“For the first time in more than 30 years, we have a line on the map and a clearer understanding of what it will take to improve this connection,” said Brian Dicken, vice president of advocacy and strategic initiatives for the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Now we need to turn that information into a path forward. All funding options should remain on the table, including a careful evaluation of tolling. This is an investment in safer travel, more reliable commerce and the long-term competitiveness of our region and our state.”

Why This Connection Matters

For employers moving products and materials along the corridor, unpredictable travel can complicate delivery schedules and increase operating costs. A stronger connection would support the movement of goods, help businesses plan more confidently and improve travel for residents.
The study identifies a strong benefit-to-cost ratio for the proposed connector, reflecting the long-term value of improved safety, fewer crashes, fuel savings and reduced travel delays. These benefits would help lower transportation costs for businesses and residents while supporting a more reliable connection between Northwest Ohio and Columbus.

Moving From Study to Action

With the feasibility study complete, the Chamber will continue working with legislators, ODOT, regional partners and the business community to advocate for the next steps needed to move the project forward.

“An engaged business community makes a difference,” Dicken said. “We thank our legislators for their leadership in advancing this study and recognizing the importance of a stronger connection between Northwest Ohio and Columbus. By bringing employers together and speaking with a unified voice, we can keep this priority moving forward and help build the transportation infrastructure our economy needs.”

Explore the feasibility study and supporting materials on ODOT’s project page.

A & A Diversified Transport, LLC - a freight shipping, hauling, and trucking company serving customers in a 300-mile radius of Toledo, Ohio, with their fleet of tractor trailers and dump trucks. Whether they are carrying a load of lumber or shingles to a local building materials dealer or delivering a load of processed steel to a manufacturer, A & A follows its promises with performance.

Belle Amour Bridal - a downtown Toledo boutique offering designer wedding gowns, dresses for mothers and other special occasions, and bridal accessories. They believe finding your wedding dress should be an experience filled with joy, confidence, and expert guidance.

Championed Minds - is dedicated to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for individuals seeking mental health and well-being services. Their focus is on offering personalized care to children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring that each client feels comfortable and empowered throughout their journey to emotional wellness and recovery.

Code Echo - whether you're a startup looking to launch a new web application, or an established enterprise seeking to advance your existing software infrastructure, Code Echo has the expertise and experience in developing business software solutions to help you achieve your goals.

Global Express Lab LLC - provides companies with reliable and professional drug and alcohol testing services to create and maintain a safe and productive workplace environment. They aim to offer convenient, discrete and confidential testing that prioritize the privacy of individuals.

National MS Society - supports people affected by multiple sclerosis through information, connections and services while funding research and advocating for change. Its mission is to cure MS while empowering people affected by it to live their best lives.

Original Composites & Fiberglass – the leading global provider of glass fiber reinforcement solutions matching the differentiated needs of the growing composites industry for transportation, infrastructure, industrial, wind energy, construction, marine and more.

Peacock Social - a data-driven digital media marketing agency intensely focused on social media advertising, website development, SEO, and Digital Marketing Campaigns. They specialize in real-time, conversationally driven content directed to create brand awareness, sell tickets, drive traffic, and promote your products.

PJ&T Transportation, LLC – a family-owned semi-transportation operation, with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to providing efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions to their customers while embodying a family-oriented work environment.

Roosters - a fun, casual restaurant for wings & more. Their mission is to provide a fun, casual atmosphere for their team members and guests. Visit them at their Holland and Sylvania locations.

Sauder Woodworking Co. and Sauder Outlet locations - a privately held, third-generation, family run business, Sauder Woodworking Co, is North America’s leading producer of ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture and one of the top five residential furniture manufacturers in the United States. Their outlet store showrooms in Holland and Archbold feature a variety of home furnishings, including a section of bargain pieces, plus decor.

SBC Small Business Consulting - professional monthly bookkeeping plus access to experienced business consultants who help you understand your numbers, not just send you reports.

TeamLogic IT - provides a full spectrum of managed IT services and technology solutions. Its offerings include cybersecurity, cloud services, backup and recovery, and IT consulting.

We’re excited these businesses and organizations have chosen to be part of the Chamber. Whether you’re looking for a service, a potential partner or simply a chance to meet someone new, we encourage you to explore their websites and introduce yourself.

To our September members: welcome. We look forward to learning more about your goals, connecting you with fellow members and supporting your work in the Toledo Region.

Here are a few examples of what we’d love to hear about:

• Major anniversaries, awards, record years, new certifications or significant accomplishments.
• New businesses, expansions, new products or services, major investments, new locations or jobs created.
• Employees, leaders, volunteers or teams who went above and beyond or have an inspiring story to tell.
• Community partnerships, charitable efforts, workforce initiatives, or ways your organization made a difference.
• New technology, creative solutions, sustainability efforts, research or innovations that are changing the way you do business.
• Grand openings, groundbreaking ceremonies, special events, company celebrations or other memorable moments from 2026.

 
Think your story belongs in the Year in Review? Send it to  jeff.schaaf@toledochamber.com
 
Please include a short description of your 2026 story, along with any good photos by October 30, 2026.
 
Your story could help us showcase the people, businesses and ideas that made 2026 a memorable year in the Toledo Region.
 
If you’re not sure if your story fits, check out our previous editions: https://toledoregion.com/toolki

The conversation drew extensively on the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ Horizon 2035 framework. Developed to help chambers plan for the next decade, Horizon 2035 identifies influences that may affect chambers, the businesses they serve and their communities. It organizes them into three groups: linchpin influences at the heart of a chamber’s role as a trusted leader; timeless influences that chambers have faced across generations; and timely influences that call for attention as circumstances change.

Those influences gave the board a broad view of the future. They include the Chamber’s ability to bring people together and help the region adapt to disruption; enduring challenges such as economic opportunity and changing business expectations; and pressing issues such as developing talent at the speed businesses need. Board members considered what these shifts could mean for businesses of different sizes and for the Toledo Region as a whole.

The retreat was the beginning of a continuing conversation, rather than a final set of decisions. The perspectives shared will inform further discussion as we plan for 2027 and consider where the Chamber can best connect people, advocate for business and provide resources that help our region thrive.
​
Thank you to Hardy for his thoughtful facilitation, and to our Board of Trustees for the time, insight and dedication they bring to the Chamber and the Toledo Region.

​That is why the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with In2Great, offers Transitioning to Supervisor: Frontline Leadership Essentials. This two-day, in-person certificate program gives new and emerging supervisors practical tools they can use to lead with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Why Frontline Leadership Matters

Supervisors shape the day-to-day employee experience. They influence how clearly expectations are communicated, how problems are addressed, whether employees feel supported and how effectively a team works together.

When supervisors are prepared to lead, they can strengthen engagement, reinforce organizational culture and help employees perform at their best. When they are promoted without adequate support, the effects can extend beyond the individual supervisor—contributing to confusion, disengagement, strained relationships and turnover across the team.

Developing supervisors early helps organizations avoid common leadership missteps and build a stronger, more dependable leadership pipeline.

More Than a New Title

The transition from employee to supervisor requires a meaningful shift in perspective. New leaders are no longer responsible only for the quality of their own work; they are also responsible for helping others succeed.
Participants in Transitioning to Supervisor will explore essential leadership skills, including:

• Understanding the supervisor’s role in shaping culture and performance.
• Communicating expectations clearly and constructively.
• Giving and receiving effective feedback.
• Managing conflict before it disrupts the team.
• Building trust and credibility with employees.
• Navigating changing relationships when moving from peer to supervisor.
• Leading with greater clarity, consistency and accountability.

Led by leadership-development experts from In2Great, the program connects these concepts to the real situations supervisors encounter in the workplace. Participants leave with actionable strategies they can begin using immediately—not simply leadership theory.

Who Should Attend?

This program is designed for:

• Employees who have recently been promoted into a supervisory position.
• Emerging leaders preparing for their first formal leadership role.
• Frontline supervisors who have not previously received leadership training.
• Experienced supervisors who want to refresh and strengthen their foundational skills.

Employers can also use the program to create a more consistent leadership foundation across departments by enrolling several employees together. Organizations registering five or more participants may request a 20% group discount code.

Invest in the People Who Lead Your People

A promotion should not be the end of an employee’s preparation—it should be the beginning of their development as a leader.

Providing new supervisors with practical training demonstrates that the organization is invested in their success while helping them build stronger, healthier and more productive teams. It is an investment that can improve communication, strengthen workplace culture and support employee engagement and retention throughout the organization.

Transitioning to Supervisor: Frontline Leadership Essentials Certificate
​
November 9–10, 2026, 9:00 am - noon both days
Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce
300 Madison Ave., Room 813, Toledo

Learn more and register.

Registering five or more employees? Contact Heather Bradley at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce to request a 20% discount code.

Each month, we're proud to welcome new members who strengthen the Toledo Region's business community through their expertise, innovation, and commitment to serving others. From local entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses to nonprofit organizations, community partners and growing companies, our newest Chamber members represent the diverse industries and talent that make our region a great place to live, work and do business.
​
We invite you to learn more about our August 2026 new members below and join us in giving them a warm Chamber welcome.

rora Improvement LLC – Specializes in bathroom remodeling services for homeowners throughout the Toledo area. The locally owned company offers full bathroom remodels, tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in showers, shower replacements and other solutions designed to create beautiful, functional spaces.

Chicks for Charity – Brings women and girls together to have fun, do good and give back. The nonprofit organization raises awareness and support for local charities while making philanthropy easy, inclusive and rewarding for women and girls of all ages.

Clarity Event Technologies – Provides live event production and audio/visual solutions throughout Ohio and Michigan. Services include professional audio systems, lighting and visuals, equipment rentals, permanent and semi-permanent A/V installations and technical event support.

Commodore Heating & Cooling – Provides residential heating, cooling and indoor air quality services throughout Northwest Ohio. The family-owned company offers air conditioning and furnace repair and installation, heat pump services, water heater repair, maintenance plans and more.

Complete Foundation Services, LLC – Specializes in foundation repair solutions for homeowners throughout Northwest Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan. Services include stabilizing and reinforcing cracked or bowing basement walls, wall anchors, carbon fiber strapping, wall replacement and helical piering.

DOK GeoEnviron LLC – Provides geoscience and environmental services, including geophysical imaging, soil and groundwater characterization and predictive modeling. The company uses advanced technologies and field methods to help clients better understand subsurface and environmental conditions.

Equitas Health – Community health center providing welcoming, accessible healthcare services throughout Ohio. Services include primary care, specialized HIV care, dentistry, gynecology, mental health and recovery services, pharmacy services, community outreach and more.

H. E. Rudy Trucking, Ltd. – H. E. Rudy Trucking, Ltd was founded in 1999 by Ed Rudy with 2 trucks and trailers hauling grain in NW OH and SE MI. They now have over 25 company trucks and 50 trailers.

Jones & Henry Laboratories, Inc. – Full-service environmental testing laboratory specializing in the analysis of groundwater, surface water, drinking water, soil, solid waste and hazardous waste. The Northwood-based laboratory provides testing using EPA-approved procedures with an emphasis on quality, service and flexibility.

LifeWise Academy Toledo – Provides Bible-based character education to public school students during school hours through released-time religious instruction programs.

Long Electric Services LLC – Provides electrical services for industrial, commercial, retail and residential applications. With more than 40 years of electrical experience, the company focuses on repairs while also providing generator installation and electrical maintenance services.

On-Site Specialty Cleaning + Restoration – Provides 24/7 cleanup and restoration services for homes and businesses affected by water, fire, mold, biohazards and other property damage. The company serves communities throughout Southeast Michigan, Northwest Ohio and select areas of Florida.

Papa Kato Karaage – Brings Japanese fried chicken to downtown Toledo with a menu inspired by Chef Kengo Kato's father, affectionately known as Papa K. The restaurant serves karaage, wings, chicken sandwiches, donburi and other Japanese-inspired favorites.

Peacock Social – Toledo-based digital marketing agency helping businesses and organizations strengthen their online presence. Services include social media marketing, website development, SEO, Google Ads and digital marketing campaigns designed to build awareness, engagement and growth.

Schaffer Funeral Home, Inc. – Serving the Defiance area for generations, providing individualized funeral services with compassion, dignity and respect. The locally owned funeral home works with families of all faiths and area communities to honor and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.

Shingle Guards LLC – Provides Roof Shield roof rejuvenation services throughout the Greater Toledo area. Its process is designed to clean, restore and protect aging asphalt shingles, helping homeowners extend the life and improve the appearance of their existing roofs.

Stoett Industries, Inc. – Hicksville, Ohio-based manufacturer specializing in customized retractable screen solutions. Its American-made product line includes retractable patio screens and enclosures, skylights and roofs, screens and shades, doors and windows, shower doors and other custom solutions.

The Brew Is Back Podcast with Erickka Jones – Podcast hosted by Erickka Jones featuring conversations designed to inform, inspire and connect listeners.

Toledo Pipe Transport, Inc. – Toledo Pipe Transport, Inc. is a Sylvania, Ohio-based interstate motor carrier providing property transportation services. In business since 1974, the company operates a fleet of trucks and trailers serving commercial transportation needs.

Washington Township – One of Wood County's 19 townships, serving residents through local township government and services. Township leadership includes elected trustees and a fiscal officer, along with zoning, road and fire services.

WeldCore – A Toledo-based welding school offering accelerated, hands-on training for people looking to enter the welding profession. Its boot camp-style Core MIG program is designed to take students with no prior experience through intensive training and prepare them for entry-level welding opportunities.

Western & Southern – Provides insurance, investment and retirement solutions designed to help individuals, families and businesses build greater financial security. The financial services organization traces its history to 1888 and offers solutions through a diversified family of companies.
​
Please join us in welcoming these outstanding organizations and professionals to the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. We encourage our members to make new connections, support their businesses and help them become part of our vibrant Chamber community.

1. Your Workforce — Today and Tomorrow
Finding, developing and retaining talent remains one of the most important issues facing employers.

Fall is a good time to look beyond immediate openings and consider your longer-term workforce needs. Where are your potential skills gaps? Are there opportunities to develop existing employees? What positions may become difficult to fill in the next few years?

From leadership development and HR management to data analysis and cybersecurity, the TRCC’s Center for Training & Development contains more than 300 accessible and affordable online courses that can be taken at any time, from any place. Additionally, our next cohort of Transitioning to Supervisor is launching November 9th and 10th. This two-day, in-person program is designed to arm your first-time supervisors with the critical skills they need to lead effectively from day one. Developed in partnership with In2Great, this program combines practical insights with expert guidance, ensuring your new leaders are fully prepared to take on their roles with confidence.

2. The Public Policy Decisions Affecting Your Business
Decisions made in Toledo, Columbus and Washington can have a very real impact on your bottom line.

Taxes, transportation, energy, workforce policy, regulations and economic development are just some of the issues that can affect the cost and ease of doing business.

That's why the Chamber continually monitors public policy on behalf of the region's business community and works to ensure employers have a voice in the decisions that affect them.

This fall, stay informed. Your voice matters, and those currently in office, newly elected, and re-elected to local office, need to hear from, and understand the needs of our region's businesses. A great opportunity to grab a pint and get the conversation started is at our fourth annual Lagers & Legislators: A Post-Election Reception - presented by Buckeye Broadband on November 5th. 
 
3. Your Plans for Growth
Before the year-end rush begins, take some time to ask a simple question: What's next for your business?

Maybe you're considering adding employees, entering a new market, purchasing equipment, expanding your facility or finally pursuing an idea that's been sitting on the back burner.

For small businesses in particular, having the right guidance can make those decisions easier. Through the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC), entrepreneurs and small business owners can access no-cost, confidential business counseling and resources to help them start, grow, certify and strengthen their businesses.

Whatever growth looks like for your organization, now is a good time to begin laying the groundwork.

4. Developing Your People
Your workforce strategy isn't only about finding new employees. It's also about investing in the people you already have.

Who are your emerging leaders? Where could managers benefit from additional tools? Are there employees ready to take the next step in their careers?

As you begin planning for 2027, consider where additional leadership, supervisory or professional development could help your team succeed.
Developing people strengthens individual employees, but it also helps businesses build stronger teams, improve retention and prepare for future leadership needs.

The EPIC Toledo Leadership Summit on November 6th “YPs in the Drivers Seat” is a full-day of leadership development a networking designed to help young professionals “Shift into Leadership and Own the Road Ahead.”

5. The Power of Your Network
One of the easiest things to overlook when business gets busy is also one of the most valuable: relationships.

The Toledo Region is powered by businesses and people who know one another, work together and find ways to help each other succeed.

This fall, make a point to reconnect. Attend one of our monthly Grounds for Discussions, presented by NAMI Greater Toledo (there’s one next week!), or Fall Focus on Business Member Lunches, presented by KeyBank. Introduce yourself to someone new. Reach out to a fellow Chamber member. Meet a potential customer, supplier, partner or mentor.

You never know which conversation will lead to your next opportunity.

Finish 2026 Strong
The final months of the year will move quickly. Taking a little time now to think about your workforce, the business climate, growth opportunities, your people and your network can help position your organization for what's ahead.

And you don't have to navigate those opportunities and challenges alone.
​
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce team is here to connect, advocate and provide the resources you need to solve your unique business challenges and maximize your opportunities—this fall and throughout the year.

In her role, Amy will help lead the Chamber’s financial strategy, strengthen financial processes and systems, and ensure the organization’s resources are aligned to support its mission and long-term goals. She is also looking forward to leveraging technology to strengthen the Chamber’s financial operations and working alongside the team to plan for the organization’s future.

For Amy, joining the Chamber was an opportunity to combine her finance experience with her belief in the positive impact businesses can have on their communities.

Amy appreciates the Chamber’s ability to bring together business, public policy and the broader community to create an environment where both businesses and people can thrive. The opportunity to use her financial expertise to help support that mission made joining the Chamber especially compelling.

One of Amy’s proudest career achievements took place in 2013, when she was the only adjunct faculty member to receive the Distinguished Faculty Award at Northwest State Community College—an honor that reflects her commitment to sharing her knowledge and helping others succeed.
​
Outside of work, Amy loves to cook and enjoys everything about the process, from planning meals and grocery shopping to experimenting with recipes and bringing it all together at the table. Seafood tops her list of favorite foods, followed closely by Middle Eastern cuisine—especially hummus and vegetarian grape leaves.

She also loves to sing, whether performing with a choir or having a little more fun with karaoke. Amy and her husband are avid supporters of Ohio State Wrestling and enjoy attending matches together, including trips to several NCAA tournaments. When she has time to read, a recent favorite is Theo of Golden by Allen Levi.

Please join us in welcoming Amy to the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce!

In his role, Mitch will lead the Chamber's Small Business Development Center and small business services, working to strengthen the systems, resources and support available to entrepreneurs throughout the region. He will also draw on his finance and operations background to help local businesses navigate challenges, identify opportunities and position themselves for sustainable growth.

For Mitch, the opportunity is also personal. Coming from a family that operates a small business, he understands both the opportunities and challenges that come with entrepreneurship. The chance to move beyond traditional finance roles and directly contribute to the success of the region's small business community was a major reason he was drawn to the Chamber.

As he gets started, Mitch is focused on building a strong foundation for the Chamber's small business services. His initial priorities include evaluating internal systems and staffing and bringing together financial strategy and operational efficiency to ensure the SBDC is delivering the highest level of value to local entrepreneurs.

Outside the office, Mitch has a creative side. He is a self-taught sound engineer and oil painter who enjoys creating large-scale abstract artwork at home. He's also a dedicated weightlifter—or, as Mitch puts it, he "tries his best to be."

Mitch is also a self-described foodie who believes family recipes are a form of living history and a way to bring people together across generations and cultures. Korean barbecue is a favorite, but he especially enjoys the shared experience of gathering around good food.
​
When he's ready for a change of scenery, Mitch enjoys spontaneous travel, particularly to coastal destinations where he can explore the water and rocky shorelines, including trips to upper Michigan. And for movie night, his pick is Constantine, a Keanu Reeves classic that, as Mitch describes it, is all about good triumphing over evil.
 

American Theatre Guild - Broadway In Toledo - presents national Broadway touring productions at the Stranahan Theater. They are dedicated to fostering passion, inspiring creativity and empowering underserved members of our community through access to live theatre and education opportunities.

Catawba Interiors - specializes in professional design services, both in-store and in-home, from color schemes to furniture selection and even window treatment services. They carry a wide selection of premium home furnishings, accessories, and window treatments from notable brands

Chase Bank – Oregon - offers personal checking and savings, credit cards, mortgages, and auto loans as well as business accounts.

The Greens at Oak Openings - Northwest Ohio’s go-to spot for families & friends to come together to eat, play mini-golf, and make memories on and off the greens.

Jacob Henry -  brings a passion to help those who have experienced trauma find their own path forward into healing and a full life.

Jeffrey Mann Fine Jewelers - a locally owned, family-operated jeweler, they have been helping generations of Northwest Ohio families celebrate life's most meaningful moments since 1984. Offering exceptional fine jewelry, custom design, and expert craftsmanship with a commitment to integrity, quality, and personalized service.

L H Green Logistics - a freight and transportation service providing reliable transportation services connecting companies worldwide.

The Lucy Restaurant & Event Space - locally owned and operated and located in the heart of downtown Toledo, they pride themselves on offering the highest quality food and impeccable service, ensuring a delightful dining experience. They also offer outstanding offsite and in-house private event and catering services. 

Madeline's Patisserie (Element 112) -Trained in classic French cuisine and having worked in the kitchens of several Michelin restaurants, Chef Nixon was inspired to master croissants. Named for his wife, Madeline, their line of products is scratch made and meant to be that "je ne sais quoi!"

Multi Service Cleaner – Cleaning Service Located in Holland, Ohio.
Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission – handles all matters pertaining to the 241-mile toll road.

Project Coco LLC (SIP Coffee) - serving handcrafted coffee and creating community in Toledo since 2017. From expertly brewed espresso drinks and cold brew to fresh bagels, sandwiches, and house-made treats, SIP offers a welcoming place to connect, recharge, and enjoy every visit.

​Please join us in welcoming these outstanding organizations and professionals to the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. We encourage our members to make new connections, support their businesses, and help them become part of our vibrant Chamber community. Together, we're building a stronger Toledo Region—one relationship at a time.