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What's Happening in Champaign County?

Grocery Opens Soon in St. Paris

4/8/2021

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Ice Cream Parlor Will Also Return

It’s been two years since the IGA grocery store closed in the village. Since then, St. Paris residents have been relying on its Dollar General store for quick shopping trips within the village, but the lack of an actual grocery store has been a glaring void for residents who don’t want to drive to larger towns.

After several months of planning, a new store will open at the old IGA location.
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St. Paris Shoppers Groceries & Deli
A new grocery store will open in St. Paris at the site of the old IGA. The sign is ready and the store is set to open soon. Urbana Daily Citizen Staff photo
The new owner, Raj Vangaveti, said he plans to be opening “any day now” as St. Paris Shoppers and Grocery. The store will include fresh produce, meats and other traditional fresh grocery items, Vangaveti said.

​In addition, a familiar favorite spot, the ice cream parlor, will be open seasonally.


“I came from a small town in India,” Vangaveti said. “Growing up we did not have a grocery store for miles. Many of us did not even have cars to commute and it was extremely difficult to get everyday supplies. Sometimes I had to bike for miles to get a gallon of milk or a packet of bread.

“I have decided and have been looking for the right opportunity to join a small community and help with everyday needs,” he said. “I am incredibly happy to find the right opportunity in St. Paris. I am very eager and excited to be part of this small friendly community.”


Initially the store will provide customers with a fully featured grocery store that will include fresh food like milk, eggs, bread, coffee, hot chocolate, fresh produce, fruits, frozen food, meat, beer and wine. It will also have candy, soda pop, paper towels, bathroom tissues, diapers, pet food, automotive products, tobacco, cigarettes, lottery and other items.
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“A unique, upscale, and innovative environment will be provided to the customers with a friendly atmosphere,” Vangaveti said. “Our store will differ from the traditional grocery store because of our added personal touch.

We are planning to add a gas/fueling station in near future. There will be a common sitting area where the customers can get deli meat, pizza and fried food. We will be planning to reopen the ice cream parlor in the summer.”

Vangaveti said he believes that the responsibility for customer satisfaction is not focused solely on the sale of a product, but rather is the total relationship a customer experiences when interacting with the organization. “We believe in honesty and truth in all transactions and in providing products of the highest quality and at fair prices. We should do everything possible to provide outstanding service in marketing the products we sell.”

Vangaveti said concern for people gives the store the drive to be a good corporate citizen.

“We believe we have a responsibility to be a good neighbor in maintaining our property in first-class condition and by making the appearance of our store, facilities, equipment, and grounds as attractive as possible, making them an asset to the communities that support our store.”

The campaign includes an intense training session for all employees, and a firm understanding and commitment to deliver these pledge points, he said.

Hours of operation for the store will be 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Checks and all major credit cards will be accepted. “Food stamp policy along with other policies will be in place once we open the store,” Vangaveti said.
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first federal community bank welcomed to champaign county

2/24/2021

 
First Federal Community Bank Ribbon Cutting event held February 24th.
First Federal Community Bank Ribbon Cutting event held by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce on February 24th.
First Federal Community Bank, which recently opened at 300 N. Main St., Suite 1, Urbana, provides mortgage lending services. The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting event on February 24th.

Braden Lewis, third from left and holding the scissors, is mortgage loan officer for First Federal Community Bank. Fourth from left is Lisa Ballenger, assistant vice president of mortgage lending for First Federal. The office's phone number is  (937) 553-3889.

Photo & story by Gary Schenkel

live webinar: covid-19 relief for small businesses

2/22/2021

 
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This Friday, February 26th at 1:30PM EST, join U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and the Small Business Administration (SBA) for a live webinar on how federal COVID-19 relief programs can support your small business or venue.

You'll hear directly from Cleveland and Columbus SBA representatives on PPP, EIDL, Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program, Enhanced SBA Guarantee, SBA Debt Relief, and more.

All small business owners, venue operators, and Ohioans are welcome to join and ask questions. Click here to RSVP (then click "Register") or type https://sen.gov/MYL4 into your browser.

Shop Urbana - valentine's day

2/10/2021

 
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Be My Valentine - grab your favorite sweetie and shop and dine downtown Urbana, Thursday, February 11, Friday, February 12, and Saturday, February 13. Participating businesses will be offering exclusive Valentine Specials. With every purchase, enter to win the Valentines grand package valued at over $350.

​Take advantage of the sweet deals and enter to win! Prize package includes an overnight stay at Scioto Inn, dinner at Cafe Paradiso, flowers from Ethel's, movie tickets from The Gloria Theater, cupcakes from Let's Eat Cake, and gift certificates for shopping at Kaleidescope, The Boston, Guild Galleries, The Vintage Traveler, Unique Boutiques, Oxners, Lily's Garden, Carmazzi's, Downtown Divas, and The Shop Around the Corner.

data privacy - what you need to know

2/1/2021

 
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 Imagine this.  You let someone into your home.  A friend.  A family member. Maybe a complete stranger.  Would you let them install video cameras and watch your every move – big brother style?  Probably not.  So why would you let anyone peer through your virtual windows?  That is why your data privacy is important and so vital to protect.

Every January 28th is National Data Privacy Day, a global effort that generates awareness about the importance of privacy, highlights easy ways to protect personal information and reminds organizations that privacy is good for business.
I know what you are thinking.  How does this apply to me?  Well, I am glad you asked.

From the National Security Alliance…
​

ADVICE FOR INDIVIDUALS: OWN YOUR PRIVACY
Individuals feel an increasing lack of control over their personal data. However, there are steps you can take to learn about the types of data you’re generating online, and how it’s collected, shared and used. Follow these basic privacy tips to help you better manage your personal information and make informed decisions about who receives your data.

Calls to Action:
     · Personal info is like money: Value it. Protect it. Personal information, such as your purchase history, IP address, or location, has tremendous value to businesses – just like money. Make informed decisions about whether or not to share your data with certain businesses by considering the amount of personal information they are asking for and weighing it against the benefits you may receive in return.

     · Keep tabs on your apps. Many apps ask for access to personal information, such as your geographic location, contacts list and photo album, before you can use their services. Be thoughtful about who gets that information, and wary of apps that require access to information that is not required or relevant for the services they are offering. Delete unused apps on your internet-connect devices and keep others secure by performing updates.

     · Manage your privacy settings. Check the privacy and security settings on web services and apps and set them to your comfort level for information sharing. Each device, application, or browser you use will have different features to limit how and with whom you share information. Get started with NCSA’s Manage Your Privacy Settings page:https://staysafeonline.org/stay-safe-online/managing-your-privacy/manage-privacy-settings/
 
ADVICE FOR BUSINESSES: RESPECT PRIVACY
According to a Pew Research Center study, 79% of U.S. adults report being concerned about the way their data is being used by companies. Respecting consumers’ privacy is a smart strategy for inspiring trust and enhancing reputation and growth in your business.

Calls to Action:
     · If you collect it, protect it. Data breaches can not only lead to great financial loss, but a loss in reputation and customer trust. Follow reasonable security measures to keep individuals’ personal information safe from inappropriate and unauthorized access. Make sure the personal data you collect is processed in a fair manner and only collected for relevant and legitimate purposes.

     · Consider adopting a privacy framework. Build privacy into your business by researching and adopting a privacy framework to help you manage risk and create a culture of privacy in your organization. Get started by checking out the following frameworks:
o    NIST Privacy Framework
o    AICPA Privacy Management Framework 
o    ISO/IEC 27701 – International Standard for Privacy Information Management

     · Conduct an assessment of your data collection practices. Understand which privacy laws and regulations apply to your business. Educate your employees of their and your organization’s obligations to protecting personal information. 

     · Transparency builds trust. Be open and honest about how you collect, use and share consumers’ personal information. Think about how the consumer may expect their data to be used and design settings to protect their information by default. Communicate clearly and concisely to the public what privacy means to your organization and the steps you take to achieve and maintain privacy. 

     · Maintain oversight of partners and vendors. If someone provides services on your behalf, you are also responsible for how they collect and use your consumers’ personal information.
 
If you’d like to hear more about the importance of protecting your data privacy, check out The We Spend Local Network Podcast interview with Local Expert, Shawn Sutter of Your Hometown Techs.  You can find it on our Facebook, YouTube, or on your favorite podcast player.

If you need help with your business or personal data privacy reach out to Shawn for a free consultation.

2020 Champaign county holiday bucket list

12/8/2020

 
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By Chelsea Bray- Elle A. Design

This year has been a challenge and this holiday season proves to be as well. We know things aren’t the same as they usually are but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on what makes this season so special. We came up with a list of things to do this year to help keep the holiday spirit alive and to help you spread some cheer.
 
1.Send Christmas cards to family you can’t visit this year
 
We may not get to see everyone this year for the holidays, but you can still send some holiday cheer by sending custom cards to them in the mail. Include updates about the year and get the whole family to sign them for an extra personal touch.
 
2.Decorate cookies with candy from Carmazzi’s Candy and General Store
 
Making cookies is a great activity for all ages! You could make sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, or even a gingerbread house. All the candy you could need for decorating can be found right in Urbana at Carmazzi’s Candy and General Store.
 
3.Volunteer at Caring Kitchen
 
Volunteering during the holidays is a great way to spread cheer and to help others have a great holiday too. You can volunteer with the Caring Kitchen in Urbana with meal preparation, serving, and clean up. They also take donations all year long!
 
4.Donate toys for dogs and cats to Barely Used Pets Rescue
 
Don’t forget about our furry friends this time of year. While they are waiting to find their forever homes the amazing people at Barely Used Pets in Urbana are keeping them warm and happy this time of year. You can donate food or toys to the shelter to give the animals an extra special holiday.
 
5.Drive around a see the lights caravan style
 
A fun way to get together with family while staying safe this holiday is to see lights around town caravan style. Everyone stays in their own car, but you can all experience the joy and magic of twinkling lights. Be sure to stop by Hemisphere in Mechanicsburg first for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate!
 
6.Make a homemade gift
 
Making the holiday season extra personal this year will make it feel like you are closer than ever, even if you aren’t together. Try your hand at making a homemade holiday ornament to send to a loved one to let them know how much they mean to you.
 
7.Leave out treats for the delivery drivers (and Santa)
 
We all know that Santa loves cookies and milk but don’t forget about all the amazing delivery drivers that come to your house almost every day! Prepackaged treats and bottles of water will give them that extra boost and let them know you appreciate all their hard work of delivery all your gifts in time for the holidays.  
 
8.Have an ugly sweater themed dinner night at home
 
You don’t have to have a party to don that ugly sweater hanging in your closet. Select a night of the week to get dressed up with your family, in your most festive gear, and enjoy a family favorite meal together.
 
9.Put together a holiday jigsaw puzzle
 
The holidays are all about enjoying time together. Find a winter themed puzzle that you like and spend time together completing the puzzle. This is a great way to relax, work together, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
 
10.Choose old toys to donate a local thrift store
 
This is the time of year for giving. If you have any gently used toys that are still in good condition, there are plenty of places you can donate them where another kid can treasure them for years to come. 

2nd CARES Grant for Champaign County Small Businesses

11/24/2020

 

Funds aimed to help small business hit by pandemic

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​The Champaign Economic Partnership (CEP) and Champaign  County Commissioners are announcing a 2nd round of CARES Act funds to Champaign County small businesses impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.  Businesses could be awarded up to $10,000 if approved for the grant.  Businesses that have received approval from the 1st round of the CARES Act Grant administered by the CEP will not be eligible for the 2nd grant.

“Over 50 local small businesses applied for the 1st round of CARES Act funds and after discussion with the Champaign County Commissioners, we decided to offer another application period to assist other eligible businesses.” Bailey said.
​
“Our local economy has been negatively impacted with the Coronavirus and our small businesses are some of the hardest hit,” said Marcia Bailey CEP Economic Development Director.  “These funds are an expense reimbursement grant and will help get the businesses through this difficult time”.

To qualify for the grant program, businesses must:
  • Be currently in operation, locally owned and physically located in Champaign County
  • Have 50 or less employees as of January 2020
  • Be current on all state, federal and local taxes
  • Be in good standing with all applicable government regulations

Some examples of eligible reimbursable expenses include:
  • Business mortgage or lease costs
  • Business utilities, such as electric, gas, sewer, water, trash, business insurance etc.
  • Materials and supplies related to interruption of your business caused by required closures
  • Business costs related to compliance with Responsible RestartOhio.

Businesses that have received funding for expenses arising from the pandemic cannot submit the same expenses for reimbursement under the CARES Grant for Champaign County Small Businesses.

“We are so appreciative of our small businesses and although there is great uncertainty, Champaign County is hopeful that businesses receiving these grant funds will successfully persevere through the COVID-19 pandemic.” Bailey said.
​

Applications and grant guidelines are available on the CEP website www.cepohio.com or www.champaignworks.com/CARESGrantChampaignCounty beginning November 24, 2020. Application deadline is December 1, 2020 at 5:00 pm.   Due to the short application period, we recommend you apply as soon as possible.  In order to assist you, please send your questions to info@cepohio.com.

Businesses are also encouraged to visit 
https://businesshelp.ohio.gov for additional assistance.  Governor DeWine announced CARES Act funding through the State of Ohio for small business and others that have been impacted financially by the pandemic

“Keep the Cheer Here” Fundraiser to Benefit Local Businesses and Organizations

11/20/2020

 
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Local and small businesses are integral to the fabric and character of our communities in Champaign County. The small businesses here are not immune to the detrimental effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the economy. As the weather turns cold and COVID numbers rise, it becomes even more important to shop local and shop early for all of your holiday needs.

To further help support local businesses and organizations during the holiday season the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is launching a “Keep the Cheer Here” fundraiser. Purchase an item from the Champaign County Visitors Bureau Online Gift Store and when checking out, simply fill in the name of the Champaign County business you would like to support. $10 for every item purchased will be sent to that organization or business and you get a nice, soft tee or item of your choice to represent Champaign County!
 
Several new designs have been added including “Home for the Holidays” that will only be available for a limited time. Access the store by going to https://ccvisitorsbureau.itemorder.com/sale
 
For more information contact the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce at 937-653-5764 or email info@champaignohio.com.

Shop Local-Get FREE Gift Wrapping

11/16/2020

 
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URBANA, OHIO – The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau is encouraging residents to shop local and shop small for the holidays by offering gift wrapping as an incentive.

Shoppers that purchase items at a small Champaign County business can bring those items to the Chamber office to be wrapped Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM now through December 22. The wrapping will be free to those with a receipt from a local business, up People at the wrapping station will be verifying and checking receipts to verify that items are purchased locally.
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In addition, the Chamber will be releasing local gift guides to promote local businesses this holiday season. Follow along on the Chamber’s Facebook page or online at champaignohio.com for local gift ideas.
​

Shopping local is crucial to the economic success of our community and this year is even more important. Avoid large crowds and ensure your money stays in your community this season by shopping local

CARES Grant for Champaign County Small Businesses

10/29/2020

1 Comment

 

Funds aimed to help small business hit by pandemic

CARES Grant Champaign County
Click to apply between Oct. 30 - Nov. 13!
​The Champaign Economic Partnership (CEP) has partnered with the Champaign  County Commissioners to administer CARES Act funds to Champaign County small businesses impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.  Businesses could be awarded up to $10,000 if approved for the grant.

“Our local economy has been negatively impacted with the Coronavirus and our small businesses are some of the hardest hit,” said Marcia Bailey CEP Economic Development Director.  “These funds are an expense reimbursement grant and will help get the businesses through this difficult time."

To qualify for the grant program, businesses must:
  • Be locally owned and physically located in Champaign County
  • Have 50 or less employees as of January 2020
  • Be current on all state, federal and local taxes
  • Be in good standing with all applicable government regulations

Some examples of eligible reimbursable expenses include:
  • Business mortgage or lease costs
  • Business utilities, such as electric, gas, sewer, water, trash, business insurance etc.
  • Materials and supplies related to interruption of your business caused by required closures
  • Business costs related to compliance with Responsible RestartOhio.

Businesses that have received funding for expenses arising from the pandemic cannot submit the same expenses for reimbursement under the CARES Grant for Champaign County Small Businesses.

“We are so appreciative of our small businesses and although there is great uncertainty, Champaign County is hopeful that businesses receiving these grant funds will successfully persevere through the COVID-19 pandemic.” Bailey said.

Applications and grant guidelines are available at www.champaignworks.com/CARESGrantChampaignCounty beginning October 30, 2020. Application deadline is November 13, 2020 at 5:00 pm. Due to the short application period, we recommend you apply as soon as possible.  In order to assist you, please send your questions to info@cepohio.com.
​
Businesses are also encouraged to visit https://businesshelp.ohio.gov for additional assistance.  Governor DeWine announced CARES Act funding through the State of Ohio for small business and others that have been impacted financially by the pandemic.
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