April 2012 Action Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

APRIL 2012

vol.

no.

XLIV 4

Knee Deep in Oil and Gas

by David Kaminski, Director of Energy and Public Affairs We’re knee deep in oil and gas business these days. Every week, we at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce are fielding calls or greeting visitors from companies in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Colorado. They are seeking business locations in Canton and Stark County.

We also are becoming involved in local, regional and statewide efforts to encourage oil and gas economic development. And we are meeting with educational institutions as they plan ways to prepare the workforce that is required for the growing energy sector.

Most important to us is the effort to help our members discover business opportunities in the new oil and gas environment.

Oil and Gas Business Development Seminars To this last point, the Canton Regional Chamber is hosting the first in a series of Oil and Gas Business Development Seminars on April 11. The desire for such a program is so strong that it sold out in a mere 10 days after first being announced to Canton Regional Chamber members on March 12.

We are planning a second seminar for midJune. Details will come as soon as they are developed.

Our Oil and Gas Business Development Seminars are presented in partnership with the (continued on page three)

Community Impact Awards 2012: Field Study by Scott Patsko, Inside Business Magazine

INSIDE: Business Excellence Awards..................4-5 Stir After Hours.......................................6 Spring NETWORK.....................................6 AultCare Fast Break Breakfast..................7 Taste of Canton.......................................7 Join Stark County Safety Council .............8 Annual Chamber Golf Outing...................9 Blues Festival..........................................9 HOF Enshrinement Chairs................. 10-11 Leadership Stark County........................ 12 ystark! Fund Drive................................. 14 ystark! Young Professional Profile.......... 15 ystark! Job Shadow............................... 16 Safety Council Health & Safety Fair........ 17 Ohio Employee Ownership Conference... 18 Youth Summer Job Fair.......................... 19 Hot Business on the Burner................... 23 New Members....................................... 25 BizBitz.................................................. 26 April Calendar....................................... 27

This story originally appeared in the March/April issue of Inside Business magazine. For a complimentary subscription, visit Ibmag.com. Follow Inside Business between issues on Facebook (facebook.com/ibmag) or Twitter (twitter.com/ibmagazine).

Each year, Dominion East Ohio and Inside Business magazine recognize nonprofits that have worked hard to make Northeast Ohio communities better places to live, work and play, with their Community Impact Awards.

This year, the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation and DeHoff Family Foundation were one of the regional collaboratives honored with the prestigious award.

Medline Industries and Old Dominion Freight Line did more than just boost Canton’s

economy when they set up shop in the city’s new Mills Business Park last year. They also served as proof that there is more than one way to create an industrial park.

For 20 years, when businesses needed to expand or companies were looking to relocate to Northeast Ohio, Canton wasn’t an option. There was no vacant land available for development.

So the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce set its sites on a farm field in Canton Township across from the Timken Co. Faircrest Steel Mill. (continued on next page)

WWW.C ANTONCHAMBER.ORG OUR MISSION: To serve our Members through partnerships, programs, services and events to advance the economic growth of Canton and the Stark County region.

(continued from cover)

NEWSLETTER March 2012 - Volume XLIV - No. 3

Rick L. Haines President & CEO, AultCare Chairman Dennis P. Saunier President & CEO Jess Bennett Editor & Director of Marketing Denise Burton Director of Membership and Sales Advertising Sales / Action 330.458.2067

Sarah Lutz Graphics Manager

But there were problems: The $2 million property was zoned for agriculture and wasn’t even in the city.

With a lot of effort and collaboration, however, the Chamber of Commerce was able to purchase the land, and get it annexed into Canton and rezoned for industrial use.

But even then, there was another hurdle: Canton couldn’t find an independent developer to manage its new, 141-acre opportunity. Luckily, Robert DeHoff, owner of DeHoff Development, stepped in with an idea.

“Sometimes, necessity is the mother of invention,” he says. DeHoff wanted to form a nonprofit entity, seeded through local foundations, which would have the opportunity to secure funding that a for-profit wouldn’t get. The plan worked.

The Stark Community, Timken, Hoover and Deuble foundations contributed a combined $250,000. The DeHoff Family Foundation pitched in another $250,000.

After adding city, state and federal funding, the total investment in the property came to $8.2 million.

“I’m sure something like this has been done

is published monthly for

the members of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The subscription cost is $25 per year and is included in the price of membership.

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.

before,” says DeHoff. “But I don’t know of it.”

Medline and Old Dominion, both national firms, give the business park solid anchors and a foundation of new jobs. Medline, which manufactures and distributes medical products, created 80 jobs. Old Dominion, a trucking company, has a blend of new hires and transfers from its Cleveland terminal for its 36 employees.

“We wanted to give local companies an option [in Canton], so it’s ironic that the first two in are from out of the area,” says Steve Katz, senior vice president and corporate secretary for the chamber. “But people [in Canton] know about it. So now we’re looking for more.”

The project has already led to $32 million in new investment, but DeHoff and Katz are confident the park will attract more. It is considered a shovel-ready site, capable of a quick turnaround between purchase and building. Its proximity to I-77 is also a positive, especially for distribution and shipping companies like Medline and Old Dominion.

“In most cities, the low-hanging fruit is gone as far as developments,” says DeHoff. “What cities want to do is sometimes challenging.

It’s kind of interesting. We’re finding new ways to get things done.”

Thank you to our ADVANTAGE CANTON funding partners: AultCare, Aultman Health Foundation, Charter One Bank Chesapeake Energy Corporation, The City of Canton, DeHoff Development, Diebold, Inc., Dominion East Ohio, Fifth Third Bank, Hilscher-Clarke Electric, Huntington Bank Kenan Advantage Group, KeyBank, Mercy Medical Center Northeast Ohio Medical University, PNC Bank The Timken Company LOOK FOR US ONLINE! Our Fan Page

Our Tweets

Our Group

Latest News

Facebook.com/CantonOhioChamber Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

@CantonChmbr ChamberNews.org

Our Video Channel

YP Network

Leadership Connection

YouTube.com/CantonRegChamber

ystark.org

Facebook.com/LeadershipStarkCounty

Festival Buzz

Downtown Developments

Local Happenings

ProFootballHOFEF.com

Facebook.com/DowntownCantonSID

VisitCantonStark.com

BOARD OF

(continued from cover) Ohio Oil and Gas Association, Shalediretories.com, the City of Canton and the Stark Development Board.

The all-day event on April 11 will be held at the McKinley Grand Hotel in Canton. Speakers include business professionals who have experienced the growth of business opportunities in the Marcellus Shale development in western Pennsylvania.

Topics include: “Getting Noticed and Making Sales,” by Damian Ferek, president of Asayo Creative Inc, Morgantown, W.Va.; “Employment Solutions for the Utica Shale,”

by Jeff Dressler and Bill Thomas of the Pittsburgh-based Marcellus Resources Group, and “Workplace Safety,” by John LaFayette of One-Stop Safety Consulting, Coraopolis, Pa. Also on the April 11 agenda is Joe Barone, president of ShaleDirectories.com, a business partner of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. He will present his “Five Steps to Success in Shale.” The luncheon speaker will be Mark Matusick, manager of corporate development at Chesapeake Energy in Canton.

Ron Van Horn of the Schauer Group will discuss the insurance requirements under oil and gas industry master service agreements, and a panel of local bank executives from Fifth Third Bank, Huntington Bank and Key Bank will talk about financing business opportunities.

Sponsors for the April 11 seminar include Schauer Group Independent Insurance Agency, AultCare, Mercy Medical Center, Huntington Bank, Key Bank and FifthThird Bank, and Black McCuskey Souers & Arbaugh LPA. Other Oil and Gas Initiatives Our other recent activities in the oil and gas arena include attendance at the Winter Meeting of the Ohio Oil and Gas Association last month in Columbus, where the Canton Regional Chamber promoted the advantages of locating oil and gas businesses in the Canton area.

Canton was proclaimed by Canton Mayor William J. Healy II to be “The Utica Capital,” and Mayor Healy and a team of economic development professionals from city government also attended.

The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce participated in a two-day conference on development of the oil

DIRECTORS

and gas supply chain in Northeast Ohio.

Presented by JobsOhio with support from the Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth, MAGNET (Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network), NorTech, Team NEO and Wire-Net, the conference at Salt Fork State Lodge drew representatives from several Northeast Ohio economic development organizations, state officials and several representatives of the oil and gas industry, including Chesapeake Energy.

Several speakers with experience in the development of the Marcellus Shale shared their insights.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board - Rick L. Haines AultCare Sr. Vice Chairman - Karen Brenneman Hall, Kistler & Company LLP Vice Chairman - Brian Belden The Belden Brick Company Vice Chairman - Philip D. Fracassa The Timken Company Vice Chairman - Kevin Kampman The Repository Treasurer - D. William Allen Pro Football Hall of Fame Immediate Past Chairman - George W. Lemon Retired President, Technical Products Group

The Chamber also accepted a seat on the Steering Committee for the Shale Coalition, an economic development group formed by the Ohio Chamber of Commerce to help develop oil and gas business opportunities in the state. The first meeting of the Steering Committee followed the announcement of a new academic study on the potential economic benefit of the Utica Shale play in Ohio.

Economic development researchers from Cleveland State University, Ohio State University and Marietta College predicted conservatively that Ohio oil and gas output could reach a value of $9.6 billion by 2014 and create 65,600 jobs.

The Chamber accepted an offer to become a member of the Stark State College Oil and Gas Advisory Council and attended the council’s first meeting in March. The area’s schools and colleges are faced with the challenge of anticipating the workforce needs of the oil and gas industry, and the industries and businesses that will grow because of the economic opportunities created by oil and gas exploration in Northeast Ohio

President & CEO - Dennis P. Saunier Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce Corporate Secretary - Steven J. Katz Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kevin Bogard Marathon Petroleum Co. LP

Tim Maloney Canton Chair Rental

Timothy M. Burke, Jr. FirstMerit Bank N.A.

Rick McQueen Akron-Canton Airport

Thomas E. Cecconi Mercy Medical Center

John A. Murphy, Jr. Day Ketterer Ltd.

William R. Cook Chase N.A.

Alan Rodriguez Jülz by Alan Rodriguez and Rodriguez’s House of Stones

Darryl J. Dillenback DNS Insurance, Inc. Mark Fleiner Rolls-Royce Fuel Cell Systems

We at the Canton Regional Chamber are trying to anticipate member needs and meet them to the best of our ability, while trying to gain more knowledge about the oil and gas industry to represent members more capably in the future.

Jerry Gilin Diebold Inc. Greg Harbert CharterOne Bank Jason F. Haupt Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., L.P.A.

Energy business development questions can be addressed to David Kaminski, Director of Energy and Public Affairs at the Chamber. Call (330) 458-2059 or write to davidk@cantonchamber.org.

Jan Hein Ohio Desk Terrance L. Jones Multi-Development Services of Stark County Geoff Karcher The Karcher Group Judith E. Barnes Lancaster Attorney At Law

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

3

Mark J. Samolczyk Stark Community Foundation William C. Shivers Huntington Bank Paul E. Siegfried Siegfried Enterprises Inc. Bruce M. Soares Black McCuskey Souers & Arbaugh Alice C. Stephens The Employment Source Walter F. Wagor, Ph.D. Kent State University at Stark David M. Wheeler AEP Ohio Mike Williams Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority

UPCOMING EVENTS Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce announces 2012 Business Excellence Award winners Winners will be celebrated at gala awards dinner on April 24 The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2012 winners of the Business Excellence Awards of Greater Canton. This year’s Business Excellence Award winners include Emergency Medicine Physicians, Gregory Industries, Miracle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Company and Tower Industries.

In addition, Biery Cheese has been named Business of the Year.

All four Business Excellence Award winners and the Business of the Year recipient will be honored during the awards dinner on Tuesday, April 24, at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark.

About the 2012 Business Excellence Award Winners Established in 1992, Emergency Medicine Physicians is one of the leading providers of emergency medical services in the nation. EMP was founded by three emergency medicine physicians, Dr. Dominic J. Bagnoli, Jr., Dr. David C. Packo and Dr. William B. White, who had a vision for creating a better way to deliver emergency medicine care. Their dream: provide the best in emergency care for patients while creating an environment where physicians can excel on the job, and live the life they’ve always wanted.

The group has achieved this vision by focusing on core values that create a culture where patients, physicians and hospital partners thrive. The privately owned and managed group has grown to over 700 emergency medicine physicians, treating nearly 3 million emergency medicine patients each year in over 60 locations – and they’re still growing. In 1995, the founders formed EMP Management Group, Ltd. the core entity overseeing the business interests and executive management for the

4

entire organization, designed to provide physician management services to the hospital partnerships they had formed.

In the ensuing six years, additional hospitals and groups partnered with EMP and more supporting companies were developed, including Medical Billing and Financial Services, Commonwealth Management, Ltd., a real estate company, and Center for Emergency Medicine Education, the educational arm of EMP. They also formed EMP Holdings Ltd. in 2001 to support the medical groups which are collectively poised to see over 3 million patients in 2012. In addition to the core companies, EMP holds controlling interest in several other emergency medicine related businesses developed to help their medical groups meet their strategic goals.

Gregory Industries has a proud legacy of metals expertise. Beginning with their earliest roots in Brooklyn, New York, the Thomas Gregory Galvanizing Works was established in 1896. Built on the core values of quality products and business integrity, the firm thrived with expansion into new facilities in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. T. Raymond Gregory founded the present day firm in 1957. With pioneering efforts in large-capacity kettles and the later combinations of roll-forming and continuous galvanizing, Gregory Industries grew in success and reputation by supplying exceptionalquality galvanized steel to numerous industries. Today, Gregory Industries is regarded as a leader in proprietary manufactured products, continuous galvanized coatings and metalworking services. Traditions of quality, service and excellence remain commitments to their customers, alongside fresh approaches to innovation and competitive value.

The long-time Stark County business’s 13th Street Plant has grown from a handful of employees in 1985 to over 120 employees today. In the past ten years, the company has dramatically increased sales and market share across four product divisions and has recently added a new product division for batchdip galvanizing located at their 15th Street Plant. The company has always been an innovator, from perfecting the

process for continuous galvanization of highway guardrails, to robotic operations, and this state-of-the-art mini batchdip galvanizing operation. This growth has been fueled and supported by $20 million in capital investment over the same period. In addition to new operation, Gregory Industries also added a new roll forming mill, greatly increasing capacity in the Strut Products division.

For 85 years and three generations of family ownership, Miracle Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Company has earned the reputation as “the best in the business.” Miracle serves Stark and the surrounding counties, including expansions into Akron, Cleveland and Youngstown, on the principles of honesty, integrity and professionalism.

Their family of services has grown from plumbing and heating in the 1920s, to now encompass six unique divisions, including air conditioning, water and gas line installation and repair, drain and sewer services, lawn sprinkling, and their famous bathroom remodeling division, Bathrooms by Miracle. The company has grown from a one-person plumbing service when it was founded

by Harvey R. Miracle in 1927, to over 40 employees today, of which all technicians are required to obtain all applicable licenses and additional training on new products. In 1995, the company opened its largest location in Canton. The facility includes corporate offices, a showroom for product presentations, an 8,000 sq. ft. warehouse and an additional five acres of adjoining land for future development and expansion. Miracle has just recently prepared these additional acres for expected growth. In 2007, Miracle and president Steven Brown were awarded Contractor of the Year by the Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Contractors of Ohio.

They have continuously been a leader in technology, offering products such as Mity Mole, which allows water line installation without digging a trench; video camera technology to view sewer and drain lines underground; Bio-Clean, an environmentally safe product that utilizes natural bacteria to unclog slowmoving drains; Beckett Heat Manager, a product guaranteed to reduce fuel consumption by 20 percent for boiler

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

UPCOMING EVENTS 2012 Business Excellence Awards (continued ...) type heating systems; and On Demand Water Heaters, an alternative to the traditional tank water heaters, providing a continuous flow of on-demand hot water.

Tower Industries produced their first countertop, made of their Meridian® Solid Surface product, in 1995 after much perseverance from president and CEO Todd D. Werstler and the urging and inspiration of his father, Robert D. Werstler, vice president, emeritus.

Since their inception, they have grown to 45 employees, with 12 expansion positions in 2010 alone, along with 50 percent sales growth and 300 percent profit growth the same year. While they began as a manufacturer of solid surface materials, primarily used in the manufacture of Tower-made kitchen countertops, the company has morphed into a full-service manufacturer of multiple surfacing materials, including granite, quartz and cultured marble for kitchen and bath use. In 2003, they expanded into the former Central States and Sonoco products plant in Massillon, with a staggering 55,000 sq. ft., giving them the needed space to continue to expand the operations based on the needs of customers and changing consumer trends. With increased demand for granite and quartz hard surfacing options, they added a milliondollar stone processing line in 2005.

Likewise, in 2010 they invested another $500k when they added a stone sample processing line to fulfill customer request and subsequent contract obligation as the sole North American supplier of quartz samples for a large Korean building products company.

They have also expanded their solid surface manufacturing operation with the acquisition of a continuous casting line, providing Tower Industries with the ability to manufacture Meridian® sinks and related items at a rate of one per minute. The company continues to diversify product offerings, placing a focus on solid surface shower surfaces to universities, hotels, hospital systems and housing authorities, and as a result, further developing their place as the leader of sanitary, institutional shower items.

Business of the Year winner Biery Cheese was started in 1929 by Norman F. Biery, a dairy farmer who had a very difficult time selling his milk due to the economic conditions. He created a cooperative alongside other local farmers, hired a Swiss cheese maker from Switzerland and began making cheese from the milk. Today, Biery Cheese employs over 400 people, increasing from 225 in the past three years alone. Their belief in constant technological improvements has led the company to invest heavily in equipment during the same time, in order to continue to grow and stay ahead of the competition, with a total three-year investment of over $15 million. In the past 18 months, the facility has more than doubled in size, and the expansion will allow Biery Cheese to double its current sales volume. The company has created many new product lines for its customers, including snack cheeses that are individually wrapped, a reducedfat product line, thinly sliced products to help foodservice operators reduce costs, unique packaging techniques to help deli operators gain efficiencies, and cheese variety trays for convenient snacking and party planning. Giving back to the community and charitable organizations is an essential value for Biery Cheese and the Biery family. In 1984, Lynne and Dennis Biery created the Biery Family Foundation to help support the giving efforts, and the company and foundation are large supporters of the YMCA, United Way, American Cancer Association, 4-H, Louisville School District, Walsh University, Malone University, and University of Mount Union, along with many local events and athletic teams. Dennis and Lynne Biery were among the winners of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 Community Salute Awards, have won various safety awards, and two medals in the U.S. Cheese contest, among others.

of operations/efficiencies, consistent outstanding customer service, investments in capital improvements, innovation/expansion of product line(s), responsiveness to business and industry challenges and adversity, and consistent community involvement.

Honorees of this year’s Business Excellence Awards will be recognized during the gala awards dinner held on Tuesday, April 24, at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark, 6000 Frank Ave. NW, North Canton. Tickets are $48. Visit CantonChamber.org or contact Monique Thompson Kennedy at (330) 458-2070 to register. Registrations must be made

by April 18.

NEW this year will be the presentation of the first annual Business Excellence Scholarship Award, presented by Day Ketterer and the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. The scholarship will be awarded to the local college student who writes the winning essay entitled: “The Impact of Business and Free Enterprise on the Historic Development and the Continuing Success of the United States as a Global Leader.” For more information, contact Jennifer Novotny at (330) 458-2034.

SPONSORS ...

Tuesday, Apr. 24 5:30 p.m. social reception 6:30 p.m. dinner and program The University Center at Kent State University at Stark 6000 Frank Ave. NW in North Canton Cost: $48 RSVP by Apr. 18

The Business Excellence Awards committee, chaired by Ronald Manse CPA, tax partner, Bruner-Cox LLP, selected this year’s winners. Selections were made on the basis of business and employment growth, expansion

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

5

UPCOMING EVENTS Three times the networking power!

April JOINT Stir After Hours

Learn about Time Mastery as you connect with 100 NEW contacts - SPRING NETWORK 2012

This month, the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the JacksonBelden and North Canton chambers for a fun after hours event with lots of mixing, mingling and new faces for you! Come to the April Stir After Hours at The Executive Event Center for three times the connections and networking power.

From the boardroom to their ballroom, this month’s host is the perfect partner in delivering the most for your investment.

Whether you are hosting a special dinner for VIPs or planning a corporate party, AA Executive Catering’s 30-plus years of experience will leave you to enjoy the event while they attend to every detail.

The company specializes in recognition and award events, corporate parties, conferences and seminars, tradeshows, and can even handle offsite catering at your place of business for meetings! Have something more personal than professional in mind? They can also handle weddings and social occasions of any size!

RSVP for Stir After Hours online at CantonChamber.org.

Wed., Apr. 11 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

AA Executive Event Center 5211 W. Tuscarawas St. NW in Canton Cost: $5 RSVP by Apr. 9

Tired of meeting the same people at the same networking programs with no end in sight? Want to freshen your sales database and make real connections with new people? On Friday, ­­­­­ May 18, best-selling authors and international training experts Rose D. Sloat (DTM) and Darryl S. Doane of The Learning Service, Ltd. are coming to the Canton Regional Chamber’s semi-annual NETWORK series.

NETWORK is a speed-networking session where you will meet 100 new business leads. Mixed in with this unique networking session, you’ll learn about: • Your current time management habits and whether they hinder or help you • The Urgent/Important Matrix - a powerful visual tool • Committing to personal control with the “right attitude” • Moving beyond the elevator speech to your “value proposition” • Continually moving your sales forward by having a next step!

• The best use of your time - right now!

Experience four, fast-paced hours of energized activities. You’ll acquire NEW business contacts and potential leads for your business and form true relationships with potential customers!

Spring NETWORK is being held at Tozzi’s on 12th, at 4210 12th St. NW. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the program, roundtable speed networking and continental breakfast following from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $30 and include breakfast. Register now online at CantonChamber.org or call (330) 458-2070.

6

NETWORK is not just for sales and marketing associates; it will benefit anyone interested in establishing long-term relationships and increasing a company’s bottom line, including area business owners and purchasing agents. Every attendee will receive a registrant’s list for post-event followup and future contact. There is a maximum of two representatives per company permitted to ensure greatest networking exposure.

About the Emcees Sloat and Doane are managing partners of The Learning Service, Ltd. They are best-selling authors and international performance-based training and development specialists.

They focus on numerous critical issues, which include: exceptional customer service, sales effectiveness, leadership and managerial skills development, interpersonal relationships, executive coaching and long-term performance improvement. They offer a wide variety of educational formats.

Sloat and Doane are co-authors of seven books through HRD Press and AMACOM (The American Management Association) books.

Stories They Will Remember is the book they will focus on for this presentation. Their newest book is Life’s Journey – Find Your Place to Stand and Build the Right Future.

NETWORK is presented by the Canton Regional Chamber and signature sponsor Haines & Company.

Friday, May 18 8 a.m. registration 8:30 a.m. to noon networking Tozzi’s on 12th 4210 12th St. NW in Canton Cost: $30, continental breakfast included No Shows will be billed.

RSVP by May 14

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

UPCOMING EVENTS Be a Better Business Writer - April AultCare Fast Break Breakfast featuring Tim Kraft Good ideas, promising opportunities and exceptional products are ignored every day because someone wasn’t able to convey them well in writing. Join us for the AultCare Fast Break Breakfast on Friday, April 13, Selfproclaimed “Word Guy” Tim Kraft will show you how to write in a way that will get better business results.

The rules you learned in elementary school may have earned you a good grade, but won’t grab your readers’ attention. Attend this session to learn how to wrap the right words around your products and ideas.

Kraft began his word-filled career at The Timken Company, where he rose to the position of Manager – Community Relations. In 1995, he switched jobs to become the Word Doctor (aka Director - Public Relations) at Aultman. In 1997, he went solo with WordKraft.

WordKraft clients include global organizations like Eaton, Timken and NGK, and a diverse group of local and regional companies. In addition to providing clients with the words for marketing literature and technical documents, WordKraft also develops customized training for clients’ customers

and employees. Finally, Kraft shares his expertise and builds client communication skills through customized writing and presentation skills seminars that are as entertaining as they are informative.

Beyond this important segment of the program, Fast Break attendees have the opportunity to obtain business leads through enjoyable networking activities at an event that has built a reputation as one of the most energetic lead-producing sessions around. Bring a door prize valued at $15 or more and receive 30 seconds at the microphone to promote your business.

Friday, Apr. 13 7 a.m. registration 7:30 a.m. program Courtyard by Marriott 4375 Metro Cir. North Canton, OH Cost: $18 members $21 members less than 48 hours in advance $25 non-members RSVP by Apr. 11

Fourth annual Taste of Canton sponsored by Fisher Foods: Now twice as nice!

Taste of Canton, a downtown food festival now in its fourth year, is expanding to two days on Wednesday, May 23, and Thursday, May 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the Kresge Green in downtown Canton (near 301 Market Ave. N).

This incredible spring festival, sponsored

by Fishers Foods and featuring local flavor and local fare, is brought to you by the Canton Development Partnership (a department of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce) and The Repository.

Stark County food enthusiasts will enjoy a two-day food event, an increased selection of wines and microbrews, more seating, local artists, children’s area and a variety of restaurants and entertainment.

Best of all, it is all happening in the beautiful downtown Canton cityscape!

Barbara Abbott, owner and creator of Canton Food Tours, was named chairman for the 2012 Taste of Canton committee. Committee members include Krista Schumacher (Canton Development Partnership), Maureen Ater (The Repository), Dayna Yurkovich (The Repository), Mike Walpole (Brewster Cheese), Ken Huot (AEP), Julie Gill (Key Bank) and Donna Shadle (community volunteer).

Restaurants interested in participating or community members interested in volunteering in Taste of Canton may visit www.tasteofcanton.com or call (330) 458-2091 for more information.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

7

UPCOMING EVENTS Annual Chamber Golf Outing Stay tuned for more details on the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual golf outing – coming to an inbox near you this month! This year is sure to be another sellout!

for you! Make sure you get brand exposure at this sell-out event! For more information, contact Amy Nelson, events and marketing manager, at (330) 4582073 or amyn@cantonchamber.org.

Sponsors of this year’s outing (to date) include AultCare, Mercy Medical Center, PNC Bank and The Repository.

Wednesday, June 20 10 a.m. shotgun start Skyland Pines Golf Course 3550 Columbus Rd. NE in Canton Save the date now, more details coming soon!

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE Many levels of sponsorship are still available for the 2012 Golf Outing, and we’re happy to customize a package

WANT THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE? Buy VIP Blues Festival Passes and enjoy incredible views and other perks

The Canton Blues Festival, presented by the Canton Development Partnership (a department of the Canton Regional Chamber) is back this year on Friday, June 8, and Saturday, June 9. The widely popular two-day festival is free – but make sure you get the best views of the stage with our one- and two-day Blues VIP Passes!

Two-day Blues Festival VIP Passes are available for $75 per person. With your VIP pass, you’ll receive: • 2-Day Canton Blues VIP Access, complete with evening appetizers, beer and soda, and private front of stage seating • Email newsletters with the latest Blues Festival information and special event notices • Advance notice of the year’s full entertainment line-up One-day passes are also on sale for $45 per person.

Get your Blues Festival VIP Pass quickly before they sell out – contact Krista Schumacher, Blues Festival event manager at (330) 458-2091 or kristas@cantonchamber.org.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

9

ENSHRINEMENT FESTIVAL Enshrinement Festival names 2012 key committee chairs

Balloon Classic/Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks • Ribs Burnoff • Timken Grand Parade The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival department of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce has named the following key committee chairs: Scott Sanders, Balloon Classic and Todd Hawke, Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks; Vicky Sterling, Ribs Burnoff; and John Fehrenbach, Timken Grand Parade.

Sanders is president of KreighbaumSanders and Sanders Funeral Homes, Inc., and served as 2002 General Chairman of the Chamber’s Enshrinement Festival committees.

He came to that position with 12 years of leadership experience, after having chaired the former Kickoff Sunday Parade and Race committees, as well as the Grand Parade and Marketing committees. He is a graduate of Canton South High School, The Ohio State University and Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. A former East Canton Citizen of the Year and Jaycee Outstanding Citizen, Sanders has been active in a wide variety of community activities, including East Canton Club, Ohio Funeral Directors Association, Osnaburg Township Citizens Fire Committee, and Stark County Fair Beef Committee and Marketing Committee. He and wife Julie are the proud parents of three sons.

Assisting Sanders as vice chairman of the event committee is Randy Reed, as the event proudly celebrates its 26th anniversary this year. What started in 1986 with 25 balloons at Weis Park has grown to a capacity field of nearly 70 balloons on the campuses of Kent State University at Stark and Stark State College, with nearly 125,000 people enjoying the two-and-a-half day event.

The Balloon Luminary was added in 1993 and is currently known as the Night Glow, and a further milestone was marked in 1995 when the Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks came under the umbrella of the Enshrinement Festival and joined forces with the Balloon Classic Invitational.

The Food Fest Committee is chaired this year

by Todd Hawke, principal at GDK & Company.

He is a graduate of Kenton Ridge High School and Ohio Wesleyan University, and has served in various capacities on the Food Fest Committee since 2002. He is actively involved in the community and serves on the boards of the Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce,

Junior Achievement of East Central Ohio and American Cancer Society of Stark County.

Todd and wife Tricia have one son and one daughter.

Hawke will be assisted in the planning and staging of the Food Fest by vice chairman Carles Moore.

It’s important to remember that this year’s Balloon Classic and Food Fest activities will take place one week earlier than usual, and will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 20, 21 and 22.

This adjustment has been made in order not to conflict with the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championships in Longview, Texas, because the most experienced pilots, ballooning officials, scoring teams, and weather experts are already annually committed to the Nationals. The date change also eliminates a date conflict with two other major balloon festivals, one in New Jersey and one in Iowa.

The combined Balloon Classic/Food Fest event will include a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, children’s activity area, musical entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display.

Sterling, vice-president of sales and marketing for Pinnacle Press, Inc., is serving her second year as chairman of the Ribs Burnoff Committee, after serving in a wide variety of sub-committee leadership positions since 1994. A graduate of Louisville High School, she also served on the security committees for the Balloon Classic and Enshrinement Ceremony. A past member of the board of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, she is a past recipient of the Chamber’s Award of Merit, and also a recipient of the Canton Advertising Federation’s Silver Medal Award. She also extends her time and resources to the Aultman Health Foundation and Aultman Women’s Board, Leadership Stark County, Canton Blues Festival, J.R. Coleman

Women in History Luncheon and Canton Ad Federation. The mother of two, Sterling is married to Todd and has four grandchildren.

Long-time Ribs Burnoff committee volunteer Brian Harbert is serving as vice chairman of the committee. Together, they will oversee all aspects of the Ribs Burnoff, which will take place Aug. 1 through 3 at Stark County Fairgrounds. Special attractions include a wide variety of rib and specialty food vendors, beverages, children’s entertainment area, fantasy football zone of interactive inflatables, enormous sand sculpture and musical entertainment.

Fehrenbach, CEO of Direct Marketing and Research LLC and national sales manager for VSI Sales LLC, is a graduate of Canton Central Catholic High School and ICM School of Business. A member of the Timken Grand Parade committee since 2003, this is his first year as chairman. Extremely active with the Boy Scouts of America for 42 years, he is a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award and is a Wood Badge Training and Course director, Venture Crew advisor and Scout Master. Tapping into his love of music, he is a member of St. Joseph Raphael choir and Greater Canton Men’s Choir. He and wife Marie are the parents of four children, and grandparents to four.

Fehrenbach will partner with vice chairman Joanna James to attend to the myriad of details involved in staging this family event.

The Timken Grand Parade will step off at 8 a.m., Sat., Aug. 4. It will be enjoyed by nearly 200,000 spectators along the 2.2 mile route, as well as by millions more via the television broadcast. The parade will feature the current Class of Enshrinees, many returning Hall of Famers, marching bands, giant helium balloons, fabulous floats and animal and specialty units. Call (330) 458-2048 now to guarantee a bird’s-eye view of all the units by purchasing reserved chairs or bleacher seats for only $8.50 each.

For the complete schedule of events, ticket information, and latest news, check the web sites periodically: www.profootballhofef.com or www.profootballhof.com.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ENSHRINEMENT FESTIVAL Enshrinement Festival names 2012 key committee chairs Community Parade • Food • Staging • Special Services The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival department of Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have named the following key committee chairs: Bernie Bresson, Community Parade; Karen Myers, Food; David Kiddey, Staging; and Joann Smith, Special Events.

Bresson graduated from the former Glenwood High School and is retired from Sheet Workers Metal Local 33 Metal Master Inc. He is an eight year member of the Community Parade committee, with this his first as chairman, and he also serves on the Timken Grand Parade committee as float coordinator. He is a 50-year Grange member and currently serves as president of Israel Lutheran Church and Lutheran Men in Mission Northeastern Ohio Synod, as well as serving as secretary of National Lutheran Men in Mission Board. Previously a 20-year 4H member and advisor, he currently also volunteers for Habitat for Humanity. He and wife Chris, also a Community Parade committee member, have two daughters and one granddaughter.

The Community Parade is scheduled to kick-off at 2:30 p.m. on July 29, at Eleventh Street and Market Avenue North, and will travel south through the heart of downtown Canton. Bresson will be assisted by vice chairman Carol McLaughlin.

Myers is a 16year member of the Food Committee, with this being her second year as chairman, and she brings great expertise to the task via her position as consumer services supervisor for the Canton City Health Department. A graduate of East Canton High School and Kent State University, she has also taken classes at Walsh University. She and husband Les have two children and three grandchildren.

The Food Committee oversees the menu and wine selections and works closely with caterers to ensure the success of the food service to 12,000 guests at the Enshrinement Festival’s Fashion Show Luncheon, Enshrinees’ Gold Jacket Dinner and Enshrinees GameDay Roundtable.

Serving as vice chairman of the committee is Dean Kahler.

Kiddey brings 14 years of committee and home improvement experience with him in his second year as chairman of the Staging Committee.

He graduated from the former Glenwood High School, attended Kent State University, and is currently working in the accounting department of the Stark County Board of Elections. He is past president of Trendition House Color Association and has been active in the Jackson Band Boosters and Boy Scouts of America. He and wife Vicky are the parents of two children and grandparents to seven.

The Staging Committee directs the planning, preparation and production of the Queen Pageant, Fashion Show Luncheon, Enshrinees’ Gold Jacket Dinner and Enshrinees GameDay Roundtable. Greg Briggs is assisting Kiddey as vice chairman.

Smith, coordinator of student teaching and field experience at Kent State University at Stark, is heading the Hall of Fame Special Events Committee for the 10th year.

Prior to this position, she served as chairman of the Enshrinement Festival Souvenir Committee and longtime member of the Appreciation Party Committee, and she continues to serve as co-chairman of the Ribs Burnoff judging subcommittee. She shares her musical gifts as a choir member at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, and as a singer and secretary of the board of trustees for Voices of Canton.

She and husband Fred are the parents of two sons and proud grandparents of two granddaughters.

As Special Events chairman, one of her major tasks will be to coordinate the Hall of Fame Board of Trustees Reception, which is staged as the first official function for the Enshrinees and their presenters, returning Hall of Famers and other out of town guests.

Additionally, the Special Events Committee provides services such as emergency medical and dental assistance for guests of the Hall of Fame during their stay in Canton, and the committee is always on call to assist the Enshrinees and their families as needed.

Smith will be assisted with these many duties by vice chairman Linda Leitzke.

In 2012, the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Enshrinement Festival will mark the 49th anniversary of honoring the legends of professional football, which includes conducting a world-renowned festival celebrating the annual enshrinement of football players, coaches and contributors into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The collaborative efforts of this leadership team, combined with the professional staffs at the Canton Regional Chamber and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the dedicated team of more than 4,200 volunteers, will ensure the success of 19 diverse events over two weeks from July 20 to Aug. 6, 2012.

The Enshrinement Festival activities, attended by nearly 700,000 people, are expected to produce an economic impact of over $31 million for the Canton/Stark County area and $56 million for the State of Ohio.

In addition, millions will experience aspects of the Enshrinement Festival as events are televised and covered by other media.

The central focus and highlight of this year’s Enshrinement Festival will be the Aug. 4 Enshrinement Ceremony for the 2012 Class of Enshrinees, comprised of cornerback Jack Butler, center Dermontti Dawson, defensive end/linebacker Chris Doleman, defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy, running back Curtis Martin and tackle Willie Roaf.

For the complete schedule of events, ticket information, and latest news, check the web sites periodically: www.profootballhofef.com or www.profootballhof.com.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

11

LEADERSHIP STARK COUNT Y NEW! Signature Program Scholarship offered for small business owners Leadership Stark County’s ten-month Signature Program provides employees personal and professional growth, strengthens ties to the community, and offers invaluable networking opportunities. New this year is a tuition scholarship designed specifically for small business entrepreneurs.

Kate and Josh Harris of In The Round Design Group believe so strongly in the value of Leadership Stark County programs that they have made available the new Signature Program scholarship for a growing small business owner in Stark County.

“As a small business owner, I’ve used Leadership Stark County’s programs as a development tool for myself and my team.

The Signature Program had a significant impact on me – even though I’d grown up in Stark County. Most of our new employees go through both the Spotlight Stark County program for younger professionals and

the one-day Encounter Bus Tour to give them community context and networking opportunities.”

Josh Harris, Owner, In The Round Design Group 22nd Signature Class Alum

professional, cultural, racial, economic, geographic and ethnic diversity of the community.

For questions, please call Fran Wells, director, at (330) 458-2094.

Apply now for 26th Class Signature Program Leadership Stark County is now taking applications for the 10-month Signature Program’s 26th Class. Applications are available now at LeadershipStarkCounty. org and are due by April 27.

Tuition is $2,350 and tuition assistance is available for selected applicants from non-profit, small business or government organizations.

Selection is competitive and based on the written application, group interview, and Leadership Stark County’s goal to create a class that is representative of the

Leadership Stark County 25th Anniversary Celebration Leadership Stark County will celebrate 25 years of building community trusteeship on Wednesday, May 2, at Brookside Farm. All past program graduates and participants are invited to attend for a dinner and program featuring reflections on Leadership’s continuing impact on the community.

Tickets are available for $50, and graduates are encouraged to consider a $25 Class Salute, a 25-word salute to a person or organization. Class salutes can include a general thanks, a thank you to your company for sending you through the program, sharing an “aha” moment, or paying tribute to friends you made or classmates who taught you something during your program. Salutes can also pay tribute to organizations learned about during the program.

12

Leadership Stark County has spent 25 years developing a core of motivated leaders with a lifelong commitment to the community through training in leadership skills and education about Stark County. Leadership Stark County engages and educates Stark County’s community leaders through a range of programs tailored to meet business and community needs. The organization works with community organizations to identify, prepare, and position persons for leadership within these organizations.

Register online for your tickets and class salutes at LeadershipStarkCounty.org.

Wednesday, May 2 5 p.m. Cocktails 6:30 p.m. Dinner & Program Brookside Farm 5600 Ravenna Ave. in Louisville Cost: $75 for dinner and class salute $50 dinner only RSVP by Apr. 13 LeadershipStarkCounty.org

Leadership Stark County’s 25th Anniversary sponsors include ComDoc (with distinction), along with Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co. LPA, Stark Community Foundation and Pinnacle Press (with honors), and Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLP and Solmet Technologies, Inc. (with merit).

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

YSTARK! Help ystark! fulfill the mission of attracting, retaining and engaging YPs! ANNUAL FUND DRIVE As the county’s young professional initiative, ystark! has spent five years working to attract, retain and engage YPs living in our community and to develop a young, involved and educated workforce for area businesses– and that means great things for you!

In order to be SUCCESSFUL in this BIG MISSION, ystark! needs your help! Your financial support is critical to helping offer a wide array of programs and possibilities to members.

This year, ystark! will be focusing on and growing networking events, professional development programs, social interactions and civic engagement for almost 1,500 members. Frankly, you won’t even believe what the incredible YP group has up their sleeves for this year, but it will make you proud to support an organization that is working hard to make this community vibrant and attractive!

Here is a sneak peek of some big stuff that ystark! is working on...

• Continuing the momentum on entrepreneurial efforts and economic development projects – think new business launch support, expert speakers and job creation!

• Growing community service and outreach with several great service projects in store for 2012.

• Doing even more showing off when it comes to the talented YPs in Stark County through recognition events, feature articles, and more!

• Plus, another 50 ystark! events are on the books for this year – everything from Monthly Meet-Ups, recreation leagues, CEO Meet&Eats, College Series panels, professional development seminars and much more.

Visit www.ystark.org to make a donation of any amount today!

14

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

YSTARK! Young Professional Snapshot Editor’s note: In keeping with the ystark!’s mission – to attract and retain talented young people in Stark County – ACTION will feature a monthly profile of an individual who represents the group (ages 2140) that ystark! is targeting.

Name: Dayna Yurkovich Age: 26 Occupation/Title/Place of work: Marketing Manager, The Repository Why are you interested Canton’s Young Professionals initiative?

Being a younger YP, I have really begun to see the value of interacting with other young professionals the more I get involved in the community. When you gather a group of individuals that have such diverse talents and abilities from all backgrounds, you’re only bound for creativity, teamwork and success. I want to be part of that! What a powerful initiative for a city to have.

What is your impression of ystark!, what do you think of their events, etc.?

When I hear “ystark!” I think of networking and friendships. It’s a great way to surround oneself with influential people in the community. Those that I meet are hardworking and dedicated to their professional careers, but you also get to know who they are on a personal level. This is when you meet great people and start to build another circle of friends. Plus, ystark! events are fun, interactive and creative. It’s a great way to meet more people in the area and to just have fun!

Where did you grow up? In what cities have you lived and worked? I’m originally from Ashland, Ohio. I came to Canton to attend Malone University and have been here ever since!

Why have you chosen to live in Canton? My husband Brad and I met here and have really found Canton to be “home.” Plus, it’s a great mid-point for both of our families.

What are the opportunities for YPs in Canton when it comes to career opportunities, cultural access, leadership or community involvement opportunities?

The community involvement opportunities are endless. I serve on a number of different committees in the area and I’m amazed more and more every day how many people in the area volunteer. It’s very refreshing! Regarding jobs and careers, I believe that there are more hidden gems in the area than meets the eye…you just have to search to find them.

What’s missing from Canton that would attract more YPs? Canton is missing curb appeal. Once people are in Canton, they know this is an awesome place to live, with lots of things to do and a great community. To attract more YPs, I think that Canton needs a more hip and progressive image from the outside, to better represent the great job it’s doing on the inside.

What do you do in the evenings or on the weekends for fun in Canton?

I love socializing with friends and going to a good restaurant.

Taking a nice walk, going to local events, I’m always looking for something new to check out!

What would you change about Canton if you could?

Honestly…warmer weather and more sunshine. It may sound cliché, but those of you who know me, know that I’m totally serious!

Could you see yourself spending your lifetime in Canton?

Yes, I could. Brad and I have big visions for this area and hope that we become more hands-on, day by day.

What would cause you to want to leave Canton? What other cities in the United States would be appealing to you as a home base? Why? I’ve always told myself that I will live by the beach at some point in my life! Whether that would be now or when I’m retired, that would probably be the main reason that I would leave. A small beach town could also feel like home for a while.

What type of dwelling do you live in? What do you think of the housing choices for YPs in the Canton area?

We don’t want to venture into home ownership just yet. We enjoy the simplicity of an apartment right now! With that being said, there are so many beautiful homes around the Stark County area.

When we do want to be homeowners, there is a lot to choose from!

What do you like MOST about Canton?

Canton is a great town. I love that Canton is near larger cities, but has a smaller town feel. Most of all, I love the friendships that I have formed here.

What do you like LEAST about Canton?

Canton doesn’t exactly have the initial glitz and glam like some cities. We need to create more flare in the community to attract more YPs.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

15

SHARE THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY WITH YOUR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT!

SAFET Y COUNCIL Showcase the latest in healthcare and safety products STARK COUNTY SAFETY COUNCIL 2012 HEALTH AND SAFETY FAIR Do you want to share the latest and greatest products in the Health and Safety Industry? Do you want to display new trends in physical therapy services, workers’ compensation assistance, home healthcare and other healthcare and safety related services? Network and expand your list of clients at the 2012 Health & Safety Fair.

The cost for exhibitors is $75 plus a door prize donation, which will be raffled during the event. Cost includes two lunch tickets and a display table for marketing materials, products and giveaways. Reserve your table NOW and promote your company and services to more than 250 attendees!

Calling all safety and health professionals: You can gain exposure for your company’s products and services by participating in the Stark County Safety Council Health & Safety Fair on Apr. 19 from 11:30 a.m. – 130 p.m. at Meyer’s Lake Ballroom. Be among the 50 tabletop exhibitors who will reach an audience of approximately 250 of their peers by showing the latest in safety and healthrelated needs.

Not exhibiting? There will be plenty of networking excitement for guests at this year’s event. Come and see the latest product offerings and more. Tickets are just $16.

To reserve your tabletop or to register for tickets, visit StarkCountySafetyCouncil.org or contact Connie Cerny at (330) 458-2061 or conniec@cantonchamber.org.

Thursday, Apr. 19 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Meyer’s Lake Ballroom 3218 Parkway St. in Canton Exhibitor Cost: $75 (includes 2 lunch tickets) Tickets: $16 (includes lunch) Reserve your space online at StarkCountySafetyCouncil.org

This session counts toward fulfilling requirements for your Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation discount, and sign-in sheets will be available.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

17

O WNERSHIP CONFERENCE 26th annual Ohio Employee Ownership Conference

The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is a sponsor of the 26th Annual Ohio Employee Ownership Conference, held Friday, April 20, at the Hilton in Fairlawn.

This year’s conference theme is “Employee Ownership: Simply a Better Way of Doing Business.”

The day features panel discussions on employee ownership issues ranging from selling to your employees through a WorkerOwned Co-op or an ESOP, the ABCs of ESOPs for employee owners, to developing an ownership culture, to board governance, to ESOP administration issues, to WorkerOwned Co-ops role in economic and community development.

Registration is $125 by Apr. 6, $150 by Apr. 19, and $195 at the door. Registration to the conference includes a continental breakfast, plated lunch, coffee break and closing reception.

For more information, contact the Ohio Employee Ownership Center at Kent State University (OEOC) by phone at (330) 6723028 or by email at oeoc@kent.edu or visit www.oeockent.org.

18

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SUMMER JOB FAIR Stark County Youth Summer Job Fair The Employment Source invites you to participate in its first Stark County Youth Summer Job Fair on Thursday, Apr. 5. We urge you to take advantage of this excellent opportunity to actively recruit youth ages 16-21 for summer job opportunities.

This is a great value for your organization and there is no registration fee. All that is requested is that you make a commitment to hire youth who attend this Job Fair for some of your summer job openings.

The Job Fair will be held at The Employment Source, located at 822 30th Street NW in Canton from 3 to 5 p.m. Tables and chairs will be provided. Set-up must be completed by 2:30 p.m.

Reservations can be made by contacting Jennifer Meek Eells at jmeekeells@eswork.com or (330) 491-2627.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

19

HOT BUSINESS ON THE BURNER Project REBUILD, Inc. | APRIL HOT BUSINESS ON THE BURNER Founded in 1999, Project REBUILD is a non-profit agency that re-engages atrisk youth, ages 16 to 24, to complete a high school diploma or G.E.D., and acquire marketable skills in the construction technologies.

As a YouthBuild USA affiliate, Project REBUILD operates a very successful construction technologies training program that incorporates educational instruction, building trades education and hands-on work experience on construction projects.

Contracts with Stark Metropolitan Housing Authority, The City of Canton and other non-profits provide comprehensive residential and commercial rehabilitation and new home construction opportunities.

The students participate in every facet of the construction work, even shadowing licensed sub-contractors, such as electricians, HVAC contractors or plumbers, for additional exposure to the trades. Participants are trained using the Pre Apprenticeship Training Certificate (PACT) curriculum, a program designed and supervised by the National

Association of Home Builders and the Home Builders Institute.

Project REBUILD operates with six employees and approximately 25 volunteers, but needs the community’s support to do this work. Monetary and supply donations are always needed and appreciated. They are the only program of this kind in Stark County and one of only eleven programs in Ohio. Project REBUILD provides a holistic approach to change young people’s lives – improving their lives as well as impacting the quality of live in Stark County.

Also, the organization recently launched PR Futures, LLC, as a subsidiary business of Project REBUILD Inc. PR Futures allows them to expand training opportunities for participants and graduates, as well as provide a resource for homeowners to find affordable solutions to interior/exterior remodeling or light construction needs.

Project REBUILD is located at 406 Shorb Ave. NW in Canton. For more information, contact Joanna James, executive director, at jjames@projectrebuild.org.

You can also visit the organization online at www.ProjectRebuild.org or PRFutures.net.

Want to see your business featured here? Come to our monthly Stir After Hours Small Business Networking series for your chance!

Baker, Dublikar, Beck, Wiley & Mathews attorneys at law

Telephone: (330) 499-6000 Telecopier: (330) 499-6423 400 SOUTH MAIN STREET NORTH CANTON, OHIO 44720 www.bakerfirm.com

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

23

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME to our newest members, who joined Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce in February. We encourage you to patronize their businesses. If you know of other businesses that would benefit from Chamber membership, please contact the Membership Department at (330) 458-2067.

Advanced Storage Systems (DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT & STORAGE STORAGE - COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL) Erik W. Johnson 4050 Whipple Ave. NW Canton, OH 44718 (330) 492-0955 www.advancedstoragesystems.com

Emeritus of Canton (RETIREMENT & LIFE CARE COMMUNITIES & HOMES) Erin Pilcher 4550 Hills & Dales Rd. NW Canton, OH 44708 (330) 477-5727 www.emeritus.com

The Arc of Stark County (SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES) Nanci A. Miller 4450 Belden Village St. NW #307 Canton, OH 44718 (330) 492-5225 www.arcstark.org

The English Garden (FLORISTS - RETAIL) Marilyn Barr 7376 Middlebranch Ave. NE Canton, OH 44721 (330) 499-6504 www.theenglishgardenofnorthcanton. com

B. W. Rogers Co. (FLUID POWER PRODUCTS) John P. Willetts 7900 Empire Parkway Macedonia, OH 44056 (216) 543-3783 www.bwrogers.com CESO, Inc. (ARCHITECTS) Steven R. Olson, AIA 402 2nd St. SE, 3rd Floor Canton, OH 44702 (330) 451-0975 www.cesoinc.com CESO, Inc. (ENGINEERS SURVEYORS AND /OR ENGINEERS) Steven R. Olson, AIA 402 2nd St. SE, 3rd Floor Canton, OH 44702 (330) 451-0975 www.cesoinc.com Classy Colors Consulting (IMAGE CONSULTING) Susan E. Lux & Rebecca Kerr 8040 Cleveland Ave. NW #200 North Canton, OH 44720 (330) 418-5702 www.classycolorsconsulting.com Edible Arrangements K2 Concepts (GIFTS) Kevin Barton 4824 Everhard Rd. NW Canton, OH 44718 (330) 494-7800 www.ediblearrangements.com

Milligan Pusateri Co., LPA (ATTORNEYS) Richard S. Milligan 4684 Douglas Cir. NW Canton, OH 44718 (330) 526-0770 www.milliganpusateri.com Quest Recovery and Prevention Services (SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES) Keith Hochadel 1341 Market Ave. N Canton, OH 44714-2675 (330) 453-8252 www.questrs.org

IDMI.net (WEB DESIGN) Holly Fritz 1170 E. Western Reserve Rd. Poland, OH 44514 (330) 707-0432 www.idmi.net

Stewart’s Caring Place: Cancer Wellness Center (SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES) Sarah Tower 2955 W. Market St. #R Akron, OH 44333 (330) 836-1772 www.stewartscaringplace.org

Innovative Marketing Solutions (MARKETING) Jo Ann Reilly 1396 Cascade Circle West Canton, OH 44708 (330) 617-3884

Tozzi’s Restaurant, Downtown Canton (RESTAURANTS) Dina & David Tozzi 218 Court Ave. NW Canton, OH 44718 (330) 471-8000

Legacy Life Insurance Agency (INSURANCE) Denny Wiseman & Beau Zelmer 101 Cleveland Ave. NW Canton, OH 44702 (330) 451-1638 www.legacylifeia.com

Tozzi’s on 12th (RESTAURANTS BANQUET FACILITIES) Michael & Chris Tozzi 4210 12th St. NW Canton, OH 44708 (330) 477-7515

MDS Foods, Inc. (CHEESE - PRODUCER & DISTRIBUTOR) Lori Elvin 4676 Erie St., Ste A Navarre, OH 44662 (330) 879-9780 www.mdsfoods.com

Virtual Dataworks, LLC (COMPUTER & BUSINESS CONSULTANTS) Todd M. Lint PO Box 1549 Massillon, OH 44648 (330) 800-2186 www.virtualdataworks.com

Merlot Consulting (SOCIAL MEDIA - MARKETING) Jaime Stabile PO Box 9607 Canton, OH 44711 (330) 417-9038 www.merlotconsulting.com

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

25

BIZ BITZ The International Business Network is hosting the Doing Business in China breakfast on Apr. 24, at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark. The breakfast seminar will feature a presentation on “China Sales: Best Practices,” by Kimberly Kirkendall, president of International Resource Development. Additionally, John Tang with Brennan, Manna & Diamond, will speak about his work in China and share some of the hot topics business people in Shanghai are focused on for 2012. Visit www. neoibn.org for more information.

Will you wear blue to work on April 11 and make a difference in the life of a child? April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and Stark County Job and Family Services receives close to 500 calls each month regarding child abuse and neglect. The agency wishes to engage you as a partner in raising awareness about child abuse. You can help make a difference by taking a picture of yourself, your group or company wearing blue and post it on the agency’s Facebook page. For more information, contact Bill Burgess at (330) 451-8869 or Brent Hite at (330) 451-8882.

The Yohe Supply Company, an industrial supplier of power transmission products, conveyor belting, hoses and hose fittings, janitorial supplies and sheet rubber, is celebrating 120 years in business in 2012.

Located at 499 Cherry Ave. NE in Canton, the company has everything your business needs to keep it running smoothly. For more information about this longtime Canton business, visit YoheSupply.com.

In The Round Design Group has purchased the historic Moonlight Ballroom building at Market Avenue and 5th Street North and will move its main offices to downtown Canton when renovation is completed in Summer 2012. The 1.4 million dollar project to purchase and renovate the building will take nine months. In The Round will occupy the top floor, while leasing out the first floor and basement for retail or office space. The company hopes the completed project will be attractive to young entrepreneurs. The relocation comes on the heels of rapid staff expansion; In The Round has doubled in staff size since January 2010 and is planning to double again in the next several years. For more information, visit IntheRound.com

For the third year in a row, Mercy Medical Center has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious ENERGY STAR award, the national symbol for protecting the environment through superior energy efficiency. This signifies that Mercy’s building performs in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency. An ENERGY STAR facility since 2009, Mercy was the second hospital in Ohio – and one of fewer than 100 nationwide – to earn this prestigious designation from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Commercial buildings that earn the ENERGY STAR use an average of 35 percent less energy than typical buildings and also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Darryl Doane and Rose Sloat of The Learning Service, Ltd. have been accepted to participate in the 6th annual Ohioana Book Festival as book fair authors. The Festival will feature their newest book: Life’s Journey - Find Your Place to Stand and Build the Right Future along with four of their other published books. The 2012 Book Festival will be held at Fort Hayes Metropolitan Education Center, located at 546 Jack Gibbs Blvd. in Columbus on May 12.

Additional information on the Book Festival is available online at OhioanaBookFestival. org.

Stark State College has announced the appointment of three new academic deans with the start of the spring semester.

Donald M. Ball, of Canton, has been named dean of the Engineering, Industrial, and Emerging Technologies Division. Ball has been with Stark State College for more than eight years, serving as director of apprenticeship and industrial training.

Bolivar resident James Treacle, the new dean of the Sciences Division, has been with Stark State for more than 16 years.

For the last four years, he has led his area through its growth and reorganization from a single science department to the new Sciences Division, housing the departments of biology, chemistry and physics. Andrew Stephan, of St. Peters, Missouri, is the new dean of the Mathematics Division. Since 2008 he has served as the department chair of mathematics at St. Charles Community College where he also was an associate professor in math since 2006.

First Ohio Community Federal Credit Union is thrilled to be offering two scholarships for their First Ohio graduating seniors! First Ohio will be awarding two $250 scholarships on June 1 based on an application and written essay on “Why Credit Unions are Important to Young People.”

Applicants must meet certain criteria to be eligible to apply for this scholarship and the

26

deadline is April 30. First Ohio Community Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution and serves anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Stark County. For additional information about the credit union, visit them online at FirstOhioCFCU.org.

Four partners of Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLP have been named 2012 Best Lawyers “Lawyers of the Year” in Akron. James D. Kraus, Joseph J. Feltes, Steven A. Dimengo and Orrville L. Reed, III were selected based on extensive peerreview evaluations for their individual abilities, professionalism and integrity. Best Lawyers, a national peer-review publisher, designates Lawyers of the Year in highprofile legal practice areas in large legal communities. Only a single lawyer in each practice area in each community is honored as the Lawyer of the Year. Best Lawyers compiles its lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers.

The Canton Regional Society of Professional Engineers (CRSPE) is inviting Stark County engineering students to apply for its local scholarships.

Applications are due by June 1. To be eligible for a CRSPE scholarship, a student must be enrolled in an accredited Ohio College of Engineering and must be a legal resident of Stark County. The scholarships are for students who will be juniors or seniors next school year, and expect to receive their bachelor’s degree in engineering between May 2013 and May 2014. Grants are not available to students in graduate courses.

Selection criteria will include accumulated grades, years of study completed, need, and civic activities. Applications can be obtained by emailing bfonte@starkparks. com or visiting the Canton Joint Engineering Council’s website at www.cjecnet.com and looking under “Member Societies” for CRSPE. The regional Society’s scholarship committee will review the applications and select finalists. Telephone interviews may be conducted as well. The Society plans to announce the recipients of the grants at the end of June 2012.

To submit news for BizBitz please e-mail Jess Bennett at jessb@cantonchamber.org.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2 5 6 10 11 12 13 19 20 24 27

APRIL C ALENDAR Stark County Safety Council Awards Banquet On Monday, Apr. 2, the Stark County Safety Council and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will honor area companies who are committed to maintaining a safe workplace during the 2012 Safety Awards Banquet at Skyland Pines Event Center. The focus of this year’s award banquet is “Bullying in the Workplace,” featuring keynote speaker Scott Warrick, JD, MLHR, CEQC, SPHR.

Monday, Apr. 2 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Skyland Pines 3550 Columbus Rd. NE in Canton Cost: $35 StarkCountySafetyCouncil.org

Trenching & Excavating Safety: Let’s Dig In! Trenching and excavation is recognized as one of the most hazardous construction operations.

Fatalities and injuries can be prevented and construction can be a safe occupation when workers are aware of the hazards. At the Stark County Safety Council’s Trenching & Excavating Safety Seminar, Dennis Hobart, Shoring Training Manager, BakerCorp, an expert in the area of excavation safety, will provide vital information to keep you safe in the trenches.

Thursday, Apr. 5 7:30 a.m. registration 8 to 10 a.m. breakfast and program Canton Regional Chamber 222 Market Ave. N in downtown Canton Cost: $10

First Friday On Apr. 6, visitors to the SEW ARTISTIC First Friday will be in stitches over fabulous fiber art. We’re bringing out weavers, knitters, crocheters and the full spectrum of seamstresses to show fiber is artistic, wearable, hang-able and fun. Of course, music will be back-dropped into all galleries, restaurants and street corner nooks, adding to the fashionable flair of the evening.

First Friday, Apr. 6 6 to 10 p.m.

Downtown Canton FREE! Event

Meet Your Congressman Breakfast Join us for this informative breakfast with Congressman Jim Renacci, followed by a question and answer session.

Tuesday, Apr. 10 7:30 to 9 a.m.

The University Center at Kent State University at Stark 6000 Frank Ave. NW•North Canton Cost: $25 includes breakfast RSVP by Apr. 8

Three times the networking power!

April Joint Stir After Hours This month, the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the Jackson-Belden and North Canton chambers for a fun after hours event with lots of mixing, mingling and new faces for you! Come to the April Stir After Hours at The Executive Event Center for three times the connections and networking power.

Wed., Apr. 11 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

AA Executive Event Center 5211 W. Tuscarawas St. NW in Canton Cost: $5 RSVP by Apr. 9

ystark! Make a Difference Monthly Meet-Up Visit Translations Gallery, a thriving gallery in the bustling arts district of downtown Canton.

Enjoy drinks and nibbles while you view an exhibition that’s aimed at making a difference, “Stirring the Fire: a global movement to empower women and girls” by award winning United Nations photographer Phil Borges. How does looking at art help change the world? Hear the stories behind these amazing images and learn more about issues that affect women everywhere.

Thursday, Apr. 12 6 to 8 p.m.

Translations Gallery 331 Cleveland Ave. NW in downtown Canton Cost: Free!

RSVP online at ystark.org

Be a Better Business Writer April AultCare Fast Break Breakfast featuring Tim Kraft Good ideas, promising opportunities and exceptional products are ignored every day because someone wasn’t able to convey them well in writing. Join us for the AultCare Fast Break Breakfast on Friday, April 13, Self-proclaimed “Word Guy” Tim Kraft will show you how to write in a way that will get better business results. The rules you learned in elementary school may have earned you a good grade, but won’t grab your readers’ attention. Attend this session to learn how to wrap the right words around your products and ideas.

Friday, Apr. 13 7 a.m. registration 7:30 a.m. program Courtyard by Marriott 4375 Metro Cir. in North Canton Cost: $18 members $25 non-members

Showcase the latest in healthcare and safety products Stark County Safety Council 2012 Health and Safety Fair Do you want to share the latest and greatest products in the Health and Safety Industry? Do you want to display new trends in physical therapy services, workers’ compensation assistance, home healthcare and other healthcare & safety related services? Network and expand your list of clients at the 2012 Health & Safety Fair.

Legislative Breakfast State Sen. Scott Oelslager and State Reps. Christina Hagan, Kirk Schuring and Steve Slesnick will report on the work of the Ohio Legislature and take questions from moderator Gust Callas, chairman of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Committee.

Business Excellence Awards 2012 This year’s Business Excellence Award winners include Emergency Medicine Physicians, Gregory Industries, Miracle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Company and Tower Industries. In addition, Biery Cheese has been named Business of the Year. All four Business Excellence Award winners and the Business of the Year will be honored during the gala awards dinner on Tuesday, April 24, at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark.

Leadership Stark County 26th Class Signature Program Applications Leadership Stark County is now taking applications for the 10-month Signature Program’s 26th Class. Applications are available now at LeadershipStarkCounty.org and are due by April 27. Tuition is $2,350 and tuition assistance is available for selected applicants from non-profit or government organizations.

CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

27

Thursday, Apr. 19 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Meyer’s Lake Ballroom 3218 Parkway St. in Canton Exhibitor Cost: $75 (includes 2 lunch tickets) Tickets: $16 (includes lunch) Reserve your space online at StarkCountySafetyCouncil.org Friday, Apr. 20 8 a.m. breakfast 8:30 a.m. program The Alex D. Krassas Event Center 251 25th St. NW in Canton Cost: $25 includes breakfast RSVP by Apr. 18 Tuesday, Apr. 24 5:30 p.m. social reception 6:30 p.m. dinner and program The University Center at Kent State University at Stark 6000 Frank Ave. NW in North Canton Cost: $48 RSVP by Apr. 18 Deadline: Apr. 27 Apply online: LeadershipStarkCounty.org

for Coronary Angioplasty and Cardiac Surgery

(For 5 Years)

THOMSON REUTERS

50 TOP

CARDIO HOSPITALS

cantonmercy.org

2012

BEST IN STARK COUNTY

TOP 50 HEART HOSPITALS