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Jan. 2026

ONL INE NE WSLET T ER

Letter from the President JEFF DAFLER, PRESIDENT & CEO As we begin 2026, the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is entering a year of execution. Last year marked the launch of our five-year strategic plan. This year is about delivering on it with focus and results for our members. Looking back, 2025 was a year of meaningful progress. We convened the business community through signature events like our Regional Summit, Women in Business, Stark Forum and dozens of programs designed to connect leaders, ideas and opportunity. We strengthened partnerships with educators and employers to address workforce needs, advanced advocacy efforts that support a competitive business climate, and continued to invest in leadership development and peer-to-peer connections. Those efforts matter, and they are building momentum. Our strategic plan now moves from vision to action. Over the next year, you will see a sharper focus on member value, including how the Chamber helps businesses grow in an increasingly complex environment. That means more intentional programming, clearer pathways for engagement and stronger alignment across our work in economic development, workforce, advocacy and community vitality.

IN THIS ISSUE

The Chamber’s impact has always been driven by its members. From showing up, sharing insight, participating in programs and leaning into collaboration, your engagement shapes the strength of our organization and our region. Together, we are building on a legacy of leadership while preparing for what’s next. Thank you for your continued investment in the Canton Regional Chamber of

Commerce. I look forward to working alongside you in the year ahead.

Jeff Dafler President & CEO Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

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ACTION January 2026

Mark Wright Board Chair Jeff Dafler President & CEO Darla Brown Vice President – Marketing & Membership Strategy Melinda McNutt Vice President – Development & Partnership Relations Mark Prosise Vice President – Events & Strategic Initiatives Mike Weiss Creative Director

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WA L S H U N I V E R S I T Y

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.

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2026 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

TREASURER Eric Schreiber CPA 415 Group IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Christopher Goff President and CEO Employers Health PRESIDENT & CEO Jeff Dafler Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

2026 Board of Directors Dr. Tim Collins President Walsh University

James B. (Jamie) Lambo Vice President – Auditing The Timken Company

Williams C. Shivers Senior VP, Regional President Farmers National Bank

Dr. Timothy Crone President Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital

Ralph J. Lober II, CPA, CEPA President & CEO Consumers National Bank

Michael Sirpilla CEO Society Brands

Joseph Daleiden Senior VP – Commercial Banking KeyBank

Joseph Luckring Regional President The PNC Financial Services Group

Leonard Stevens CEO Stark County Minority Business Assoc.

Jeff Floyd CFO Hilscher-Clarke Electric Company

C. Steve Mackenzie President & CEO Stark Economic Development Board

Jeff Talbert Superintendent Canton City School District

Teresa Golden President Environmental Flooring Group

Ronald Paydo Market President Akron/Canton Huntington National Bank

Lucien Tolbert Human Resources Director Marathon Petroleum Company, LLC

Justin Hardesty Financial Advisor Hardesty Partners & Jackson Twp. Trustee

Jim Porter President Pro Football Hall of Fame

Mary Ellen Icaza CEO / Executive Director Stark Library

Elaine Russell Reolfi President/CEO CommQuest Services Inc.

Dustin J. Vrabel Partner Buckingham, Doolittle, and Burroughs, LLP

Gregory L. King President University of Mount Union

Joseph D. Schauer President & CEO Schauer Group

Thomas West President and CEO Greater Stark County Urban League Scott M. Zurakowski Attorney at Law Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., LPA

Gervasi Destinations named Restaurant of the Year The Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance Industry has named Gervasi Destinations Restaurant of the Year for Northeast Ohio. Organizers said the honor recognizes excellence in culinary performance, service, guest experience, and leadership within the hospitality industry. The Tuscan-inspired vineyard resort has only been around for 15 years. Gervasi Destinations includes Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa and The Twisted Olive. They’re also expanding with a new restaurant/bar in Jackson Township. n

Akron-Canton Airport Modernizes Sensory Room In Partnership with Wolff & Phan Autism Center, the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) announces the completion of its refreshed Sensory Room, created to provide a calming and supportive space for travelers needing a break from the busy airport environment.

BIZ Bitz

First introduced in 2020, CAK’s Sensory Room has become a beloved amenity, particularly for children who benefit from reduced stimuli during the travel experience. CAK partnered with the Wolff & Phan Autism Center (Wolff-PAC), located in Fairlawn. Fully accredited by the Autism Commission on Quality (ACQ), Wolff-PAC guided the airport through enhancements to better serve individuals with autism and related disabilities. The Sensory Room is one component of CAK’s broader accessibility efforts. Since launching the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program in 2022, the airport has worked to increase awareness and support for travelers with nonvisible disabilities. n

YWCA Canton names Janelle Lee as interim CEO She replaces Shana Smith who recently resigned, had been in the position since 2020.

Lee served as director of client engagement at MAGNET, the Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network. She also served as an economic development consultant and community engagement officer for Strengthening Stark. Lee is married to Ralph Lee, who was recently appointed as interim executive director and CEO of the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority. The couple resides in Meyers Lake. The YWCA Canton, located at 231 Sixth St. NE, was founded in 1909 and offers emergency housing, early childhood education programs, and rental space for meetings and athletics. Have business news you’d like to share via Biz Bitz? Send your news release to Mike Weiss, Creative Director, at Michael@cantonchamber.org.

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Marketing Matters

Data-Driven Marketing Solutions

The “Gold” Standard for Local Visibility As businesses look ahead to 2026, local visibility should be regularly evaluated rather than taken for granted. Canton Chamber members already have a presence in the Chamber Directory, and with the newest profile upgrade options available, your business can take it to the next level by strengthening search visibility, reinforcing credibility, and encouraging year-round engagement. The Gold directory option offers added flexibility and reach, creating opportunities to elevate a listing from basic to strategic. WHY START WITH THE DIRECTORY A visibility audit should begin where credibility already exists. The Canton Chamber Directory is not just a member resource, but a well-established digital platform that search engines recognize and trust. Competitive advantage can come from how intentionally that space is used. Listings that leverage enhanced features are better positioned to capture attention, guide engagement, and signal relevance. When optimized with purpose, the directory becomes a foundational element in a broader visibility strategy. GOLD PACKAGE FEATURES FOR 2026 1. Custom Landing Page Content and Unlimited Keywords The Gold directory option allows members to expand beyond a basic profile into a content-rich landing page hosted directly on the Chamber website. This space functions as a dedicated overview of your business, giving full control over how your services, expertise, and value are presented. From a visibility standpoint, keywords play two important roles. Keywords naturally embedded in the landing page copy help search engines better understand what your business offers and who it serves, increasing the likelihood of appearing in relevant searches. The unlimited keyword feature improves how your business is discovered within the Chamber’s directory search. By adding service-specific keywords, common synonyms, and related terms, your listing is more likely to appear when users search for what you offer.

To optimize this feature, identify 3–5 primary local keywords and integrate them naturally into headings and body content. Add secondary keywords that reflect specific services, specialties, or industries. Update content regularly with seasonal offerings or promotions to keep the listing current and relevant.

To maximize this benefit, add links to specific services or conversion-focused pages rather than just your homepage. Review links periodically to ensure they remain accurate and relevant. Tracking referral traffic can help you understand how your directory listing supports broader marketing goals.

2. Premium Backlinks and Priority Search Placement

3. Rich Media: Images, Video, and Member Eblasts

Gold listings also include enhanced linking opportunities and priority placement within directory category searches. These elements directly support both visibility and credibility.

The Gold option also supports visual and promotional enhancements, including multiple images, video content, calls-to-action, and quarterly exposure through Member-toMember eblasts.

Backlinks from a respected local site such as cantonchamber.org strengthen your website’s authority and help search engines view your business as trustworthy. Priority placement increases exposure to users who are actively browsing Chamber categories and comparing providers.

Visual content encourages users to spend more time on your listing and increases the likelihood they will engage with your brand. Images and video quickly communicate professionalism, while eblasts extend your visibility beyond the directory itself. To optimize, upload high-quality images with descriptive, keywordfriendly filenames. Use video to showcase your location, team, or customer testimonials. Include clear calls to action that guide viewers to the next step, such as scheduling a consultation or visiting your website. TURNING YOUR LISTING INTO A YEAR-ROUND ASSET A Chamber Directory listing doesn’t have to be static; it can be a living part of a business’s visibility strategy. When fully optimized, the Gold package transforms a listing into a consistent, behind-the-scenes marketing tool that strengthens search performance, builds credibility, and drives engagement throughout 2026 and beyond. Regular updates and strategic use of features keep your business visible and competitive all year. PRO-TIP: YOUR PARTNER IN VISIBILITY – UB ADVERTISING Fully optimising your directory listing and making regular updates keep it current, improves search relevance, and ensures your business stays top-of-mind with local customers year-round. Want to do more with your local SEO? Contact UB today.

ADVERTISE HERE! Contact Erica Barnes 330-456-7253

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.

ACAA Meeting and Network Reception ACAA members are invited to join us for our first meeting of 2026 which will be immediately followed by a networking reception on at 4 p.m., Friday, January 16th at the Greater Akron Chamber from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. This event will provide ACAA members with a yearend recap highlighting 2025 efforts: including legislative wins, membership engagement, and updates and discussion on our 2026 Policy Priorities.

A Day in Columbus for ACAA members Following a very successful inaugural CBUS Drive-In last February, we’re excited to announce that the ACAA will once again host a Day in Columbus for its members in February 2026. While details are still being finalized, please stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks. This event will be an excellent opportunity to engage with elected officials and decision-makers at our state’s capitol on key issues facing the business community!

LSC Alumni: Volunteering at Refuge of Hope Join us for a hands-on volunteer opportunity at Refuge of Hope! A tour of the facility will take place from 3–4 PM, then alumni will help with dinner service from 4–6:30 PM. It’s a great way to give back, reconnect with fellow alumni, and support an organization making a real impact in our community. There is no cost to volunteer, however PLEASE register so we have an accurate headcount.

Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Time: 3-6:30 PM Register: CantonChamber.org

If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out to Daisha Okolo at dokolo@akroncantonadvocacy.org

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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

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QuickConnect Luncheon Networking Series

Jan. 21 at La Pizzaria

2026 BUSINESS PLAYBOOK KICKOFF Jeff Dafler, President & CEO of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, will kick off the Business Playbook Series with a candid strategic outlook on where our business community stands, what assumptions are shifting and how those changes will shape our region’s future. Rather than a program-by-program update, Jeff will focus on context, choices and the role the Chamber plays in helping businesses adapt while strengthening the fabric of our region. RESERVE YOUR TABLE TOP! This venue provides an opportunity for 3 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 $25 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 Erica Barnes at erica@cantonchamber.org.

Jeff Dafler

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2026 Season Passes On Sale Now!

They are $270.00 for the year, so you’ll get one lunch free. Join us for the Canton Regional Chamber’s 2026 Business Playbook Series. Each month, we’ll explore a core element of building a stronger business with practical insights from experts in our community. From leadership and workforce to marketing, operations and community impact, every session opens a new chapter of the playbook. Through a mix of solo speakers, panels and workshops, you’ll hear from local leaders, grow your network and walk away with ideas you can put to work right away.

Season Pass Offer

Join us for the full series and save. A season pass for all 10 luncheons (each month except July and August) is $270, which means you’ll get one lunch free. It’s the easiest way to stay connected all year and be part of every conversation. Plus, everyone who purchases a season pass will be entered into a drawing at February’s QuickConnect to win a free e-blast advertisement.

2026 Business Playbook Lineup January: The 2026 Business Playbook Kickoff February: The Workforce Playbook March: The Marketing Playbook April: The Operations Playbook May: The Leadership Playbook June: The Efficiency Playbook September: The Finance Playbook October: The Culture Playbook November: The Nonprofit Playbook December: The Shop Local Playbook

Contact Erica Barnes at erica@cantonchamber.org or call 330-456-7253

Join us for presented by local commercial real estate experts This session will help growing businesses understand how commercial real estate can support expansion and long-term planning. Attendees will learn how to assess space needs, create efficient environments for their teams, and evaluate options for office, warehouse, distribution, or industrial facilities. The discussion will cover leasing and purchasing, market trends, and what to consider when selecting or negotiating a new location. Date: Monday, Jan. 12 Networking and Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – Noon Presentation: Noon – 1 p.m. Pricing: $15 Location: Canton Regional Chamber

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MEMBER RENEWALS A-1 Steak House & Sushi Bar Accu-Rite Tool & Die Co. Advanced Auto Body Inc. Advanced Water and Wastewater Operations, LLC Advantech Service and Parts LLC Air Con Tech, Inc. Alco-Chem, Inc. ALPHA Land Title Agency Inc Aman’s Collision Center Amy Sanzone Wellness Canton Chair Rental - Party Savvy Apple Creek Banking Company (The) AquaBlue Inc. AUI Aviva Hills Brad’s Carpet Cleaning, LLC Brookshire Wealth Management Bubba’s 33 Canman Media LLC Canton For All People Carroll County District Library Cassel Bear Circle Machine Rolls Inc. City of Uhrichsville Consumers National Bank - Jackson-Belden Copier Consultants, Inc. Zoned Comfort Heating & Cooling Custom Fireplace Shop, Inc. D.A. Bagnola & Company, Inc. Damon Industries Inc. Holmes Oil Distributing, Inc. Animal Care Clinic Destefano’s, LLC Domestic Violence Project Inc. Bond Law, Ltd. Dover Cabinet Industries Early Childhood Resource Center Edward Jones - Greg Olenick Emily Berg Weddings & Events Public Salt Company - A Clarity Salt Company Encore Jenior Appraisals & Liquidations, LLC Framer’s Workshop FabOhio, Inc. Faith Family Church Family Life Home & Health Care Services Farris Produce Inc. Fitzpatrick, Zimmerman & Rose Co. LPA Phillips & Associates Insurance Agency LLC Chick-fil-A (Dressler) Gervasi Vineyard Glass Doctor Glen Reichenbach State Farm Insurance Grand View Exterior Systems Greener Grass Organic Lawn & Pest Griffeth and Son Trucking INC

Grimsley Title Agency, Ltd. Haugh Construction Benchmark Construction Hein Construction, Inc. Hettler Largent Engineering, LLC Hills & Dales Vision Inc. Drs. K.J. & Michael Shaheen Himes, Slater & Hershberger, LLC Holdsworth Industrial Fabricating, LLC Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau Holmes Fire District No. 1 Home Helpers H-W Machine of Canton, LLC Impact Construction and Restoration Co. Jeff Wallick, LLC Millwood Lumber Inc. Oberster Media Deco-Crete Supply, Inc. Helbling’s Supply Inc. Guist Decorators, Inc. Always Better Communications Inc. (ABC) K1 Speed Canton B-Squared Kaufman Mulch Inc. Keister Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Kidron Electric Great Work! Employment Services Kisha & Tabellion Company Koby Electric, Inc. Lake Mohawk Property Association Orion Construction Lorrie E. Fuchs, Attorney at Law Lucia’s Steakhouse Magnetech Industrial Services Major League Tire, LLC Marathon Staffing Creative Floats ML Telecom Services Inc. MEB Systems Inc. Neidenthal & Co. CPAs Merit Seed Miday Dental Lab, LLC Doc’s Lawn & Garden Brewster Cheese Company Momohana Ramen & Boba Tea Motion Mobility & Design, Inc. Mt. Hope Fence My HR Team LLC National First Ladies’ Library Shanklin Heating, Air Conditioning, & Electric Macala & Piatt LLC Northwestern Mutual Oakshadows Kennel Plus Ohio Precision Inc. Orrville Pet Spa & Resort, LLC OrthoUnited Alco Services, LLC

Pauli Electric, Inc. Peterman Plumbing & Heating Inc. Plakas Mannos Professional Aviation Aircraft Services R.K. Lindsey Funeral Home Brumco Construction Airgas USA, LLC Robertson Industries, Inc. Ruegg Brothers Automotive Service SACS Consulting & Investigative Services, Inc. Sander Contracting Inc Paint Valley Equipment Schauer Group, Inc. Serv-Ice Delivery Co. - Haller Enterprises, Inc. Central Ohio Recovery Inc. Springwood Lake Camp Club FlorLine Group, Inc. Stark Tuscarawas Workforce Development Board Steel Valley Portable X-ray Service Stone Products, Inc. Strouble Water Hauling & Trucking Sugar Valley Meats, LLC Sun State Plastics Inc. Sunrise Vista Behavioral Health Surgery Alliance, Ltd. Environmental Flooring Group, LLC East Holmes Family Care F.W. Renner & Sons Inc. The ABCD, Inc. The Engravers Edge-Amma Mgmt. Corp., dba The Players Guild Theatre The Strip - A Stark Enterprises Property The University of Akron Theodore V. Boyd Tilmor LLC Tis The Season / Dutch Heritage Farms Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory Tower Countertops Trail Battery & Solar Price 4 Limo Canton Troyer & Associates, Inc. Tuscora Electric Supply Steiner Insurance Group, LLC United Grinding & Machine Co. University of Mount Union Valley View Transport, LLC Veterinary Wellness Partners Vought Insurance Agency LLC Wallace Foods Union Cemetery Grubbs Family Chiropractic Willoughby & Company, Inc. Yoder’s Produce Inc. Ziegler Bolt & Nut House

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NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME to our newest members, who joined Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce in September. 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 From a very young age, I knew I wanted to own my own business. I knew I had to expand my knowledge, so I started in the auto tech class in school. From there I worked at the auto parts store and the auto diesel field. There has never been anything I am afraid to tackle. Growing my skill i$ what I strive for. American Medical Personnel, Inc Medical/Healthcare Staffing, Webcheck Provider Anjolena Scassa/Marketing 330-433-1080 1440 East Turkeyfoot Lake Rd Door 1 Akron, OH 44312 330-433-1080 ap.medical@mac.com https://amp.jobs/ AMP Since 1999, we’ve partnered our people with the challenging, rewarding healthcare staffing jobs they’re best suited for. Using specialized software and human know-how, we’ve managed to keep our people (not to mention our clients) very happy. Unlike other healthcare staffing agencies, we specialize in locating hard-to-find nursing professionals. And once we find them...we keep them. Our Agents spoil the pajamas off our awesome staff with crazy perks like flexible scheduling, daily pay and blow-your-mind benefits. If you have the props and want to work for AMP, we need to hear from you. Our mission as a healthcare staffing agency is to focus on serving the needs of our people to build a stronger workforce. When our clients need staff for their facility – be it a hospital, doctor’s office or nursing home – our staffing agency is ready to step in and help. In turn, this gives our people more work opportunities, resulting in a WIN-WIN-WIN for everyone.

I found my gift for classic cars and that is where I want to guide my business to. A lot of shops do not want to work on older stuff, where I find my gift enjoyable. I established Barnratz LLC in 2828 during the height of the pandemic.

Bethany Medical Center Excellence in Geriatric Care Since 1987 Experience You Can Trust. Compassion You Deserve. At Bethany Medical Center, your health is in expert hands. Founded in 1987 by Cleveland Clinic Fellowship Trained Geriatrician Dr. Elizabeth Baum, MD, CMD, our private practice has proudly served the post-acute care community (Long Term Care, Skilled Nursing, and Assisted Living) for over three decades with an unwavering commitment to high quality and compassionate care. Our team of dedicated providers brings over 60 years of combined expertise in geriatric medicine. Each member of our medical team is uniquely trained to understand and meet the complex needs of aging adults: Dr. Elizabeth Baum, MD, CMD, Geriatrician, Associate Professor of Medicine NEOMED; Geriatric Consultant, Aultman Hospital; Long Term Care Certified Medical Director; Clinical Faculty, CMEF, Aultman Family Practice Residency; founded Bethany Medical Center in 1987

Barnratz LLC General Auto Repair Specializing in classic cars Barney Kellicker 5038 Diamond St. NE Canton, OH 44721 330-243-4079 barnratzllc@gmail.com FBBarnratz I have always love classic cars. I started working on cars, motorcycles, and lawn mowers and fueled my passion for anything that runs on gas and oil.

respect, and personalized care rooted in Geriatric Medicine. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of aging, managing chronic conditions, or simply looking for a trusted partner in your health journey, Bethany Medical Center is here for you. Discover the difference decades of experience and compassionate care can make.

Fortis Regulatory Solutions Amanda Riemenschneider Founder and CEO A consulting firm that helps businesses gain clarity, control, and confidence through strong financial oversight and regulatory readiness. With a background in finance, accounting, and banking regulation—including experience as a bank examiner and treasury analyst— Amanda brings deep insight into how financial institutions and businesses are evaluated, monitored, and expected to perform. Fortis supports small businesses, growing companies, and financial institutions with services ranging from bookkeeping and financial analysis to budgeting, forecasting, internal controls, and strategic reporting. For banks and credit unions, Amanda specializes in regulatory and exam readiness, including OCCstyle exam preparation, policy and procedure review, governance support, and risk-focused financial analysis that aligns with examiner expectations. Passionate about supporting the local business community, Amanda works closely with leadership teams to strengthen financial foundations, reduce risk, and position organizations for sustainable growth—whether they are preparing for their next regulatory exam or simply seeking clearer, more reliable financial insights.

Abbey Baum-Beigie, CNP, graduated from Case Western Reserve University, 2012; Joined BMC in 2012 Lauren Nicholson, CNP, graduated from Kent State University, 2021; Joined BMC in 2021 Dr. Joseph Baum, MD, graduated from NEOMED 2022, Internal Medicine Residency completed at Summa Health System 2022; Joined BMC in 2022 We’re more than a practice — we’re a healthcare practice that treats every patient with dignity,

Compassion Delivered, Inc. Nutritional meals for free for people coping with a life-threatening or terminal disease in Stark County. Amanda & Daniel Anschutz – Co-Founder/ CEO & COO

NEW MEMBERS what we are doing and a measurable impact on our client’s quality of life.

1320 Bel Air Dr. NW. North Canton, OH 44720 330.575.0996 amanda@compassiondelivered.org www.compassiondelivered.org FB and IG

JOIN THE FAMILY Whether joining us in our weekly meal preparations, being a sponsor or joining us at one of our special events, there are so many opportunities to join alongside us in our mission to provide healthy meals and love in action to our community!

We provide high-quality meals at no cost to people suffering from life-threatening or terminal diseases here in Stark County. Founded in 2017, Compassion Delivered, a 501c3 non-profit, began when Daniel and Amanda Anschutz recognized a need in our community. They have personally been affected by people in our lives who struggle to provide themselves the nutritional needs while dealing with and coping with their lifethreatening or terminal diseases. They researched organizations around the country and realized this was a service many communities had already been receiving, but not here at home. So, they began the journey of forming Compassion Delivered and being able to offer these services and support to those in our own community. Compassion Delivered truly believes that an act of kindness, such as a meal can give hope, compassion, and strength. We realized that like us, so many people have been touched by a family member or friend who have suffered from life-threatening or terminal diseases and had to choose between nutritious meals or medication. We truly believe that with the right food sustainability program, the body can begin to heal. Food is medicine and we don’t want to see people choosing between medical care or suffering from malnutrition and hunger from their diseases. Compassion Delivered is the only organization of its kind in Ohio that focuses on the importance of food’s impact on the health of people diagnosed with a life-threatening or terminal disease. Launch as a meal delivery service focused on providing compassionate support for people coping with diseases, we also recognize there is science behind

The Learning Experience - Canton Academy of Early Childhood Education: Ages 6 weeks to 5 years old Jessica Correia 5108 Everhard Rd NW Canton, OH 44718 (888) 991-4222 comingsoon@tlechildcare.com https://thelearningexperience.com/centers/ canton-oh/ https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61576556175821 We make early education and daycare joyful, engaging, and fun for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children! Since 2002, The Learning Experience has been positively impacting the lives of children ages six weeks to six years by developing and implementing ground-breaking childcare and early education programs. Our proprietary curriculum encourages children to learn in their favorite way: by exploring and doing. This forms a foundation for kids to Learn, Play and Grow under the care of our nurturing teachers. The Learning Experience curriculum is created to meet or exceed nationwide standards and it’s

all-inclusive—with all curriculum programs and enrichment programs like music, engineering and fitness, offered at no additional charge.

Lingo Staffing Temp, Temp to Hire and Direct Hire Staffing – Manufacturing, Logistics, Administrative Trey Warrix 330.469.8648 Twarrix@lingostaffing.com Lingostaffing.com Lingo Is A Local Staffing & Recruiting Firm With National Power As a job recruiting agency based in Richmond, Lingo Staffing works closely with businesses and associates nationwide from our eleven locations throughout the U.S. Our focus is on administrative, light industrial, and professional jobs. Our services include temporary and temporary-to-hire staffing, direct hire, payrolling and on-site staffing. Any of these services can be customized to your needs. Lingo Staffing, Inc. is dedicated to providing our employees with an honest and effective working environment where every employee, individually and collectively, is devoted to providing our clients with exceptional effort, extraordinary service and personal integrity. By earning the satisfaction of our clients and the pride of our employees, we will become the preeminent provider of staffing solutions.

Call our team of professionals for all your real estate needs! RETAIL OFFICE MEDICAL INDUSTRIAL INVESTMENTS MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT 1031 EXCHANGES SITE ACQUISITION

Timothy J. Putman Wick Hartung Spencer Hartung Saylor Putman Jim Bednar President Broker, Co-Owner Vice President Vice President Sr. Sales Associate 330-495-0600 330-495-0601 330-936-0276 330-495-8292 330-417-9034

TUESDAY TIP CLUB

4065 Fulton Dr NW, Canton 330.498.4400 putmanproperties.com Est. 1985

NEW MEMBERS

Marsino’s Costumes and Novelties, LLC Nicky Bigs Novelties Address: 4501 Cleveland Ave NW Rear Canton, OH 44709 (330) 495-3208 Ext. 1 info@nickybigsnovelties.com www.nickybigsnovelties.com Instagram @nickybigsnovelties Mission & Values Our mission is to spark creativity, fun, and selfexpression through innovative costume and novelty products while honoring the legacy that Marsino’s has built for more than a century. Through our partnership with AFG Media / Morph Costumes, we are committed to scaling responsibly, maintaining quality, and delivering memorable experiences backed by reliable fulfillment, creative leadership, and customer-first service. Company Overview Marsino’s Costumes & Novelties is a creative costume and novelty company dedicated to delivering joy, imagination, and memorable experiences. With a name that carries over 100 years of legacy in Canton, Ohio, Marsino’s has long been a trusted part of the local and regional costume industry. Today, the company operates under its consumerfacing brand, Nicky Bigs Novelties, specializing in novelty hats, helmets, costume accessories, and seasonal products for holidays, events, cosplay, and everyday fun. Building on its historic foundation, Marsino’s has

recently merged with its parent company, AFG Media (also known as Morph Costumes), a global leader in costume design, manufacturing, and distribution. This strategic merger strengthens Marsino’s capabilities across product development, supply chain, and international reach while preserving the brand’s deep roots and legacy in Ohio.

seasoned ladies who love to keep with all the newest products, and men who know it also important for them to take care of their skin.

Services Provided • Costume and costume accessories (adults & kids) • Novelty hats, helmets, and themed headwear • Seasonal décor and holiday accessories • Bulk orders and custom product development • Large-scale warehousing, fulfillment, and seasonal distribution

SWTHZ – Canton 4996 Fulton Dr. Unit B Canton, OH 44718 330-400-2980 canton@swthz.com www.swthz.com @swthz Contrast Therapy | Recovery | Performance | Wellness

Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant Skin Care Diana Kellicker 5041 Werner Church Rd NE Canton, OH 44721 330-714-3998 dianakellicker@gmail.com www.marykay.com/dkellicker fb Mary Kay with Diana Kay I started out loving my Mary Kay products and the attitude of my Mary Kay friends. Unlike corporate america, Mary Kay is a sisterhood. Mary Kay Ash began this company September 13th, 1963 with the philosophy of God first, Family second, Career third. I started my Mary Kay business 25 years ago, and cannot imagine my life without it Teaching skin care and enriching womens lives is what we do. I teach skin care to anyone with skin from 8-80 ! From young girls getting deceived and misled into buying age fighting skincare that is actually damaging their skin, adult women who want to keep their skin looking young,

Services Provided: SWTHZ is a modern wellness and recovery studio specializing in guided contrast therapy, which includes infrared sauna, vitamin C shower, and 50 degree cold plunge. These recovery-focused wellness services are designed to improve physical performance, mental resilience, and overall health. Business Description: SWTHZ Canton delivers science-backed recovery and wellness experiences in a private, spa-like environment. Our studio is designed for individuals who value performance, longevity, and proactive health—ranging from athletes and fitness enthusiasts to busy professionals and anyone seeking better stress management and recovery. By combining heat exposure and cold immersion as recovery modalities, SWTHZ helps members optimize circulation, reduce inflammation, improve sleep, enhance mental clarity, and accelerate recovery. Each session is designed to be both restorative and efficient, making high-impact wellness accessible in today’s fastpaced lifestyle. Our Mission: To help people feel better, recover faster, and perform at their best—physically and mentally—through

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER

NEW NETWORKING EVENT: MORNING MIXER Introducing Morning Mixer — a brand-new morning networking event designed to help you connect before the day gets busy. Hosted at rotating Chamber member locations, Morning Mixer pairs coffee and conversation in a relaxed, low-pressure setting. The first Morning Mixer will be held at the AkronCanton Airport, so stop by, grab a cup of coffee, and start your day connected. Registration for January is limited to first 75 attendees.

Akron-Canton Airport Wednesday, Jan. 28 8-9 AM

NEW MEMBERS intentional, consistent recovery practices. We are the healthiest form of relaxation.

program that motivates your team, we help turn the idea into a polished, professional plan.

genuine; we truly care about our clients and their financial well-being.

Our Commitment: SWTHZ Canton is committed to elevating wellness in the Stark County community by providing a clean, welcoming, and professional environment supported by knowledgeable staff and proven recovery protocols. We believe recovery is not a luxury—it is a necessity for sustainable health and performance.

We specialize in making group travel simple and doable, even for first-time hosts. We guide the concept, help you choose the right destination and format, coordinate the logistics, and create a clear, confident experience for your group from the first invitation through the trip itself. We can also support the visibility side of the trip, helping you shape how it’s presented, how people are invited, and how the experience stays aligned with your brand while still feeling genuine and community-centered.

The level of financial freedom that clients achieve is often a direct reflection of the advice they receive throughout their lives, particularly as they approach retirement. At White Tree Financial, we pride ourselves on offering a premium service tailored specifically for the everyday client. Our experience spans a diverse range of individuals, from janitors to CEOs, demonstrating that our approach and advice can be customized to fit any client’s unique situation. This adaptability is a cornerstone of our philosophy, ensuring that everyone receives the support they need to thrive financially.

If you’re a business owner or community organizer looking to do something different, something that brings people together, strengthens loyalty, and helps you stand out in your industry, we’d love to be your planning partner. Open Trip Travel LLC Travel Planning, consulting, booking and high touch group planning. I help busy professionals, businesses, and community groups plan trips that feel effortless, especially group travel where the details can get overwhelming fast. Amber Adkins 330-353-8455 amber@opentriptravel.com opentriptravel.com https://www.facebook.com/ groups/1248523427081409 Here at Open Trip Travel, we help community leaders and small business owners use group travel as a strategic way to elevate visibility, deepen relationships, and create meaningful momentum. Most people think of travel as “just a vacation.” We see it as a powerful tool for connection and growth. A well designed group trip can position a business owner as a curator of experiences, not just a provider of services, while creating space for trust building, collaboration, and community. Whether you want to host a client appreciation getaway, lead an intimate retreat for your audience, create a business development experience with peer networking built in, or offer an incentive

White Tree Financial Financial Advice and Implementation R. Taylor Auten – President 4076 Holiday St. NW Canton, OH 44718 330-800-8892 Robert.Auten@Equitable.com

Our team consists of dedicated advisors, assistants, and support staff who strive to provide clients with a level of care that feels personal and familial. We prioritize our clients’ peace of mind above all else, treating them with the utmost respect and understanding. As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunity to be part of many more clients’ financial planning journeys. Our goal is to build lasting relationships and empower individuals to achieve their financial aspirations, no matter where they start from. Veterinary Concierge Service In-Home Pet Euthanasia Mark A. Christine, DVM 330-844-1467 VetConsiergeService@gmail.com

My journey in the financial industry started back in 2018. When I first entered this field, I had a conversation with my parents about whether they had a financial advisor. Their response was surprising; they felt they weren’t wealthy enough to have a financial advisor.

Peacefully Passing at Home Pets are family. When it’s time to say goodbye, VCS provides compassionate in-home euthanasia so your pet can pass peacefully, surrounded by love and familiarity. A licensed veterinarian comes to your home, ensuring a calm and dignified experience for both you and your pet.

This moment sparked a passion in me to focus on serving everyday clients. Since then, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their financial status, race, background, or level of financial knowledge. Our commitment is

With nearly 45 years of veterinary experience, VCS understands how emotionally charged this decision can be. Choosing in-home euthanasia is a final gift of comfort and peace—one we are honored to help you give.

February Luncheon Put your safety knowledge to the test — this month we’re playing Safety Jeopardy! Attendees will team up by table for a fast-paced, interactive game covering a variety of workplace safety topics. It’s a fun way to reinforce key safety concepts, share real-world experience, and connect with fellow safety professionals from across Stark County — all while enjoying lunch.

Date: Thursday, Feb. 12

Prizes will be awarded throughout the game, with a few extra giveaways along the way. All are welcome — you do not need to be a Safety Council member to attend.

Location: Alex D. Krassas Event Center 251 25th St., NW Canton, OH 44709

Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., Program begins at Noon Pricing: $25 (includes delicious buffet)

AND RECORDKEEPING The OSHA power of yourPERRP TPA claims examiner relationship

As we enter 2026, it’s time to prepare your OSHA (for private employers) and PERRP (for public employers) recordkeeping logs, summaries, and online reports. These records should be updated throughout the year as injuries occur. OSHA and PERRP both require employers to review each injury and determine whether it mustTPA be recorded 7 days notification. is a reminder of the key deadlines: As a Sedgwick customerwithin our goal is toofalways provideBelow you with comprehensive andrecordkeeping immediate service for all of

your workers’ compensation claim Part of that service a dedicated claimsbyexaminer to 1) OSHA andneeds. PERRP Summary forms mustincludes be completed and posted Februaryassigned 1st. your account who can2)offer a detailed plan reporting of action to assist you in navigating the Ohio workers’ compensation The PERRP online is due February 1st. system.

The OSHA online reporting is due March 2nd.

First determine if you are aexempt from keeping records. When your company experiences workers’ compensation claim, your assigned claims examiner will typically

receive notice of the claim within a few days of the filing. Their immediate goal is to complete a claim review of all documentation available so that they can notify you of EXEMPTIONS any concerns with the information on file. Some of the caution signs they monitor include: OSHA - There are two exemptions from keeping the OSHA 300 Log. •

Companies with 10 or fewer Prior medical1)history to the same body part employees at all times during the calendar year. The only

• •

A delay in seeking(BLS) treatment or another agency to keep a log. If you receive a request, do not ignore it. Vague or inconclusive injury descriptions

•

Medical treatment discrepancies will need your NAICS number and check it against the list of “Partially Exempt Industries”

• • •

exception to this is if you are specifically requested by OSHA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The other exemption is for establishments classified in certain low-hazard industries. You

at: https://www.osha.gov/recordkeeping/presentations/exempttable. The injury is reported soon after a known employer discipline Hobbies extracurricular activities could cause the PERRP -or There are no exemptions forthat public employers forreported keeping injury and maintaining the PERRP Log. All public employers required keep the Log. Medical conditionsare that co-existtoalongside the primary diagnosis (comorbidities)

Once the validity of a claim is verified your claims examiner will develop a detailed plan of action to monitor and RECORDKEEPING LOGS AND SUMMARY FORM

help move the claim to final resolution either through full and final settlement of the claim or a full duty return to OSHA - If you are required to keep the log, download the Recordkeeping Forms and instructions by work. clicking on the link: https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/OSHA-RK-Forms-Package.pdf.

PERRP – Download theclaims recordkeeping clicking on the link: https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/ Early communication with your examinerinstructions can provideby clarity in the investigation process, reduce

image/upload/info.bwc.ohio.gov/forms/PERRPrecordkeepingforms.pdf. The logs in Excel format can be downloaded from: https://info.bwc.ohio.gov/for-employers/safety-services/consultations-and-programs/ worker. perrp/injury-and-illness-recordkeeping under “Forms and Instructions” on the right side of the page.

administration delays and ensure forward motion of the claim, which is a benefit to both you and your injured

When you complete your PERRP or OSHA log, be sure to have the summary form signed and posted in a

While it is an unfortunate fact that workers do get injured on the job and the majority of those claims are credible, conspicuous place for employees to see. Summaries must be posted from February 1st through April 30th. a strong relationship with your assigned claims examiner who can review what options are available to you as the *Remember only post the OSHA 300A Summary OR THE PERRP 300AP Summary and not the

employer injury to mitigate LOG.*time and expense in the claim is one of the best tools you have in your toolbox. Their expert

knowledge of the Ohio Workers’ Compensation system can help you make informed decisions that will lead to successful claim outcomes. If you have any questions, contact our Sedgwick program manager, Dominic Potina at 614-579-4723 or dominic.potina@sedgwick.com

Continues next page

ONLINE SUBMISSION The final step in the process is to determine if you must file online. OSHA - To determine if your organization is required to do so, enter the following information for your facility at the following link https://www.osha.gov/itareportapp: 1)

“State” in which your facility is located,

“Peak Employment from the previous year” – be sure include temporary and seasonal workers,

“Is the establishment a government facility” and

Your “NAICS Code”.

Once the information is entered, click the “Submit” button and it will identify what, if any, information your facility needs to submit online. There will be one of four replies: 1)

You are exempt from completing the OSHA Log and not required to submit online.

You will not be required to submit anything online.

You will be required to submit information from your OSHA 300A form.

You will be required to submit information from your OSHA 300, 300A and 301 Forms.

If your establishment is required to submit information online, new users must first create a secure account through OSHA’s Injury Tracking Application at https://www.osha.gov/injuryreporting/ita. After setting up your account, you can submit your OSHA Log, OSHA 300A Summary or OSHA 301 Injury Information. For those only required to submit the OSHA 300A Summary, the process is straightforward—just ensure your NAICS code, average number of employees and total work hours are accurately entered on the OSHA 300A Summary report. If you are required to submit your OSHA 300 and OSHA 301 information you have two options. You can either choose to input each recordable injury individually or perform a batch upload. The batch upload can save time for establishments with numerous recordable injuries. PERRP –All public employers are required to submit to the BWC except those with five or fewer employees and have had no recordable injuries in the calendar year. PERRP 300AP Summary form information is submitted through the Ohio BWC link found here: https://info.bwc.ohio.gov/forms-and-publications/ summary-of-work-related-injuries-and-illnesses-300-ap. One final note, even if you have not completed your logs or online reporting in past years, it is still a good idea to get these completed as soon as possible. Both OSHA and PERRP recommend creating your logs and submitting your data, if possible, even if you are past the due date – remember better late than never! If you have any questions regarding your PERRP or OSHA Log or online submission, please contact Andy Sawan, Risk Services Specialist at Sedgwick at andrew.sawan@sedgwick.com or 330-819-4728.

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.

Credit Score: Key To Starting or Growing Your Business In starting or expanding a business, several early steps are keys to success. One is a credit score and, yes, your personal score is important. But if you foresee needing additional funding, a strong business credit score can be central to success. How do you establish a strong business credit score? And once you’ve established it, how do you keep it high so you can get the best terms from lenders, suppliers and more? Let’s take a look. HOW TO ESTABLISH A BUSINESS CREDIT SCORE To begin, you’ll need to establish your business as a legal entity (corporation, S-Corp, LLC, etc.). Doing this will allow you to separate your business and personal finances, enabling your business to build its own financial track record. You’ll then need to contact the IRS to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which will represent your business much in the same way a Social Security number represents you personally. Next, work with vendors or suppliers who report to business credit bureaus and who are willing to extend you credit. This information should be contained in any forms you submit when you open an account, much in the same way personal credit card agreements outline which bureaus receive data from the credit card issuer. Just like you would with vendors or suppliers who report to credit bureaus, consider taking out a loan or a line of credit from a commercial lender that does the same. Just be aware that you may be required to use your personal credit score to qualify, particularly if your business is new and doesn’t have an extensive credit history. You can also research business credit card options, but just like a commercial lender, expect the card-issuing entity to perform a credit inquiry on you personally. HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS CREDIT SCORE The steps for improving your business credit score are similar to the steps for improving a personal credit score. Here are some tips:

Pay bills on time: Late payments are detrimental to both personal and business credit scores. Paying your bills on time, particularly with suppliers or lenders who report to business credit bureaus, is a must to build and maintain a high credit score. If you can pay your bills early, that’s even better. Some business credit reporting agencies, like Dun & Bradstreet, assign higher scores to early payers. Keep credit balances low: A large part of your score is determined by how responsible you are with the credit that’s been extended to you. As a rule, for both your personal and business finances, try to keep your credit balances below 30% of the total amount extended to you. Doing this will help increase your credit score over time. Periodically check your credit report for errors: You don’t want negative notes on your credit report, and you especially don’t want negative notes for something you didn’t do. Errors do happen—and unfortunately, they often go overlooked. Regularly checking your

credit report for mistakes that could drag down your score is important. It gives you the opportunity to file an appeal with the reporting agency. Make use of various credit sources: There are several factors at work when it comes to elevating your credit score. Credit bureaus use a complex formula to calculate a score, so it’s not just about on-time payments and the credit-use percentages. Less obvious factors, like “credit mix” or “credit depth” (among other arcane data variables) are also used to index your score. That means having different lenders and different types of credit — loans, vendor payments, credit cards, etc. can be beneficial when it comes to establishing credit history and elevating your score. The bottom line is if it’s good for a personal score — not overextending yourself, making on-time payments and generally fulfilling your financial obligations — then it’s good for your business credit score as well.

MENTAL HEALTH

MATTERS Mental health & suicide are the top two emerging issues that need addressed in Stark County.

Together we can impact lives, 0 families, and communities. Building Hope is more than a capital campaign. It is one answer to the mental health crisis in Stark and surrounding counties. The Building Hope Campaign is a 2.5-million-dollar initiative to construct a new Encompass Christian Counseling and Encourage Foster Care facility. The new facility will more than double the current size of Encompass Christian Counseling and provide vital mental health resources to the area.

For more information, visit buildinghopecampaign.org BUILDING

PE H

C A P I TA L C A M PA I G N

ADVERTISE HERE!

Contact Erica Barnes 330-456-7253 erica@cantonchamber.org

Shine with a Canton Icon

Contact Kayla DeVitto for sponsorship opportunities. kayla@cantonpalacetheatre.org