These BBB blog articles are contributed by our Torch Bearer sponsors, companies that support marketplace integrity. They see integrity as a key factor in creating a stronger, healthier business community. The articles cover a variety of issues from professional development to industry-specific advice. These industry experts share their knowledge to help you navigate the Miami Valley marketplace.
Disaster Planning & Hiring A Contractor
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
Disaster can strike at any moment. You need to expect the unexpected. While some areas of the world may be more likely to be affected by disasters and weather emergencies, they can hit anywhere at any time. Blizzards, tornados, hurricanes and more can affect any community, which is why it’s increasingly important to take necessary precautions.
Posted Date: 3/11/2020
Does Consumerism in Healthcare Really Exist?
By Tim Antil, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC | Midwest Region
As healthcare consumers, we have access to a number of resources regarding the cost of services provided to ourselves and our families. The rise in high-deductible health plans created more transparency. However, many people are unaware of how to access these tools and how to discuss their options with providers. Healthcare providers negotiate contracts on an individual basis with their interests in mind - not those of the consumer. Providers want to be accessible to individuals and families, but they also want to direct care internally, which may not be the lowest cost option for the patient depending on their health plan.
Posted Date: 1/9/2020
Three Simple Ways You Can Help the Animals
By Brian Weltge, The Humane Society of Greater Dayton
At the BBB Accredited Charity, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, they match thousands of animals with loving forever homes every year. However, there are still plenty of animal lovers out there who may not be able to adopt, but want to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Of course, adoption is a great answer because it places amazing animals into forever homes. But if you don’t have the time or space to commit to adopting a pet, there are still other ways you can help the animals right here in the Miami Valley.
Posted Date: 12/5/2019
Why Our Personal Auto Insurance Rates Continue to Increase
By Sarah Goodwin, CIC, Marsh & McLennan Agency
Despite the fact that our personal auto insurance rates increase at each renewal, insurance carriers have not turned an underwriting profit in years. Underwriting profit is the earned premium remaining after losses and administrative overhead have been paid. 2018 was the third consecutive year that the U.S. property and casualty industry reported an underwriting loss.
Posted Date: 9/26/2019
When Is It Time To Replace Your Roof
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
Roofs aren’t meant to last forever. Most roofs last around 20-25 years before they’re in need of maintenance or replacement. If your roof is over 20 years old, chances are you need a new one. While normal wear and tear takes a toll on your roof over time, singular events like storms, heavy winds and natural disasters can also cause significant damage.
Posted Date: 9/19/2019
Everything You Want To Know About Smart Locks
By Kirby Gaboury, Audio Etc...
These days many things are becoming digital, including your front door. A smart lock allows you to lock and unlock your doors by using an app, a button or even just by standing near the door. These electronic door locks can help you keep your home and family safe from outside harm. A smart lock, in addition to a home security system, is one of the best ways to protect your home. In addition, it provides keyless entry to your house, which can be incredibly efficient and convenient.
Posted Date: 8/8/2019
Five Things To Look For In A Home Automation System
By Alison Shiver, Shiver Security Systems
Who wouldn’t want to control your entire home from the palm of your hand? As technology increases, power like that becomes more and more available in the form of home automation. Home automation gives you control of devices in your home from anywhere in the world. You can schedule times for your lights to turn on and off, check in on your pets, adjust the temperature and be an excellent security system for your home.
Posted Date: 6/13/2019
By Kirby Gaboury, Audio Etc…
The entertainment industry can be hard to keep up with. It feels like every day a new company comes up with the next best thing in television technology. Television makers are constantly updating and changing to align with the modern consumer. It’s important to be educated about what’s going on in the industry, so you can get what meets your needs with the most up-to-date technology.
Posted Date: 6/6/2019
By Brian Weltge, The Humane Society of Greater Dayton
Who needs a four-leaf clover to feel lucky? You know what can make today lucky for you and for a pet in need? Choose to adopt. Adding a new pet to your household can be an exciting and life-changing time for your family. With many avenues out there for finding pets, adopting a one-of-a-kind pet from a BBB Accredited Charity such as the Humane Society of Greater Dayton should be at the top of your list. Here are just a few reasons why you should adopt a shelter pet.
Posted Date: 4/18/2019
Seven Signs You Should Replace Your Windows
By David Grusenmeyer, Affordable Glass & Mirror, Inc.
If you have a broken or cracked window, it can be obvious it’s time for a replacement. However, there are many less obvious signs your windows need to be replaced. Waiting too long to replace your windows could end up costing you more than you think.
Posted Date: 2/7/2019
Five Benefits of Servicing Your Car Regularly
By David Davison, Fatt Boyz
Just last year, an estimated 78.7 million cars were sold. Car buying is a huge investment. Therefore, it’s important to take care of and protect that investment through regular service, such as oil and air filter changes, tire rotations, topping off fluids (brake, power-steering, antifreeze, etc.), routine check-ups, etc. Routinely, checking safety-critical items like your brakes and tires will also help keep you and your family safe
Posted Date: 4/12/2019
Five Benefits of Replacing Home Windows
By David Grusenmeyer, Affordable Glass & Mirror, Inc.
With the winter months just getting started, many people are looking for ways to keep their homes warm and cozy. However, many Americans don’t realize nearly 40% of central heating is lost through windows, doors and improper insulation. There are a number of reasons to get new windows.
Posted Date: 1/10/2019
By Paul Broerman, Choice Comfort Services, Inc.
When temperatures begin to plummet, homeowners tend to burrow down under covers, sip hot chocolate and try to stay warm...and we don't blame you.
Posted Date: 12/13/2018
Five Signs You Need To Change Your Tires
By David Davison, Fatt Boyz
As winter gets closer, it is important to make sure your car will keep your family safe. Tires are one of the least complicated parts of your car, but one of the most important. Tires get old and worn and a tire failure can be catastrophic.
Posted Date: 12/6/2018
Give the Gift of Hope to Pets in Need
By Brian Weltge, The Humane Society of Greater Dayton
As you and your family gather around the table, come together for holiday festivities and help others this holiday season, please remember the pets in need in our community as well.
Posted Date: 11/21/2018
Selecting the Right Private Client Insurance Agent and Coverages
By Ken Smith, Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC – Midwest Region
The more you achieve and acquire, the more distinct and complex your risk scenario will be. Your insurance agent should partner with you to develop tailor-made solutions that ensure you, your family and your lifestyle are properly protected in the event of a loss.
Posted Date: 10/24/2018
2018 Commercial And Audio Visual Trends
By Kirby Gaboury, Audio Etc…
We’re halfway through 2018 and many of the predicted commercial audio visual trends are in full effect. From our homes to large corporations, audio and video services affect the lives of millions of Americans every day. Is your business up-to-date with the latest trends?
Posted Date: 10/17/2018
By The WesBanco Bank, Inc. Team
Let’s talk about the big “S” word in banking… “SAVINGS!” Well, it doesn’t have to be big and daunting, because savings shouldn’t feel daunting at all. You may think saving is hard, but really it can be simple and easy.
Posted Date: 10/10/2018
Five Major Benefits Of Using Loyalty Programs
By Tom Griffith, Merchant Payment Services
Every year consumers are faced with thousands of buying decisions, from buying a cup of coffee to buying a home. Businesses are tasked with finding ways to keep consumers buying from their companies. So, how do you keep a customer buying from your business?…
Posted Date: 09/20/2018
Your DIY Roof Assessment Guide
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
An annual roof inspection in the fall and spring can help you diagnose any potential problems before they arise. It’s recommended that you hire a professional roofing company to assist you with your roof assessment. There are a few things you can do yourself. Here are some important tips to help get you started…
Posted Date: 09/13/2018
By Tom Griffith, Merchant Payment Services, Inc.
When starting a business, there are a lot of decisions to be made. One of the biggest is deciding which credit card processing company to use to take credit and debit card payments. Choosing a credit card processing company is a major financial task and acts as a link between your business and the bank.
Posted Date: 09/05/2018
Harness Technology to Maximize Your Employee Benefits Program
By Jenny Matthews & Mark Dungan, Marsh & McLennan Agency
The world of employee benefits continues to be burdensome and expensive for both the employer and employee. The cost of family medical insurance coverage is $18,000 per year, with employers covering 71% of the cost and employees paying 29%, according to Kaiser Family Foundation surveys.
Posted Date: 08/08/2018
Should you raise your dial on the AC when you are not at home or shut it off?
By Paul Broerman, Choice Comfort Services, Inc.
When it gets hot out there, we often run right to the air conditioning controls to set the temperature lower. After all, we all love to be comfortable in our homes, right? But, there is another thing we love, regardless of the heat… saving money.
Posted Date: 07/25/2018
Five Steps For Selecting A Roofing Contractor
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
The roof of your home provides necessary shelter and protection for your family and personal possessions. Replacing it is an important decision and a major investment. Choosing the best roofing contractor for your home can be complicated, so let’s get started...
Posted Date: 07/19/2018
What to Look for In a Home Entertainment System
By Kirby Gaboury, Audio Etc…
Whether you’re a sports fan or movie lover, there is no better time to invest in a home entertainment system. Projectors, TVs and surround sound systems make watching TV shows, big games and movies that much more exciting.
Posted Date: 03/22/2018
Tips on Organizing your Finances
By WesBanco Bank, Inc. Team
Organizing your finances can seem like an overbearing task. But, when you can see the big picture of where your money is going, you realize you may need to make some adjustments that can benefit you in the end. It’s ideal to start organizing your finances at the beginning of the year, or prior to the New Year, that way you are better prepared and have a good overview of your anticipated expenses for the year. But, then again, it’s also better late than never. So, here are some friendly tips you can use to help jumpstart your budgeting and get your finances organized.
Posted Date: 02/07/2018
Use Branded Products to Promote Your Business
By Dan Bir, Randd Associates Printing & Promotions, Inc.
Promotional items are great tools for businesses to establish their brand, increase awareness of their business and increase their sales. Promotional items allow consumers to see and recognize your brand and this traditional form of advertising is still very prominent in today’s world. They help keep your business top of mind.
Posted Date: 01/10/2018
Leadership Development - A Critical Imperative in Healthcare
By Kym Yahn, MBA, Senior Consultant, Organizational Effectiveness, Sinclair Community College, Workforce Development
Transformation, innovation, adaptation. Whatever the term used, it all comes down to one fact - change happens. And, change is happening at a pace that continues to increase exponentially.
Posted Date: 01/03/2018
End-Of-Yal-affairs-in-order/ear Checklist For Getting Your Legal Affairs In Order
By Nancy Roberson, Roberson Law
1) If your spouse died this year or you got divorced, you should update your estate planning documents in order to remove your former spouse's name as a beneficiary, agent, executor and trustee.
Posted Date: 12/13/2017
Preparing Your Car for the Winter Weather
By By Terry Toner, Kettering-Oakwood Automotive
The winter months are hard on most of us weather-wise. It’s not the best time to be outside. Imagine how your car feels, sitting out in the cold and driving through snow and ice all winter long. Cold temperatures, salt-residue from the roads and ice can cause major problems for your vehicle.
Posted Date: 11/08/2017
Trends For Corporate Holiday Gifts
By Dan Bir, Randd Associates Printing And Promotions, Inc.
It's that time for year when many companies are thinking of what to give for holiday gifts. Why not give something that can also promote your business. There are thousands of things available that you can print a company logo, website and phone number on.
Posted Date: 10/26/2017
By Alison Shiver, Shiver Security Systems
First, I should say as with anything when something is “free” read the fine print. Often “free” systems mean compromising the quality of the equipment, technician or a very high recurring monthly rate. Even at $199 for our basic package, we are actually losing money up front. The equipment alone costs more than that, let alone labor (by employees, not subs), programming and our quality assurance program
Posted Date: 10/18/2017
Health Care Reform is Dead – Long Live Health Care Reform
By Stephen MacGuidwin, Esq., Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC – Midwest Region
September 30, 2017, marked the deadline for Republicans to repeal and replace the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“ObamaCare”) using the budget reconciliation process. The process would have allowed Republicans to enact their own health care reforms by simple majority votes in the House and Senate—both of which are under GOP control— rather than the regular order, which requires 60 votes in the Senate to avoid a filibuster.
Posted Date: 10/11/2017
What Can You Expect, When Your Expecting" Homecare
By Bernard Dalichau, Lavender Home Care Solutions
What can you expect when your expecting" homecare? That's a good question and one that should be covered to allow you the family and client to make the best decisions possible when dealing with homecare agencies.
There are a ton of agencies out there to be honest. There are franchises and private companies to choose from. They differ greatly and all share one aspect: they provide care. The level of care and quality of caregiver is the difference between them all which thus directly affects the clients and their care. A consultant of mine when we started Lavender, Bob Roth of Cypress Home Care Solutions, said it perfectly, "Caregivers are the beating heart of the company!"
Posted Date: 10/04/2017
By Paul Broerman, Choice Comfort Services, Inc.
No matter what type of climate you live in, the levels of humidity in the air can affect the comfort of your home, as well as the proper functioning of your heating and air conditioning units. Managing ideal indoor humidity should be a priority for every homeowner, especially when it comes to tailoring your heating and cooling preferences to meet your personal home needs.
Posted Date: 09/29/2017
Five misconceptions about the staffing industry
By Doug Barry and Andy Sedlak, BARRYSTAFF
The roof of your home provides necessary shelter and protection for your family and personal possessions. Replacing it is an important decision and a major investment. Choosing the best roofing contractor for your home can be complicated, so let’s get started…
Posted Date: 09/18/2017
Five Steps For Selecting A Roofing Contractor
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
Perception versus reality. Business owners often seek to control the perception of their companies so they accurately reflect reality. This is easier said than done. Perceptions are like habits – they tend to die hard. The staffing business has long battled a sometimes lackluster perception. At BARRYSTAFF, here are the most common misconceptions we run into…and how we set the record straight.
Posted Date: 09/09/2017
10 Things to Consider When Purchasing New Windows
By David Grusenmeyer, Affordable Glass and Mirror, Inc.
Purchasing new windows can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know what to expect or look for. Whether they’re new windows or you’re replacing some old ones, there’s plenty of planning and research necessary beforehand. As with any contractor entering your home, there’s a safety issue. Inviting a stranger into your house can be unsettling and brings about the need for thorough investigation before you settle on a contractor. Here are ten things to consider when purchasing windows:
Posted Date: 08/17/2017
By Joe Leopard, Joe’s Landscaping of Beavercreek, Inc.
STEP 1: What’s the purpose of your new patio?
- For dining
- For grilling
- For around a pool/hot tub or fire pit
Figuring out the reason behind your desire for a new patio is the best way to start planning the layout and functionality of your new patio.
Posted Date: 08/09/2017
Let’s talk about the big “S” word in banking… “SAVINGS!”
By Neal Ratliff, WesBanco Bank, Inc.
Well, it doesn’t have to be big and daunting, because savings shouldn’t feel daunting at all. You may think saving is hard, but really it can be simple and easy. For example, you can save money just by packing your lunch and taking it to work, instead of going out to lunch. If you spent $2 every day for lunch for a year (I’m talking “dollar menu” lunch here), that is $730 you could be saving, and that’s just $2 a day. Just think if you spend $5 dollars (which may be a little more realistic) a day on lunch for a year, that’s $1,825. By now, I’m sure you get the point. So, you’re probably wondering, “Are there other options besides not going out to lunch every day?” Well, here are some additional tips to help get you started on the path of saving (or saving more):
Posted Date: 08/03/2017
Nine Tips To Find The Right Window Contractor
By David Grusenmeyer, Affordable Glass & Mirror, Inc.
Windows are an important part of every home. Windows aren’t only a source of light, but they can also let the heat in on a sunny day or be a cool spot during the winter months. Depending on the time of year, it could be imperative that your windows are replaced thoroughly and quickly. That’s why when you’re windows need replacing, it’s important to find the right contractor.
Posted Date: 07/27/2017
Why Does My New Roof Require Maintenance?
By Cheryl Smith, Solid Rock Roofing
Many homeowners believe that after making a major investment in a new roof that they don’t need to think or worry about their roof until it’s time to move or replace it again.
While a new and properly installed roof should last for a long time, proper maintenance is important to assure maximum life and performance.
Posted Date: 07/19/2017
Five Characteristics Employers Are Looking For
By Doug Barry and Andy Sedlak, BARRYSTAFF
At BARRYSTAFF, we hire for more than a hundred different companies between Dayton and Springfield. Management at each one would probably describe an “ideal employee” differently, but some things are universal.
At BARRYSTAFF, it’s our job to find people with those universal qualities. Here’s a list of five characteristics that we know employers are looking for.
Posted Date: 07/13/2017
Taking The Mystery Out of Home Care Services
By Bernard Dalichau, Lavender Home Care Solutions
Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to homecare, the black sheep workhorse of the medical industry which helps, but very rarely gets the accolades it deserves. With an aging parent or grandparent, it can be overwhelming to navigate the different services available to help your family member. As many options are open to the public through government and private systems, Homecare is a service that keeps seniors living independently in their homes and increases their quality of life. However, if you’re like many people, you may not understand what homecare is, how it differs from home health care and what questions should you ask when choosing a homecare provider for your family member. Let’s just define the industry.
Posted Date: 07/05/2017
Staying Cyber-Secure in the Age of Ransomware
By Tyler Greenwood, Back To Business I.T.
Threats to information systems are multifaceted and come from a variety of attack vectors. Criminal enterprises have an abundance of resources they can use to cripple computers and accomplish their missions. One of the most lucrative for these organizations and also one of the most potentially destructive is ransomware - a malicious software that utilizes “cryptoviral extortion” that encrypts and locks user files. Unfortunately, the ransomware also tries to encrypt any file or drive on any network machines that are connected to the infected system.
Posted Date: 06/19/2017
Top Five Ways to Get Your Car Ready for Your Next Road Trip
By Terry Toner, Kettering-Oakwood Automotive
Family road trips can be the highlight of the year. But, before you pile everyone in your vehicle and head off, take time to make sure your car is prepared for the long-awaited trip. Here are a few things to consider to ensure your family will be safe and happy on your next adventure.
Posted Date: 06/19/2017
Is Mulch Really THAT Important?
By Joe Leopard, Joe’s Landscaping of Beavercreek, Inc.
The answer is Yes! The benefits of mulch are endless, here are just a few:
Posted Date: 06/13/2017
Top 10 Things To Get Your AC System Ready For The Dog Days Of Summer
By Paul Broerman, Choice Comfort Services, Inc.
Before the heat really rolls in and makes us long for a tall glass of lemonade and a nice chair in front of the air conditioning unit… make time to run through an AC maintenance checklist. AC contractors are kept very busy during the extreme temperatures of summer and winter, so it’s best to conduct a maintenance check while the weather is mild. Scheduling an off-season tune up will help prevent problems before they happen. There are several steps that you can take yourself, as well as scheduling a routine check-up with your HVAC professionals, to get your system summer-ready!
Posted Date: 06/05/2017
By Lisa Goodall, Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC
Wellness, what does it mean to you? Achieving 10,000 steps a day? Consuming 5-10 cups of fruits and vegetables per day? Sleeping eight hours each night? A stress-free work environment? Saving for retirement? When we think of wellness, a few common things come to mind: exercise, nutrition and even disease management. In reality, wellness has a very broad definition and means something different to each individual. The trend in the past few years is a shift toward overall well-being. Well-being encompasses all factors of life: physical, emotional, financial, social, career and community.
Posted Date: 05/15/2017
Are Value and Safety Important to You When You Use Off-Site Airport Parking?
Brian West, Park-N-Go Airport Parking
Booking at an off-airport parking lot means you can save money without sacrificing convenience or safety. Generally, off-site airport parking lots offer a guaranteed space for a great price, free shuttle service directly to your terminal and a safe place to park your vehicle.
Consider the top four reasons you should give off-site parking a try for your next trip.
Posted Date: 04/14/2017
Why Am I on Auto-Pilot When It Comes to Airport Parking?
Brian West, Park-N-Go Airport Parking
Most of us spend hours planning a business trip or vacation, obsessing over the usual minutia of flights, hotels and amenities, tours and restaurants to visit, but our parking choice is one that requires as much thought as the rest of the trip. Considering personal safety, convenience, cost and protecting a valuable asset – our vehicle – the answer can be a simple one.
Posted Date: 3/22/17
Don’t Get Caught Dead Without Having Your Affairs In Order
Nancy A. Roberson, Roberson Law
The recent sudden deaths of celebrities Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds and Mary Tyler Moore have made many people think about end-of-life issues that are often uncomfortable and difficult to consider. Have you thought about your death? How will you die? What about your loved ones? How will they die? These are morbid, but realistic, thoughts because none of us will escape this earth alive.
Posted Date: 02/23/2017
Is Your Company Meeting Department of Defense Standards?
By Tyler Greenwood, Back To Business I.T.
Dayton is a city of many faces – manufacturing, medical, technology, education, but one of the biggest cornerstones of our community is Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Beginning in 2018, the Department of Defense has changed requirements for any business that wishes to engage the Department in work.
Posted Date: 12/07/2017
