Issuu

MARCH

ISSUE

The Chamber Courier

The Monthly Business Publication for the Canton Area

Vice President: Cade Fawcett - Ipava State Bank

cANTON aREA cHAMBER OF cOMMERCE bOARD OF dIRECTORS

Executive Board Executive Board

President: Maggie Connell - Edward Jones

Board of Directors Board of Directors

Tanaya Krulac - COOK Medical

Jason Gumbart - Apex Seed Company

Alesia Shaw - Graham Health System

Jacque Nelson - MidAmerica National Bank

Brette Orwig - Orwig Auto Body

Dee Clark - State Farm Insurance

Sarah Nottle - Salvation Army

Julie Tarvin - Canton Union School District

Makaylynee Correa- Student Representative

www.facebook.com/CACC61520

Executive Director Report Seth Klinedinst

March brings continued momentum and focus for the Canton Area Chamber of Commerce. Over the past month, we’ve been building on the strong foundation already in place while preparing for several key initiatives that will shape the months ahead. Planning for our Annual Dinner is in full swing. From sponsorship coordination and décor planning to program development and logistics, many hands are working together to create an event our members can be proud of. The collaboration from our Board, subcommittees, and sponsors has been outstanding, and I’m excited to see it all come together. Our Business After Hours events continue to provide meaningful networking opportunities and strong community engagement. These gatherings remain one of the most valuable benefits we offer, bringing businesses together, strengthening relationships, and increasing visibility for our members. The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) is also progressing well. Job shadow coordination and leadership development efforts are underway, and it’s encouraging to see local businesses investing their time in mentoring the next generation of leaders. Programs like YLA reinforce our long-term commitment to workforce development and community growth. Behind the scenes, we’ve been focused on membership outreach, enhancing Ambassador involvement, refining internal processes, and strengthening communication through the Chamber Courier and digital platforms. Organization and clarity remain priorities as we continue positioning the Chamber as a central resource for our business community. Looking ahead, planning has begun for signature events such as the Golf Outing and The Canton Cruise-In, along with continued efforts to support our members through networking, promotion, and advocacy. Thank you for your continued engagement and support. I’m excited about the direction we’re heading and the opportunities in front of us.

Sincerely,

Seth Klinedinst Executive Director

Canton Area Chamber of Commerce

Hazy Daisy Studios

Welcome, Hazy Daisy Studios

Hazy Daisy Studios is Canton’s newest go-to spot for fun, fearless fashion with a little bit of snark and a whole lot of personality. We’re not your average T-shirt boutique — we’re where bold graphics, comfy vibes, and unapologetic attitude collide. From sassy sayings to trendy designs, our tees are made for the ones who like to stand out, speak up, and maybe stir the pot just a little.

But we don’t stop at T-shirts. You’ll find our signature bleached flannels (each one uniquely hand-distressed), cozy crewnecks, and curated “Blind Date with a Book” bundles because we believe your outfit and your next read should both spark joy. We also carry tie-dye candles that bring the vibes home and feature products from other amazing local vendors, because supporting small businesses is kind of our love language. Need something custom? We’ve got you. Hazy Daisy Studios offers custom T-shirt design with a quick one-week turnaround time. Whether it’s for your business, sports team, event, fundraiser, or just a fun idea you want brought to life, we’ll help you create something uniquely yours without the long wait.

At Hazy Daisy Studios, shopping is meant to feel fun, welcoming, and a little addictive (in the best way). We’re beyond excited to plant our daisy roots right here in Canton and grow within this incredible community. Stop in, say hi, and stay awhile — we can’t wait to meet you.

Check Out Hazy Daisy Studios on Facebook or Etsy!

City of Canton Spotlight

January, 2026. A long month, it was. While the lucky among us hunkered down at home during a seemingly unending stretch of really cold days, many City workers toughed it out, providing our citizens with the valuable services that we often take for granted. Whether it’s trash removal, running water, working sewer systems, or responding to accidents and incidents, we are grateful for the people who perform these jobs every day, regardless of the ‘real temperature’ and the ‘feels like.’ Can you imagine how fun it is to hang off the backside of a garbage truck in subzero temps? Or to jump into a hole of icy water to fix a broken water main when it’s 10 degrees? When you have the opportunity, be sure to thank a City employee. January and February have been rather uneventful months, but that’s ok. No news is often good news, as they say. City projects are progressing. Bills are being paid, budgets followed, and we look forward to another surplus budget as we close out FY26. City staff continue to find better and more efficient ways to manage work, keep records, and try new approaches instead of how things have always been done.

As spring approaches, you’ll be excited to hear about the host of events and concerts being planned for downtown that will utilize our new Opera House Plaza this season. The former 2025 Bicentennial Committee has now been morphed into a new Canton History and Arts Alliance, with their main mission being to provide historical activities, performing arts, and music, primarily in the Plaza. And remember, these events don’t just happen on their own. Many dedicated volunteers are putting in a lot of their own free time to enrich our community and plan a fantastic summer line up for you. So this summer, as you relax in your bag chair with a favorite beverage, enjoying some great music in the Plaza, remember those volunteers and think about how great it is to live in this wonderful town of Canton.

Job Opportunities

Our Farm Management team is seeking a Farm Manager in Peoria, IL, who will be responsible for farm or ranch management services for absentee, non-operating landowners through lease review, operator management, planning, budgeting and continuous communications regarding the goals set forth for the property.

Graham & Hyde Architects is seeking an experienced Architectural Project Manager to lead and manage projects from concept through completion. This role requires strong design skills, technical expertise, and the ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams while ensuring compliance with client requirements, building codes, and project budgets.

Progressive growing, medically oriented optometric practice is seeking a full-time Optician to join our team. We are committed to continually improving and expanding our services while placing the highest priority on an exceptional patient experience.

Progressive is seeking a candidate to perform supportive administrative duties in a healthcare office. This position serves as a primary contact for patients and families receiving services and works with the staff and doctors to keep the office running smoothly and efficiently. We take pride and have developed a culture of excellent customer service. We are a growing optometric practice with 4-day work weeks, no weekends, and offer medical insurance as well as a SIMPLE IRA plan.

Spoon River College is seeking a hands-on full-time Maintenance Technician with strong mechanical skills to support facility and grounds operations. This role involves troubleshooting and repairing equipment, performing building and grounds maintenance, operating heavy machinery, and assisting with basic electrical, plumbing, and carpentry work. A proactive approach and solid problem-solving skills are key to success in this position.

We are seeking a part-time Breastfeeding Peer Counselor through a DHS grant. This position is intended for a woman in the community who shares similar characteristics (age, race, cultural background, education, and socioeconomic level) with WIC participants. Previous or current WIC participants, or women with breastfeeding experience and a passion for supporting others, are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have breastfed at least one baby within the last five years, though they do not need to be currently breastfeeding.

Job Opportunities

The Fulton County Health Department is hiring a full-time Health Professional/Educator to coordinate community health education and outreach for multiple grant programs. Starting pay is $19.19 per hour and includes paid holidays, insurance benefits, time off, quarterly bonuses, and gym reimbursement. A Bachelor’s degree in a related field (or A.A./A.S. with experience) is required, along with strong communication skills and reliable transportation.

The Environmental Health Division is hiring a part-time Environmental Health Practitioner/Health Professional. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Public Health, Environmental Health, or a related field (with required science hours), or an A.A./A.S. with two years of related experience and Division Director approval. Some weekend hours are required, along with a valid Illinois driver’s license, liability insurance, and reliable transportation. Starting pay is $19.19 per hour and includes accrued paid time, partial holiday pay, a retention bonus, and gym membership reimbursement through mid-2027.

TimbukTech is hiring a full-time Account Manager in the Canton or Macomb area (must live nearby). This role focuses on building strong relationships with local small businesses, serving as their primary contact, leading quarterly reviews, presenting IT recommendations, networking in the community, and working closely with the technical team. The position offers a $60,000 base salary plus uncapped quarterly bonuses, with strong earning potential based on performance. Full benefits, generous PTO, retirement match, and professional development are included. Ideal candidates have 2–5+ years in account management, sales, or client service, strong communication skills, basic tech comfort, and a passion for helping local businesses grow.

The City of Canton is hiring a part-time seasonal Landscaping Assistant to work at Jones Park, City Hall, and other City properties from late March through early October (10–20 hours per week). Duties include seasonal clean-up, raking, mulching, planting, weeding, and watering under the direction of the Park Custodian. The ideal candidate is self-motivated and detail-oriented; horticulture or landscaping experience is preferred but not required. Applications are available at City Hall or at www.cantonillinois.org and should be submitted to the Mayor’s Office at Canton City Hall or emailed to ckohler@cantoncityhall.org. The City of Canton is an equal opportunity employer.

The City of Canton is hiring two part-time seasonal String Trimmers for Greenwood Cemetery. The position is up to 28 hours per week, weather permitting, starting at 7:00am, with a pay rate of $15 per hour. Applications are available at the Public Works office, 2 North Main Street. For questions, call 309-647-5022.