With five da Vinci systems in Alliance, Canton and Orrville, you have minimal travel for maximum healing:
• Smaller incisions
• Faster recovery time
• Shorter hospital stays
• Less scarring
• Reduced pain HERE FOR YOU.
May 2026
Mark Wright Board Chair
Jeff Dafler President & CEO
Darla Brown Vice President – Marketing & Membership Strategy
Melinda Kapalko Vice President – Development & Partnership Relations
Mark Prosise Vice President – Events & Strategic Initiatives
Mike Weiss Creative Director
HIGHLIGHTS:
▪ Rare 2.13 acre development site in Belden Village.
▪ Plain Township: Zoned B-2 General Business allows car washes, auto service
▪ stations, repair shops, hotels, drive thru or drive in food, alcohol beverage sales
▪ "U"-shaped lot with frontage on Whipple Ave NW & 50th St NW
▪ Located at the Interstate 77 entrance in Belden village.
▪ Tra c Count: 22,353 vehicles per day
ACTION NEWSLETTER is a free, monthly online publication for the members of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Reader questions and comments are welcome and encouraged. Contents may be reprinted with credit. Address all inquiries to:
Editor, Action Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce 222 Market Ave. N Canton, Ohio 44702 or call (330) 456.7253, or e-mail news@cantonchamber.org
Advertising rates are available for Chamber members. Advertisement does not constitute endorsement by the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.
How to Double Your Reach Without Doubling Your Marketing Budget Marketing Matters
Sometimes reaching more people starts with the right partner inside the Chamber.
Most business owners approach marketing as a solo effort, focused on their own audience and channels. As that work demands more time, budget, and energy, finding ways to stretch those resources becomes critical. For some, the answer is already inside the Chamber: partnering with fellow members who serve the same audience in different ways. By aligning with non-competing businesses that share your customer base, you can split the effort and extend your reach more efficiently.
What a “Natural Partner” Looks Like
A natural partner serves a similar customer without competing for the same sale: a florist and a wedding photographer, a commercial cleaner and a property manager, an HR consultant and a payroll firm.
The overlap does not have to be obvious to be valuable. Shared values, shared audience demographics, or shared geography all qualify.
Often, the strongest partnerships happen when one business naturally comes before or after the other in the customer experience. A home builder and a landscaping company. A financial advisor and an estate planning attorney.
How to Find Them Through Chamber Channels
• The Member Directory lets you browse by industry category, making it straightforward to identify complementary businesses across the region.
• Tip Clubs, including the weekly Tuesday lunch sessions, create low-pressure environments to test chemistry before any formal commitment.
• Business After Hours, AultCare QuickConnect luncheons, and other networking events surface connections that would not happen otherwise. The key is showing up with a collaborative mindset, not just a pitch.
What a Joint Promotion Looks Like in Practice
• A shared social media campaign: each business posts to their own audience and tags the other, doubling organic reach at no cost.
• A bundled offer or referral agreement: we recommend them, they recommend us, formalized simply via email.
• A co-sponsored event or giveaway that gives both businesses exposure to a new audience in one move.
• Keep the first collaboration small and low-risk so both parties can see results before committing to anything larger.
• Each business features the other in a newsletter (position it as a recommendation or resource)
• Co-create a guide, checklist, or resource and promote it to both audiences
• Include a partner’s offer inside your own onboarding or thank-you process
• Build promotions around moments your shared audience is already experiencing (moving, hiring, planning events, etc.)
• Record a quick 3–5 part video or Q&A series together and distribute across both brands
Keeping It Simple (and Worth Doing)
• Start simple: agree on what each business will contribute and how the promotion will run.
• Focus on one measurable outcome: more inquiries, more event attendees, or a set number of referrals.
• Treat the first collaboration as a test. Run it for 60 to 90 days, then review what worked and what did not before expanding.
PRO-TIP FROM UB ADVERTISING
Before reaching out, map where your customer is in their journey when they would naturally need your partner. The strongest collaborations happen when the connection feels like a natural next step for the customer.
WE’RE ON THE ROAD TO
$50 credit per referral
Applicable toward:
• Membership dues
• Chamber advertising
After four qualified referrals in a calendar year:
• Automatic upgrade of your directory listing to the Gold Package ($1000 value)
• Upgrade valid until Dec. 2027
Public recognition:
• Social media acknowledgment
• Mention in newsletter
WHY JOIN THE
CANTON CHAMBER
A stronger network, right here in our region
Connect with nearly 1,900 businesses working together to grow and move the region forward. Most members see the value of membership come back through new connections, visibility and business opportunities.
We represent business at the advocacy table
From local to regional efforts, we’re working on the issues that impact your business every day, and invite you to have a seat at the table when it matters most.
Built-in visibility from day one
We offer ribbon cuttings, sponsorships and low-cost marketing opportunities help you stay visible. Get your business listed in our directory, plus newsletters, social media and member communications.
Healthcare coverage that works for small business
Members with 2-50 employees can access our Health Fund (MEWA), designed to give smaller employers a more competitive local option.
Strong retirement benefits that help you compete
Offer your employees a stronger 401(k) through the Multiple Employer Plan without taking on the burden alone.
Events that build relationships
From small group networking to large community events, there are consistent ways to get in the room and make connections.
Directory upgrade ($1,000 value) Turn your listing into an expanded marketing page that works for you year-round
Waived application fee ($30)
New member spotlight opportunities Additional visibility through our marketing channels JOIN DURING THE DRIVE AND GET MORE
Weekly drawings during the drive
TURNING
Turning Artificial Intelligence Into Advantage
These Winners Really Rock! Congratulations!
Honors
Recognizes
Recognizes
Recognizes
Honors
Aultman Hospital Offers Free Summer Learning Opportunities For students who are interested in using some of their time this summer to explore healthcare careers, Aultman is offering a free Summer Symposium. Presented by the Medical Education department, the 15th annual Summer Symposium and Career Fair is available to college students, 2026 high school graduates and high school students ages 16 and older. The symposium will be held from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, in the Aultman Education Center Amphitheater. The healthcare career fair portion of the day will feature dozens of Aultman services and departments with handson activities for participants. In addition to the symposium, participants can opt to shadow physicians, nurses or other healthcare professionals during a rotation in July 2026. Registration is required before the registration deadline of June 4.
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Wagging Tails Bring Smiles at Akron-Canton Airport
Earlier this year, Akron-Canton Airport became the 100th U.S. airport to offer a therapy dog program, marking a milestone for both CAK and the community. The C.R.E.W. is a team of companions, short for Caring Rovers Endless Wags, spreading happiness and connection throughout the terminal. Each dog, Ashley, Maeve, and Poppy, is certified along with their handler through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
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Marathon employees attended Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio’s JA Inspire career fair at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. 3,700 local middle and high school students explored career paths and connected with more than 100 area employers. Colleagues from refining, pipeline, transportation and fire operations showcased Marathon’s work to inspire the next generation of talent.
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United Way of Greater Stark County (UWGSC) has been selected as a 2026 Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) grant recipient by ServeOhio, the Governor appointed commission on service and volunteerism. The grant will support United Way’s Summer Bridge outreach project, an initiative focused on helping young learners maintain academic progress and build confidence during the summer months. With this funding, UWGSC will assemble 415 summer learning kits for kindergarten students at its Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families partner school sites. Each kit is designed to keep students engaged, curious, and prepared for success as they transition into first grade. The resources provided aim to combat summer learning loss, often referred to as the “summer slide,” which can disproportionately impact early learners.
You can reach SCORE at cantonscore@gmail.com or phone 800-634-0245. You can learn more about the chapter, including upcoming workshops, at www.score.org
YOUR BRAND
– More Than Meets the Eye
During the first two decades of the 21st century, more than ever before, businesses have been touting their brands.
In doing so many of those businesses have been focusing on brandishing their logos or brandmarks, making them the centerpieces of their public identities. That’s understandable since businesses have invested in creating their logos or brandmarks - often supplemented with taglinesand show them on everything from business cards to website homepages to signage and so on.
Too few of those businesses have been sufficiently emphasizing what, in fact, constitutes a brand. It is far more than an icon. Some businesses - both for-profit and non-profitunderstand that. Thoughtful, more strategically focused businesses, whether purveyors of products or providers of services, embrace the enduring reality that a brand stands as the composite of innovation, superior product design, quality engineering and manufacturing, attention to detail in all facets, reliability, superior customer or client service, unstinting integrity, community involvement and respect. Aggregate all those
factors and one sees that a brand, at its core, is reputation.
That concept - that reality - is fully embraced by companies that have prospered, weathered difficult economic times, stand the best chance of taking on a range of challenges, and winning the enduring loyalty of customers, employees, suppliers and other valued constituents. In other words, what constitutes a brand is a business’s actions – or lack thereof. That is precisely what thoughtful businesses have been recognizing and building – and will continue doing so as they keep adding to successes in the coming years. With those thoughts in mind, how do you assess the strength of your brand? Are you paying sufficient attention to feedback – both positive and negative? Are you recording feedback and periodically asking what it suggests? Does it tell you that you should be adding or amending a business objective? Does that feedback cause you to re-think the messages you are conveying? Should you be taking actions heretofore overlooked? Some serious self-assessing could lead to strengthening reputation.
MEMBER RENEWALS
31 Incorporated
BSE Lighting Solutions Inc.
Amore Services
Amy Sanzone Wellness
415 Group
ARCO National Construction
ARCO National Construction
AWP Safety
Baker, Dublikar, Beck, Wiley & Mathews
Aunt Alyee’s Berd-House Deli and Catering
Prepco Island Vacations and Tours
NEO Desk & Office
Bolivar Volunteer Fire Dept.
ResourceMFG - Dressler
Buckeye Paper Company Inc.
Carroll Hills Industries
CEI Crane & Rigging
Canton Data Print
First Baptist Church of Jackson
Coleman Behavioral Health
Custom Auto Body, Inc.
Dan Weaver Trucking LLC
Red Robin
Integrity Group Services LLC
DiStefano Insurance Services, Inc.
Dixon Real Estate Holdings LLC
Sergeants - Storm Damage Professionals
Edward C. Levy Co.
Eide Bailly
Evans Industries, Inc.
Fireside Tax, Inc
First Choice Pest Management
Fulton Title Corp.
Gables Management Company, Inc. dba New
Leaf Homes
Garber Plumbing LTD
Gentzler Tool & Die Corp.
Hartzler’s Quality Housing
Hayes Realty
Heggy’s Nut Shop Inc.
Heitger Funeral Service
Hendricks Vacuum Forming Incorporated
Historic Zoar Village
Hughes Kitchens and Baths
Integrity Crane Services, Ltd.
J. Miller Carpentry
Discount Custom Cabinets
Janson Industries
Media 144 Security Solutions
AFD Industries, Inc.
Johnny O’s Landscaping Inc.
Johnny O’s Landscaping Inc.
Retain Branding Solutions, LLC
Technibus, Inc.
K-Carpet Co. - K & K Industries, Inc.
Klingstedt Brothers Company (The)
Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., LPA
Lasorella Renovations LLC
Main Street Bank
Marathon Petroleum Company, LLC
Providence Construction Group, LLC
Mary Ann Donut Shoppe, Inc.
McDonald’s JN House Enterprises
Cutler Real Estate - Mike Boylan
Mills, Mills, Fiely & Lucas, LLC
Mobo Med Spa - Akron Canton
MT Systems, Inc.
National Beauty College
No Limits Transportation
Northeastern Food Services dba Little Caesars
Ohio Basement Authority
Ohio Basement Authority
Olde Wood Limited
Oswald Companies
Penturf Dentistry, LLC
Peoples Choice Storage Canton LLC
Perry Christian Church
Presteligence, Ltd.
Pro-Fab, Inc.
QCI Inc. / Quilting Creations
R.L. Edwards Company
Richard A Mallonn, II
River Radio Ministries dba 104.5 The River
Shark Distributing LLC
Robert’s Embroidery & Screen Printing
Ohio Gratings
Samantha’s Restaurant - North Market - North Canton
Samantha’s Restaurant - North Portage
Sanctuary - A Digital Marketing Agency
Scott Talbot Salonspa
Sean Logan & Associates, LLC
Wellness Grove
Smyth Retail Systems
Southshore CRE, Inc. dba One Easton Co. LLC
Premier Pharmacy
Staley Technologies Inc
Stark County Auditor
Stark County Park District
Stark County T.A.S.C., Inc.
Stark Education Partnership
Stark Trumbull Area Realtors
Stewart Painting & Electric
Strata Granite & Marble
Synchrony
The K Company, Inc
The Timken Family, LLC
Troyer’s Genuine Trail Bologna
U S Casting Company
Valentine Photography
Wallace Forge Company
Warther Cutlery
We Care Counseling, Inc.
Winkhart Law Group, Ltd. and Cornerstone Real
Estate Title
Winkhart Law Group, Ltd. and Cornerstone Real Estate Title
Youthful Aesthetics LLC
Donate here:
We are deeply grateful for your past support and commitment to our mission. Past gifts have helped us celebrate remarkable success in our 39th year — and now, as we enter our 40th, we need your support once again to continue this important work.
STARK EMERGING TALENT LUNCHEON STEP INTO
An engagement and retention opportunity for your interns and emerging talent
JUNE Wed., June 24, 2026 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55th St NE Canton OH 44721
• Engage interns beyond the workplace and connect them to the local business community
• Showcase Stark County as a great place to live, work and grow professionally
• Increase the likelihood that interns choose to stay and work in the region after graduation
Making the world a better place
The design team from Sol Harris Day sought input from girls, volunteers, and community members to help shape the vision for the new Girl Scouts of North East Ohio STEM Center project. The building manages rainwater through natural infiltration and collection systems. Solar panels are mounted on the roof and a mechanical solar flower work together to harness the sun’s energy to power its functions. The building has specialized classrooms, trails, an outdoor classroom, pavilion, and wildlife observation areas. The interior embraces the Girl Scout’s mission of “making the world a better place through nature inspired design”.
COMMERCIAL DRIVERS’ REFRESHER COURSE
This course is designed for commercial drivers and managers seeking a refresher on current Ohio and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. The curriculum includes classroom and hands-on training covering Pre-Trip Inspection, Load Securement, Licensing, Distracted Driving, and more. The lead presenter for this session will be the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.
Pricing: $15 (includes breakfast and course)
Location:
Our Lady of the Cedars
507 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333
Date: Thursday, May 28
Time: 8AM - Noon
This course qualifies for one external training credit for the BWC’s Safety Council Rebate Program. Certificates will be provided and must be submitted to the safety council sponsor for safety council rebate program credit.
NETWORKING MORNING MIXER
Join us for Morning Mixer, a morning networking event designed to help you connect before the day gets busy! On May 27, we get to visit Embassy Suites, 7883 Freedom Ave NW, North Canton, OH 44720, for a morning of coffee, breakfast and networking. Stop by, grab a cup of coffee and start your day connected! Chamber Members: Free to attend! Bring a $15 door prize to earn 30-seconds at the microphone to spotlight your business. NonMembers: $15 to attend. Register at cantonchamber.org.
MAY SCSC LUNCHEON
Join us on Thursday, May 7 for our next Safety Council luncheon, featuring Matt Hennis from OUPS. Matt will talk about color markings, safe digging practices, and what to know before starting work around underground utilities — both on the job and at home. It’s a great chance to better understand the markings you see and how they help keep everyone safe.
Pricing: $25 (includes delicious buffet)
Location: Alex D. Krassas
Event Center
251 25th St., NW Canton, OH 44709
Date: May 7
Time: 11:30AM - 1PM
NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME to our newest members, who joined Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce last month. We encourage you to patronize their businesses. If you know of other businesses that would benefit from Chamber membership, please contact Autumn Zerbe at autumn@cantonchamber.org
A Kid Again-Northern Ohio
Lori LeHue
9347 Ravenna Road, Suite D Twinsburg, OH 44107 330.405.5437 llehue@akidagain.org https://akidagain.org/chapter/northern-ohiochapter/ https://www.facebook.com/AKidAgainNorthernOhio
Founded in 1995, A Kid Again was established by Jeffrey Damron, Poe Timmons, and Kathy Derr, who believed that children facing life-threatening medical conditions deserve more than a single moment of joy; they deserve ongoing opportunities to simply be kids. What began in Central Ohio as a small, grassroots effort to create moments of joy for families navigating serious illness has grown into a multi-chapter organization serving families across the country.
The Northern Ohio Chapter began in 2008 and serves a 43 county footprint including all of Stark County. Over 6,700 individuals in Northern Ohio have access to 8 Adventures each year.
When doctor visits, medical bills, and treatments interrupt the joys of childhood, A Kid Again Adventures help children and their families regain those neverthought-possible moments of joy all year long. A Kid Again provides cost-free, family-friendly outings—called Adventures—that give families the opportunity to step away from daily challenges and experience joy together in a supportive community of others who share a similar journey. These kid-friendly outings are centered around kid-desired destinations like amusement parks, zoos, sporting events, and entertainment venues.
Families caring for a child with a life-threatening condition face more than medical uncertainty. They often experience social isolation, emotional stress, financial strain, work disruption, and extended time apart. A Kid Again Adventures are designed to ease those burdens by creating space for connection, laughter, and togetherness.
Through each shared experience, families reconnect, build community, and create lasting memories. By restoring moments of fun and normalcy, A Kid Again fosters hope and strengthens families when they need it most.
A. Wise Construction Company
2200 Banbury Circle NW North Canton OH, 44720 (330) 705-9190
BELFOR is a global disaster recovery and property restoration company that provides emergency response, mitigation, and full reconstruction services for residential, commercial, and industrial properties following damage events.
Burger King
4432 Tuscarawas St W Canton, OH 44708 (330) 477-7471 bk.com
Great Food Comes First
Every day, more than 11 million guests visit Burger King restaurants around the world. And they do so because our restaurants are known for serving high-quality, great-tasting, and affordable food. Founded in 1954, Burger King is the second largest fast food hamburger chain in the world.
The original Home of the Whopper, our commitment to premium ingredients, signature recipes, and family-friendly dining experiences is what has defined our brand for more than 50 successful years.
City Wide Facility Solutions
– Northeast Ohio Janitorial Service, Commercial Building Maintenance
City Wide Facility Solutions is foundational player in the building maintenance industry. With a strong backbone in janitorial service, we are best utilized to save our clients time and money by managing all of the needs of a facility from the ceiling to the parking lot. City Wide was birthed in the 1960’s in Kansas City. For about 30 years, the business functioned as just another janitor in a crowded space.
Around the turn of the century, we became nimbler and more informed. At that time, we moved to our current model which involves employee our communities and creating a ripple effect that can be seen and heard. We posses strong will and stronger values. Our mission is very simple.
We’re here to save you time and money by sitting on your side of the table and an extension of your management team. Not only will our crews clean extraordinarily for you, but we’ll also catch issues before you know they are issues. We’re an excellent fit for this community. Most of our staff are from Canton and the immediate surrounding area. Our roots here are deep and ever-growing.
Down to Earth Construction
4819 Munson St. NW Canton, OH 44718 (234) 214-0516
www.d2ewaterfront.com
High-Quality constructions on waterfront for homes and businesses.
2112 E Baldwin Rd Grand Blanc, MI 48439-0000 (810) 397-1891
NOPEC
Energy Aggregator, B2B Energy Services, Energy Procurement
Jessica Renner, Director of Economic Development & Community Investment 31360 Solon Rd. Suite 33 Solon, OH 44139 440-249-7072 jrenner@nopec.org www.nopec.org
NOPEC is an energy aggregation that uses the bulk buying power of 250 member communities to negotiate exclusive electric and natural gas rates for nearly one million residential and small business customers. Since 2001, NOPEC has saved its customers hundreds of millions of dollars on their energy costs. Beyond energy aggregation, NOPEC is committed to education and advocacy, helping residents understand their energy choices, promoting energy efficiency, and standing up for consumer friendly energy policies that protect against unfair utility rate increases.
Over the past 25 years of service, NOPEC has expanded its programming to better support both its member communities and the local businesses within them. Through NOPEC’s B2B programs, we seek to be a supportive partner to business owners. We emphasize the idea that energy is more than just a utility; when optimized, it can be a strategic advantage.
To better serve businesses, municipalities, and nonprofits with more complex energy needs, NOPEC launched Ennovate Advisors, its energy advisory division. Through Ennovate, organizations can access customized energy procurement strategies, along with sustainability planning and resiliency support. Each organization’s energy needs are evaluated individually, allowing for greater flexibility and smarter, data driven decisions.
Together, NOPEC and Ennovate Advisors bring a public service approach to energy, combining expertise, transparency, and advocacy to help Ohio communities and organizations make informed energy decisions.
Pivotal Solutions LLC
(330) 904-4355
Send Email
Pivotal Solutions LLC is joining the Canton Regional Chamber to help build a stronger, more coordinated regional workforce system. We bring statewide expertise in employment infrastructure, provider practice, and employer engagement, ensuring that local businesses have access to a well-prepared talent pipeline and that employment providers have the tools, training, and support needed to deliver high- quality CIE services. Our goal is to reduce system friction, strengthen provider capacity, and contribute to a more inclusive, competitive workforce for Stark County.
Putt Street Social
4834 Everhard Rd NW
Canton, OH 44718 (330) 284-9487
www.puttstreet.com
Enjoy Mediterranean inspired dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and two 9-hole mini golf courses, all under one roof. Your place to Putt. Dine. Unwind.
To be the premier champion for consumers by providing transparent, ethical, and effective solutions to exit challenging contractual obligations, restoring dignity and financial freedom to the families we serve.
SUN - We Grow YOU. 20763 Stratford Ave. Rocky River, OH 44116 (330) 268-8736
www.sungrowsyou.com/
SUN – We Grow You is a sales, revenue and growth advisory firm that helps small- to mid-sized and businesses solve one of their most critical challenges: building a consistent, scalable engine for generating and converting revenue. Through the design and implementation of a structured Sales Operating System, SUN transforms sales from a reactive, unpredictable function into a disciplined, measurable process—improving pipeline generation, sales execution, and forecast accuracy. The result is not only stronger near-term performance—more qualified opportunities, higher win rates, cashflow and faster growth—but also long-term enterprise value through predictable revenue, improved financial outcomes, and a scalable foundation that supports valuation, investment readiness, and successful transitions.
Dana Allender, Founder of SUN, brings more than 20 years of experience as a revenue leader, advisor, and operator across high-growth startups, enterprise organizations, and economic development ecosystems. He has a proven track record of building revenue engines from the ground up, accelerating stalled pipelines, and guiding hundreds companies to achieve meaningful growth milestones, including funding, market expansion, and strategic partnerships. Dana’s background includes leadership roles in B2B SaaS, emerging technologies like AI and IoT, and complex enterprise sales environments, where he has consistently translated strategy into execution and results. Known for his practical, handson approach, Dana works directly with founders and leadership teams to drive accountability, clarity, and sustained revenue performance.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Networking Series
May 20 at La Pizzaria
The Operations Playbook: Building Something People Want to Be Part Of
Scott Swaldo, CEO and General Manager of Gervasi Destinations, shares the story behind one of the region’s most recognizable success stories. From its early days to its continued expansion, Gervasi has followed a “Field of Dreams” approach, building with intention, investing ahead of demand and creating an experience people are drawn to.
Swaldo will talk about what it really looks like to grow something from the ground up, how to make bold decisions before the market catches up and why creating a place people want to be is just as important as the business itself.
Presenting Sponsor:
Engagement Sponsor:
RESERVE YOUR TABLE TOP!
This venue provides an opportunity for table top exhibit opportunities. This is a member only opportunity. Showcase your services or products during the event with your personal tradeshow exhibit. Tables will be provided. Cost for an exhibit will be $50 while they last!
About the series: AultCare QuickConnect offers great networking opportunities for business leads. Join Stark County’s premier luncheon – enjoy activities, hear speakers, make connections, and savor lunch.
Members can promote their business with a 30-second commercial by contributing a $15+ door prize. Contact Autumn at autumn@cantonchamber.org.
Engagement Sponsor:
SCOTT SWALDO PRICING: $30 (members), $40 (non-members)
Timken Gatehouse opens
The Timken Gatehouse, originally built in 1911, served as the formal entrance to the Timken Mansion Estate but remains a significant historical landmark. Henry H. Timken established the Timken Mansion Estate after relocating his highly successful company, The Timken Company, to Canton. Following his passing, the estate came under the stewardship of the Timken Foundation, which generously donated the mansion and its 30.8-acre grounds to Mercy Hospital in 1950.
The Gatehouse will now serve as a unique venue for small weddings, receptions, family gatherings, wellness programs, and community events. Fred Olivieri Construction constructed a newly added outdoor patio and modernized the interior. A catering kitchenette and a warming kitchen, along with new accessible interior and exterior restrooms, as well as an accessible patio were added. A dedication ceremony was held April 30. Photos from Fred Olivieri Construction
A Candid Conversation on Immigration and Regional Growth
What the data shows and what it means for employers in our region Immigration isn’t a theoretical issue for employers. It’s tied directly to workforce availability, business growth, and the long-term strength of our regional economy.
This regional summit brings together business leaders, policymakers, and industry voices for a clear, data-driven look at how immigrant populations play meaningful roles in our regional workforce and economy. It will highlight findings from a new report by the American Immigration Council and the AkronCanton Advocacy Alliance.
The report breaks down where immigrant populations are contributing to our economy, operating within key industries, impacting population trends, and fillings gaps in our region’s talent pipeline.
DETAILS
Date: Thursday, June 18
Time: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
7:30 a.m. Registration opens
Pricing: $35 per person
Location: MAPS Air Museum
2260 International Pkwy North Canton, OH 44720
GET YOUR EVENT TICKETS
The 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival will take place in Canton, Ohio this July and August as our community welcomes the 2026 Enshrinees, many returning Hall of Famers, and football fans from across the country. Mark your calendars to experience this signature community tradition!
JULY 24-26 JULY 25 AUG. 1
BALLOON CLASSIC
Presented by Aultman
UP, UP & AWAY 5K
Presented by OrthoUnited COMMUNITY PARADE
FASHION SHOW LUNCHEON
Presented by Crystal Clinic Plastic Surgeons
ENSHRINEES’ GOLD JACKET DINNER
Presented by Haggar
8
9
GRAND PARADE
Presented by Certified Angus Beef
CLASS OF 2026 UNSCRIPTED & TAILGATE
Presented by Employers Health
Since 1963, The Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce have partnered to produce the Enshrinement Festival. The Enshrinement Festival is currently 18 national and community events held to celebrate the enshrinement of the newest class into the Pro Football Hall of Fame; honor all the Hall of Famers; and celebrate why CANTON is the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame!
These events are not possible without the time, effort and passion of over 2,500 volunteers needed to stage these events. We are currently looking for additional volunteers to continue to produce the Enshrinement Festival.
BOOST YOUR BRAND VISIBILITY
Become a 2026 Sponsor:
Boost your brand visibility, support the community, and connect with thousands of local professionals and families.
PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
ENSHRINEMENT FESTIVAL
MEMBERSHIP EVENTS
BUSINESS EVENTS
SPORTS EVENTS
Click here for more info
Interested in sponsoring?
Contact: Melinda Kapalko
Vice President of Development
melinda@cantonchamber.org (440) 855-9097
COMMUNITY EVENTS
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL EVENTS
LEADERSHIP STARK COUNTY EVENTS
AKRON - CANTON ADVOCACY
ALLIANCE EVENTS
Dear Member,
Over the past few months, I’ve spent time with business owners across our region — in conference rooms, on shop floors and over coffee — asking a simple question: What do you need most right now to keep moving forward? The answers vary, but the theme is consistent. Conditions are changing, and support needs to be more targeted to be truly helpful.
That’s why we’re inviting you to complete a brief, confidential Business Assessment
This assessment will give us a clearer picture of where your business stands today — from growth plans and workforce needs to capital, operations and technology. Your input will help our team connect you to the most relevant resources, programs and opportunities offered through the Chamber and our regional partners.
To be clear, this is not a sales survey. Your responses will not be shared publicly and will be used only to help the Chamber better serve your business.
By taking a few minutes to complete the assessment, you will help us:
• Match you with programs, tools and expertise aligned to your needs
• Connect you to potential grants, financing and incentive opportunities
• Shape Chamber events, education and advocacy around what matters most to businesses like yours
• Strengthen the overall business environment in Stark County
• The better we understand your reality, the more focused and valuable our work can be — for your business and for our region.
If you have questions about the assessment, please contact Melinda Kapalko, Vice President of Development & Partnership Relations. Following the survey, you can expect personalized out reach from Melinda to review your results and match you to the programs that are a fit for your business.
I encourage you to take the assessment today and help shape how the Chamber serves you in 2026 and beyond.
Thank you for your continued commitment to our business community. We look forward to moving ahead together.
Sincerely,
Jeff Dafler President and CEO Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce
Benefits of a multiple employer plan
Canton Regional Chamber 401(k) Retirement Program
NEWBENEFITALERT! ALLMEMBERSELIGIBLE
A strong retirement benefit program can help businesses of all sizes gain a competitive edge to attract and retain talent — but it can also mean added costs and responsibility. A multiple employer plan (MEP) may be an attractive option for businesses seeking to ease the administrative burden, fiduciary risk, and expense of offering a quality retirement plan. The Canton Regional Chamber has partnered with the Greater Akron Chamber to offer this benefit to all members.
What is a MEP?
It’s a retirement plan sponsored by one entity for unrelated organizations that share a common business interest.
How it works
• MEP sponsor is the “lead” plan and generally the plan administrator and fiduciary
• “Adopting employers” can elect to join the MEP
• These plans can be defined contribution (DC) or defined benefit (DB) plans
• At any time, adopting employers are easily integrated into the plan hosted by the sponsor and tracked on the Transamerica platform
Member benefits
MEP sponsor
Adopting employers
The key to outstanding support for this MEP starts with Transamerica’s sophisticated recordkeeping platform. Our ability to track adopting employers using one contract allows you to enjoy the following benefits:
• Flexible plan features (safe harbor, Roth, etc.) and customizable plan design (eligibility, matching contribution formula, and more)
• Reporting data for each employer based on your unique employee base
• No individual annual audit or individual Form 5500 filing
• Potential cost savings through pooled assets compared to operating a single employer plan
• Dedicated website for adopting employers to gauge plan performance and participant engagement
• Dedicated participant website with tools and resources designed to help brighten retirement outcomes
Ladder Safety at Work
Ladders are common, useful tools in many workplaces, including construction sites, warehouses, offices, retail spaces and maintenance environments. While ladders may seem simple and harmless, they are involved in many workplace injuries every year. Falls from ladders can result in serious injuries such as fractures, head injuries and even fatalities. So, it is important to practice proper ladder safety which is essential for creating a safe work environment and preventing avoidable accidents. OSHA has Standards on ladder safety for General Industry (29 CFR 1910.23) and Construction (29 CFR 1926. 1053).
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents
Many ladder-related injuries occur due to improper use. Common causes from improper use include using the wrong type of ladder for the task, placing ladders on unstable surfaces, climbing while carrying tools, overreaching and failing to maintain three points of contact. Additionally, l ack of training and rushing to complete tasks also increase the risk of falls. Employers should take the time to train employees on these actions and how they can cause injuries.
Choosing the Right Ladder
A critical component of ladder safety is selecting the appropriate ladder for the job. There are several types of ladders, including step ladders, extension ladders, and fixed ladders, each designed for specific uses. For example, it is important to choose a ladder that is tall enough to reach the working height without standing on the top rung or step or in some cases the top two steps. Ladders must also be rated to support the worker’s weight plus any tools or materials being carried. Weight ratings, often labeled as “duty ratings”, should always be checked before use. Also, ladders should be made of materials suitable for the anticipated work environment. For example, nonconductive fiberglass ladders should be used when working near electrical sources, as metal ladders can conduct electricity and increase the risk of electrocution.
Inspecting Ladders Before Use
Before using a ladder, workers should perform a thorough inspection. This includes checking for cracks, dents, loose or missing rungs, damaged rails, faulty locking mechanisms as well as areas on the ladder that may cause a slip (grease, water, oils, etc.). Step ladders should open fully with spreaders locked in place, and extension ladders should have secure rope, pulleys and rung locks. Any ladder that shows signs of damage
Exhibition on view at the Keller Gallery for the Stark County Black History Museum in the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum. June 19 - Nov. 29, 2026.
2026 Canton Regional Chamber
Executive Board
CHAIR
Mark Wright
President AultCare
SENIOR VICE CHAIR
& CORPORATE SECRETARY
Sue Grabowski
CEO Desidara
VICE CHAIR
Dan DeHoff
CEO Dehoff Development Company
VICE CHAIR
Matt Halter
President & COO Solmet Technologies, Inc.
VICE CHAIR
Jeff Snyder
Senior VP & Market Leader Westfield Bank, A Division of First Financial Bank
TREASURER
Eric Schreiber
CPA 415 Group
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Christopher Goff Chairman, President and CEO Employers Health
PRESIDENT & CEO
Jeff Dafler Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
Dr. Tim Collins President Walsh University
Dr. Timothy Crone President Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital
Joseph Daleiden Senior VP – Commercial Banking KeyBank
Jeff Floyd CFO
Hilscher-Clarke Electric Company
Teresa Golden President Environmental Flooring Group
Justin Hardesty Financial Advisor
Hardesty Partners & Jackson Twp. Trustee
Mary Ellen Icaza CEO / Executive Director Stark Library
Gregory L. King President University of Mount Union
James Lambo Vice President – Auditing The Timken Company
Ralph J. Lober II, CPA, CEPA President & CEO Consumers National Bank
Joseph Luckring Regional President The PNC Financial Services Group
C. Stephen Mackenzie President & CEO Stark Economic Development Board
Ronald Paydo Market President Akron/ Canton Huntington National Bank
Jim Porter President Pro Football Hall of Fame
Elaine Russell Reolfi President/CEO CommQuest Services Inc.
Joseph D. Schauer President & CEO Schauer Group
William C. Shivers Senior VP, Regional President Farmers National Bank
Michael Sirpilla CEO Society Brands
NEW EVENT HEADING TO PLAIN TOWNSHIP
FREE FAMILY FUN!
Join the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and Plain Township as we host the 2026 Oktoberfest at the Plain Township Amphitheater.
This traditional Oktoberfest is a FREE, family-friendly event which will feature live music, food, traditional German style and American beer selections, Kid’s Area and games. The schedule of games include: Pretzel Eating Contest; Weiner Dog Race; Costume Contest and Stein Holding Contest.
Leonard Stevens CEO Stark County Minority Business Assoc.
Jeff Talbert
Superintendent Canton City School District
Lucien Tolbert
Human Resources Director Marathon Petroleum Company, LLC
Dustin J. Vrabel Managing Partner Buckingham, Doolittle, and Burroughs, LLP
Thomas West President and CEO Greater Stark County Urban League
Scott M. Zurakowski Attorney at Law Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., LPA
SEPT. 19
ACTION
Flashback!
Baskerville Auto Dealer was located at 305 Market Avenue South in Canton, it was owned by Fred Baskerville. Advertisements for the shop in May of 1905 promoted Rambler, Premier and Maxwell automobiles. A two-cylinder, 18 HP Rambler with headlamps cost $1,350, the Rambler Runabout sold for $650, Premier Tourabouts were priced at $1,250 and the Maxwell Tourabouts were sold for $750. Baskerville also rented automobiles furnished with chauffeurs for 5 cents a mile. Information provided by Mark Holland, McKinley Presidential Library & Stark County Archives. Chamber file photos circa 1905.
