Canton, OH December 2025

Giving Issue

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.

This month, we’ve curated a gift guide to help make your holiday shopping easier while supporting local businesses. We’ve also highlighted the best of what Canton has to offer during the holidays, from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back.

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Michael Cooney | michael.cooney@citylifestyle.com

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.

Happy Holidays,

MICHAEL COONEY, PUBLISHER @CANTONLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY

Brandy Thomas

Winter Simmer Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.

Good Holiday PARTY VIBES

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS

Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.

01

SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.

The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.

02

HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING

ENTERTAINMENT.

I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.

04

THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.

While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!

• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson

• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber

• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes

• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks  (From the Polar Express soundtrack)

• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen

• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie

• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy

• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood

• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell

• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler

Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!

03

FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.

Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.

“We’re not just founders, we’re players too. We know what makes a great pickleball experience.”

What started as a rainy-day brainstorm between friends has now become one of the most talked-about destinations for pickleball enthusiasts.

It all began with three friends—Patty Paschke, Kim Waikem, and Lisa Beaufait—a few paddles, and a shared love for pickleball. One afternoon, as they rallied back and forth, the rain came pouring down, sending them for cover. As they sat around a table with drinks in hand and laughter in the air, they began to dream about a place where players of all levels could come together for great games, good times, and a welcoming atmosphere. On cocktail napkins, they sketched out their vision—a true players’ paradise.

Their idea gained momentum, and a year later, the journey took off when close friend RJ Vassas joined in the vision. They searched tirelessly for the right space, balancing height, size, and layout to create a facility that would serve both recreational and competitive players. After many months of patience and persistence, they found the perfect spot at 6320 Promway Ave, North Canton, Ohio—and Hot Shots Pickleball Club was born. A players’ paradise. A place where everyone is welcome!

Hot Shots PBC isn’t just about the game—it’s about the people. The founders’ original vision of connection and camaraderie still drives everything they do. As Lisa Beaufait puts it, “We’re not just founders, we’re players too. We know what makes a great pickleball experience, and we built that into every corner of Hot Shots.”

The building renovation and construction was completed by the award-winning Fred Olivieri Construction along with MRO Built. The club features nine professional-grade, climate-controlled courts built by the

Vasco Group, 22-foot-high ceilings, protective wall padding, and state-of-the-art indirect lighting.

In a region best known for its football tradition, Hot Shots PBC is helping to put pickleball on the map. They host a range of events, from social mixers, open plays, competitive leagues, and tournaments. “Local and regional players alike have praised the facility for quality courts, a supportive scene, and a commitment to growing the sport,” says co-founder RJ Vassas.

Hot Shots PBC is more than just a facility—it’s a community built by players who understand what makes pickleball special. Featuring state-of-the-art courts, a comfortable lounge area, pro shop, and Hot Shots Bar & Grill, this club has become a local favorite that encourages both fun and competitive play. From rookies to pros, Hot Shots PBC is the destination for players of all levels.

Hot Shots Bar & Grill offers a delectable menu, a full bar, and a 12-tap Self-Pour Tap Wall. The club also features a special beer developed by the local Hoppin’ Frog Brewery. The Hot Shots Zesty Pickle Beer is a club favorite. “We wanted to create a place that felt like home to every player,” says co-founder Kim Waikem. “Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or chasing your next tournament win, we wanted everyone to feel like a part of the club, play a game, and enjoy dinner with drinks.”

Hot Shots Event Center offers an amazing private room upstairs with mezzanines overlooking the club. This space is perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, and group celebrations where guests can enjoy pickleball, great food, full bar, and a self-serve tap wall. It’s the perfect spot to play, dine, and connect—all under one roof.

“Local and regional players alike have praised the facility for quality courts.” “

“With research from clubs across the country and thoughtful input from our community, we’ve blended our passion and personality to create a place we truly love. Every detail from lighting to layout has been intentionally designed to elevate the fun and inspire connection both on and off the court, says co-founder, Patty Paschke.

The Pro Shop brings a fresh, stylish take to pickleball gear and apparel. From high-performance paddles to sneakers built for speed and comfort, every piece is picked to help players play hard and look good doing it. The clothing lineup blends stylish sporty vibes with

everyday wearability - perfect for heading from dinks to drinks. With cool gifts and exclusive Hot Shots merchandise, it’s the go-to spot for players who love the game and the lifestyle that comes with it.

As the club continues to grow, the team behind Hot Shots Pickleball Club remains focused on what matters mostcommunity. From first time players discovering their passion to seasoned competitors perfecting their craft, every person who walks through the doors adds a new story to the club’s journey. What started as a simple rainy day idea has now become a thriving pickleball family, proof that sometimes the best dreams are built one rally at a time.

CONTINUED >

“We’ve blended our passion and personality to create a place we truly love.”

A Royal Caribbean cruise can be a fantastic Christmas gift, especially if you want to create shared memories across multiple generations. The key is to choose an itinerary and ship that balances activities for children, parents, and grandparents. Many ships feature neighborhoods with something for everyone: adventure activities like zip lines and surf simulators, Broadway-style shows, kids’ clubs, quiet adults-only Solarium areas, and a wide variety of dining options. - The layout makes it easy for family members to explore independently but still come together for meals or evening entertainment.

BREAKFAST HOLIDAY

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast; they are sure to impress your guests.

MONKEY BREAD

Ingredients:

• 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls

• 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• ¾ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions:

Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!

HEARTY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs

• 2-3 cups torn bread pieces

• 3 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheese of choice

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon rosemary

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Spray 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.

GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATE

Add a little extra pizazz to your hot chocolate by using half and half instead of milk, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with a snowman made out of marshmallows and pretzel sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• ½ cup of cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, optional

• Milk or half and half

Instructions:

Add dry ingredients to a bowl and stir. For individual servings, mix half of the cocoa mix with a ½ cup milk. Add desired amount of cocoa mix with milk to desired sweetness. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

EGGNOG MARTINI

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce vodka

• 1 ounce Kahlua

• 1 ounce brewed coffee cooled

• 3  ounces eggnog

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Dash of cinnamon

Instructions:

Add all ingredients together in a shaker and mix. Pour into a glass and serve over the rocks.

CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT

Casserole Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes

• 3 cups mixed berries

• 1 package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup  sugar

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 cups half and half at room temperature

• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

HASHBROWN BITES

Ingredients:

• 20-ounce bag refrigerated hash brown potatoes

• ¾ cup green onions, sliced

• ½ cup  grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup pepper jack cheese, optional

Instructions:

Spray muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir. Evenly add mixture to each muffin tin and lightly press down. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes. These can be made in advance and reheated for convenience.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

BOURBON VANILLA

BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth.

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.

INGREDIENTS:

For the latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup

• Whipped cream

For the gingerbread syrup:

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

• Marshmallow

• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make the gingerbread syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:

Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.

HOLIDAY APPETIZERS

SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,

Pear & Brie Cheese

Salad Skewers

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)

• 8 ounces of brie cheese

• 2 cups baby arugula

• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped

• Balsamic glaze

INSTRUCTIONS

• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!

• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.

• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.

• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.

Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread

• ½ cup chopped cranberries

• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel

• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted

• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis

INSTRUCTIONS

• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.

• Add cranberries and pecans.

• Garnish with grated orange peel.

that’s a WRAP

DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season

‘TIS

‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-ItYourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.

ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:

For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.

FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:

In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.

POLKA DOTS:

Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.

CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:

Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together, tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper.

‘tis the SEASON

Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’

Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.

MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:

Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.

BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:

Repurpose old book pages by cutting out shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.

DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:

Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.

UNBOXED:

Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples:  canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).