Feb/Mar/Apr 2015 Downtown Developments by Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

Downtown Dining Deals is back!

B Downtown Canton’s streetscape comes alive with fun festivals!

First Friday of every month

will once again be hosting the “Downtown Dining Deals” promotion.

Diners to the participating downtown Canton restaurants will receive one halfpriced entrée for each entrée they purchase at regular price. Select downtown restaurants will offer this special discount to diners every Wednesday through April 15. 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 select issues of The Repository. Downtown Deals will feature 12 downtown Canton restaurants, including: Amvets 555, Bender’s Tavern, Cheese Louise, Deli Ohio, Desert Inn, George’s Lounge, Lucca, Marques, Napoli’s Italian Eatery, Sports Therapy Bar and Grill, Thatsa Wrapp and Thorpe’s Grill at the McKinley Grand. “This is a great opportunity to come downtown and enjoy some of our independent restaurants at a great value,” said Mike Gill, director of the Downtown Special Improvement District. “Diners can experience both casual and fine dining, and a variety of cuisines from around the globe.”

Through mid-April

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2015

For details about Downtown Deals Wednesday, visit www.DowntownCanton.com, or contact Annette Rosenberger at annette@cantonchamber.org or (330) 458-2092. The Downtown Deals promotion is presented by the Downtown Canton Special Improvement District and sponsored by The Repository. (See coupon on page five.)

FEB. • MARCH • APRIL

2015 Downtown Event Schedule

eginning February 18, the Downtown Special Improvement District

After 5PM on Wednesdays Feb. 18 through April 15 BUY ONE ENTRÉE GET ONE ENTRÉE HALF OFF

(of equal or lesser value)

COUPON REQUIRED

PRESENTED BY

SPONSORED BY

Amvets 555 Bender’s Tavern Cheese Louise Deli Ohio Desert Inn George’s Lounge Lucca Marques Napoli’s Italian Eatery Sports Therapy Bar and Grill Thatsa Wrapp Thorpe’s Market Avenue Grill

Not valid with any other offer or for carryout. Valid at participating locations Wednesdays after 5:00 p.m. Participating locations listed above. Restrictions may apply. Discount excludes tax and tip. Please tip your server generously. Coupon valid February 18, 2015 through April 15, 2015.

• Downtown Deals • First Friday • Downtown News • Canton Brewing Co. • Historic Onesto Lofts • SmArtSplash • Downtown Beat Officer • Canton Farmers’ Market • Downtown Festivals

WHATWHEREWHEN

Vol. 15 Issue One

SPECIAL FEATURES

Downtown Developments is published quarterly by Canton Development Partnership, a department of Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Downtown Canton Special Improvement District

First Friday! From honoring the written word, to gambling on a great evening, to celebrating a milestone – Canton First Friday is your must stop, first stop, every month.

February 6

222 Market Ave. N. Canton, OH 44702 (330) 456-0468 fax (330) 452-7786 cdp@cantonchamber.org www.DowntownCanton.com Dennis P. Saunier President & CEO Michael P. Gill Director Annette Rosenberger Office Manager Denise Burton Membership Director Collyn Floyd Marketing Director & Editor Erin Thompson Downtown Events Manager Sarah Lutz Graphics Manager The Canton Development Partnership is a coalition of area development organizations and city government that share an interest in downtown Canton’s continual improvement, revitalization, image, and quality of life for its citizens. Its mission is to support and coordinate the activities and programs of its partner organizations in order to encourage and sustain community and economic development in downtown Canton. The partnering organizations include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Canton Special Improvement District, Downtown Canton Land Bank, Canton Tomorrow, Inc., and City of Canton. Information regarding downtown events and news can be submitted for reprint at the discretion of the Partnership director and publication editor. The Canton Development Partnership reserves the right to edit all copy. Deadlines are the 15th of the month, two months prior to publication (i.e., March 15 for the May/June/July issue). Statements of fact and opinion within Downtown Developments are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply the opinion of the members of Canton Development Partnership or its partnering organizations. Advertising rates and specifications are available by contacting the Chamber sales department at (330) 458-2067.

Art of the Author. There’s no better time to wrap up with a good book, and snuggle in with your love of the written word. Local authors will share their stories throughout the District. Artist Pam Neff will exhibit her page-turning art at the Stark County District Library, also the site of a best-selling activity for all. And everybody’s favorite book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, takes the screen at The Palace Theatre.

March 6

Vegas Night. It’s time to channel your inner Wayne Newton for an all-out scavenger hunt – Vegas Style – in the Canton Arts District. Place your bet on great music happening in all of the local galleries and coffee shops (We’ve got 4 of them!), and don’t roulette (get it?) the one-night only scratch-off tickets available to anyone

April 3

Above the Fold. By this date, you’ve read all about the 100th anniversary of The Repository. But, on this special event, you will get to put pencil (or maybe brush, glue stick, or maybe even some glitter) on paper-themed projects all-around the District. See the special Scared Scriptless impromptu performance, honoring the best headlines in the last 100 years, view the most interesting photos from the paper at the Joseph Saxton Gallery and see how area artists turn paper into art. www.cantonartsdistrict.com/ firstfriday

Downtown Business News J. Albert Studios – 336 4th St. NW Professional photographer Joe Albert has opened gallery and studio space at 336 4th St. NW in the heart of the Canton Arts District. You may already be familiar with his work: Joe shot two of our downtown Canton events in 2014 (Vintage Canton and Light Up Downtown) and frequently takes photos of Downtown Canton. In fact, his collection of downtown photos, called “Around Town,” was recently on exhibit at Journey Art Gallery. When Joe’s not shooting downtown, he’s probably shooting high-end homes for realtors, doing corporate photography, or even on-location work for families and weddings.

COLLECTIVE s/a/s – 338 4th St. NW Next door to J. Albert Studios is another new addition to 4th Street: COLLECTIVE skate/ art/snow. COLLECTIVE s/a/s recently moved downtown from Belden Village, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to 4th St. Their store serves skateboarding and snowboarding enthusiasts and is truly a perfect fit for the Arts District! Stop into COLLECTIVE s/a/s year-round for skate shoes, skateboards, snowboards, apparel, accessories and more.

Marques Restaurant A new restaurant called Marques (pronounced ‘Marks’) has moved into the space formally occupied by Rockin’ Robin at 111 Cleveland Ave. SW, touting “New Owners, New Menu, New Vibe!” We caught up with Marques’ executive chef and part-owner, Larvette Carlton (better known as Chef ‘Vette), to hear more about the menu. The restaurant, which held its grand opening on New Year’s Eve, specializes in Southern, Creole and Cajun Fusion cuisine and features dishes such as gumbo, turnip greens, fried chicken, shrimp and grits, jambalaya, etouffee, and more. Marques, which is named after part-owner Marcus Harris, is open weekdays for lunch at 11 am, happy hour on weekdays from 4-7 pm, and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays from 5-11 pm with live entertainment. Reservations on weekends are recommended.

J. Albert, Vintage Canton

Aura Salon and Spa has moved! It’s a new year, new space, and new look for Aura Salon and Spa. The popular downtown salon has only moved two blocks west, to 229 3rd St. Suite 150, but the new vibe couldn’t be more different. Gone is the ultra-bright hot pink and tangerine color palette, and in are industrial-chic greys and concrete. Wood accent walls and crystal chandeliers keep the space feminine. Aura offers a full range of hair services, manicures/pedicures, spa services, and massage.

From the menu of Marques Restaurant

COMING SOON: Canton Brewing Company

he Canton Brewing Company dates its beginnings back to 1883. In December 2014, the brewery re-opened and is back in the business of brewing a variety of beers, many based on the historic styles for which the brewer was originally known.

Located on the corner of 3rd St. and Court Ave. NW, the brewery will consistently feature a wide selection of beers that will always include their signature Tuscora pilsner. Other beers will be released on a regular basis throughout the year including an American Pale Ale, an imperial stout and a Germanstyle kolsch. Canton Brewing will offer a full experience that goes beyond just the beer. In addition to a full restaurant with an open kitchen upstairs—featuring gourmet pizzas and modern American pub cuisine— that’s slated to open in April, the brewery also plans a Speakeasy on its 15,000 square foot lower level, where much of the brewing itself happens. The Speakeasy is scheduled for a mid-February opening and will initially be a tasting room including 8-10 beers until the restaurant opens. Ready to sample Canton Brewing beers for yourself now? The beers have been available since midDecember (to rave reviews!) at a number of downtown bars and restaurants, including The Auricle, Basil Asian Bistro, Bender’s, Buzzbin Art and Music Shop, Lucca, Tapas 218, and Thatsa Wrapp. Beers available include Cascade Ale and Carpe Noctem Coffee Porter, made with Carpe Diem Coffee’s roasted coffee beans. The beer is also available at Fishers Foods growler stations and Table Six restaurant.

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT at the Historic Onesto Lofts

he Historic Onesto Lofts, located at 2nd and Cleveland Ave., NW, has begun booking events for its ballroom and grand lobby. The property, formerly the Hotel

Onesto, originally opened in 1930 and has been restored to its original splendor by developer Steve Coon. Forty-five market rate apartments are in their final stages of restoration and tenants are set to move in as early as February. The Onesto offers three specific areas to accommodate public and private events. The Grand Ballroom can accommodate approximately 280 guests with a dance floor and head table. An adjacent room between the lobby and ballroom can accommodate nearly sixty people under a hand-painted mural of hotel founder Frank Onesto. The lobby, with its vaulted and hand-painted ceilings, is a perfect setting for cocktail parties and intimate gatherings. Guests will enjoy gathering amidst the gorgeous historical ambience highlighted by the original crystal chandelier that hangs above the grand staircase. Space in the Onesto is also being developed at street level for small businesses looking for a unique and elegant address to call home. For more information about events, apartments or renting space for a business, call (330) 875-2100 or visit www.historiconesto.com to learn more.

Showcase your local products at the 2015 Canton Farmers’ Market

n 2014, The Repository Readers’ Choice Award for Favorite Farmers’ Market went to our very own Canton Farmers’ Market, and we’re looking forward to its return every Saturday beginning in June! The Canton Farmers’ Market offers a cornucopia of local produce, breads and baked goods, organic cheeses, grassfed beef, and much, much more, including live music, local artists, health checks, organic gardening tips, and cooking demonstrations. In order to assure an awesome experience for vendors, growers, and customers, details are still being finalized. More information and vendor applications will be on the website soon, so check it out at www.cantonfarmersmarket.com. We’re looking for volunteers! The market is also seeking volunteers to help with a variety of activities. Please contact Erin Thompson, downtown events manager, at erint@cantonchamber.org or (330) 458-2072 with vendor or volunteer inquiries.

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After 5PM on Wednesdays Feb. 18 through April 15 BUY ONE ENTRÉE GET ONE ENTRÉE HALF OFF

(of equal or lesser value)

COUPON REQUIRED

PRESENTED BY

SPONSORED BY

Amvets 555 Bender’s Tavern Cheese Louise Deli Ohio Desert Inn George’s Lounge Lucca Marques Napoli’s Italian Eatery Sports Therapy Bar and Grill Thatsa Wrapp Thorpe’s Market Avenue Grill

Art and Education Dive in to make a Splash

ust about the time that we realize that the groundhog has fibbed, those with small

children (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and neighbor kids) are looking for something to break the ice of the winter blues. And voila! Along comes SmArtSplash – ArtsinStark’s free family fun event at The Cultural Center for the Arts. In its ninth year of celebration, SmArtSplash (formerly known as ArtSplash), invites children (accompanied by adults) to enjoy a day at The Cultural Center for the Arts. Performances by the Canton Ballet, Players Guild Theatre and area school dance teams, take center stage in the Great Court (the one with the flying horse) to entertain amid booths set up with a Superhero theme that’s both fun and educational. Representatives from the SmArts schools, ArtsinStark’s partnership grant programming integrating art into the core curriculum, will be on hand with make-n-take projects as well as information about how their school is increasing student performance by using the arts to enhance learning in math, science, language arts and social studies. Participants in the K-8th grade 2nd Annual Stark County Art Show will have their 2D work on exhibit, with prizes being awarded for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in all grades. The Canton Museum of Art will offer free admission to “The Legacy of Ferdinand Brader” exhibit while offering compatible projects to highlight the gallery works. Canton Film Works will let kids star in their own movie and everyone will go home with a free SmArts kit. Hot dog! There will be snacks and sips as well. So grab some kids (ones that you know!) and bring them down to make a splash – a SmArtSplash. Saturday, March 7 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cultural Center for the Arts 1001 Market Avenue North, Canton, OHIO 44702 www.artsinstark.com/smartsplash

Meet Our New Afternoon Beat Officer Ptl. Bill Watkins is the new afternoon downtown walking beat officer. His hours are 3 pm to 11 pm. With the addition of Ptl. Watkins, the downtown neighborhood will have a walking beat officer Monday through Friday from 8 am to 11 pm. If you need his assistance, please dial dispatch at 330-649-5800. For emergencies, please continue to dial 911.

Downtown Census is Underway The Canton Regional Chamber wants downtown Canton to be the best possible place to live, work, and play! That’s why we’re currently conducting a “door-to-door” census to help us learn more about our downtown business community. Information is key to helping us create a more culturally and economically sound downtown. We’ll be visiting your business in the next few weeks, if we haven’t stopped by already. It’ll just take a few minutes of your time (we promise!), and everyone who goes online to fill out our short six-question survey about downtown will be registered for a drawing for gift cards to downtown restaurants and coffee shops. Thank you for your cooperation!

Spring

February First Friday Canton Arts District February 6

SmArtSplash Cultural Center for the Arts March 7

Downtown Dining Deals Select Restaurants Wednesdays, Feb. 18 - April 15

April First Friday Canton Arts District April 3

March First Friday Canton Arts District March 6 More event information at www.DowntownCanton.com