Economic Development Project Manager - Richland County
Lisa Duckworth
Director of Programs & Events
Angie Fanello
Member Engagement & Special Projects Coordinator
Kathy Fox Front Office Coordinator
Clint Knight Director of Workforce Development/Area
10 Workforce Dev. Board Administrative Director
Jill Gantt Workforce Development Coordinator
Evan Stuart
Marketing & Legislative Affairs Coordinator
Barrett Thomas Senior Economic Development Director
Tom Vanderhorst Finance Specialist
Jennifer Wagner Director of Member Services
A Time for New Beginnings
Jessica Gribben, OhioCED President & CEO
Spring has a way of reminding us that new beginnings are always possible, and here at the Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development, we are feeling that energy in a big way.
I am thrilled to announce the hiring of Jeff Parton as our new Economic and Community Development Director for Shelby, effective June 1st. Jeff brings more than 25 years of experience in banking, business development and community leadership, and most recently served as a business development officer with Park National Bank, where he built a strong reputation for building relationships and connecting community partners. Those who know Jeff know that he doesn’t just talk about getting things done, he does them.
Jeff’s deep roots in community service speak for themselves. He has volunteered with NAMI Richland County, the Richland County Land Bank, Downtown Mansfield Inc., Mansfield Rotary Club, the Chamber Ambassador program, the United Way, and more. He is not new to this community, he is woven into it. That is exactly the kind of leader Shelby needs, and exactly why we couldn’t be more confident in this hire.
In his new role, Jeff will work with the Shelby Community Improvement Corporation, local businesses, elected officials and regional partners to advance priorities including downtown redevelopment, housing investment and long-term planning. Much like the season itself, Jeff’s arrival signals fresh momentum and exciting possibilities for Shelby and all of northern Richland County. We can’t wait to see what he helps us build!
We also have another exciting announcement to share. Please join me in congratulating Evan Stuart on his well-deserved promotion to Operations and Government Affairs Manager! Evan’s journey with our organization is a wonderful example of what happens when talent meets dedication. He came to us as a Marketing and Communications intern and wasted no time proving himself, stepping up with creativity, a strong work ethic, and a genuine willingness to pitch in wherever needed. Over time, he took on greater responsibility across marketing, operations, and legislative initiatives, and he has excelled at every turn.
In his new role, Evan will lead day-to-day operations, coordinate legislative and advocacy efforts, and continue strengthening the connections between our members, community, and local leaders. Raised on a generational farm in northern Richland County and a
55 N. Mulberry St.
Mansfield, OH 44902
Phone: (419) 522-3211
info@richlandareachamber.com
proud graduate of Crestview High School, Evan earned his Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from North Central State College and is currently continuing his education at Franklin University, pursuing degrees in Marketing and Management and Leadership. He is exactly the kind of home-grown talent that makes Richland County special, and we are so proud to see him grow right alongside this organization.
Spring also has us reflecting on the wonderful people who make Richland County’s business community so vibrant, and that brings me to our recent Team Appreciation Day! What a celebration it was! We went all-in on the 80’s theme, and the energy in the room was absolutely electric. More importantly, the day gave us a meaningful opportunity to honor the incredible teams behind the businesses that keep Richland County moving forward every single day. From the employees who show up with dedication to the leaders who invest in their people, it was a joy to celebrate all of you.
This is a great time to be part of the Richland Area business community. We have new talent, renewed energy, and a lot of exciting work ahead. As always, thank you for your continued partnership and support. We are here for you, and we can’t wait to see what this season brings.
Warmly,
Jessica Gribben, OhioCED President & CEO, Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development
Always looking on the bright side. Always your bank.
Here’s a promise: we’re wholeheartedly here for you. Because Mechanics is always your neighbor, always your go-to financial expert, and—of course—always your bank.
mymechanics.com Member FDIC
Big health bene ts for small businesses
You put everything you have into your business. And we put everything into creating high-quality health insurance plans for you and your employees. We've partnered with the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development and Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) to offer a unique bene t option for small businesses like yours. The COSE Benefit Plan is a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA) that allows businesses of 1–50 to experience rate stability, savings and the same great health benefits that large corporations have. Bundle your health plan with our dental, vision or life plans for a fully integrated bene ts package.
Contact your broker | COSEBene tPlan.com
CATALYTIC LEADER / SILVER
BOOST & EXCEL
Ritter’s Office Outfitters
BUILD & GROW
104.5 The River
Allure Studios Hair and Day Spa
Culligan Quality Water of North Central Ohio
ENGAGE & CONNECT
179th Cyberspace Wing
419 Barbershop
American Red Cross in Richland County
Apple Hill Orchards
Ashland University Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Barrister Title Group, LLC
Blanton’s Automotive
Bob and Bob Door Co LLC
Brown and Blaze Outfitters
Wildlife Removal Solutions
Catalyst Life Services
City Grille
Clever’s Quality 1st Renovations LLC
Cosam Contracting Inc
Crossroads Factory Store
Darmak Trucking Inc
Dynamic Dental Specialists LLC
SHAPE & THRIVE
KeyBank - Ashland Road
Stanley Black & Decker Outdoor
Sam’s Club #6407
Glen’s Surplus Sales, Inc
Lloyd Rebar Company LLC
Mansfield Technologies
Pinnacle Advisors
Eurofins Drinking Water & Wastewater Central, LLC
Glo Fiber Business
Hardline Heavy Equipment Solutions LLC.
Honeyville Garden Events and Rentals
Janice Darmody, e-Merge Real Estate Champions
Lori Holden Sjostedt, KW Legacy Group Realty
Mansfield Memorial Homes
McIntosh Reserve Condominiums
Millstone Hills Golf Course
Mong and Associates
NCS Advertising & Design
New Directions EAP & Counseling Center
Nicholls Furniture Express
OneTable Strategy
Oyster Pavement Maintenance, Inc.
TE Connectivity
Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center
Richland Sealcoating Company Inc
Pinhook Meats
Reining Painters Ltd
Richland Carrousel Park Inc
Richland County Youth & Family Council
Rotary Club of Mansfield #3487
RV Wholesalers of Northeast Ohio, LLC
Scott Farm Condo Association
ScottRods
Studio 19 Salon & Spa
Swept Away Cleaning LLC
Thermo Tec High Performance Automotive
Town Money Saver
Two Men and a Truck
Ultimate Veteran Adventures
United Way of Richland County
Universal Church Directories
Wise Funeral Service
Y-Not Cycling
Interested in enhancing your member benefits?
Contact Jennifer at (419) 522-3211, or jwagner@richlandareachamber.com
LADDER SAFETY AT WORK
Ladders are widely used in workplaces, but improper use can cause serious injuries. OSHA outlines ladder safety standards for General Industry and Construction. Common accidents result from unstable placement, overreaching, carrying tools while climbing, and failing to maintain three points of contact.
Always choose the correct ladder type and height for the job, and use fiberglass ladders near electrical hazards. Before use, inspect ladders for damage, ensure they are set on firm, level ground, and follow the 4-to-1 rule for extension ladders. Extend ladders at least three feet above landing surfaces.
Climb facing the ladder, maintain three points of contact, and use tool belts or ropes to move tools. Employers should provide regular ladder safety training.
Proper ladder selection, inspection, and use can greatly reduce fall risks and injuries. To learn more about Sedgwick’s safety services or to schedule a confidential consultation, please contact Andy Sawan at andrew.sawan@sedgwick.com or 330-819-4728.
UPCOMING EVENTS
SECOND CHANCES, STRONGER COMMUNITIES.
A Morning with Damon West.
National Speaker & Author of “Be a Coffee Bean”
Wednesday, August 5, 2026 • 9:00 – 10:30 AM EDT Historic Ohio State Reformatory
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Damon West
The World Is a Pot of Boiling Water. You Have 3 Choices:
National Speaker & Author of “Be a Coffee Bean”
THE CARROT
Wednesday, August 5, 2026 9:00 – 10:30 AM EDT Historic Ohio State Reformatory
Damon West is an internationally known keynote speaker, 4-time bestselling author, and former crime boss in Dallas who was sentenced to life in prison for organized crime. USA Today calls him the “modern day Shawshank Redemption and the most in-demand speaker in America.”
After a spiritual awakening during incarceration, Damon emerged from over seven years in prison a changed man. His story is one of hope, redemption, grit, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Damon West is an internationally known keynote speaker, 4-time bestselling author, and former crime boss in Dallas who was sentenced to life in prison for organized crime. USA Today calls him the “modern day Shawshank Redemption and the most in-demand speaker in America.” After a spiritual awakening during incarceration, Damon emerged from over seven years in prison a changed man. His story is one of hope, redemption, grit, and the resilience of the human spirit.
REGISTER NOW
Purchase a ticket and receive a FREE copy of Be a Coffee Bean!
PLATINUM
• 8 tickets to the event
Goes in strong, comes out soft and weak.
THE EGG Goes in soft, comes out hard and mean.
THE WORLD IS A POT OF BOILING WATER YOU HAVE 3 CHOICES:
THE COFFEE BEAN
THE CARROT
Changes the water around it — positive impact.
Goes in strong, comes out soft and weak
THE EGG
Goes in soft, comes out hard and mean
BE THE COFFEE BEAN.
THE COFFEE BEAN
Changes the water around it itive
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
$5,000
• Opportunity to address the audience for 1 minute
• Business logo on all event advertising (large)
• Business logo on our event webpage
• Business logo in Chamber Newsletter
• Business logo on social media posts
• Business logo on membership emails advertising the event
• Table sign with corporate logo
• Verbal recognition from the podium at the event
SILVER $1,000
• 4 tickets to the event
• Business name on all event advertising
• Business name on our event webpage
• Business logo in Chamber Newsletter
• Business name on membership emails advertising the event
• Verbal recognition from the podium at the event
Interested in sponsoring ?
Contact Lisa Duckworth: lduckworth@richlandareachamber.com
GOLD $2,500
• 6 tickets to the event
• Business logo on all event advertising (medium)
• Business logo on our event webpage
• Business logo in Chamber Newsletter
• Business logo on social media posts
• Business logo on membership emails advertising the event
• Table sign with corporate logo
• Verbal recognition from the podium at the event
BRONZE $500
• 2 tickets to the event
• Business name on our event webpage
• Business name in Chamber Newsletter
• Verbal recognition from the podium at the event
Strong Business. Strong Community. Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development
SELLING OR BUYING A BUSINESS? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
When a business is sold, purchased, or merged, both parties must notify the Ohio BWC. Claims experience may transfer to the new owner.
For Buyers (Successor Employers):
New employers must file form U-3
• Existing employers must file form U-118
• To keep the seller’s active policy, successors without coverage may file form U-115
• Buyers can request the seller’s workers’ compensation history and liabilities using form AC-4, signed by both parties.
For Sellers (Predecessor Employers):
• After notifying BWC and requesting cancellation, final payroll true-up reporting is due within 45 days.
• If only part of the business is sold and operations remain active, do not cancel coverage; file form U-118 instead.
To learn more, visit the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Questions? Contact Sedgwick program manager Dave Deyo at 614-318-5516 or david.deyo@sedgwick.com.
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
05/15/26 Cleveland Guardians Baseball Trip
05/21/26 Business After Hours, Lind Media, 4-6pm
06/11/26 Leadership Unlimited Alumni Dinner & Class of 2026 Commencement, DLX, 5:30-7:30pm
06/15/26 Chamber Golf Classic, Westbrook Country Club
06/25/26 Chamber Coffee Hosted by Directions Credit Union, The Blueberry Patch, 8-9am
08/05/26 Second Chances. Stronger Communities. A Morning with Damon West, Historic Ohio State Reformatory, 9am-10:30am
10/22/26 Savor & Sip, Mid Ohio Conference Center, 5-7:30pm
12/08/26 Small Business of the Year Awards, Kehoe Center, 11:30am-1:30pm
