CANTON, OHIO (Feb. 6, 2012)

The deadline to submit the application and a $68 application fee is Monday, Mar. 12, by 5 p.m. Candidates cannot be younger than a high school senior and 18 years old by May 1, or more than 23 years of age before Sept. 1. Candidates must reside and, if employed, work within a 30-mile radius of Stark County.

While not mandatory, all potential candidates are invited and encouraged to attend the fourth annual “Screen the Queen Pageant” session, which will take place Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Canton Regional Chamber from 9 to 11 a.m. This session will help young ladies decide if they would like to enter the Pageant, and give them a better idea of what to expect if they do.

Participants will have the opportunity to review the 2011 Queen Pageant DVD, learn about the judging experience from past years’ judges, hear from a past queen who will share her memories, and ask questions about the process. This informative, informal session is FREE, but reservations must be made in advance by calling Kathy Lindenberger at (330) 458-2056.

The Queen Pageant will take place Thursday, May 10, at The Canton Palace Theatre. All seats are reserved at $18 each, and tickets can be purchased at the Canton Regional Chamber, Canton AAA and Massillon AAA.

At the conclusion of the Pageant, a Queen and six (6) court members will have been selected on the basis of personality, poise, beauty, communication skills, academic achievement and service to community. The number of court members selected will coincide with the number of members of the recently announced 2012 Class of Enshrinees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame – Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Chris Doleman, Cortez Kennedy, Curtis Martin, and Willie Roaf. The Queen and her court will serve as role models and goodwill ambassadors throughout the community, and one of their most memorable experiences will be their ride on a float in the Timken Grand Parade.

Kara Abbott has been named chair of the 2012 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Queen Committee. An 11-year committee member, this is her second year in this leadership role. As the 1995 Enshrinement Festival Queen, she has a unique perspective on the process and the qualifications necessary to attain the crown. Assisting her with leadership responsibilities will be Crystal McLendon, committee vice chair.

A Canton native, Abbott is a graduate of Central Catholic High School and Kent State University. In addition to her service on the Queen Committee, she volunteered for 10 years on the Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks Committee, and has modeled in the Enshrinement Festival Fashion Show for the past six years. Her community activities include past service as a United Way coordinator, and current service at St. Mary’s School in Massillon as coordinator of the Spirit Window, and member of the PTO and the Auction Committee. She and husband Steve are the proud parents of five children.

The Queen Committee is responsible for working with Enshrinement Festival staff in coordinating all activities relating to the Enshrinement Festival Queen and court and serving as chaperones during their community service activities and official event appearances.

For more information regarding applications, tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Kathy Lindenberger at (330) 458-2056 or visit the Enshrinement Festival Web site at www.profootballhofef.com.

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Learn about the vision of Gervasi Vineyards – from delizioso culinary endeavors and fine vintages fresh from the vine, to the eclectic marketplace and exquisite new Italian villas.

Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the program and breakfast following at 7:30 a.m. AultCare Fast Break Breakfasts are held at the Courtyard by Marriott, located at 4375 Metro Circle in North Canton.

Tickets are $18 for Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce members, $21 for member tickets purchased less than 48 hours in advance and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available online at www.CantonChamber.org, or by calling (330) 458-2070.

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.

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CANTON, OHIO (Feb. 2, 2012)

Diners to the participating downtown Canton restaurants will receive one half-priced entrée for each entrée they purchase at regular price. Select downtown restaurants will offer this special discount to diners every Wednesday in February and March. The discount is valid after 5 p.m. only.

In order to receive the discount, a coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Coupons can be downloaded from www.DowntownCanton.com, or clipped from upcoming issues of The Repository on Wednesdays.

Downtown Deals will feature 11 downtown Canton restaurants, including:

• * Arcadia Grille
• * Bender’s Tavern
• * Desert Inn
• * Napoli’s Italian Eatery
• * Pete’s Grill & Pizza
• * Peter Shears Downtown
• * Picciano’s Martini Bar (appetizers only available)
• * Primo’s
• * Sports Therapy Bar and Grill
• * Thatsa Wrapp
• * Thorpe’s Grill at the McKinley Grand

“The Downtown Deals Wednesday promotion is an excellent opportunity to experience some of the incredible local restaurants in downtown Canton,” said Mike Gill, director of the Downtown Special Improvement District. “Diners can experience all types of cuisines and enjoy both casual and fine dining with this exciting promotion.”

For details about Downtown Deals Wednesday, visit www.DowntownCanton.com, or contact Annette Rosenberg at annette@cantonchamber.org or (330) 458-2092.

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The new program, conceived and launched launched last year with help from JumpStart Inc., provides grants to entrepreneurs who plan to locate new, high growth business ventures in the City of Canton. More than 60 applications were received for the very competitive inaugural funding cycle, and four finalists were invited to a formal presentation. After careful consideration and review by the Canton Entrepreneur Launch commission, entrepreneur Karl Beitzel’s company, Jack Hooks, was selected for grant funding.

Canton Entrepreneur Launch is designed to create organic business growth by providing grants to start-up businesses that have the potential to attract additional growth capital, create substantial economic impact and develop job opportunities within the Canton community.

“We were thrilled to receive so much interest and to see such a healthy entrepreneurial spark in our region,” said Mayor William J. Healy II. “This year we wanted to make a significant investment that could take a business to the next level. We believe that Jack Hooks can use this money to make great progress in their venture.”

Jack Hooks manufactures a revolutionary series of fishing hooks for the retail consumer market that, according to Beitzel, are “are the strongest, fastest and sharpest hooks ever made.” Jack Hooks’ proprietary, patent-pending, knotless hook allows professional and recreational anglers alike to attach a hook to their line in fewer than five seconds.

The young company is already generating a buzz in the industry. The California Dreamin’ Series hooks were designed in collaboration with a veteran tournament angler, Marc Beyers of Norco, Calif., to meet the high demands of professional anglers in tournament competition. BassMaster’s Elite Series Professional Angler Keith Poche has signed a one-year endorsement agreement with Jack Hooks and will use the Jack Hooks California Dreamin’ Series in the Bassmaster Classic tournament, held in Louisiana from Feb. 24 through 26, when he competes head to head with the world’s best Pro Anglers for the 2012 Season Championship.

Jack Hooks is now in the process of establishing a North American sales distribution network. Operations and production will be located in Canton.

“This is my hometown and I am committed to creating jobs and value in the local economy,” said Beitzel. “Growing new industry helps to keep a community healthy, and I hope Jack Hooks will contribute to that trend.”

The company plans to use the Canton Entrepreneur Launch grant to support an assembly operation in Canton, develop additional product inventory, and obtain basic marketing support to build up its operations until they are capable of perpetuating self-sustainable sales. Starting modestly with a handful of staffers, the company hopes to grow to 75 average-wage employees over the next five years.

Those companies who did not receive funding in this application cycle will have access to additional assistance. “We are partnering with Victor Pavona and the Stark County Business Development Center (SBDC) to ensure that all applicants receive necessary business support and advisory services,” said Derek Gordon, assistant safety/service director for the City of Canton. “The SBDC will continue to remain an active partner as we move forward, supporting the program by providing needed connections and continued counseling, not only to Jack Hooks, but to other applicants of the Canton Entrepreneur Launch program.”

The Canton Entrepreneur Launch program will begin a second round of funding later this year, and details about the next round of funding will be available online at CantonLaunch.org.

All applicants also have access to the Canton Entrepreneur Launch’s partner, the JumpStart Entrepreneurial Network, a connected group of regional entrepreneur support organizations offering space, capital and connections to entrepreneurs across 21 counties of Northeast Ohio.

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CANTON, OH (January 19, 2012)

The young professionals worthy of this award are the ones actively working to make Stark County a destination for young professionals to live, work and play. Winners of the 2012 award will be celebrated at an eclectic gala in June.

Eligible “young professionals” are between 21 and 40 years old, and span all career industries. ystark! membership not required for nomination. Full eligibility information and details on the nomination process are available at www.ystark.org. All nominations must be received by Feb. 12.

The ‘Twenty under 40!’ planning committee is led by Aron Kitzmiller, director of marketing, Westfield Belden Village. Recognition of these deserving area young professionals is made possible through ystark! and The Repository, in conjunction with Aultman Health Foundation, Black McCuskey Souers & Arbaugh, LPA, Diebold, Inc., Huntington Bank and The Timken Company.

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The Canton Regional Chamber’s 98th Annual Dinner will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Canton Memorial Civic Center, located at 1101 Market Ave. N in downtown Canton. The annual dinner will feature Ward J. Timken, Jr., chairman of the board of directors for The Timken Company, and James W. Griffith, president and CEO for Timken.

Few organizations possess the staying power of The Timken Company, with communities, investors, employees and suppliers collectively sharing in achievement, year after year. The company’s success is reflected in its significant diversification, extensive global growth, and value driven to the bottom line, with dividends paid each year and every quarter, from before the Great Depression, to the Great Recession and beyond.

It’s also evident in the company’s steadfast investments, focused on a promising future. When it comes to good fortune, Timken is our community’s constant.

“This year’s annual dinner provides a rare opportunity for our local business community to gain firsthand perspective about The Timken Company, straight from the source,” said Dennis P. Saunier, Chamber president and CEO. “We’re thrilled to have Tim and Jim joining us for this special evening.”

At the Annual Dinner, the gavel will be passed from outgoing Board Chairman George W. Lemon, retired president, Technical Products Group, to the 2012 Board Chairman, Rick L. Haines, president of AultCare. The Chamber will recognize and thank the outgoing board members and usher in new members for an exceptional 98th year.

Also during the dinner, the Canton Regional Chamber and ArtsinStark, The County Arts Council, will present the 2012 Business for the Arts Award. The award is recognizes an outstanding business for support and participation in the arts in Stark County, which improves the quality of life and promotes economic development. This year’s recipient is Solmet Technologies, Inc.

The 98th annual dinner will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Registrations for the annual dinner can be made online CantonChamber.org or by calling (330) 458-2070. Tickets for the event are $88 for members and $98 for non-members, and tables of eight are available. All registration payments must be received in advance and reservations must be received by Jan. 30. Register now, space is limited.

This year’s annual dinner is made possible by our sponsors: Aultman Health Foundation, AultCare, Black McCuskey Souers & Arbaugh, Canton Chair Rental, Chesapeake Energy, Day Ketterer, Ltd., DeHoff Realtors, Diebold, Inc., Fresh Mark, Inc., Huntington Bank, Innis Maggiore, The Karcher Group, Kenan Advantage Group, Kent State University at Stark, KeyBank, Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., LPA, Leonard Insurance, Malone University, Mercy Medical Center, The Repository, PNC Bank, Schauer Group, Inc. / Chubb Group, Stark State College, Superior Beverage, The Timken Company, University of Mount Union and Walsh University.

About Keynote Speaker Ward J. Timken, Jr., Chairman, The Timken Company
Ward J. “Tim” Timken, Jr. is chairman of the board of directors of The Timken Company. He was elected to the board in 2002 and later served as vice chairman prior to being named chairman in 2005.

Previously Timken served as president of the company’s Steel Group, leading it to record levels of profitability. In 2000, Timken served as corporate vice president in the Office of the Chairman. Responsible for strategy development, he played a pivotal role in the acquisition and integration of Torrington, the largest acquisition in the company’s history. His other positions at the company included key postings in Europe and Latin America in the 1990s.

Timken serves as chairman of the board of Team NEO, an organization that advances Northeast Ohio’s economy by attracting businesses worldwide to the 16-county “Cleveland Plus” region. Timken also serves on the board of directors of Pella Corporation and several other boards, including the American Iron and Steel Institute of which he is past chairman, the National Association of Manufacturers Executive Committee, the Ohio Business Development Council, the Ohio Business Roundtable Executive Committee, the Stark Development Board, Firestone Country Club, the Timken Foundation and the Timken Charitable Trust.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Georgetown University and a Master of Business Administration from the Darden School at the University of Virginia.

About Keynote Speaker James W. Griffith, President & CEO, The Timken Company
James W. Griffith is president and chief executive officer of The Timken Company and a member of the company’s board of directors.

Since being named president in 1999, Griffith has led a transformation of The Timken Company focused on creating ever-increasing levels of value for customers and shareholders. By harnessing its legendary quality and industry-leading innovation, Timken has pushed beyond its historic leadership in the tapered roller bearing market into a vast global market for technologies to manage the friction generated by moving parts and improve the transmission of power in a wide array of machines.

Griffith joined The Timken Company in 1984 and has held positions as plant manager, vice president of manufacturing in North America and managing director of the company’s business in Australia. From 1996 to 1999, he led Timken’s automotive business in North America and the company’s bearing business activities in Asia and Latin America. He was elected president, chief operating officer and director in 1999 and was named chief executive officer in 2002.

Griffith is president of the World Bearing Association and chairman of the board of directors of the Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET). He is vice president of the Management Executives’ Society and serves on the boards of directors of the US-China Business Council and Goodrich Corporation (NYSE: GR). In September 2011, he began a two-year term as a member of the management board of the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He also serves on the board of the University of Mount Union.

Griffith holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and a Master of Business Administration from Stanford University.

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But the real goal of this special holiday service project was to provide new bikes and helmets for foster children in our community. ystark! partnered with Pathway Caring for Children, and ultimately provided 82 new bikes and helmets to the kids Pathway supports.

“It was remarkable to see the kids’ faces light up when the curtain opened on the bikes that were waiting for them. One 15-year-old girl said that her new bike was the first thing she has ever really owned,” said Eric Belden, executive director of Pathway Caring for Children. “This project has allowed the kids to forget about their sad situations for a moment and enjoy what the holiday spirit is all about.”

The bikes and helmets were provided through donations from local young professionals, with business support from Chesapeake Energy, along with Aultman Health Foundation, The Canton Charge, The City of Canton, Miixers Lounge, The Ohio Vortex, Siegfried Enterprises, Inc. / McDonalds Restaurants, Beese, Fulmer Investment Management Family and Prodigy Sound.

“We had an amazing group of volunteers and supporters that dedicated many hours and dollars to make this program a reality,” said Aimee Belden, ystark! director. “We’re very proud of our first ystark! community service project, especially one that gives us the experience of seeing the joy on the children’s faces, and look forward to continuing our giving in 2012.”

The Yuletide Breakfast Fest is the first service project that ystark! has taken on since they recently joined forces with the past members of the Canton Jaycees.

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The seminar includes three sessions:

• * The Dynamics of Focused Discussions, presented by John Spitzer, rabbi emeritus, Temple Israel
• * The Role of the Board, presented by Elizabeth Voudouris, Business Volunteers Unlimited
• * Legal Responsibilities of Board Service, presented by Randy Snow, Black McCuskey Law Firm.

Also attending the seminar will be younger professionals, age 24-34, from Leadership’s 2011 Spotlight Stark County program who were recently matched with a local non-profit for a one-year board shadowing experience.

Registration is $15 for individuals and $45 for three or more attendees from the same agency. The event is being held at The Timken Company in Canton. For more information, and to register online, visit LeadershipStarkCounty.org.

The mission of Leadership Stark County is to develop a core of motivated leaders with lifelong commitment to community trusteeship. Leadership Stark County programs provide leadership training and education about the community.

The Better Boardsmanship seminar is sponsored by Black McCuskey Law Firm.

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Leadership Stark County is a department of the Canton Regional Chamber.

CANTON, OH (Dec. 28, 2011)

Nomination deadline is Jan. 19, 2012 and nominations can be made at BusinessExcellenceAward.com.

“Stark County is home to some of the most innovative, growing and dynamic businesses in the country,” said Dennis P. Saunier, president & CEO of Canton Regional Chamber. “These businesses go above and beyond providing jobs and funding our economy – they are on the cutting-edge of emerging technology, they are making capital investments to our area, they dedicate resources to the community and they are helping to make our region more appealing to business growth and relocation.”

To be considered, the business must be for-profit, non-publicly-traded (and not a wholly-owned subsidiary of a publicly traded company), and have a significant presence in and/or provide substantial benefit to the citizens and economy of Stark County.

Specific nomination criteria includes: business and employment growth, expansion of operations/efficiencies, outstanding customer service, investments in capital improvements, innovation or expansion of product line(s), responsiveness to business and industry challenges and adversity and community involvement.

Honorees of this year’s Business Excellence Awards will be recognized during the gala awards dinner held on Tues., April 24, at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark.

Sponsors of the Business Excellence Awards of Greater Canton dinner and ceremony are: Bruner-Cox LLP, Day Ketterer, Attorneys at Law, Farmers National Bank, Stark State College and The Repository.

NOMINATE ONLINE
To nominate a company, please visit BusinessExcellenceAward.com. If you have questions regarding eligibility or the nomination process, or wish to receive a paper copy of the nomination form, please contact Amy Nelson, events and marketing manager, at (330) 458-2073 or amyn@cantonchamber.org.

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CANTON, OH (December 22, 2011) – Mark your calendar for the 2012 AultCare Fast Break Breakfast Series season! Plan to attend the second Friday of each month – you’ll hear compelling speakers, meet new business contacts and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to network and promote your business!

And, if you bring a door prize valued at $15 or more, you’ll even star in your very own 30 second commercial to promote your business!

AultCare Fast Break Breakfasts are open to the public and held at the Courtyard by Marriott, 4375 Metro Cir. N.W., Canton, from 7:30 to 9 a.m., with registration beginning at 7 a.m.

Save $36 on a year’s worth of programs!
Our $180 Season Ticket Books are an excellent value. You’ll pay just $15 per program, $3 off per ticket! That’s like attending two breakfasts free of charge.

Season passholders are eligible for a special drawing each month, have access to the attendee contact list upon request, and receive special perks throughout the year!

2012 AultCare Fast Break Breakfast Season Series:

January 13: Make Your Own Sunshine
Presented by Marvin Montgomery

February 10: Canton’s Italian Village Comes to Life
Presented by Ted Swaldo

March 9: The NBA’s CHARGE into Canton
Presented by Scott Woodruff

April 13: Be a Better Business Writer
Presented by Tim Kraft

May 11: Run, Canton, Run!
Presented by Rob Steinberg

June 8: Interacting with Your Customers
Presented by Steve Brubaker

July 13: Top 10 Tips for IT Security
Presented by David Besse

August 10: Cleveland Plus: Healthcare’s Role in Marketing our Region
Presented Rick Batyko

September 14: Next Gen Leadership: Where Text, Talk & Tweet Converge
Presented by Leslie Ungar

October 12: Strategy on a Shoestring for Small Biz
Presented by Catherine Foster

November 9: Clarity of Course: Lemonade Stand Sales Strategies
Presented by Diane Helbig

December 14: Community Forum

Visit CantonChamber.org to purchase a season ticket book, or contact Amy Nelson, event manager, at amyn@cantonchamber.org or (330) 458-2073 for more information.

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• *Leadership skills, styles, and effective decision making
• *Economic Development opportunities and techniques
• * Ohio Ethics training
• * Understanding the media and how to make it work for you
• * Communicating and working with citizens
• * Regionalization

Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the program and breakfast following at 7:30 a.m. AultCare Fast Break Breakfasts are held at the Courtyard by Marriott, located at 4375 Metro Circle in North Canton.

Tickets are $18 for Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce members, $21 for member tickets purchased less than 48 hours in advance and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available online at www.CantonChamber.org, or by calling (330) 458-2070.

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.

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About the Speakers:

John R. Aller, executive director of the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Stark County (MHRSB), is a behavioral health professional with numerous years in the field of mental health and drug and alcohol addiction. Aller has a wide-breath of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of those struggling with chemical dependency and mental health-related disease with an emphasis on those having a dual-diagnosis. He is an active member of a variety of state and local related boards and committees including sitting on the executive committee of the Ohio Association of Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA) and was recently appointed to the Governor’s Advisory Panel for Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.

Patrice Fetzer, LISW-S, is the manager of service delivery for the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Stark County. She has over 17 years experience in developing and implementing quality and innovative programming, collaborations, and system change efforts at the local and state levels that engage and empower individuals and families with mental, emotional, behavioral, and societal challenges. She has founded and led collaborative initiatives such as the Stark Intra-System Transition Team, the Emancipation Subcommittee of the Stark County Interagency Council on Homelessness, and the Mentoring Network of Stark County. She provides local, state and national presentations and consultations on best practices for serving the youth and young adult population as well as for mental health case management.

Joe Halter, founding partner, chairman and CEO of Canton-based Solmet Technologies, Inc., will serve as general vice chairman of the Enshrinement Festival activities planned by the Enshrinement Festival department of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. For the second consecutive year, Guy Ruda, sales associate for R. Z. Marketing Group, will serve as general vice chairman of the Enshrinement Festival activities planned by the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Halter brings first-hand experience to the position as a result of his years of service on the board of directors of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, serving as chairman in 2006. His passion for the Enshrinement Festival runs deep, and his current service as a member of the board of directors of the Pro Football Hall of Fame allows him to bring a unique and energizing perspective to the joint planning efforts between the Chamber and the Hall. He has a strong dedication to the arts, service organizations and business community, and is currently active in Rotary Club of Canton, Stark Development Board and Aultman Health Foundation board of directors. He and his wife Nancy reside in Canton and have two grown sons.

During the 2011 Enshrinement Festival while serving in the leadership role as general vice chairman, Ruda also completed his 11th year as chairman of the Enshrinement Committee. He previously served 18 years as a member of the committee, as well as three years as chairman of the former NFL Experience Committee. Ruda and his wife Gail are the proud parents of David and Danielle.

Enshrinement Festival leadership will work together with the professional staffs at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and Pro Football Hall of Fame, as well as a team of more than 4,200 dedicated community volunteers, as they plan and stage the 2012 Enshrinement Festival, tentatively slated for July 20 through Aug. 6. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival features a total of 18 unique and diverse events, expected to be enjoyed by nearly 700,000 people. The central focus and highlight of the festivities will be the Aug. 4 induction ceremony for the 2012 Class of Enshrinees, who will be announced on Feb. 4 during Super Bowl weekend activities.

The 2012 Enshrinement Festival will feature a slightly adjusted schedule, with the Balloon Classic occurring one week earlier than in past years, and the downtown Concert & Fireworks moving from Thursday to Saturday night. Check the Web sites for the full Schedule of Events and for the latest information: www.profootballhofef.com or www.profootballhof.com.

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CANTON, OH (Nov. 14, 2011)

The whole family will be enchanted at this year’s Light Up Downtown, presented by the Canton Development Partnership, a department of the Canton Regional Chamber. Come take a magical journey with Christopher Pop-In-Kins, Santa’s Official Children’s Elf, as he pops in again this year during Light Up Downtown for the mainstage show at 6 p.m. All of your favorite holiday characters will visit from wonderful winter wonderlands and through smiles, laughs and song, encourage everyone to enjoy the heart of the holiday – and it is all brought to life at Central Plaza.

You’ll see merry musical helpers like Sugar Plum Fairies, Reindeer, Frosty and all of the toys from the North Pole. When the big man in red arrives, he offers a spectacular gift to Christopher, topping off the evening with fireworks and fun.

Tons of Holiday Hoopla!
Beyond the main stage show, Light Up is your chance to watch 16 city blocks come alive with attractions, entertainment, refreshments and fun for children of all ages. The excitement is happening from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in downtown Canton. You’re in for a night of surprises and fun for all ages! Best of all? This festive festival is FREE!

More than 100 local performers will take to the stage, performing holiday favorites such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Marshmallow World, Here Comes Santa Clause, Ain’t getting’ nuttin’ for Christmas and many more. The event pre-show, sponsored by Mix 94.1, will run from 5:30 to 6 p.m., followed by the main stage show at 6 p.m.

You can look forward to carriage rides, singing and local dance troupe performances, children’s crafts and activities and much, much more! The downtown center city is transformed into a winter wonderland for the occasion, and our local businesses will provide activities and refreshments as you take in all the holiday delights our community has to offer.

Donate Hats & Mittens!
During the event, the Canton City Fire Department will distribute hats and mittens to children in need. If you would like to donate new children’s hats and mittens, please bring them to one of our donation boxes, located at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, and other downtown Canton locations, between now and the Light Up event. Visit LightUpDowntown.com for a list of all donation locations.

Light Up Downtown will run until 8:30 p.m. and will be held snow, rain or shine. There will be plenty of free parking, both on-street and in the Timken High School and Stark County District Library parking lots, as well as parking in various decks and lots throughout downtown for a nominal fee.

This year’s Light Up event is chaired for the fourth year by Kayleigh Kriss, on-air personality for Mix 94.1, and a wonderful committee of dedicated volunteers.

Our event sponsors include: Key Bank, AEP Ohio, along with the Aultman Health Foundation, Motorola, Kenan Advantage Group, H-P Products, Downtown Canton Special Improvement District, Shearer’s Foods, The Repository, Mix 94.1 and News-Talk 1480 WHBC AM, PPI Graphics, The Karcher Group and The City of Canton.

Visit LightUpDowntown.com for a full schedule of events and more about Christopher Pop-In-Kins.

For those looking to double the dose of downtown holiday hoopla, the Dec. 2 First Friday Cookies & Carols, will continue the holiday festivities downtown. Visit CantonFirstFriday.com for First Friday details.

About Christopher Pop-In-Kins™ and Imaginatives®
Christopher Pop-In-Kins, written and published in 1985 by Flora Johnson of Atwater, Ohio, is the award winning story of Santa’s “very first Children’s Elf.” Imaginatives is the creative team behind Christopher Pop-In-Kins. Located in Alliance, Ohio, Imaginatives specializes in the development, marketing and distribution of children’s books and toys. For more information, visit Christopher Pop-In-Kins online at www.ChristopherPopInKins.com.

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CANTON, OHIO (Nov. 14, 2011)

She will lead you on a networking journey through four, fast-paced hours of energized activities, complete with icebreakers and new ways competing in times of tough sales. You’ll acquire NEW business contacts and potential leads for your business – but more importantly, you’ll learn how to become a real selling pro and form true relationships with potential customers!

Fall NETWORK is being held at the Holiday Inn Canton at 4520 Everhard Road NW in Canton. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the program, roundtable speed networking and breakfast buffet following from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and include breakfast. Register now online at CantonChamber.org or call (330) 458-2070.

This semi-annual NETWORK series will enable you to gain exposure for your company and help you harness your true networking potential. 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. All area business owners, purchasing agents and sales and marketing associates are encouraged to participate. Every attendee will receive a registrant’s list for post-event follow-up and future contact. There is a maximum of two representatives per company permitted to ensure greatest networking exposure.

NETWORK is presented by the Canton Regional Chamber and signature sponsor The Karcher Group.

About the emcee: Glenda Lehman Ervin is the vice president of marketing for Lehman’s and the daughter of company founder Jay Lehman. She is responsible for the advertising, marketing and media relations for the multi-channel business. After working as a journalist for several years, she joined a Fortune 200 company, returning to Lehman’s in 1996. She graduated from Taylor University with a double major in journalism and English, and received a master’s from Indiana University. Ervin serves on a number of volunteer boards and has taught Junior Achievement classes in the local school system for several years. Ervin has been named a YMCA Woman of Achievement, as well as a Rainmaker, and in 2008, she received the Distinguished Sales and Marketing Award from the Sales & Marketing Executives International. She has done speaking engagements on Lehman’s and multi-channel marketing all over the country.

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CANTON, OHIO (Nov. 8, 2011)

You’ll have the opportunity to tour Millennium Center businesses Careworks Consultants, Inc., Day Ketterer Ltd, Attorneys at Law, Julz by Alan Rodriguez, Schauer Group, Inc., Network Specialists, Inc. and Siegfried Enterprises, Inc. (operators of McDonalds Restaurants), and of course, the Chamber of Commerce!

Mix and mingle with other members as we show our appreciation for another great Chamber membership year!

Enjoy entertainment and specialty hors d’oeuvres, delectable desserts, and wine and beer donated from member businesses including: 4 Cookie Divas, Arcadia Grill, Canton’s Women’s Club, Culligan of Canton, Drummond Chocolates, El Campesino, Gold Ribbon Gourmet Catering and Pastries, Leo Dick & Sons/Dick Imports, The M. Conley Company, McDonald’s Restaurant (downtown), Mola Productions, Montrose Auto Group, Napoli’s Italian Eatery, Pete’s Grill and Pizza, Pheasantview Dairy Goats, Subway, That Little Italian Kitchen, Thatsa Wrapp and Thompson Entertainment.

And, as always, we’ll have some great door prizes to give away throughout the evening.

Give those in need something to be thankful for by bringing your non-perishable food item or $3 donation for the Stark County Hunger Task Force and receive FREE admission to our Member Thanksgathering event. Though the Thanksgathering event is FREE with your donation, please register online at CantonChamber.org.

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Awards were presented in 69 different categories, and winners were announced on Oct. 3 at the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Ceremony during the IFEA’s 56th Annual Convention & Expo at The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas.

Joanne Murray, director of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival, expressed appreciation to Larry Schock and Zachary Piette of PYEcom Home Video, who developed the promotional video from hundreds of hours of footage shot by the PYEcom team. She further expressed gratitude to Jessica Bennett, Director of Marketing, and her team at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, for their outstanding design of the commemorative poster and Enshrinement Festival “Official Playbook” which won the silver and bronze awards respectively. “The Enshrinement Festival is fortunate to work with such creative and talented people who help us share our message that the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival is indeed a one of a kind celebration,” noted Murray.

The professional competition drew entries from among the world’s top festivals and events with winning entries coming from organizations as varied as the 500 Festival, Indianapolis, Ind.; Bayou City Art Festival in Houston, Texas; Dublin Irish Festival, Dublin, Ohio; MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival, Fort Worth, Texas; Issaquah Salmon Days, Issaquah, Wash.; Portland Rose Festival, Portland, Ore. and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Pasadena, Calif.

International contenders included such diverse event organizations as Canada Place, Canada; Ham Pyeong Butterfly Festival, South Korea; World Gourmet Summit, Singapore; Edmonton Heritage Festival, Canada; Ludwig Van Beethoven Easter Festival, Poland; Rotterdam Festivals, The Netherlands; Festival Lent, Slovenia and Sentosa Development Corporation, Singapore.

“The IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Competition recognizes the outstanding accomplishments by festivals and events around the world,” said IFEA President & CEO, Steven Wood Schmader, CFEE. “Striving for the highest degree of excellence in festival and event promotions and operations in every budget level and every corner of the globe, this competition has not only raised the standards and quality of the festivals and events industry to new levels, but also shows how event producers can use innovation and creativity to achieve a higher level of success.”

Headquartered in Boise, Idaho, the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) is The Premiere Association Supporting and Enabling Festival & Event Professionals Worldwide. In partnership with global affiliates, the organization’s common vision is for “A Globally United Industry that Touches Lives in a Positive Way through Celebration.” The Association offers the most complete source of ideas, resources, information, education and networking for festival and event professionals worldwide and can be accessed via www.ifea.com.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival entertains nearly 700,000 people at 18 diverse events over nearly two weeks as they honor the induction of football heroes into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton/Stark County Ohio. Professional staffs at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and Pro Football Hall of Fame and team of more than 4,200 extraordinary community volunteers and sponsors support the summer festivities. Visit www.profootballhofef.com for more information.

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CANTON, OH (Nov. 4, 2011)

DOWNLOAD GRABOWSKI’S PRESENTATION FROM THE BREAKFAST SESSION

Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the program and breakfast following at 7:30 a.m. AultCare Fast Break Breakfasts are held at the Courtyard by Marriott, located at 4375 Metro Circle in North Canton.

Tickets are $18 for Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce members, $21 for member tickets purchased less than 48 hours in advance and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available online at www.CantonChamber.org, or by calling Monique Thompson Kennedy at (330) 458-2070.

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.

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About the Speaker:
Grabowski is president of Grabowski & Co., a marketing communications firm launched in 1997. The firm serves Fortune 500 companies, such as The Timken Company and Progressive Insurance, and approximately 30 other businesses and organizations, including Malone University, Morgan Engineering, Akron Children’s Hospital, Kenan Advantage Group, Employers Health and Coblentz Chocolates. Grabowski and her team of 11 develop and implement marketing plans that lead to well-written and designed Web sites, print materials, public relations pitches and social media promotions. Grabowski & Co. has won more than 30 local ADDY® awards, as well as a Business Excellence Award from the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. She is a graduate of GlenOak High School and Malone University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a concentration in journalism. She and her husband Leonard are raising their three children in Lake Township.

The school district has not received new money from voters for eight years. In that time, it has cut $18.5 million in expenses without degrading academic programs. Academic achievement, as measured by the state report card, high school graduation rates and college-going rates, is at an all-time high.

The district predicts the need to make $15.9 million in additional cuts in the next two years without new tax income. District leaders said those cuts likely will reduce the programs that have led to academic achievement and likely will increase class size.

“Canton City has done a remarkable job of raising student achievement and has shown it can spend its money wisely over the eight years since its last tax was approved by voters,” said Canton Regional Chamber President and CEO Dennis P. Saunier. “This record of performance has earned our Chamber’s support.

“It also is important for Canton and all of Stark County to ensure that the county’s largest school district has the money to carry on its good work,” Saunier added.

The Canton City School District’s 7.9-mill operating levy is Issue 27 for residents of the school district.

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A majority of surveyed manufacturers in the Greater Canton area are reporting growth and envisioning a promising future, according to a 20-month SYNCHRONIST study conducted by the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.

From Jan. 1, 2010 to Aug. 5, 2011, the Chamber interviewed 136 businesses — mostly manufacturers and mostly in Canton — as a key component of its economic development program. The results are good news for the Canton and Greater Stark County economy. Here are highlights:

• 57 percent of the businesses indicate that market share for their primary product is increasing.

• 70 percent report sales are increasing.

• 83 percent have introduced new products or services over the last five years.

• 73 percent anticipate new product offerings in the next two years.

• 52 percent are expanding employment.

• 61 percent anticipate that their business will expand in the next three years.

• 96 percent indicate that they would consider this community for future expansion.

The information was collected in a series of confidential, one-on-one interviews with CEOs, presidents, owners or plant managers. The data represents the collective responses from these leaders.

“We have a dynamic manufacturing community here,” said Steve Katz, senior vice president at the Canton Regional Chamber and the person who conducted all of the survey interviews. “Businesses surveyed were optimistic about their future.”

Most of the markets for the goods produced by these manufacturers exist outside of Stark County, which indicate these manufacturers are bringing wealth back into the Canton-Stark County community. Only 6 percent of the companies said their primary product’s market was local, with 38 percent saying it was regional, another 38 percent saying it was national and 18 percent saying it was international.

Of the businesses involved in international trade, 47 percent said their international sales were increasing and another 47 percent said international sales were stable.

When asked about the life cycle of the primary product at a business, 12 percent of all responders said it was emerging and 53 percent said it was growing.

The companies surveyed report a high degree of leadership stability, with 89 percent reporting no ownership change in the last 18 months and 85 percent reported no management change in the same 18-month period.

To delineate responses, the surveyed businesses were asked to respond to several questions on a seven-point scale, with one being the lowest response and seven the highest. On a question about the quality of area workers, the survey showed that businesses rate the quality of area workers as high. Eighty-three of the businesses rated the quality of the workforce in the five-to-seven range. Similarly, 90 of the surveyed businesses rated the stability of the local workforce in the five-to-seven range.

Workforce, location and higher education were the top three factors that made these businesses believe Canton and Stark County was a good place to do business. Similarly, the surveyed businesses gave high ratings to the quality of police, fire, emergency response and health services in the community.

“These results show that Canton and Stark County are good places to operate and expand a business,” Katz said. “The results also are a testimonial to the quality of the workforce, community services and education here.“

The surveys were conducted in cooperation with the Canton Regional Chamber’s Economic Development Committee, the City of Canton, The Employment Source, the Regional Business Network and the Chamber’s Advantage Canton program. Advantage Canton consists of support from leading businesses for the purpose of pursuing economic development through Chamber activities.

For further information, contact:
Steve Katz, Senior Vice President,
Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce
330-458-2062
katzcrcc@cantonchamber.org

The full SYNCHRONIST report is now available online. Click here to download.

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Candy Wallace, 2012 General Chairman of the Chamber’s Enshrinement Festival committees, noted that a date change will be necessary for one of the events. “During planning for the 2011 festivities, the Enshrinement Festival learned that due to site issues in 2012, 2013 and 2014, the U. S. National Hot Air Balloon Championship will be held in Longview, Texas, at the same time as our Balloon Classic/Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks,” said Wallace. The Nationals are held at a “teaching” airport during the week of the school’s break between semesters, and the semester schedule has now changed.

“The Enshrinement Festival’s Balloon Classic celebrated its 25th anniversary this year and is highly regarded in the ballooning world as a premier event,” noted Maury Sullivan, long-time event director. “This date conflict would significantly impact the quality and success of our Balloon Classic due to the fact that the most experienced pilots, ballooning officials, scoring teams and weather experts are already annually committed to the U. S. National Championship.” The date change also eliminates a date conflict with two other major balloon festivals, one in New Jersey and one in Iowa.

Therefore, after consultation and approval from all partners, it was decided to adjust the Enshrinement Festival schedule to move the Balloon Classic/Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks one week earlier than usual, on July 20, 21 and 22, 2012. This loosens the Enshrinement Festival schedule a bit and allows the downtown Canton Concert & Fireworks event to be moved from Thursday night to Saturday night, July 28, 2012. Organizers believe that these two schedule modifications will slightly ease the burden on volunteers, allow for more efficient site setup, and make the entire Enshrinement Festival experience even more enjoyable for participants, attendees, and sponsors.

The date modifications have received the full support and approval of the Board of Trustees of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, as well as the Enshrinement Festival Steering Committee and the Board of Directors of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, along with the Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce and host facilities, Kent State University at Stark and Stark State College. “Continued enthusiasm and commitment by our staff, team of volunteers, and family of sponsors working cooperatively will be crucial to the implementation of these changes, and we are confident everyone will meet the challenge,” said Joanne Murray, Enshrinement Festival director.

The exact 2012 Enshrinement Festival dates cannot be finalized until the National Football League determines the date of the NFL/Hall of Fame Game, and then the Enshrinement and remaining 16 event dates will be secured. However, assuming that the dates will be similar to prior experience, attached is the TENTATIVE 2012 Enshrinement Festival Schedule of Events – subject to change.

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DOWNLOAD SCHEDULE

CANTON, OH (October 17, 2011) – Donald L. Hart will be recognized with the highest honor, the Award of Merit, at the upcoming Community Salute Awards. The award will be presented along with Awards of Appreciation on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Canton Regional Chamber’s Community Salute Awards dinner, held at The University Center at Kent State University at Stark. Tickets are available online for $50 at CantonChamber.org or by calling (330) 458-2070.

Community Salute Award of Appreciation winners include: Dennis and Lynne Biery, Biery Cheese, Maria Byington, owner of Arcadia Grill, the Stark County Parks District, Bob Fonte, park director, and Raymond Wilkof, president of Stark Industrial LLC.

Sponsors of this year’s Community Salute Awards include The Timken Company, along with Aultman Health Foundation, Stark Industrial, Inc., Biery Cheese, Stark Community Foundation and The Repository.

ABOUT THE HONOREES

Don Hart has provided leadership and has been active in many community activities since arriving in Canton in 1956. His work in the community has been more than sufficient to fulfill the requirements of the 2011 Community Salute Award of Merit, but his leadership on two recent projects truly demonstrates his deserving this special recognition. Hart led the effort to bring the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to Canton and helped find a new permanent home for Trillium Family Solutions.

Hart chaired the project to locate a site, gain the funding, and build a passenger train station here in Canton to make it possible for the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to offer train services to Stark County. He established the Canton Advisory Council of the Railroad to assure that our community would have a say about future train service.

Because of his efforts, thousands of children and their parents have enjoyed an annual ride on the Polar Express, many train enthusiasts have answered to the call of “all aboard,” and the train has become an important offering for tourists and visitors to our city. Hart saw to it that mountains were moved (mountains of bricks, dirt, and red tape, that is) to ensure the completion of quaint train station on West Tuscarawas that serves both to beautify the area and to provide a spot for patrons to catch the train.

While serving on the board of Trillium Family Solutions, Hart agreed to chair the project to find a new permanent home for the non-profit agency. He recognized that in order to maintain the legacy of the agency and to serve the ever-growing number of clients, a new, larger and more efficient office would be required.

Little did he realize that the acquisition timeframe would be shortened and that the economy would turn south, forcing the agency to raise money when funds were scarce. Thanks to the significant support of local foundations and many individuals in our community, the project moved forward. His engineering, project management skills and ability to negotiate were also put to the test when he became the quasi-general contractor, overseeing a large portion of the remodeling work himself. The rest, as we say, is history: Trillium is now in a building of their own, not leased, and last year they served more than 11,000 clients – nearly twice the number they could serve from the former location.

Hart graduated from Ohio University with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering and completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard University. He completed nearly forty years of service with The Timken Company before retiring in 1996. He served as an officer of the corporation for 17 years and was Vice President – Bearings, North and South America and Asia-Pacific, at the time of his retirement.

Hart received the Key Man Award from the Canton Jaycees, served on the board of the Stark Community Foundation, where he was chair for three years, and on the board of the Canton Symphony Orchestra. He chaired the annual fund drives for both Fund for the Arts and the United Way, and served on the board of the Buckeye Council of the Boy Scouts of America. He retired with the rank of Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve.

He currently is president of the Henry and Louise Timken Foundation and serves on several committees of the Stark Community Foundation. While a member of the Church of the Covenant, he was an Elder and choir member, and currently is a member of Christ Presbyterian Church.

Hart and wife, Rhoda, just celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. They have two sons and six grandchildren. He is an avid golfer and is a past president of Brookside Country Club, where he continues to play tennis as well as golf. He is an experienced sailor and enjoys gardening as well as attending every sporting event possible to support his grandchildren.

Dennis Biery, president of Biery Cheese, and his wife Lynne Biery are receiving an Award of Appreciation for service through short-term activities resulting in widespread benefit to the community.

Through Biery Cheese, a family owned business that dates back to 1929, the Bierys have always made time to take on leadership and service roles in the community, especially in the education arena. They have contributed to local universities, including the University of Mount Union, Malone University and Walsh University. They also provide scholarships for area students, including summer work programs at Biery Cheese.

Last year, two years after Louisville High School had begun plans to replace deteriorated bleachers, the gates opened to the new $3.4 million Louisville Leopards Stadium. The stadium was transformed from a flattened piece of land into one of the nicest high school athletic stadiums in the state. Dennis Biery co-chaired the Louisville’s stadium committee and was the driving force behind the project, even pitching in to do some of the manual work himself in addition to leading the charge in raising the funds for the project. Prior to the football stadium project, the Bierys helped build new baseball and softball fields for school.

The Bierys were also instrumental in the creation of the first YMCA building in Louisville. They donated major financial and on-site work for the project, and as a result, the Louisville Area YMCA has become a true hub of the community. Likewise, the Bierys have been longtime supporters of Copeland Oaks, pledging major support for projects at the retirement community.

They have long been dedicated to renovating and rejuvenating local history. Through the efforts of Lynne Biery, the Frank A. Sebring Mansion has undergone major restoration to transform it into a country inn, resulting in a thriving success for the local community. Through her work, the home has come alive once again and will be preserved for future generations. She was also involved in the renovation of The Strand Theatre in downtown Sebring, bringing back the long history of the majestic landmark.

Maria Byington is receiving an Award of Appreciation for enhancing the welfare of Stark County citizens through outstanding success in business and service.

As the owner of Arcadia Grill, Canton-native Maria Byington is a goodwill ambassador for downtown Canton and is passionate about making it a vibrant place for everyone to enjoy. Rather than competition, Byington looks at her fellow local businesses as colleagues and partners in sustaining the growth of downtown Canton.

Byington works tirelessly to support the downtown Canton community and its citizens. She annually stages fundraisers at Arcadia Grill, including the pub crawls, restaurant round robins, and Christmas in July, where she donates a percentage of her total sales to various non-profit organizations throughout the month of July. Among these organizations are the Canton Palace Theatre, Ex-Newsboys Association, Project Rebuild and many, many others. In addition, Byington hosts guest bartending nights to support community charitable causes such as Wishes can Happen, Canton Rugby Club, Relay for Life and Canton City Firefighters.

Byington often donates food for families in need, be it after funeral services, by providing food for volunteers, or assisting the Red Cross by donating food for misplaced residents. She has generously supported the efforts of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Timken Grand Parade and Community Parade, both as a sponsor and as a provider of refreshments for volunteers.

Even when faced with serious health issues herself over the past several years, her unwavering spirit continues to shine through as she consistently puts others before herself. Byington is a kind and humble spirit who engages in innumerable behind-the-scenes charity services, never once looking for credit or recognition.

Stark County Park District (Bob Fonte, director) is receiving the Award of Appreciation for enhancing the welfare of Stark County citizens through expanding recreation, healthy lifestyles and nature education in our community.

After 30 years of little growth and the rejection of ten operating levies, the Stark County Park District knew they needed a change. In early 1997, Fonte and the staff created a plan to build a countywide system of 300 miles of trails and greenways that captured residents’ imagination and garnered their support. Now, 14 years later, the trail mileage

extends more than 70 miles, and the natural areas managed by Stark Parks are up from 400 acres to 7,200 acres. This growth has supported local businesses, preserved wetlands and flood plains, added good paying jobs to our community, and expanded low-cost recreation at a time when residents have less money to spend.

The Exploration Gateway at Sippo Lake Park is a center of nature, culture and life-long learning. Established in 2007 in collaboration with the Stark County District Library, the partnership was the first of its kind in the nation, allowing these two important public partners to expand their programming, work together, save taxpayer dollars, and provide a beautiful community asset.

Stark Parks has partnered with the City of Canton to build a 4.4-mile trail through city parks from 9th Street to Covered Bridge Park and a one-mile trail along the Mahoning Road Corridor in the NEAR neighborhood. Additional trails and pedestrian/bicycle routes will soon be under construction. The partnership with the City of Alliance has opened two large lakes – Walborn and Deer Creek – for more boating, fishing and hiking.

Stark Parks sponsors more than 300 free programs and events annually. They established the Congressman Ralph Regula Canalway Center, including 11 interactive exhibits exploring our culture, history and nature.

From 2007-2010 local residents voted Stark Parks the “Best Place to Spend Time with your Family” and the “Best Outdoor Recreation Site.” In 2011, Sippo Lake Park and Stark Parks were voted as “Best Park.” For the last two years, the park district has received two coveted “Pinnacle Awards” from the Center for interactive Learning and Collaboration. They have also received state and regional awards from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft and a National Boater Education Advancement Award from the National Safe Boating Council, among many others.

Raymond Wilkof is receiving an Award of Appreciation for outstanding performance in his profession and civic activities that benefited the community.

Wilkof is a hardworking business owner and highly dedicated philanthropic leader in the Stark County community. In 1959, with a young family to support, Wilkof quit his job and founded Stark Industrial Supply, first distributing power transmission equipment out of a small storefront on 12th St. Through the years, he grew his business by listening to the needs of his customers. In 1976, his son Sam joined him in business and shortly afterwards Stark Industrial ventured into the world of precision measuring instruments. In the 1990s, their focus shifted to the manufacture of precision parts for a wide variety of industries throughout the world. Grandson Jonathan, an industrial engineer joined the company in 2005, making Stark a three-generation, privately held business. Together, they have grown the business to 36 employees and Wilkof knows each of them on a personal level. The average tenure at Stark Industrial is over 19 years; his loyalty to his employees has been returned. In the words of his nominator, Robert Fay, “Ray has lived the great American Dream and has helped many fellow citizens realize theirs as well.”

His volunteerism is far-reaching and diverse. From boating to Boy Scouts, symphony to synagogue, Wilkof has shared his leadership, innovative ideas and positive attitude with his community. He has served The Stark Development Board, the United Way, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the Canton City Schools Vocational committee, the Canton Symphony Orchestra board and the Jewish community in myriad capacities, including president. He was awarded the first-ever, prestigious SCOPE Award in 1994 from the Canton Regional Chamber, as well as the Lehman High School Alumni of the Year award. A man of great integrity, he serves as a mentor to many and an example to all.

Wilkof is most proud that his is a family business, for no matter how committed he has been to civic activities throughout the years, family has always come first. He is proud of his son Jeffrey, a local attorney, his daughter Marcia, a management consultant, and his son Sam, his partner at Stark Industrial, and most of all his devoted wife of 66 years, Rossetta.

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Candy Wallace, long-time and extremely active community volunteer, will serve as general chairman of the Enshrinement Festival activities planned by the Enshrinement Festival department of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. For the second consecutive year, Robert J. McFarlane, national sales director of outdoors products division for Bruce Foods Corporation of New Iberia, LA, will serve as general chairman of the Enshrinement Festival activities planned by the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

With the 2011 Enshrinement Festival just a few months behind them, strategic planning for the 2012 Enshrinement Festival is already well underway. 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 extraordinary community volunteers, will ensure the success of 18 unique and diverse events over a nearly two-week period. The tentative dates for the 2012 events will be announced and available shortly at www.profootballhofef.com. The Enshrinement Festival activities, attended by nearly 700,000 people, are expected to produce an economic impact of over $30 million for the Canton/Stark County area and nearly $55 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. With a record of success for the past 48 years, the Enshrinement Festival has earned its reputation as “A One of a Kind Celebration!”

Wallace will lead the chairmen of 26 Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce committees, who hold in excess of 350 meetings throughout the year, to attend to the massive details of planning and staging several Enshrinement Festival events. She has been deeply involved in Enshrinement Festival activities for many years, including serving in 2011 as General Vice Chairman, and prior service on the Fashion Show Luncheon committee, and chairman of the Food Committee and Enshrinees Dinner Committee. Elsewhere in the community, she is a member of the Aultman Hospital Women’s Board and provides volunteer service to Stark Community Foundation, Stark Education Partnership, Sisters of Charity, SPARK, Plain Local Schools and Leadership Stark County. She and her husband William reside in Canton and have four children and three grandchildren.

McFarlane will lead the chairmen of 11 Pro Football Hall of Fame committees in planning and implementing other Enshrinement Festival events, including the central focus of the entire festival, the Enshrinement Ceremony, as well as the NFL Hall of Fame Game and the First Play event. McFarlane also will lead the support committees that assist the Pro Football Hall of Fame in providing hospitality to the 2012 Enshrinees, the returning Hall of Famers and their families. He is a 20-year veteran of the Hall of Fame Hospitality Committee, and served as chairman for 11 years.

In addition to his volunteer work with the Hall of Fame committee, McFarlane is past-chairman of the Enshrinement Festival Balloon Classic Invitational Committee, past-president of Wishes Can Happen, Inc, co-founder and past-president of Jackson Township Jaycees, JCI Senator and Ambassador, included in Outstanding Young Men of America, and retired football official after 26 years. He has been very involved in Jackson Township, where he resides and has served as a volunteer fireman. He was also involved in the formation of the Jackson Township Police Department. He is a graduate of Capital University with a bachelor’s degree in management. He and wife Sharon are proud of daughter Kelly and son-in-law Scott.

While nearly 21,000 men have played in at least one National Football League game, there are only 267 members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This number will be increased by not more than seven and not fewer than four when the 2012 Class is announced Feb. 4 during Super Bowl weekend. The central focus and highlight of the festivities will be the induction ceremony for the 2012 Class of Enshrinees, tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 4, at Fawcett Stadium.

Check the Web sites periodically for the latest information: www.profootballhofef.com or www.profootballhof.com.

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At the annual dinner, Barbara Hammontree Bennett, 2009 general chairman, presented the 17th annual Corporate Award of Merit to Lowe’s in grateful recognition of their long-time outstanding and generous support of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival. Since 1946, Lowe’s has grown from a small-town hardware store to a Fortune 500 company, but their commitment to their customers has never changed. Their company culture is focused on great customer service, respect and teamwork. In addition to offering quality products at great prices, Lowe’s has a long and strong reputation for maintaining high ethical standards and promoting community engagement. They maintain that they are able to do what is right for their customers and communities by doing what is right for their employees, and they promote integrity as one of their core values.

Lowe’s has annually provided many of the materials and resources necessary to successfully plan and stage Enshrinement Festival events, particularly the largest outdoor events. Their generous support has been extraordinary and critical to the Enshrinement Festival’s ability to thrive. The award was accepted on behalf of Lowe’s by Tim Moore, regional vice president, Brett Bailey, district manager, and Bill Burmeister, commercial sales specialist.

Another tradition at the annual dinner is the initiation into the association of the most recent General Chairman. The ceremonial green jacket was presented by 2010 general chairman Dan Fuline to 2011 general chairman Robert R. Timken, who joins 45 other women and men who have held this prestigious position over the years. He was commended for his extraordinary leadership and dedication to the enhancement and growth of the Enshrinement Festival. Timken was especially recognized for his unmatched hands-on role in supporting all of the Enshrinement Festival committees.

In 2012, he will continue to serve the Enshrinement Festival as chairman of the Chamber’s Steering Committee. Additionally, the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Chamber’s Enshrinement Festival department have begun to collaborate on plans for their 50th Anniversary celebrations in 2013, and Timken will chair the Chamber’s planning efforts.

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PHOTOS

Corporate Award of Merit to Lowe’s
(PHOTO: L to R) Bill Schauer, Alumni Association chairman; Tim Moore, Brett Bailey, and Bill Burmeister accepting on behalf of Lowe’s; Barbara Hammontree Bennett, presenter.

Robert Timken and Enshrinement Festival Staff
(PHOTO: L to R) Joanne Murray (director), Laura Perry, Karen Khourey, Robert Timken (2011 general chairman), Tonya Stuck, Chris Gumpp, Kathy Lindenberger.

CANTON, OH (Oct. 4, 2011)

During the event, you’ll learn a quick-step plan to maximizing your social media efforts, including:

*How to identify your primary goals for social media

*Determining your audience and the specific value they bring to your business

*Creating a brand strategy that incorporates all of your online accounts

*Assessing your personal commitment and learning how to fit social media activities into your jam-packed day.

Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the program and breakfast following at 7:30 a.m. AultCare Fast Break Breakfasts are held at the Courtyard by Marriott, located at 4375 Metro Circle in North Canton.

Tickets are $18 for Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce members, $21 for member tickets purchased less than 48 hours in advance and $25 for non-members. Tickets are available online at www.CantonChamber.org, or by calling (330) 458-2070.

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.

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CANTON, OH (Sept. 30, 2011)

What began 30 years ago as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

“The attractiveness of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival as a don’t-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction,” said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA’s president and CEO. “The real news is that the Enshrinement Festival has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives you an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners.”

According to studies completed by researchers at The George Washington University and Dunham and Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave between $5,000 and $11,000 in a local destination’s economy. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services, and local taxes. Further, a 2005 comprehensive economic impact study commissioned jointly by the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Canton/Stark County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau shows that the Enshrinement Festival annually produces a $31 million economic impact on the local area, and nearly $56 million on the State of Ohio.

ABA’s 2012 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival from hundreds of event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event’s broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria. The Enshrinement Festival also received this prestigious recognition in 1982, 1987, 2004, 2008, and 2010.

The Top 100 Events list is available online at www.buses.org/News-Publications/Top-100, and further Enshrinement Festival information can be obtained at www.ProFootballHofef.com.

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During the tour, attendees of this year’s bus tour will:

• *Stop at Stark Parks Towpath Trail and Exploration Gateways
• *Tour Tower Industries, a state-of-the-art manufacturer
• *Hear accounts of Stark County’s storied past from local historians
• *Get insider views of agribusiness
• *Have lunch at the University Center at KSU Stark
• *Learn of local non-profits such as Pegasus Farms and First Tee of Canton
• *Have the opportunity to network with business and community leaders

The Encounter Bus Tour is the perfect opportunity for area employers to give new staff members an immersive look of our community. Tickets for the tour are $69 per person and include lunch. The bus departs downtown Canton at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.LeadershipStarkCounty.org or contact Fran Wells, director, at (330) 458-2094 or franw@leadershipstarkcounty.org.

For more information about this and other Leadership Stark County programs, visit LeadershipStarkCounty.org.

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The sales tax is critical to public safety, the Chamber’s board determined. Without it, the Sheriff’s Department, which operates the Stark County Jail, will have its budget cut 40 percent in 2012. That would leave the jail with money to operate with only 122 beds in 2012. That is down from the 501 beds available when there are enough deputies and corrections officers to supervise the entire facility safely.

Most offices in county government would endure 40 percent budget cuts in 2012 without the tax, resulting in severe cutbacks in employees and days of operation.

“In our review of the situation, we believe county government has made responsible cuts to budgets and workforce to meet declining revenues. There comes a point when further cuts jeopardize the basic operations of government, particularly in a critical area such as public safety” said George W. Lemon, chairman of the board at the Canton Regional Chamber. “That is why we support the sales tax.”

When there are too few corrections officers and deputies to operate the jail at capacity, criminal suspects who should be in jail awaiting trial are set free. The jail population has already been reduced this year to about 300, leaving many criminal suspects free to commit more crimes.

The vast majority of departments funded through Stark County government’s General Fund have had their budgets cut in 2011. The Sheriff’s Department alone has seen its budget reduced from about $16.6 million in 2010 to about $13.8 million this year.

If the tax is passed, county government will use new money in 2012 to bring the jail back to acceptable levels of operation as quickly as possible. The sheriff will receive the $16.6 million he received in 2010, and most other departments in government will undergo a 23 percent budget cut to make that happen.

These further cuts would be necessary in 2012 because of the timing for collection of new tax money. If voters approve the half-percent sales tax in November, businesses won’t start collecting the half-percent until April 1. State government won’t start making payments to Stark County until July 1. So, in effect, the tax will not benefit county government for the first six months of 2012.

If the tax is not passed, 40 percent budget cuts in county government next year may mean that the jail is not available for city and township police officers who arrest criminal suspects. Police throughout Stark County depend on the jail to house their prisoners. Canton, Massillon and Alliance do not have functioning jails.

Public safety aside, 40 percent cuts in other General Fund operations would mean many county offices would not be open more than two or three days a week, county officials predict. This would mean a slowdown in real estate filings, the functioning of the courts and the collection and distribution of real estate taxes to public schools, township governments and other public institutions.

“This slowdown in the ability of county government to function will severely curtail the county’s ability to serve as a place for employers to conduct business.” said Chamber President and CEO Dennis P. Saunier.

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Contact David Kaminski, director of education and government affairs, Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce: 330-458-2059 or 330-418-4402 or davidk@cantonchamber.org

CANTON, OH (Sept. 19, 2011) – Snapshots from the Timken Grand Parade by non-professional photographer Andy Smith of Canton won a first place award and the coveted “Best of Show” in the 23rd annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Photo Contest, sponsored by the Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography. He also was awarded one honorable mention, bringing his personal prize package to $375.

The annual photo contest was open to amateur and professional photographers alike, and any photos of outdoor Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival events qualified for entry. The photos were judged based on creativity, clarity, depth and color, overall composition and print quality. Nine photographers won a total cash purse of $1,650.

Bob Rossiter of Canton took first place honors in the professional category and $100 each for his photos taken at the Concert and Fireworks, Balloon Classic Invitational/Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks, and Ribs Burnoff, plus one $25 honorable mention award.

Professional William Green of Louisville won $100 each for his photos of the 2-Mile and 5-Mile Races and Drum Corps International. The final professional entry winning of $100 was Dennis Valentine of Louisville for his Timken Grand Parade photo.

The non-professional category was led by Douglas Perry of Canton who received $325 for three first-place winning photos from the Concert and Fireworks, 2-Mile and 5-Mile Races, and Ribs Burnoff, as well as one honorable mention award. Other $100 award winners in the non-professional category included Bobby Grizzard of Massillon (Drum Corps International), Christy Moyer of Simpsonville, SC (Balloon Classic Invitational/Jackson-Belden Food Fest & Fireworks), and Christina Wine of Massillon (Community Parade). Completing the non-professional category was Taylor Nervo of Louisville with one honorable mention award.

The winning photos will be on display at the Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography at 520 Cleveland Ave. N in downtown Canton from Oct. 12 through 22, and on the Enshrinement Festival’s Web site at www.profootballhofef.com/photo-contest.

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CANTON, OHIO (September 15, 2011)

These individuals are about to begin 10 months of leadership training and experiences that will provide an understanding of local issues, assets and resources relating to Stark County’s economy, educational institutions, social services, justice system, political system and the arts. The class participates in community development projects designed to build on neighborhood assets. Upon graduation, members expand their participation on non-profits boards.

The 25th Signature Class members hail from ten area cities or villages and 14 school districts. They range in age from 26 to 59. Six have lived in Stark County less than 10 years, while 17 have lived in Stark County for more than 30 years. There are 27 employees of corporations or businesses, nine non-profit staff members and three educators. They have in common a link to Stark County through their residence or workplace and a desire to serve this community.

The 25th Signature Class includes:

Matthew Ashton, IT Manager, Seifert Technologies, Inc
Aimee Belden, Director, ystark!, Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce
David Beule, President, Appalachian Basin CPAs, Inc.
Neil Bhagat, Attorney, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLP
Benjamin Boyd, Marketing/Property Manager, Brookwood Management Co. Inc.
Mary Brady, Early Childhood Specialist, Early Childhood Resource Center
Marcie Bragg, Director of The Center for Entrepreneurial Success, Goodwill Industries
Darla Brown, Editor, About magazine, The Repository/GateHouse Media
Kenneth A. Buie, Programs Coordinator, Stark State College
Christina Burr, Controller, Aultman Health Foundation
Nichole Cardinale, Manager – Admissions & Special Events, Pro Football Hall of Fame
Jason Conrad, Assistant Principal, Perry Local Schools
Linda Dahl, Manager of Public Information, Stark County District Library
Michael Discenza, Director – Financial Planning & Performance, The Timken Company
Jill Dorsey, Director of Emergency Services, Alliance Community Hospital
Dean Fox, Administrative Director, Mercy Medical Center
Lisa Grubbs, CEO, Phoenix Rising BHR, Inc
Justin Hardesty, Portfolio Manager, CCO, Greenport Financial
Ryan Heckert, SSA Supervisor, Waiver Services Unit, Stark County Board of DD
Christopher Henson, General Sales Manager – US Distribution Managment, The Timken Company
Jennifer Hoffner, Human Resources Partner, Diebold, Inc.
Barbara Kennedy, Commercial Portfolio Manager, Huntington National Bank
Sheila Klenner, Chief Operating Officer, Sirak-Moore Insurance Agency
Robb Lightell, Assistant Vice President – Commercial Portfolio Manager, FirstMerit Bank N.A.
Paula S. Mastroianni, Director of Community & Provider Relations, Mental Health & Recovery Services Board
Dawn L. Miller, Program Officer, Sisters of Charity Foundation of Canton
Michelle L. Molinet, Director of Finance & Administration, Black, McCuskey, Souers & Arbaugh LPA
James Molnar, President, Molnar Tech Services
Amanda Paar, Attorney, Tzangas, Plakas, Mannos & Raies, Ltd.
Dwight Parrish, Customer Services Representative, American Electric Power
Brenda Louise Pedro, Administrator, Altercare of Nobles Pond
David B. Pilati, Director of Secondary Instruction, Plain Local School District
Matthew Savage, Vice President, Vasco Asphalt Company
Jason Shilling, Vice President Commercial Lending, Westfield Bank
Diana Smith, HR Generalist, ComDoc
James Stevenot, Senior Legal Counsel & Director of Business Development, Rolls-Royce Fuel Cell Systems
Pamela Valentine, Service Area Director, Girls Scouts NEO
Amy Wesely, Floorcare Marketing Manager, H-P Products, Inc.
Stephan Wright, Attorney, Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty

Participant selection is competitive and designed to bring diversity (including, but not limited to, geographic, professional and cultural diversity) to the Leadership Stark County program and to area boards. These community-minded individuals have been charged to work together to make a lifelong commitment to Stark County.
For more information about this and other Leadership Stark County programs, visit LeadershipStarkCounty.org.

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Leadership Stark County is a department of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.