Business - Write 2 the PointPublisher Chris Yuhasz Owner, POV Print Communications, Inc. editor-in-Chief Margie Wilber Owner, Write 2 the Point Contributing Writers Margie Wilber Liz

BusinessgeaugaV o l u m e 1 I s s u e 1

Tarkett/Johnsonite: A Worldwide Leader in Flooring pg 3

Jim Schill: A Geauga Business Legend pg 6

CARE CORPORATION – Covering Geauga County’s Home Care Needs pg 10

Former Invisible Fence Owner/Operator Now Caring for Others pg 14

Geauga Businesses Connect OnlinePLUS:

P u b l i s h e rChris Yuhasz

Owner, POV Print Communications, Inc.

e d i t o r - i n - C h i e fMargie Wilber

Owner, Write 2 the Point

C o n t r i b u t i n g W r i t e r sMargie Wilber

Liz Tilton, tilton CPAs

C o n t r i b u t i n g e d i t o r sAnita Stocker

Joni Stusek

d e s i g nEllen Seguin

Write 2 the Point

POV Print Communications, Inc.12021 ravenna roadChardon, oh [email protected] p. 440.286.5616 x222

Contents 1 G E A u G A B u S I n E S S P r O f E S S I O n A L S Connect Via innovative new Website

3 T A r k E T T / J O h n S O n I T E : A Worldwide leader in flooring

6 P r E C I O u S C A r G O ’ S road to success

8 J I M S C h I L L : A geauga business legend

10 C A r E C O r P O r A T I O n Covering geauga County’s home Care needs

12 S W E E T S u C C E S S : the buckeye Chocolate Company

14 invisible fence owner/ operator now C A r I n G f O r O T h E r S

16 detailing, Airport transportation & Valet Parking Anyone? 17 2012 T A x T I P S

18 geauga County emerald leaders feted

Write 2 the PointPo box 385newbury, oh [email protected]. 216.410.2395

page 3 page 6 page 10 page 12 page 14

geauga business articles are written and selected for their general interest and entertainment value. Author’s views do not necessarily represent the policies of PoV Print Communication, inc. nor does their publication constitute an endorsement by PoV Print Communication or Write 2 the Point. All submissions are subject to space availability and editing. For advertising opportunities or submissions contact POV Print Communication, Inc.

GeauGa Business VOLUME 1 • issue 1 1

Though not on the same scale as

inventions like the iPhone, Google,

Facebook and the electric car, an innovative

website, launched recently in Geauga

County, may change the corporate

landscape of this relatively bucolic region.

the geauga business incubator

was developed to nurture

relationships among business

owners, Ceos, top- and mid-level

managers, entrepreneurs and other

individuals employed at the 300-plus

manufacturing plants, businesses,

and service industries operating

within the county.

the business incubator promises to

streamline data searches, broaden

one’s business savvy, and encourage

the free exchange of ideas and

advice among business professionals

– including top execs nationally and

internationally recognized in their

respective fields.

Connect via Innovative New Website

Geauga Business Professionals

b y M a r g i e W i l b e r, W r i t e 2 t h e Po i n t

GEAuGA BuSINESS VOLUME 1 • ISSuE 1 1

2

“A primary goal of the geauga business incubator is to connect businesses to resources available in the county. through online consultants, we can drive website visitors to available resources – making information searches time and cost efficient,” says Anita stocker, director of Community

and economic development (Ced) in geauga County. the Ced develops and implements strategies and programs to retain and expand county businesses and increase jobs.

“Website visitors can ask questions, and our online business consultants will either answer their questions or point them in the right direction,” she elaborates. “Questions like ‘how can i: sell my product to the government; trademark a product or get a patent; establish a corporate brand; or acquire a low-interest business loan?’”

incubator consultants represent a spectrum of careers – attorneys, accountants, marketing and public relations professionals, plant managers, farmers, physicians, engineers, bankers, energy consultants, human resource managers, insurance and real estate agents, architects, builders, etc., – with first-hand knowledge about starting, operating, or even selling a business. their role includes suggesting resources or simply guiding website visitors to interesting links, blogs, books, videos or articles on useful information or material in their respective fields.

the geauga business incubator is the brainchild of stocker, who has served as director of geauga Community and economic development for more than two decades. through her years in this position, she understands the unique needs of this local business community.

the geauga County Commissioners fully support this project, along with the geauga County Community improvement Corporation (CiC). the CiC is a non-profit organization that works with geauga’s Community and economic development department to promote geauga businesses. first energy is also a strong partner in the website development.

HOW IT WORKS

geauga business incubator’s homepage provides a forum listing several hot topics currently under discussion. Visitors can weigh in or ask their own question.

for each topic, at least one of two designated consultants will answer questions or direct visitors to the best resource for answers. information will be posted on new innovations or breaking news in their respective fields. As questions post, consultants may suggest new ways of looking at a problem, or novel avenues to acquire answers. Consultants will post useful reminders – such as timely postings to remind businesses to file their quarterly tax returns.

each consultant’s photo and profile is published on the website. the website was designed and built by Write 2 the Point, a public relations and marketing firm located within geauga County.

A LOOK TO THE FUTURE

“i believe the geauga business incubator will fast become an invaluable tool for budding entrepreneurs as well as employees and business owners striving to excel in the workplace,” adds stocker.

More consultants will be added as professionals become aware of the site. long-term, as comfort levels rise, she envisions the formation of advisory boards to further strengthen existing businesses.

Who knows, like the countless inventions by Apple, maybe business incubators will become viewed as a necessary tool for business men and women throughout the world.

Innovative New WebsiteC O n T I n u E d f r O M P A G E 1


Tarkett/Johnsonite:

A WorldWide leAder in Flooring

each day, 10.7 million sq. ft. of flooring is sold by tarkett. that would be equivalent to 22 football fields. in fact, our beloved ohio state buckeyes compete inside the horseshoe on artificial turf manufactured by fieldturf, a tarkett company.

co n t i n u e d



4

tarkett engages in the design, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of flooring products. the company manufactures commercial and residential flooring. tarkett offers rubber, sports and multi-function tile, vinyl, modular, linoleum, vinyl composition tile, fiberfloor, laminate, luxury vinyl tiles and planks, and specialty flooring systems. it also offers a wide variety of finishes and accessories and provides support services. its products are offered through a network of distributors in north America. Johnsonite, the commercial side of tarkett, operates three plants within geauga County.

founded more than 100 years ago, the company began by designing and manufacturing a rubber seal for wooden pails, to prevent spills. eventually, “Johnson rubber” was a huge supplier to the automotive industry and expanded to offer rubber and vinyl flooring as “Johnsonite.” during the economic downturn in the 1990s, Johnsonite approached bankruptcy. through the innovative leadership of Ceo Jeff buttitta, a philosophy of customer-centered manufacturing emerged. Johnsonite went from $2 million in annual sales to $200 million today.

lee James, Vice President for north America, tarkett, unabashedly details the success story of Johnsonite. “that same people-centered manufacturing guides our company today,” states James. “satisfying our customers, shareholders and associates is our top priority at Johnsonite.”

When asked to clarify the term “associate,” James smiles and says, “to management at Johnsonite, associate means involvement. We view our employees as partners. together, we are focused on world-class manufacturing. our associates participate in training and product development. they drive all initiatives through teaming on the floor. occasionally, we take them away from their job and have them work on team projects. the result, Johnsonite has never experienced one layoff at a commercial site, even in an economic downturn.”

tarkett has a total of six manufacturing plants in north America. the majority of the Johnsonite-branded products are manufactured and distributed in the 380,000-sq.-ft. facility located on industrial Parkway, in Middlefield. the Munn road facility manufactures extruded products. the north American headquarters are located in Chagrin falls, ohio.

despite the recent, harsh economic times in the u.s., Johnsonite is prospering and growing. James says tarkett plans to invest $15 million to expand Johnsonite’s campus on Munn road.

“our plant on Munn road is at capacity,” explains James. “We know we need to build a new building. We know we can save money by buying an existing building somewhere else, but we don’t want to push ourselves away from this great geauga work force,” reiterates James. “We prefer to keep our work force and expand our campus here in geauga County.”

“People have a great work ethic in geauga County,” says the amiable vice president. “they feel a part of what we are doing. it’s a huge advantage because we don’t have to continuously train a work force.”

James is no stranger to northeast ohio. he earned a bachelor of science in business at Kent state university in 1983 before leaving ohio to receive a MbA from Mercer university in Atlanta in 1997. Prior to college, James served in the us Air force, including a tour in Korea. he began his 30-year manufacturing career at general Motors in lordstown and worked at the Volvo plant in orwell before coming to Johnsonite.

James was working at Johnsonite for two years before it was acquired five years ago by tarkett, a privately owned, multinational french company that specializes in sustainable flooring and sports surfaces. in 2010, tarkett, headquartered in nanterre, france, reported revenues of $3 billion, with 30 production sites, employing approximately 8,800 people, in more than 100 markets across the world. 2010 world-wide sales were split between Western europe, 36%, north America, 27%, eastern europe 34%, and other markets, 3%.

“At Johnsonite, we do things differently than other manufacturers in the flooring industry. first, we buy premium raw materials. We buy on quality, not price. this insures correct colors every time. there are no shades. You can buy our product today, or three years from now, and the color will match,” James explains proudly. “second, there are no lots. the dealer does not have to carry inventory. our trucks leave the plant two to three times each week for anywhere in the united states. this is a huge advantage to distributors. if they need something tomorrow, it will be there.”

“ tarkett recognized that Johnsonite had earned an excellent reputation for customer service, and they asked us to take our Johnsonite selling model and apply it to the tarkett market. they did not want to remake the Johnsonite brand. over the past five years, we have slowly transitioned the brand from Johnsonite to tarkett. tarkett is now recognized as the parent company, and Johnsonite is one of their strategic brands,” James describes.

today, tarkett leads in providing the ultimate flooring experience by putting clients in control of the design and selection process with an integrated portfolio to create an ideal space. According to James, tarkett has embraced Johnsonites customer-driven focus globally, investing in quality raw materials and making it easy for end-users to use their product. “We have created one-stop shopping by marrying all our products together,” James states.

he continues, “one of our core beliefs is that people are happiest when they are offered choices that help balance their needs and stay true to their values. it’s what we refer to as balanced Choice. People like custom design, but they also have

Tarkett/Johnsonite:

A WorldWide leAder in FlooringC O n T I n u E d f r O M P A G E 3

GEAuGA BuSINESS VOLUME 1 • ISSuE 14


to weigh that against other needs such as safety, sustainability, and return on investment. Customers need to decide what is best for their business. We provide solutions to help them balance the needs of their individual projects. We put people in the center and design around them.

in addition to regional business managers, tarkett employs 25 to 30 associate designers who work with A & d (architect and design) groups. “they all remarkable,” states James emphatically. “they are so good at what they do. We have them stationed all around the country.”

tarkett is a global partner in protecting the environment. “sustainability becomes sustainable when products and solutions are good for the environment, good for people and good for the bottom line,” insists James. “sustainability is an integral part of the way we approach every aspect of our business, from manufacturing to product development to shipping.”

tarkett strives to do four things:

• Create people-friendly spaces – tarkett continues to create floors that are safer, more efficient, easier to maintain, are quiet and comfortable

• use better materials – and use renewable resources, where possible. their linoleum is made from linseed oil, sawdust, wood, cork and jute. replay is made from recycled rubber tires

• Practice resource stewardship – since 1999, tarkett reduced their total organic emission by up to 50 percent; cut their water consumption and non-recycled waste by more than 30 percent

• reuse and recycle – tarkett created rePlACe, a material reclamation program allowing them to recycle and replace demountable wall base and interlock and underlock rubber tile into new product and developed a restart program to reclaim installation waste from job sites.

in addition to being good stewards of the environment, Johnsonite believes in giving back to the community.

Within geauga County, Johnsonite has sponsored local cancer walks, donated flooring for kitchens at the YMCA, and is a committed friend to our local special olympics. Johnsonite also generously donates to the geauga police and fire departments and sponsors numerous softball and baseball teams in the summer. they are good neighbors and good friends.

the next time you are in a classroom or conference room; waiting room or operating room; hallway or multi-purpose room; hotel lobby or gym – look under your shoes. Whether its’ rubber, linoleum, vinyl; rounded, speckled, marbleized; uniquely embossed like wood planks, tile, tic-tack-toe or puzzle pieces – chances are, you’ll be in touch with Johnsonite.


6


“COMMITMENT” reads the plaque hanging in the boardroom of Chem Technologies, in Middlefield, Ohio. Below this is a quote from John Quincy Adams:

“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”

Both offer a glimpse of the personal core values of Jim Schill, founder and current chairman of the board of Chem Technologies, a chemical dispersion and blend manufacturer and custom rubber compounder. Schill is also the previous founder and chairman of the board at Elastochem, a chemical dispersion and blend manufacturer used primarily by the rubber industry, and Gold Key Processing, a custom rubber compounding company.

All three Geauga-based manufacturing companies have become national leaders in their industries, making founder and chairman of the board, Jim Schill, a Geauga business legend.

At age 83, the convivial gentleman admits that “retirement” was never in his blood. Schill agreed to take a few minutes from his busy day at Chem Technologies and sit down with the editor of Business Magazine to answer several questions about how he became interested in business, what lessons he learned through his successful business career, and what valuable information budding entrepreneurs should know.

Q When did you first become interested in business and can you walk us through your successful career?

A At 18, after graduating from high school, I joined the u.S. Army in 1946, working as a medic in a large, Catholic Hospital in Munich, Germany. In addition to other responsibilities like cooking and maintenance, I gave shots, intravenous injections, and assisted the ward doctor in spinal taps, etc. – medical procedures typically handled by degreed nurses. After my service was up, I started college at John Carroll university with the intention of becoming a doctor.

At the time, I was also hired at St. John’s Hospital. On my first day, I was told to give an elderly gentleman a sponge bath and spoon-feed him breakfast. I immediately realized I did not have the compassion necessary for this career. Becoming a doctor would be a “job” for me as opposed to “helping people.” My civilian medical career lasted less than a day!

Since I was good at math in high school, I decided to major in accounting. After graduating, I went to work for an accounting firm in 1952. In 1960, I was made partner. I resigned in 1966 to work for my largest client at the time – Burton Rubber as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Finance. In 1979, a group of us took the knowledge we had acquired there to start Elastochem in Chardon. By the time my partners and I sold the rubber blend plant in 1996, it was the primary supplier of rubber chemical blends in the uS.

I used some of the profits from this sale to found Gold Key in 1998 and Chem Technologies in 2001, serving as Chairman of the CEO for both. Gold Key was recently acquired by Hexpol. I still to serve as Chairman of CEO at Chem Technologies.

Q Why did you choose to build your manufacturing plants in Geauga County?

A That’s easy – the excellent available work force. My experience at Burton Rubber taught me a rural environment was advantageous because it often requires its young children to perform chores at an early age. They are no strangers to hard work as young adults.

I became familiar with the Amish community while at Burton Rubber. The Amish have a strong belief system and take care of each other. They live a Spartan lifestyle and do not have an entitlement attitude. We placed Gold Key and Chem Technologies in the heart of the Amish community because I believe the Amish make a superior work force.

Q What else do you look for when hiring?

A I look for a history of previously successful performance. I was responsible for hiring at the public accounting firm. I discovered often that 4.0 GPA students did not work out, but 3.3 GPA students with a lot of extra-curricular activities became excellent employees.

Hire people who are confident in their abilities but do not have an ego that demands they be first and foremost all the time. I am talking about compatibility – suppressing one’s ego is required in teamwork. This is why I like small, privately owned companies. There are frequently big egos and big ambitions in big corporations. These people often advance at the expense of other members of the organization; their objectives are personal as opposed to company advancement.

Q In your opinion, what is the role of the chief executive officer?

A The CEO is the company cop. Once you establish good, strong policies and procedures, the CEO must enforce them. This is where a lot of companies go wrong.

The CEO must also be able to lead and make timely decisions and advance company objectives.

Q You have experienced tremendous success in business. Are you surprised at your level of success?

A I found it isn’t that hard to be #1 as a business if you really work at it. Everyone professes to be #1 in trade magazines, but a majority do not try that hard. When they achieve a certain level of success, there is a tendency to become complacent and lose ground. I have found that if you have good operating procedures, good people all around, and keep your focus, you will be on top.

Elastochem, Gold Key Processing, and Chem Technologies all earned excellent reputations in their respective industries. I am very proud of that.

A Geauga Business LegendJim SchiLL:

A chemical dispersion and

blend manufacturer and custom rubber

compounder.


Q What personal business principles have served you well?

A One of my big business principles or practices is equity participation for key employees. It instills pride and is an incentive to grow the company.

Another key business principle is having good policies and procedures in place.

I believe it is important to treat each customer as if they are the only one you have, and to treat employees like family. At all three companies, we paid 100 percent of our employees’ health care, and substantial bonuses to both our hourly and salary employees. Bonuses are a fixed percentage of profit, and we do not cap them. These practices are still in place at Chem Technologies today.

Q What attributes are necessary to successfully establish and run a company?

A Obviously, intelligence and good judgment are necessary. To be successful, one must also have an understanding of the industry, evaluate talent objectively, and institute and enforce sound policies and procedures that will lead to a successful operation. For example, I believe in maintaining an immaculate plant. Customers usually feel an immaculate plant connotes a dedication to quality.

I believe a business owner should have consideration for their employees but also insist on performance. Personally, I believe in a carrot-and-stick approach: penalty points for policy and procedure violations or absenteeism, as well as bonus hours that can be accumulated for 100 percent adherence to policies and procedures and good attendance.

Additionally, you need to be a risk taker. Judgment is also critical.

There must be a market to support the level of activity required to be profitable. In developing the business plan, overestimate how much it will cost and underestimate the demand. Things seldom happen as fast as you thought they would and often cost more than you expected. You have to be prepared for both possibilities.

Finally, you must be able to look at the pros and cons and judge realistically. If the pros outweigh the cons, go for it. I’ve had days and months not as good as others, but in totality, every business venture I have tried succeeded.

Q What business model do you prefer –small, privately owned companies or large , publically traded corporations?

A I strongly believe in entrepreneurship and on a relatively small level. Often, when a large corporation buys a successful small, private company, they make changes that benefit the owners – not the customers or employees of the company. I always fought for the employees. If you are selling your company, ask for an agreement in writing that the buyer will maintain the situation in place for your employees. I do not believe employees should suffer because owners cash out. Who will protect those individuals who live from paycheck to paycheck?

Q What is the most important lesson you have learned in business?

A There are so many. One very important lesson I learned is to make certain you always have enough financing to weather the unexpected dips. Another lesson I learned is to maintain sufficient ownership equity so you will not be forced into unintended consequences.

Q What is the hardest task you needed to do in business?

A Terminating people. I have a great deal of empathy for terminated individuals, especially when they have to go home and tell their family they were terminated. Termination implies unworthiness. Maybe the failure was in the hiring process? Perhaps they could not do the job they were hired to do. In this case, you contributed to the failure, but the other person is paying the price.

Q Who did you go to when you needed advice?

A I usually seek consensus from our management and Board; seldom if ever outsiders. I go to church. I pray.

Q What is the most rewarding aspect of your business career and life?

A I would say the most rewarding part of my career is the satisfaction of heading up a company recognized as a leader in its industry segment. Non-career wise, my most rewarding achievement is attaining my 60th wedding anniversary with my wife Jean.

It is hard to be a successful entrepreneur/businessman and to also be a good family man. I don’t want to imply that I achieved both. My family paid a price for my success in business. Thankfully, I have a good relationship with my four children and wife, but we didn’t do all we could have – vacations, meals together, fun – that we might have. Success has its compensations, like comfort and security. I hope my family feels it’s been a fair trade off.

Q What other advice can you give to aspiring or other business professionals?

A Clearly, we are not born equally. I believe we are each dealt a hand, and God wants to see how well we play it.

We are all challenged to make the most of the abilities we are given. I believe that once we achieve a good standard of living, God wants us to help those less fortunate.

I am not comfortable with those who lavish the fruits of their success primarily on themselves. I believe in a life hereafter. Compared to eternity, life is but a blink of the eye.

There is nothing wrong with making money per se, and I don’t feel you have to deny yourself entirely. However, I am convinced we will all be judged on our generosity to those less fortunate. Meantime, I try to provide the people who work with me the best job possible. I find that very rewarding, and I strongly recommend it to everyone in my position.


A Geauga Business LegendJim SchiLL:

“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties

disappear and obstacles vanish.”

8

it began simply – with the purchase of one, small shuttle bus so a group of preschoolers could enjoy a field trip. And today, Precious Cargo transportation has a fleet of 25 vehicles that includes luxury motor coaches, shuttle buses, and school buses along with 44 employees on the payroll. richard Wervey, sr. marvels at the success.

“My wife Judy and daughter Maria own a day care center, called the Kids Club in Knowles industrial Park, located on the border of bainbridge and Chagrin falls. Judy couldn’t find transportation for field trips. the geauga transit would not leave the county and schools needed their buses at the same times. so in 1993, i bought a shuttle bus, like the ones used at airports,” recalls Wervey. “that was the beginning.”

soon after buying the shuttle bus, Wervey realized the many expenses involved. to cover his costs, he hired a friend to work for him as a bus driver and began soliciting transportation accounts. “We did everything back then – driving, sales and maintenance,” the friendly business owner laughs.

slow and steady, the business moved ahead.

“i had a business plan that said, ‘if it works on a small level, it will probably work on a larger level,’” explains Wervey with a boyish grin.

“but, we needed a name. one sunny afternoon while i was driving a bus load of young children, i experienced divine inspiration,” remembers the company president with a wink. “i was thinking how really precious these kids were that i was transporting – that they were ‘precious cargo.’” the name stuck.

Wervey began calling on day care centers on Cleveland’s east side and the suburbs, eventually breaking into new transportation markets. As the business grew, the confident businessman purchased more buses.

“We went from one thing to another. i started calling on private schools like ndCl, hawken, gilmore, Andrews and hathaway brown. i found that while many schools owned their own vehicles, they did not have enough to accommodate all the field trips and the expansion of female sports with the passage of title iX,” he remembers. title iX of the educational Amendments of 1972 is a federal law that states that no person in the united states shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.

Road to Success“the business was built on a satisfied client base,” Wervey explains. “We realized the same clients that used our buses also went on spring break as well as trips to Washington dC .”

Precious Cargo bought their first motor coach in 1999. Wervey says he learned a lot in a hurry with this purchase – like the higher maintenance costs involved compared to a school bus. “on the positive side, it got us into the next level of state and federal requirements . We always had a good maintenance record, but now the company was being reviewed by federal inspectors every two years, state inspectors every year, and we were now also subjected to random inspections,” insists Wervey.

today, Precious Cargo transportation is a leading motor coach and school bus transportation company in northeast ohio, taking groups of all sizes to any location in north America. “from the tip of Maine, to florida, to the rockies,” clarifies his youngest son John, Vice President/general Manager of Precious Cargo. Wervey’s other son richard Jr. serves as Vice President of operations/Maintenance.

Precious Cargo offers custom tours, group shuttles, and school bus rentals for field trips and sporting events, wedding parties, casino trips, and private parties – to name a few. the company caters to corporations, professional groups, day care centers, schools, colleges, private groups, seniors, tour groups, churches and clubs.

Precious cargo’s


8


Road to Success“safety and community involvement are priorities,” says the accomplished businessman. “We give a lot back to our community, and we should. they are our life blood.”

the Wervey family is proud of the company’s department of defense Certification. “it is a badge of honor in the motor coach industry,” says Wervey. “it means Precious Cargo has successfully completed the steps and testing necessary to transport our nation’s troops throughout the country. this means our operation, equipment and drivers are held to the highest safety standards.”

Precious Cargo is also day Care Certified, meeting all the requirements set by state and federal laws including background checks and fingerprinting of all their drivers.

every part of the operation is handled within the 10,000-sq.-ft. facility, located off Kinsman road in newbury – maintenance, repairs, washing and storage.

“i am still in awe,” admits Wervey, sr. “from one bus in geauga County to 25 buses traveling to florida, Washington d.C., new York, boston, Chicago, utah, and st. louis – transporting young children, students, business professionals, families and senior citizens – it’s very humbling.”

“We are also affiliated with trailways, a group of 90 independent operators, which gives us increased market exposure. if we need to be a larger company, this allows it. Wherever

we go, we have a partner from a service standpoint. the affiliation began in January of 2011.

“it’s a good network and resource. As a result of a homeland security grant, we received a Voyager gPs system which allows us to track our vehicles wherever they go in real time. this is specifically for trailway members. should a problem occur, the panic switch immediately alerts homeland security.”

Wervey, sr. concludes, “from one bus to 25 and 44 employees – that’s pretty cool. i’m very proud of that. Precious Cargo provides an excellent service. to help people in one manner or another is very gratifying.”

for more information on Precious Cargo, please contact richard or John Wervey, at 440.543.9272 or check out the web site at pctbus.com



10

The open file on Liz Petersen’s desk is thick with letters of gratitude

from patients and their families. Petersen, RN, Vice President of

Operations at Care Corp, shares a few of the notes.

“My mother began as a Care Corp patient over two years ago. The love,

care and kindness that the nurse, office staff, everyone provided to my

mother and our family during her illness is beyond what I could have

expected.” Petersen reads through a few more cards and is clearly

touched by the appreciation expressed.

Covering Geauga County’s

Home Care Needs

Care Corporation


10


baker says it takes a full team of dedicated specialists to provide the care patients need and deserve. “Care Corp delivers a full spectrum of care – accomplished, in part, by home health Aides, homemakers and sitter/Companions. in addition, most of Care Corp’s staff are residents of geauga County – friends and neighbors – who share the same family oriented values,” adds baker.

hospice of Care Corp provides support and care for persons so they can live as fully and comfortably as possible. Clients are encouraged to add life to their remaining days, not days to their remaining life.

the focus is on CAre not cure. While hospice requires that the patient has a caregiver in the home, hospice is available to support and assist the caregiver 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

hospice of Care Corp is comprised of a caring team of people: a Medical director, nurses, therapists, a dietician, home health Aides, homemakers, sitter/Companions, licensed social worker, chaplain and volunteers. this hospice team works closely with the patient’s physician to provide symptom and pain relief, as well as psychological, social and spiritual support for the patient and family.

hospice of Care Corp services include:• skilled nursing care• Medical social services• Counseling and spiritual support• therapies• home health Aides• Volunteers • bereavement support group and classes• Medical supplies and appliances• short-term inpatient care, when needed• respite

in most cases, home care is more affordable than long-term hospitalization or nursing home care. Many of Care Corp’s extensive list of services are covered by private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. Care Corporation’s insurance specialists will review insurance coverage and answer questions. “hopefully, we can ease minimize worries during this difficult time,” baker says.

All Care Corp employees are licensed and/or certified and insured. Care Corp is licensed for hospice through the ohio department of health, and certified by Medicare/Medicaid.

to arrange a referral or answer any questions you may have concerning any of the services provided by Care Corp, please contact a skilled nurse coordinator at:(440) 286-CAre (2273) toll free: (888) 227-3811fax: (440) 286-7662www.carecorponline.com

After more than 27 years, Care Corporation continues to be the leading provider of skilled, affordable home nursing, hospice, and health care services in geauga County. Men and women regardless of age can remain independent and benefit from exceptional medical care through Care Corp’s experienced team of licensed registered nurses, therapists, licensed social worker, home health aides, homemakers, sitter/companions, and support staff.

Jason baker, Ceo/President of Care Corp, runs the family owned, geauga-based, home health and hospice agency located at 831 south street in Chardon.

fiscal Year 2010-2011 was good for Care Corporation. they provided more than 28,000 skilled visits and just less than 20,000 unskilled hours to nearly 900 geauga County residents, utilizing the skills of 100 employees and volunteers. they received the homeCare elite award for the third year in a row, recognizing the top 25% of homeCare companies across the country based on quality of care, process of care measures, and financial performance. With the celebration of their 27th year, came the added goal to educate residents of their right to choose their home health care and hospice provider.

According to baker, “if you ask for Care Corp and another agency calls or shows up, simply tell them you want Care Corp or call us, and we will be happy to help. too often, Care Corp hears of these violations after the fact and is told the patient and family did not want to cause problems or feared retribution the next time they were hospitalized. this is such a shame because a hospital has caused this problem, and violated your rights as a patient. You do not need to fear retribution. the doctors, nurses and aides in the hospital are all there to care for you. it is the management that is directing you to their agency for financial reasons.”

Jason’s mother shirley baker, rn, founded Care Corp. As an experienced nurse in hospital, physician office and home health care settings, her goal was to provide not only exceptional home care, but “care with a gentle touch” and serve as a strong advocate for patients.

“i believe our nursing staff is superior to any hospital or home care agency in the area and quite possibly the state. they take the time needed to assess the home environment, ask questions, and get the job done. i really feel good about the care our nurses provide. they are and will continue to be the backbone of this home health care and hospice agency,” Petersen states.

Care Corporation offers the following comprehensive services:• skilled nursing• intravenous (iV) therapy • Medication supervision• Physical therapy• occupational therapy• speech therapy

Covering Geauga County’s

Home Care Needs

• licensed social Worker• home health Aides• homemaker services• respite/sitter/Companions• hospice Program• bereavement support


12

Swee

t Success: The Buckeye Choco

late

Com

pany

by M

argie Wilber, W

rite 2 the Point


nowhere else is the sweet taste of success more apparent than walking through the doors of the buckeye Chocolate Company, located at 14646 ravenna road, in burton, oh. Just try to resist the creamy milk, dark and white chocolates, pecan turtles, meltaways, cashew clusters, old-fashioned toffee, buckeyes and so much more lining display cases and shelves within the retail store at the chocolate factory!

eric hart and his brother Craig opened the buckeye Chocolate Company in 2004 after first working in their family’s maple syrup business, north Coast sugarbush – tapping the trees on the family farm on taylor May road. their father dennis hart, first generation in the food business, offered maple products to the public through various trade shows in the area. he expanded the concession sales to include cinnamon roasted nuts, starting

european gourmet Almonds. As the nut business increased, the maple products slowly phased away.

“Craig and i decided to expand our small family business from traveling to expos to developing our own chocolates at a stationary location for our customers to visit,” explains eric. “We are slowly becoming a

strong presence in the chocolate confectionary industry. We are also building a strong foundation for the third generation of the hart family to one day take over.” they still travel to more than 180

expos each year as well as run the chocolate factory.

eric, who was born and raised in geauga County, and his wife Meghan are now raising their four children here. “i graduated from st. helen’s and ndCl, and the great thing about having my

factory and retail store on the corner of rt. 44 and rt. 87 is that i am basically right across the street from st. helen’s, where two of my children attend school,” eric says. “My wife has always

worked on and off at the factory and store. she is so creative and awesome. Meghan does a great job decorating the store and creating the give baskets and boxes.”

A member of the geauga farm bureau, eric utilizes both wholesale and retail sales to move their product, soliciting customers predominantly through cold calls, website sales and word of mouth. “We’re looking to expand our fundraising partnerships which have proven to be very good for us,” adds the young entrepreneur. “it’s a great way to raise money for your booster or organization, and we offer a variety of products and unique gift items for these programs.” A few local schools and churches selling buckeye Chocolate products for fundraising include berkshire elementary, Jordak elementary, st. helen’s elementary and newbury Community Church.

“My goal for the future is to advance automation of product packaging. i like shiny equipment,” he states with a laugh. “i want to continue to produce chocolate the old-fashioned, hands-on way that insures a delicious, quality product.” the young man says he is rarely tempted to nibble on his product. he claims, “i consider myself more of an oatmeal cream pie and twinkie kind of guy. i’ve never really been into a lot of sweets.” lucky for him!

he also hopes to generate more corporate sales. “We are able to customize our chocolate baskets and actually imprint corporate logos onto chocolate bars. north American seal, basetek and various real estate companies are good customers,”

says eric. “We plan to launch a cafe in the near future and are currently keeping our eyes open for an ideal location. Anita stocker, director of Community and economic

development, has offered us valuable advice.”

though his typical work week averages 60 to 80 hours, hart says he enjoys controlling his own schedule and being his own boss. “hard work, devotion, and dedication are

my recipe for success,” remarks hart. “And, i firmly believe that any business can be run with common sense. i have a lot of friends who whine and complain about their jobs.

My outlook is this: everything is positive, and there is humor in everything.”

stop by the buckeye Chocolate retail store, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through friday; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on saturdays. You won’t be disappointed! for more information on corporate

gifts, fundraising opportunities or online sales, visit www.buckeyechocolate.com or call 440.564.8086.

Swee

t Success: The Buckeye Choco

late

Com

pany

by M

argie Wilber, W

rite 2 the Point

14

f o r M e r i n V i s i b l e f e n C e o W n e r / o P e r Ato r n o W C a r i n g f o r ot h e r sb y M a r g i e W i l b e r, W r i t e 2 t h e Po i n t


Mark Mekota is no stranger to corporate America and the bottom line. Mekota successfully owned and operated invisible fence Company of northeast ohio for the past 22 years and Jgb distributing inc. for 18 years with retail operations in ohio, Michigan, illinois, nebraska, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and florida. his distribution network consisted of 80 dealers in 12 states with 135 employees.

then the committed man of faith believed it was time to use his gifts and talents in a new way.

“i sold the companies in July of 2006 to start a non-profit organization in geauga County, Care for others (Cfo), inc.,” Mekota says. “Care for others is a faith-based, non-profit organization that works with individuals and families in geauga County to avoid the cycle of poverty by issuing independent living grants. We help those who help themselves – people who aren’t looking for a government hand-out but have just fallen on a bit of bad luck.”

More specifically, Cfo was founded by Mark and his wife Mary and Jim and laura dilella in 2006. the two couples, friends for the past 10 years, share a commitment to family, faith, hard work and giving back. this year we hired an executive director to move our foundation to the next level. blaze Monaco joins Cfo after 10 years as the director of littlest heroes (helping children with cancer). We are excited and look forward to the future. With operating expenses low, the majority of donations go directly to people in need, issuing grants that may go

towards their mortgage, rent, car payments, car repairs, doctor appointments, food expenses, etc.

Mekota recalls, as a youth, how an uncle offered financial assistance to his family during a difficult time. “We struggled as a family growing up. My mother wanted to be a stay-at-home mom but needed to work in order

to support us. My uncle during those years, gave her a few hundred dollars each month to tie us over so we wouldn’t lose our house or get the electricity turned off. i realize now how that money made a huge difference in our lives. We were able to work through the difficult times. that is what Care for others is about.”

“the maximum grant is $1500, and no individual or family may receive a grant more than once per year, two times in his/her lifetime,” continues the geauga County resident. “We exist to lend a helping hand and renew the confidence of a person who wants to work but is faced with a minor setback block. We try to bridge the gap between independence and need; reaching out a helping hand to lift someone from despair into the light of hope.”

Mekota also serves on the board of directors for notre dame-Cathedral latin board of directors in geauga County and board of directors for Clark rubber in Mentor, ohio. happily married for 31 years, the couple’s three children all attended ndCl: Christopher ‘99; Joshua ‘01, ryan ‘03 along with daughter-in-law Kristie Wanner ‘01 .

in addition to serving as President of Care for others, Mekota works as a business consultant for companies earning between $300,000 and $30 million annually – evaluating operations and suggesting ways to improve or grow their business.

Mekota’s commitment to faith and Catholic education is witnessed throughout his years of service. the Mekotas have been members of st. helen’s parish for more than 30 years. he served as chairman of the committee to build and fund a new rectory at st. helen’s – a project completed within 11 months. he also served on st. helen’s Parish Council for four years; fundraising committee two years; and church design committee four years.

the businessman has volunteered with geauga Job and family services for more than 14 years, working on various projects, sponsoring families, and delivering food and gifts during the holiday season. Mekota also volunteers with the American Cancer society, American heart Association and has raised money for autism, leukemia and breast cancer.

for more information on Care for others or to make a donation, visit www.careforothers.org.

f o r M e r i n V i s i b l e f e n C e o W n e r / o P e r Ato r n o W C a r i n g f o r ot h e r s

“We exist to lend a

helping hand and

renew the confidence

of a person who wants

to work but is faced

with a minor setback

block. We try to bridge

the gap between

independence and

need; reaching out a

helping hand to lift

someone from despair

into the light of hope.”

16

A local start-up company is offering a solution to three critical needs in business: the professional appearance of automobiles; convenient airport transportation to business meetings and conferences; and valet parking for special events.

Chandler Wick, owner of Precision services, tackles all three concerns with the launch of his company, Precision services. “A host of books and articles have been written on the need to dress for success, but consider the impression you make driving up to your next business conference in a dirty automobile,” the entrepreneur suggests with a grin.

With their full-service automotive detailing, Precision services staff spends 6-8 hours detailing each vehicle using the best, high-quality products and technique available. from hand washing and waxing the exterior, to hand washing and polishing the interior, steam vacuuming rugs and fabric, and cleaning and treating leather interiors. the cost starts at $140 for cars/$220 for full-size suVs. the cost includes one coat of wax on the exterior, utilizing special tools to get into grooves and crevices other detailers miss.

“it’s also hard enough to pack for a business meeting or vacation, not to mention getting through security checkpoints. Precision services will take the stress out of getting to the airport from geauga County – where there is no convenient mode of public transportation,” says Wick. “Precision services will transport individuals or families to and from Cleveland hopkins international and Akron Canton regional airports, as well as Columbus, Cincinnati and Pittsburg airports.”

With 24-hour-a-day service, clients avoid expensive overnight parking fees, inconvenient traffic jams, and stressful terminal drop-off and pick-up time limits. Precision services’ experienced, courteous, well-groomed and attentive staff do the driving for you.

transportation fare to Cleveland hopkins (within Cuyahoga County) is $50 each way or geauga, lake, or other surrounding counties, $60. transportation to Akron Canton (within Cuyahoga County) are $90 and geauga, lake or other surrounding counties, $100. there is a $10 surcharge for transportation between 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

lastly, Wick offers valet parking services for corporate special events. “often, parking is a problem at various businesses. Precision services will solve this issue by using our experienced valet parking attendants. We provide valet parking to a host of local restaurants as well.”

“i enjoy working in geauga County. geauga-based companies and local residents know quality and appreciate excellent service,” adds Wick.

the company is fully insured and livery insured.

for more information or to schedule an automotive detailing, airport transportation or valet parking, call Wick at 216. 591.0484 or 440.667.2994 or email him at [email protected]

“Precision Services

is a welcome

alternative to

asking a family

member or a friend

to drive me to the

airport at 3:00 in

the morning.”

Detailing, Airport Transportation & Valet Parking Anyone?b y M a r g i e W i l b e r, W r i t e 2 t h e Po i n t


• lower your gross income for federal and state savings by contributing or increasing your contributions to your 401(k) or 403(b) plans at work. the maximum amount available for pre-tax deferral each year has increased from $16,500 in 2011 to $17,000 for 2012. Contributions are often matched by employers as well. if you are age 50 or older, you can make an additional catch-up contribution of $5,500.

aif self-employed, consider a siMPle 401k plan whereby you can put away up to $11,500 (and an additional $2,500 if you are age 50+). these plans do not require annual filings with the department of labor, so they are very “simple” to administer.

aif you have any type of earned income, but are not eligible to participate in a retirement plan, consider an irA. You may contribute $5,000 (an additional $1,000 for age 50+). roth irAs are also a great alternative for tax-free growth; however, you forgo the current tax deduction when making a roth contribution.

• historically it has been best, when possible, to accelerate tax deductions into the current year and defer income into the following year. the uncertainty of tax laws for 2013 and beyond make it difficult to recommend this strategy. the election year politics, prolonged us recession, and concerns regarding the european union are all factors impacting our nation’s tax policy over the foreseeable future. As a result:

adividend and long-term capital gains tax rates are likely to increase from the current 15% tax rate (0% for couples with less than $69,000 taxable income and $34,500 for singles). As tax policy finalizes over the next 12 months consider realizing gains in 2012 before a potential tax rate hike. Also consider donating appreciated stock to charity to deduct the full value and avoid paying tax on the appreciation.

athere has also been much discussion about raising the tax rates for those with income above $250,000 beginning in 2013. if you typically hover around this level of income, you may want to consider additional deductions or shifting income from 2013 into 2012 to reduce your adjusted gross income to below this threshold.

• tax credits are better than deductions since they lower your tax bill dollar for dollar, as opposed to deductions which are calculated as a percentage adjustment based upon your tax bracket.

athe child tax credit provides a $1,000 credit for each qualifying child under the age of 17 (phased out if adjusted gross income exceeds $110,000 for couples and $75,000 for singles)

athe education credits (American opportunity and lifetime learning) provide tax credits of up to $2,500 for each qualifying student enrolled in a qualifying higher education institution. these credits are subject to various phase-out limits and “qualifying” does mean there are restrictions impacting availability.

aif you’re paying someone to care for your child under the age of 13, you may be able to claim the dependent Care Credit (no phase out for higher income earners).

athe retirement savings Contribution Credit is available for those who contribute to a retirement plan while earning less than $57,500 for couples and less than $28,750 for singles. great opportunity for young people and semi-retired!

• student loan interest deduction is available to couples with income under $155,000 and singles with income under $75,000.

• Consider a tax deductible contribution to a health savings account if you have a high deductible health plan. if you have a family plan you may contribute $6,250, or $3,100 for a self-only plan in 2012.

• think about 529 college savings plans to defer money for your children or grandchildren while letting the funds grow tax-free if used for education.

Keep in mind that tax breaks available last year may not be available this year given our ever changing tax law!


b y L i z T i l t o n , C PA , T i l t o n C PA s, L LC

2012 Tax Tips Most of us begin thinking of taxes as the tax

documents start rolling into the mailbox. To get 2012 off on the right track, consider some of the following tax tips:

each year since 2001, leadership geauga County has recognized community leaders. the emerald leader Award is presented annually to an individual, a business, and/or a non-profit agency that exemplifies outstanding leadership by positive contributions through volunteerism, philanthropy, or innovation that impact the quality of life in geauga County.

At the leadership geauga emerald ball, March 3, 2012 two award winners will be recognized: tracy Jemison and James f. Patterson.

While Jemison holds many executive leadership roles in the community, one is his dedicated involvement with united Way

services of geauga County. Mr. Jemison has served as board Chair for united Way since 2009.

Jemison is the past president and member of the burton Middlefield rotary club, where he has served as an activist for local safety personnel, as well as veteran’s issues. he is a graduate of leadership geauga (2005), former leadership geauga board member, former Middlefield Village Council member (which he started at the age of 19 years old), previous geauga County Auditor, berkshire school board member, and the list goes on.

A fifth-generation family farmer is the second 2012 emerald leader. James f. Patterson has deep roots in geauga County. Jim, a 1964 graduate of the ohio state university, owns Patterson fruit farm in Chesterland.

his 116-acre farm includes 45 acres of apple orchards and 18 acres of strawberry fields in addition to producing 8,000 bushels of apples for pick-your-own customers and retail sales at the farm market.

Patterson has long been active in civic, agricultural and alumni affairs. from 1969 to 1982, he was a geauga County commissioner. he was elected to the board of trustees of the ohio farm bureau federation in 1979 and served as the organization’s president from 1985 to 1989. he is a past president of the ohio fruit growers society and a former member and chairman of the farm Credit bank of louisville’s board of trustees. in addition, Jim has served as vice chair of the ohio board of regents.

Patterson is a member of both the nationwide insurance enterprise and the nationwide financial services boards of directors. he served on both the geauga regional hospital board of trustees and the university hospital health system of Cleveland board of trustees. he served on the osu board of trustees from 1994-2003, and was chairman of the board 2002-03. he has served as chair of the osu Alumni Advisory Committee and on the councils of the ohio Agricultural research and development Center and osu extension support councils.

both tracy Jemison and Jim Patterson will be honored on saturday, March 3, 2012 at the leadership geauga County emerald ball at the family life Center in bainbridge. tickets are available at the leadership geauga office (440) 286-8115.

Geauga County Emerald Leaders Feted

Tracy Jemison

James F. Patterson

Documents

Business - Write 2 the PointPublisher Chris Yuhasz Owner, POV Print Communications, Inc. editor-in-Chief Margie Wilber Owner, Write 2 the Point Contributing Writers Margie Wilber Liz