s , a s s e t s u n d e r m a n a g e m e n t a n d F i r m - g e n e r a t e d r e v e n u e ( i n v e s t m e n t p e r f o r m a n c e i s n o t a c r i t e r i o n ) S H O O K ’ s r a n k i n g s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r c l i e n t e v a l u a t i o n on l y , a r e n o t i n d i c a t i v e o f f u t u r e p e r f o r m a n c e a n d d o n o t r e p r e s e n t a n y o n e c l i e n t ’ s e x p e r i e n c e a n d a v a i l a b l e f o r i n v e s t o r h e l p i n e v a l u a t i n g t h e r i g h t f i n a n c i a l a d v i s o r C o m p e n s a t i o n w a s n o t r e c e i v e d f r o m a n y o n e f o r t h e s t u d y P a s t p e r f o r m a n c e d o e s n o t g u a r a n t e e f u t u r e r e s u l t s D e t a i l s a v a i l a b l e a t t h e S H O O K
R e s e a r c h w e b s i t e S H O O K i s a r e g i s t e r e d t r a d e m a r k o f S H O O K R e s e a r c h , L L C M e r r i l l L y n c h , P i e rc e , F e n n e r & S m i t h I n c o r p o r a t e d ( M L P F & S ) i s a r e g i s t e r e d b r o k e r - d e a l e r , r e g i s t e r e d i n v e s t m e n t a d v i s e r , a n d M e m b e r S I P C B a n k o f A m e r i c a , N A , M e m b e r F D I C a n d M L P F & S a r e w h o l l y o w n e d s u b s i d i a r i e s o f B a n k o f A m e r i c a C o r p o r a t i o n T h e B u l l S y m b o l a n d M e r r i l l a r e r e g i s t e r e d t r a d e m a r k s o f B a n k o f A m e r i c a C o r p o r a t i o n C I M A ® i s a r e g i s t e r e d c e r t i f i c a t i o n m a r k o f t h e I n v e s t m e n t s & W e a l t h I n s t i t u t e ® F o r m or e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e I n s t i t u t e a n d t h e C I M A c e r t i f i c a t i o n , p l e a s e v i s i t i n v e s t m e n t s a n d w e a l t h o r g T h e C o l l e g e f o r F i n a n c i a l P l a n n i n g I n s t i t u
Wishing You a Holiday Season Filled with Love and Connection
As we approach the end of another year, we find ourselves in a season that beautifully embodies the spirit of giving, love, and gratitude. December invites us to reflect on our blessings and to share those blessings with our friends, families, community, and those in need.
In a world that can often feel divided, this month reminds us of the profound connections we share with one another. It’s a time to cherish our loved ones, to gather around the warmth of family traditions, and to extend our hearts to those who may be struggling. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded of the ultimate gift of love and sacrifice, encouraging us to embody those values in our daily lives. Whether through acts of kindness, donations to local charities, or simply offering a listening ear, we can all contribute to a sense of belonging and hope.
Our December issue holds stories that celebrate these themes. You’ll find the inspiring accounts of community members coming together to work with the Akron Canton Foodbank, ideas for meaningful gifts that will inspire, and heartfelt reflections on what it means to support one another. We hope these pages encourage you to embrace the spirit of the season, igniting a spark of compassion in your heart and actions.
As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holidays, let’s remember that the greatest gifts are often not those that come wrapped in paper, but those that are given freely—our time, our love, and our kindness. Together, we can make a difference, no matter how small.
Thank you for being a part of our community. We wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season filled with love and connection.
Warmest wishes,
NICOLE CERTO, PUBLISHER @CANTONLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Nicole Certo | nicole.certo@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Christian Williams | christian.williams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Christian Williams
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Alexa Picorelli
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Elevate Your Holiday Spirit
Glamorous Christmas Designs by Josette
As the holiday season approaches, interior designer Josette is ready to transform her design studio into a winter wonderland. Starting November 1st, she begins the enchanting task of decorating. This year, she’s embracing a striking color palette of blacks and gold to create a stunning, dramatic tree that will be the centerpiece of her shop.
Josette’s approach to Christmas decor is all about individual style and creativity. Each design reflects her passion for the season and dedication to bringing a modern twist to traditional holiday elements. For her home, she has adorned her fireplace mantle in all white, showcasing elegant nutcrackers in white and gold, complemented by cone trees and frosted evergreen picks. The mantle is further enhanced by lit garland finials and boughs that gracefully drape down. A round mirror is adorned with a white wreath and sparkling crystal accents. Topping it all off is a gorgeous gold starburst, adding a touch of glamour.
This year, Josette is also introducing a fresh take on holiday decor by replacing the traditional Christmas tree in her own home with a stunning winter wonderland scene. Large, illuminated birch trees stand tall, while smaller trees are embellished with metallic poinsettias, silver leaves, and ball garlands. Adding to the charm are standing deer, creating a captivating atmosphere that invites guests into a serene and magical landscape.
Josette believes that you don’t always have to rely on a tree to evoke the Christmas spirit. Her modern designs encourage a refreshing approach to holiday decorating. Whether it’s through unique tablescapes or creative arrangements, she showcases that the magic of Christmas can be found in many forms. Design and creation are truly in her blood, and this holiday season, she’s excited to inspire others to explore their holiday creativity.
Visit Josette’s showroom at Josette Kark Interior Design, 5158 Whipple Ave NW. Discover how her designs can elevate your holiday spirit and inspire your celebrations!
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ALEXA PECORELLI
Each design reflects her passion for the season and dedication to bringing a modern twist to traditional holiday elements. “
WARM HEARTS, nourishing meals
THE AKRON-CANTON FOODBANK HELPING FAMILIES HAVE WARM MEALS THIS HOLIDAY
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Across eight counties in Ohio, the AkronCanton Regional Foodbank helps source food for food pantries, meal sites, shelters, children’s programs, and hunger relief programs for older adults. Last year alone, 35 million pounds of food and other essentials were distributed— enough food for 27.2 million meals for local communities in need.
“Families are having a difficult time making ends meet. With the holiday season approaching and so many traditions centered around food, the Foodbank hopes to warm the hearts of our neighbors in need, one nourishing meal at a time,” says Raven Gayheart, director of marketing and public relations at the Foodbank.
The Foodbank continues to serve a record number of people, distributing enough food for 20% more meals than the previous year. For the first time in the organization’s history, it has distributed 3+ million pounds of food for the past 12 consecutive months. The sustained demand for food means the Foodbank’s inventory turnover rate is exceptionally high – food is distributed as quickly as it comes in.
In Stark County specifically, 1 in 8 people, an estimated 45,000 people, including 12,000 children, may struggle with hunger. The Foodbank partners with nearly 160 food programs in Stark County that directly impact the lives of local residents. Backpack programs for children, food pantries and meal sites, shelters, and rehabilitation programs help ensure residents have a place to turn during their time of need.
Last year, in partnership with the Foodbank, these Stark County food programs distributed enough food for 9.4 million meals. As partners reflect on the first three quarters of 2024, they’ve collectively seen a 30% increase in the number of program visits.
Hunger can impact anyone and isn’t easily identifiable: it can be hidden.
In addition to providing food to hunger relief programs, the Foodbank operates a variety of direct service programs that serve individuals in need. The Foodbank’s second facility in downtown Canton, the Stark County Campus, houses an on-site food pantry. People in need of food assistance can visit the pantry to pick up groceries on various days of the week. Families can also visit the food pantry at its Main Campus in downtown Akron.
While visiting both Foodbank pantries, families can receive additional support services beyond food. In Stark County, the Foodbank has partnered with Aultman Working on Wellness, Community Legal Aid, ACCESS Health Stark, Goodwill, Stark County Jobs and Family Services, Beacon Charitable Pharmacy, Stark County Urban League, Canton City Public Health and Stark County Public Health Department to offer informational sessions and support.
The Foodbank also operates a mobile pop-up pantry that visits various locations across the region multiple times per month. The pop-up pantry is an innovative way to serve communities with limited food resources, taking food directly into neighborhoods where people need it. The Foodbank partners with various community partners to help offer this service to residents, including Stark Metropolitan Housing
Authority, Canton Parks and Recreation, and the Edward Peel Coleman Community Center.
For individuals with transportation and mobility challenges, the Foodbank offers a home delivery program in partnership with food pantries in its network. To help promote equity and access, families facing hunger can have groceries delivered directly to their homes by dedicated volunteers.
The Foodbank hopes the community will support local hunger relief this holiday season. No family should have to choose between buying nourishing groceries and paying for rent, utilities, medication, and childcare. There are various ways to get involved:
Volunteers are vital and many ways people can help at both locations. Helping in the warehouse, administrative support, driving Foodbank vehicles to pick up and deliver donations, and assisting in food pantries. Creating an online fundraiser and share the link with your social networks. You can set a goal and track the status of your philanthropic efforts. Collecting food and financial contributions for the Foodbank. Coordinator kits will be mailed and will include materials to make the drive a success!
To learn more about supporting the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, visit akroncantonfoodbank.org
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE
BIBB
BY ERICA
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
wrap it up: unique holiday gifts that wow
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED GIFT IDEAS FROM LOCAL RETAILERS
Bomb Berries by Allison is a locally owned business offering delightful sweet treats perfect for any occasion. Our selection includes chocolate-covered strawberries, mini cheesecakes, hot cocoa bombs, and candied grapes, all customizable for weddings, birthdays, or corporate events. To place an order, text 234-200-6676, email bombberriesbyallison@gmail.com, or message us on social media. Enjoy free local pickup in Canton, or choose meet-up and delivery for a fee. While we recommend ordering in advance, we can accommodate last-minute requests with about a week’s notice. Let us help make your event special with our delicious treats!
At S.Flynn Home, we craft beautiful, personalized spaces that reflect your family’s style. We specialize in tailoring our designs to each client’s unique needs, creating peaceful, cozy, and timeless homes. Visit us at sflynnhome.com to find perfect pieces for the holiday season, or stop by our showroom at 4786 E Main St., Millersburg, OH 44654 (online furniture sales coming soon). Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for styling inspiration!
Cheesecake-filled strawberries
Bomb Berries by Allison
Dipped in a choice of chocolate with a choice of colors. The strawberries have the middles removed and filled with a homemade cheesecake filling. Half dozen $18 Full dozen $35
Christmas Strawberries
Bomb Berries by Allison
The designs are customizable per order. Half dozen $22 Full dozen $40
Bomb Berries by Allison
We offer a variety of flavors for hot cocoa bombs that can be customized per order. $6 each available as singles, 4 packs, 6 packs, and 12 packs.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bomb
Petite Pink House
S. Flynn Home
Our Petite Pink House retailing at $39.99 is one of the smaller homes in the holiday house collection, making it an easy piece to add to a shelf, mantle or even a table. Its muted color palette makes it a perfect accompaniment to natural elements, such as our wooden and feather trees. Can be illuminated.
“Becoming”
Word Search Book
S. Flynn Home
Discover the Becoming Word Search Book, retailing at $21.00, a beautifully crafted linen-covered book filled with 72 engaging word searches designed to inspire your spiritual growth. Each page features uplifting quotes from renowned authors and speakers, along with scripture from the Bible, guiding you on a journey toward goodness and self-discovery. Thought-provoking questions like "Who are you becoming?" and "How can we become more like Jesus?" encourage reflection and personal growth. Dive into this unique blend of fun and faith, and let it help you become all you were meant to be!
Tallow Liquid Soap
S. Flynn Home
Experience the luxurious Tallow Liquid Soap, retailing at $28.00, crafted from simple, all-natural ingredients. With a honey-like consistency, this gentle soap is perfect for hands and body, doubles as a shampoo, and can even be used for washing dishes. Choose from four delightful scents: orange + cinnamon + clove, soothing lavender, refreshing basil + mint lemongrass, and zesty key lime + peppermint. Indulge in a versatile, skin-loving soap that brings a touch of nature into your daily routine!
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Santa's Little Helper
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH JACOB
This cocktail from Bender's Tavern is just what you need to make the season merry.
The ingredients for a special dining experience come together at Canton’s oldest and finest restaurant, Bender’s Tavern. With its historic and inspirational setting, fine spirits, and delicious food, Bender’s offers a unique experience for everyone. Since 1902, this elegant venue has served culinary classics and warm hospitality. The rich heritage of Bender’s continues under the fourth generation of the Jacob Family. The holidays are a special time for gathering with loved ones, and the restaurant is always bustling with festive cheer. Celebrate the season with this cocktail from Bender’s Tavern.
ingredients:
• 2 oz Rittenhouse Rye Whisky
• .5 oz Frangelico
• .5 oz Baileys Irish cream
• .25 oz honey
• Cinnamon and sugar rim and a Luxardo cherry garnish
directions:
Step 1. Prepare a rocks glass with a cinnamon and sugar rim.
Step 2. Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker, add ice, and shake passionately.
Step 3. Strain into prepared glass over ice.
Step 4. Garnish with a single Luxardo cherry.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 5TH
Mistletoe Marketplace Trunk
Show
Gervasi Vineyard | 6:00 PM
Step into the holiday season in style at the Mistletoe Marketplace Trunk Show! This exclusive event will feature a curated selection from some of the most beautiful brands we carry, making it the perfect opportunity to discover unique gifts for yourself or someone special. All guests will receive a $10 voucher to use toward their purchase during the event
DECEMBER 5TH
Light Up Downtown
Downtown Canton 222 Market Ave. N Canton | 5:30 PM
Visit Downtown Canton for a holiday celebration for all ages! You won’t want to miss the festivities that include 14 city blocks of attractions, ice skating, entertainment, refreshments, sleigh rides, singers and dancers, a visit from Santa, and amazing fireworks. There is fun for all ages, and it’s FREE!
DECEMBER 6TH
Holiday Party Open House
McKinley Presidential Library and Museum 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW | 6:00 PM
Holiday Open House is back! Enjoy the museum beautifully decorated for the holidays. Santa will be here, and you will find unique gifts for everyone on your list in the Museum Shoppe. Complimentary cookies and punch. The East Canton Choir, The Echos, will be performing throughout the night! FREE for members. $8 for guests.
DECEMBER 7TH
The Polar Express with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Stark Library North Branch 189 25th Street NW Canton OH 44709 | 2:00 PM
Celebrate the festive season with a viewing of The Polar Express, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Let’s have a jolly good time together! Movie is rated G.
DECEMBER 8TH
A Timeless Holiday Tea with the First Ladies
National First Ladies Library & Museum 205 Market Avenue South | 1:30 PM
Join us for a festive afternoon at the National First Ladies Library and Museum, featuring Stark County Commissioner Janet Weir Creighton. She’ll present an insightful program on White House china, entertaining, and state dinners, perfect for the holiday season! All event tickets can be purchased at firstladies.org
DECEMBER 13TH
Deck the Hollow at Quail Hollow Park
Quail Hollow Park | 5:00 PM
Join Stark Parks and the Quail Hollow Volunteer Association for the annual Deck the Hollow event! Enjoy a self-guided walk through the illuminated grounds and the themed Stewart Manor House, “Lights, Camera, Christmas.” Don’t miss Santa’s workshop for photos, and warm up by the fire with cocoa for purchase. December 13, 14, 15 | December 20, 21, 22
Want to be featured?
DECEMBER 16TH
Cooking with the First Ladies with Sarah Morgan
National First Ladies Library & Museum 205 Market Avenue South | 7:00 PM
Step into the kitchen with Sarah Morgan as she brings history to life through First Lady Lady Bird Johnson’s recipes. Join this interactive cooking session and recreate dishes from America's past. All event tickets can be purchased at firstladies.org
DECEMBER 21ST
Deck the Halls!
Stark Library Plain Community Branch 1803 Schneider Street NE Canton OH 44721 | 10:00 AM
Get into the holiday season with us! Enjoy a festive atmosphere and create a variety of seasonal decor. 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
DECEMBER 21ST
12th Annual Selfless Elf 5k Run/Walk
Foodbank’s Main Campus in Akron | 8:00 AM
6:30 am Registration; 8 am Race begins Registrants will receive a pair of iconic striped elf socks and a long-sleeve race t-shirt. There will also be a Costume Contest! Dress in a holiday costume or 80s-themed running gear. DJ Nick Duvé returns to provide fun for the entire family! Become a VIP Elf by collecting $250+ and receive a particular apparel item. Visit selflesself.com to register.
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
