acquired food trailer. The trailer has already began to make a splash, where breakfast was a bit hit at the fair. Ashley and her team promises to bring a taste of Liberty Gathering Place to even more people around the region with their food truck. Stay tuned on their Facebook or website for food truck details, and more!

As 2025 approaches, Liberty Gathering Place is hiring! They’re seeking cooks, prep staff, and servers to join the team, starting in January. It’s an exciting time to be part of a long-standing business with a fresh vision for growth.

Stop by Liberty Gathering Place for a taste of tradition and a glimpse of its bright future. The restaurant’s hours are Monday-Tuesday 6am-2pm, Wednesday-Saturday 6am-7pm and Sunday 8am-2pm. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a slice of Cindy’s famous pie, or a chance to be part of something special, Liberty Gathering Place has something for everyone in West Liberty.
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Please join us in congratulating Liberty Gathering Place for being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce November 2024 Business of the Month.

​Daido Metal USA is a prominent player in the manufacturing world, particularly in the plain bearings industry. Founded in 1984, the company has spent the last four decades growing into a leading supplier of plain bearings across North America. The company's journey is deeply intertwined with the history of its parent company, Daido Metal Co., and its sister companies, particularly the Bellefontaine-based Daido Metal Bellefontaine. Daido Metal USA’s success is built on its strategic partnerships, continuous innovation, and a commitment to customer-centric solutions.

​The turning point for the company came when its parent company entered into a technical agreement with T&N, a move that would significantly bolster Daido’s operations in North America. This agreement brought manufacturing know-how and sales support to the Bellefontaine facility, which ultimately became a major supplier for Honda. By 1997, a joint venture between Daido and its partners led to the creation of manufacturing bases in Bellefontaine and Atlantic, Iowa, cementing Daido's presence in the United States.

A critical moment for Daido Metal USA occurred in 2005, when Daido Metal Co. acquired full ownership of the Bellefontaine factory. This move allowed them to shift from a sales-focused entity to a more holistic operation, providing engineering support and, eventually, warehousing and distribution of parts after the Bellefontaine factory closed in 2009. Since then, the Bellefontaine office has seen remarkable growth, expanding from 14 employees in 2009 to 72 by 2024. Daido’s Bellefontaine location has proven to be a valuable asset, offering both warehouse distribution and administrative support. The company's deep roots in Logan County have allowed it to tap into a skilled workforce, many of whom were previously employed by Daido’s sister company. Their strong Japanese and American collaboration and family-oriented culture have played a large role in employee retention and loyalty. They focus on treating their employees as an asset and meaningfully involve them as much as possible. Recently, Daido Metal USA celebrated their 40th anniversary with employees, business partners, friends and even special guests Chairman Mr. Hanji and his wife, Shizuyo Hanji from parent company Daido Metal Co. You can check out a special video for this big event made by Elle A. Design here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUsV6EifaZk .

Daido recognizes the need to diversify and grow in an ever-changing business environment and has recently begun expanding its marketing efforts. Daido is now focused on attracting new customers outside the automotive industry, promoting the versatility of its products for a range of applications. By attending social media and trade shows, Daido has found strategic partnerships with companies like Roush and Yates and is in the process of developing a dedicated website for its Bellefontaine office. The company’s business model is rooted in collaboration with customers, providing customized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all products. This tailored approach has been especially successful in the racing industry, where performance optimization is key.
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As Daido looks toward the future, the company is optimistic about continued growth and stability. Daido Metal USA continues to follow their slogan – “Dream – Hope – Challenge” – which helps the company to focus on expanding its reach into new markets and industries. With a strong foundation in place, Daido is well-positioned to continue its legacy of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction for hundreds of years to come.

Daido Metal USA has built an impressive legacy over the past 40 years. From its early beginnings in Illinois to its current role as a key player in the North American bearing industry, the company’s success has been driven by strategic partnerships, a commitment to quality, and a focus on customer collaboration. As it looks to the future, Daido is poised for continued growth and innovation, ensuring that its bearings will power the engines of industry and racing alike for many years to come.
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Please join us in congratulating Daido Metal USA in being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce October Business of the Month!

Mary Rutan Health is always working to improve access to and quality of healthcare in our community. A great example is how they recently partnered with C&A Benefits, Hickory Medical Direct Primary Care, and Prescription Bliss to help launch the innovative Logan County Health Plan in January of 2024. This plan provides a local medical insurance option for small and mid-size organizations that may not previously have been able to afford the highest quality coverage for their employees. The plan enables access to top tier medical care by leveraging the strength of local healthcare options and bypassing some of the traditional major insurance companies.

Mary Rutan Health is excited about the future, particularly in the area of provider recruitment. 2024 has been a successful year in bringing on board experienced and skilled professionals, including specialists in pain management, primary care, pediatrics, podiatry, orthopedics, cardiology, addiction treatment, and more. In the coming months, the organization looks forward to welcoming additional specialists, further enhancing their comprehensive healthcare services. Mary Rutan Health is always on the lookout for top-notch individuals to join their team. With more than 1,000 team members and endless opportunities for growth and support, they offer the area’s most competitive wages and benefits. Interested candidates can find a complete list of open positions and industry-leading benefits online at www.maryrutan.org/careers.

Mary Rutan Health’s century-long journey is a testament to its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional healthcare. As they continue to evolve and expand, their dedication to the community remains at the forefront of everything they do. With a focus on personalized care, innovative techniques, and community engagement, Mary Rutan Health is poised to continue serving Logan County and beyond for many years to come.
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Please join us in congratulating Mary Rutan Health as the Logan County Chamber of Commerce September 2024 Business of the Month!

Since its official dedication in July 1974, TRC has evolved into a comprehensive testing facility with a diverse range of capabilities and professional expertise. They are proud to be an independent partner of the world’s leading automotive and technology companies, helping them test and perfect their products, while making their operations more cost effective. Thousands of clients and decision makers from every sector (government, industry, research, education) have partnered with the researchers, engineers and drivers at TRC to test and refine their newest innovations. Today, they also continue to help their clients evolve with the new technologies of automated driving systems and connected vehicles.

Today, TRC employs nearly 500 professionals, including engineers, test drivers, research scientists, and other specialists. The facility operates 24/7 across its 4,500-acre campus, which boasts closed-road courses, rural lanes, a 7.5-mile high-speed oval test track, and over 70 acres dedicated to vehicle dynamics. Over the past 50 years, automotive innovations like airbags, anti-lock brakes, lane assist, and adaptive cruise control were all tested at TRC before they appeared on American roadways.

The unique marketing strategy of Transportation Research Center revolves around their proven track record of helping clients advance their automotive technologies through comprehensive testing and research services. Their state-of-the-art facilities, extensive expertise and collaborative approach is leveraged to deliver tailored solutions to each and every client. This client-centric approach, combined with dedication to quality and continuous improvement, has cemented TRC’s reputation as a leader in automotive research and development. This solid reputation has not gone unnoticed, as TRC was recently named Large Business of the Year by the Union County Chamber. CEO Brett Roubinek was also named by Smart Business Magazine an Ohio Smart 50 Awards honoree.

TRC recently ranked as one of Central Ohio’s Top Workplaces by Columbus CEO Magazine and USA Today. On top of this recognition, they were also awarded the Cultural Excellence Award by Columbus CEO Magazine where employees ranked TRC as exceeding expectations in Work-Life Balance, Compensation & Benefit, and Leadership & Innovation. If you know someone interested in helping shape the future of transportation, the Transportation Research Center offers a number of exciting career opportunities. Positions available include Autonomous Test Engineers, Test Conductors, Engineering Technicians, Self-Driving Vehicle Operators, Autonomous Specialists, and Research Engineers. With competitive wages and excellent benefits, TRC is an ideal “ground zero” workplace for those passionate about innovation. Interested candidates can find more information and apply on the TRC website: www.trcpg.com

​A significant part of customer service is engaging with your customers. Interacting with your customers shows that you have an adequate understanding of what good customer service is. Good customer service will make your customers feel less like they are just around to give away their money, and more like they are a priority, reminding them that they add value to your business. Knowing how to treat your customers will be very beneficial in the long run!
 
Why engage with customers?
 
Relationships:
By engaging with your customers, you will build new relationships with people. This could simply be with customers that you see on a regular basis, or even business professionals within the community! Forming new connections will eventually lead to building relationships. New connections can provide you with new ideas, resources, and perspectives. Having a relationship with your customers is what will make them want to come back. Customers will be more inclined to visit your establishment and spend their time and money there if they have a relationship with you. To build relationships, you must engage with customers.
 
Loyalty:
Consistently interacting with your customers allows you to build trust. This also plays a part in building relationships with your customers. If your customers can trust that you will provide what they need, have prices that they can afford, and can help answer any questions they might have then they will continue to go back to you. Their loyalty to you means that you always have customers you can count on, even when times get tough!
 
Satisfaction:
The satisfaction of your customers is your highest priority. Satisfied customers mean repeating customers! Part of customer satisfaction is engaging with customers. Figure out what the want/need, why they are stopping in, etc. Engaging with them will show that you want them to have a good experience, and that all their questions are being answered without them even having to ask! High customer satisfaction also boosts customer retention!
 
How do you engage with customers?
 
1.Social Media
Many people use social media on a daily basis. Social media is a great tool to engage with new and returning customers. Making frequent posts on social media and staying active lets your customers know what’s going on with your business without you having to directly tell them. Though not everyone is active on social media, many of the younger generations are, and as social media is used more and more by future generations it will become even more of a useful tool.
 
For example, One-Eyed Cookie Lab stays active on Facebook. Posting multiple times a week, listing all products that will be sold, along with pictures of their sweet treats to provide a visual. Posting regularly and utilizing social media makes engaging with customers quick and easy.
 
2.Reward System
Creating some type of rewards system shows that you are engaging with customers. Making customers feel special and important to your business will make them want to come back… which also means you will have customers loyal to you!
 
Six Hundred is an example of a business implementing a rewards system in the community. At Six Hundred, returning customers can receive $10 off after spending a certain amount. This type of engagement is a great way to give back to your customers.
 
3.Personalized Shopping
A meaningful way to engage with customers is by personally addressing customers. Introduce yourself and use their name while interacting with them. Personalized shopping will let customers know their needs are being met, while catering to the needs of individuals rather than customers as a whole. This could include custom orders, making specific product recommendations, etc. This creates a unique experience with the customer.
 
At High-Point Graphics you will always have a personalized experience. With custom orders, banners, embroidery, and much more you are guaranteed to be taken care of as an individual.
 
 
4.Feedback
Encourage feedback! Always ask for honesty from your customers as it can help your business. This could be through emailed surveys, “Tell us how we’re doing” QR codes on receipts, asking in person, social media comments/posts, website reviews, etc. Your customers’ opinions are so important, and by asking for their feedback shows them that what they think matters. Figuring out how you can enhance your customers’ experience can only be done if you know what they need from you!
 
An example of receiving feedback is after making a purchase at Gathering Grounds, you can select a smiley face or a frowny face to express how your experience was. Actively asking for feedback allows you to engage with customers as you are allowing them to communicate how they feel you have done.
 
5.Mail/Email
Sending out flyers, letters, or even new products that your business may have directly to your customers is an effective way to engage with them. Another great way to engage with customers is sending thank you letters or emails directly to them after making a purchase or even randomly. Showing your appreciation to your customers will show that you care about them and make them feel valuable!
 
Four Acre Clothing sends out emails that inform customers when there are new products being released and any events they will be a vendor at. Sending out mail or setting up an email that customers can subscribe to is a great way to engage with you customers.
 
6.Events
By hosting or participating in events, you can engage with many customers at once. Depending on your establishment, you can host many different types of events that cater to your business. These events could be holiday based events, deals your business may be having, or even events associated with First Fridays or any of the events Logan County has going on downtown!
 
The Syndicate consistently hosts events. Nearly every weekend, there is live music open to all. By welcoming in the community and offering things that others can experience with you, you will more than likely have returning customers! Engaging with the community while giving them something to look forward to will be valuable to you and your business.
 
There are many events that go on all throughout Logan County. To stay in the loop, check out: https://www.experiencelogancounty.com/events.html
 
 
Engaging with your customers and taking the time to practice good customer service will benefit not only your customers but also your business. The experience that your customers have in your establishment is meaningful to them and will leave an impact! 

​Customer service plays a huge role in starting your business and keeping it running. Customer service is how you engage with and support your customers. Being able to provide exceptional customer service to your customers will significantly help you and your business grow. When a business lacks good customer service, it will become difficult to have a consistent customer base. To have repeating customers, and customers in general, you must know how to provide good customer service.
 
What is “good” customer service?
Good customer service means that you take care of your customers. You listen to their needs, and you choose to meet their needs by providing your goods and services. “Good” customer service isn’t just the bare minimum. It involves going above and beyond to make sure that your customers aren’t just making a payment and leaving. So, what exactly does customer service entail and why does it matter?

• Listening to your customers
• Greeting customers
• Building relationships with your customers
• Engaging with customers
• Inviting them back

 
Listen to your customers: What do your customers want to purchase? What do they need from you? How much are they willing to spend? Listening to your customers is crucial in providing good customer service. Customers want to be heard, and they have a purpose for coming into your business. Customers will be much more satisfied if they feel as though they are being listened to. But if they believe that your business can’t meet their needs, they won’t come back. If they don’t agree with your prices, they won’t come back. Always listen to your customers! They will tell you their needs and wants!
 
Greet your customers: Walking into a new business, you want to feel welcomed. A simple smile and “hi” is nice, but introducing yourself and getting to know your customer is more meaningful. If a customer feels uncomfortable or like they aren’t welcomed, they might not give you business. If a customer experiences poor customer service they most likely won’t be returning customers.
 
Building relationships: Establishing relationships with your customers will be extremely beneficial to not only your customer, but to you as well. These relationships mean that you will have repeating customers, that will tell you how they feel. This also goes back to listening to your customers, as whenever you truly listen to your customers, they will tell you what they want to see. Feedback and suggestions from these formed relationships will help you and your business grow. Building relationships also means loyalty. These repeating customers will be loyal to you and your business, which will aid in the growth of your business.
 
Engaging with customers: Greeting your customers is huge, but so is engaging with your customers. You don’t want to just greet them once and never talk to them again. Initiating conversations with customers shows that you are happy to have them in your establishment. Engagement will ultimately lead to an improved perception of your business. People are more willing to come into a business if they feel seen and valued. By engaging with your customers, you are showing that you care about them and not just the business that they do with you.
 
Invite your customers back: Always invite your customers to come back! Give them a business card, remind them of the store hours, have them follow your socials, sign them up with emails, etc. Telling them to come back is important, but you also need to give them a reason to come back. By offering occasional deals or discounts, bringing in new merchandise or products, people will be more inclined to stop in again. By inviting your customers back, you will make them feel welcomed and give them the impression that they came to the right place.
 
Customer service will influence customer buying behavior. If you cannot offer good customer service, then you may struggle finding repeating, loyal customers. Enhancing your customer service skills will help your customers have the best experience and will assist in the growth of your business.  

For over 16 years, Elle A. Design has been a pillar of creativity and innovation in Logan County. What began as a one-woman operation has blossomed into a thriving design studio known for its unique blend of artistic flair and technical expertise.
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Lindsey McGlone, the Owner and Creative Director of Elle A. Design, discovered her love for art at five years old. This early passion for creativity laid the foundation for what would eventually become a successful design studio. Lindsey always knew she wanted to be an artist, and in 2008, she turned her lifelong dream into a reality by founding Elle A. Design. Initially, Lindsey managed everything on her own, dedicating countless hours to her craft and her clients. Eight years into her journey, she decided to take a leap of faith by hiring a teammate – Chelsea Bray, Lead Designer and Copywriter. This decision marked a turning point for Elle A. Design, as Chelsea’s talent and dedication brought a new dimension to the studio - Lindsey says that Chelsea has become her right-hand girl and that hiring her has been one of the best decisions she has made. The team continued to grow, adding Lane Yoder as a Designer, Photographer and Videographer and most recently, Kate Powell as a Designer. Together, they have transformed Elle A. Design into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar studio, serving hundreds of clients not only in Logan County but across the country.
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Why should I get involved? 
Involvement in your community shows dedication and commitment to your business and the people you serve. Whether you’re a newer business, or your business has been around for a while, it’s never too late to get involved! 

How can I get involved with the community?
There are so many ways to get involved with the community. Think about what you want out of your connections in the community. Do you want to meet new people? Give back to those in need? Offer your expertise to others? Or just have fun and relax? Consider your desired outcome to help guide your next steps. 

• A great way to start – especially if you’d like to volunteer your time – is to reach out to United Way of Logan County. Their volunteer guide has a wealth of information on volunteer opportunities.
• No time to volunteer? Consider donating or sponsoring an event or program in our community. You can also donate food and clothes to places like LCS if you prefer to donate items instead of money.
• Just want to have fun? Take a look at a local events calendar to find fun things to do in Logan County.
• If no events appeal to you, your community benefits when you spend local. Make an effort to buy anything you can from local retailers and service providers. You can even give the gift of shopping local in the form of Chamber Checks!

What are the benefits to getting involved?
By getting involved in the local economy, you are making an impact, whether it would be big or small. Volunteering and getting involved gives your business the chance to give back to the community, while giving you a feeling of gratification. When your business makes a positive impact, you also create a positive image for your brand. Volunteering in the community also opens opportunities to network and make connections with whomever you are volunteering with/for. 

Getting involved won’t harm your business - there are no downsides. Start getting involved to help you and your business expand and grow!