Canton, OH June 2023

MEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

HERE FOR YOU.

Call PrimeTime Health Plan and talk with a local specialist. You’ll get the time and attention you need - because you matter.

the more you’ll want the locally owned Medicare Advantage alternative:

Plans starting at $0 Up to 40

Eye exams for hours of Papa Pals assistance

24/7 Telehealth access with AultmanNow $0 & up to $300 for eyewear

Up to $1100 dental allowance & choose your provider

For more information, please contact PrimeTime Health Plan at 330-363-7407 (1800-577-5084 or TTY 711) Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Oct. 1 – March 31, we are available 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.), or visit www.pthp.com.

PrimeTime Health Plan is an HMO-POS plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in PrimeTime Health Plan depends on contract renewal. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans on a 5-star rating system. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-800-577-5084 (TTY 711).

You get connected to better care because we’re right here. H3664_mayagingin23_M

Happy Father's Day!

Greetings! I’m Rachel, the new editor of Canton Lifestyle Magazine. As a lifelong resident of nearby New Franklin, Canton is my favorite destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Our local businesses are second to none, offering a variety of services to meet our needs, as well as ways to mingle with loved ones and meet new friends.

My goal is to help bring our community closer together and share stories of the people and places that make it such an incredible destination in which to live, work, play and spend time. If you see me out and about, introduce yourself! Or email me with ideas for future content.

This month, we’re celebrating Father’s Day by showcasing seven men who are making a difference in Stark County. From a firefighter, librarian and coach to a superintendent, PTO president, CEO and department chair at Stark State College, these individuals reveal their dedication to serving their communities. With their insight, you’re sure to get inspired to discover ways you can volunteer your time and talents to help those around you.

After all, that’s what being a father is all about — providing a strong foundation and setting a positive example not just for their family, but also their community and beyond. Canton City School District Superintendent Jeff Talbert said it best: “Everybody in a community, it’s their obligation to support that community if that community is going to be successful. The community isn’t about a person; it’s about the group.”

As you reflect on ways you can make a difference, also think about how you can let the father-figures in your life know how much they matter to you. If you’re a dad, let me be the first to say, “Thank you!” You are invaluable to the people who know and need you, as well as the community around you.

Also be sure to visit our local advertising partners that make Canton Lifestyle Magazine possible. They are 100% committed to this community and deserve our patronage. I hope to see you all out and about this summer!

RACHEL HAGENBAUGH, EDITOR @CANTONLIFESTYLE

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Brian Bailey | brian.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Rachel Hagenbaugh rachel.hagenbaugh@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Feagler, Jacquie Mazziotta, Jill Sell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Rylie Fuline Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

Bernhardt Exteriors

local experiences

8

Gather your gentlemen friends and plan a relaxing or adrenaline-induced day, weekend or guys' night out with any one of these local experiences, from indoor or outdoor golfing to bourbon tasting and more.

SABLE CREEK GOLF COURSE: Make the most of a sunny summer day at this 27-hole public golf course located in beautiful and historic Hartville. 5942 Edison St. NE, Hartville, Ohio 44632

THE BOURBON ROOM: Raise a glass to one of Canton’s newest dining destinations serving classic American fare and delicious whiskey and bourbon cocktails in a lively atmosphere. 2710 Easton St. NE, Ste. D, North Canton, Ohio 44721

X-GOLF NORTH CANTON: Rain or shine — dine, drink, practice your swing and get your hands on the most innovative and accurate golf simulators in the world. 4385 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton, Ohio 44718

DON SHULA'S AMERICAN KITCHEN: Catch a game on the giant media wall while diving into a menu filled with American-inspired cuisine in a modern, energetic and social environment. 2101 Hall of Fame Way NW, Ste. 1, Canton, Ohio 44708

NEW BERLIN BREWING CO.: Pair a pint of refreshing, locally crafted brew with a palate-pleasing selection of authentic German food, from traditional Spatzle to a Bratzilla flatbread. 1664 N. Main St. N, North Canton, Ohio 44720

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Brent McKimm

Brent McKimm, president of Exact Prowash, was born and raised in Stark County. Here, he offers his take on some of his favorite ways to spend time in Canton. Once you’re done making your bucket list for the upcoming month, check out his company’s business profile to learn more about Northeast Ohio’s top-rated exterior cleaning company and discover how Exact Prowash can instantly increase your home’s curb appeal.

The best places and things to do in our area.

Men Making a Difference

MEET SEVEN STARK COUNTY RESIDENTS WHO DEDICATE THEIR TIME AND TALENTS TO SERVING THEIR COMMUNITIES

ARTICLE BY LINDA FEAGLER, RACHEL HAGENBAUGH AND JILL SELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYLIE FULINE PHOTOGRAPHY

For 28 years, Frank Gagliardi, head coach of the Jackson High School girls’ soccer team, has left it all on the field. With more than 350 wins and 24 Federal League titles, soccer is the sport closest to his heart.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Frank played professional indoor soccer for the Canton Invaders for two years before settling into the community to coach. In 1999, he helped put together the Jackson Fury, a local youth sports club for children ages 6 to 15 that promotes the development of competitive youth soccer players.

“I’m a little more expecting of the younger players,” he says. “While they’re out there, I put a lot on them. They learn that they have a lot of freedom, but they are also accountable for how they act.”

Frank says he appreciates the creativity of soccer, which offers a delicate balance of instinct, athleticism, problem-solving and teamwork. It also provides an important correlation for how people should approach life.

“It teaches you respect, how to put yourself second and recognize there’s a bigger picture than yourself,” he says, adding that he feels blessed to be a coach. “It’s very rewarding.”

Frank Gagliardi

Teacher. Coach. Principal. Superintendent. As Jeff Talbert celebrates 30 years in the education field, he highlights a variety of roles that have allowed him to make a positive impact in the classroom, community and beyond. Now, he’s at the helm of the county’s largest district, serving more than 8,500 students and 1,500 staff members spread throughout 20 buildings. While the job has its challenges, Jeff says he feels blessed.

“Most individuals don’t get the opportunity to live their dream job that aligns so well with their core purpose,” he says. “I enjoy every aspect of what I do.”

Born and raised in Canton and a graduate of Timken High School, it was always Jeff’s plan to return to his hometown and give back to the community that helped him get where he is today.

“If it wasn’t for the teachers, guidance counselors and coaches going that extra mile, I might not have had the connections or opportunities I had,” he says. “It’s very important for me to make sure that the opportunities that were afforded to me as a child are available now and into the future.”

One of his greatest accomplishments in his three short years as superintendent is how the district navigated the pandemic. During fall 2020, Canton City Schools was the only large urban school district to be open with face-to-face instruction and provide a variety of learning options for students.

“It’s a testament to our ability to create a strong organizational culture around supporting our students in and around the classroom,” he says. “That’s going to impact our families for years to come.”

When it comes to the future, Jeff says the district’s main focus is creating a culture that encourages high-quality teaching and learning — making sure the students and staff are given the resources they need to achieve their goals.

“Everybody in a community, it’s their obligation to support that community if it is going to be successful. A community isn’t about one person; it’s about the group,” he says. “If we want our community to thrive, we have to invest in our young people.”

"A community isn’t about one person; it’s about the group. If we want our community to thrive, we have to invest in our young people.”

Jeff Talbert

Children, teens and young adults struggling with emotional and behavior issues find a friend in Joe French. The CEO of Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health (C&A) — a Canton-based nonprofit dedicated to healing mental-health issues — took the helm of the 47-year-old organization in 2015.

“There’s such a positive connotation to hope — and the dreams, excitement and endless possibilities that come with it,” he says. “We want kids to understand that a temporary problem does not need to be fixed by a permanent decision.”

Now more than ever, Joe says his staff, which includes social workers, psychologists and counselors, are seeing young people with severe anxiety and depression.

“We’re losing our ability to truly communicate, which means many of the kids we see only do so through texting and social media,” he says. “As a result, they often become isolated because they don’t know how to have a giveand-take, face-to-face conversation that deals with what they’re worried about.”

Once a referral is received at C&A, an agency staff member meets with the family, discusses challenges needing to be addressed and creates an individualized Behavioral Health Service Plan. Not surprisingly, explains Joe, the teens involved are eager to become advocates for themselves and willingly participate in the proposed course of action.

“The kids we see are looking for some extra tools to put in their toolbox so they can ultimately get better and handle life’s tough times on their own,” Joe says.

In addition to his role at C&A, Joe, a Meyers Lake Village resident and city council member, also is active on a variety of boards, including those of the Stark County District Library, Family Council of Stark County and Leadership Stark County.

“We make a living by what we get,” he reflects. “We make a life by what we give.”

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

Joe French

For Mike Souza, being a librarian is in his blood — both of his parents worked for the Library of Congress. But it wasn’t until recently that Mike discovered that it was his passion, too.

“For me, it’s extremely fulfilling,” he says. “I really enjoy being a part of an institution that is a part of the community and helping people and connecting people in the community to information.”

As the adult and teen librarian for the North Canton Library, Souza orchestrates a variety of programming, from digital literacy and film clubs to reading groups, art and tech classes and much more.

“Libraries are important because they are really in-tune with the community’s particular needs and filling needs that aren’t being met,” he says, noting the library’s mission to be a catalyst of inspiration and support lifelong learning. “It’s a place filled with resources where you don’t have to pay anything, and everyone is welcome.”

Coming from a family of educators, Aaron Crewse understands the value teachers have on children. When his daughter started kindergarten, he sought a way to get involved in her education, as well as give back to those who make such a tremendous impact on her life. Today, he’s the PTO president of Greentown Intermediate School in North Canton.

“We provide financial help for the 19 projects we sponsor each year, as well as volunteer for school-sponsored events,” he says, highlighting a busy end-of-the-schoolyear schedule for the PTO’s 174 members, which included a father-daughter dance, mother-son event, field day and teacher appreciation week. During the school year, members provide dinners for teachers during conference nights and support the school’s staff in whatever ways they can.

“My daughter chose not to play sports, otherwise I would have been a coach. This gives me an opportunity to be a part of her life,” he says. “It’s also my way of saying thanks.”

Aaron Crewse

Mike Souza

As a child, Adam Haas admired every shiny red fire engine that crossed his path. As he got older, the respect for those majestic machines and the lifesaving heroes who operated them never cooled.

For five years, the 34-year-old has served Jackson Township — where he grew up — as a firefighter and paramedic. Soon, he’ll graduate from Stark State College with an associate degree in emergency fire services.

Adam, who is passionate about public safety and first aid, says he enjoys interacting with the public during events and fire station tours. It allows him to educate people about preventive measures — such as administering CPR and dangers of space heaters — that could save someone’s life one day.

“Let’s face it, when someone calls us, it’s not a great day for them,” Adam says. “But to be able to come out and help alleviate what’s happening means the world to us. We’re proud to help everyone in our community when they need it most.”

When his father was CEO of Community Services of Stark County, Dr. Dan Fuline Jr. spent a lot of time volunteering — visiting soup kitchens and women’s shelters and finding ways to lift up others.

“I was exposed to all of that and raised to give a helping hand when you can,” he says. “We as human beings need to keep pushing forward to help others.”

As the department chair, professor, management and marketing business, engineering and information technologies at Stark State College, Dan also is heavily involved in guiding students to live their dreams. He speaks to a lot of students about starting their own business, as well as serves on a variety of the college’s committees.

During his 15-year tenure, close to 1,500 students have graduated. Some go on to pursue four-year degrees, while others start their careers or become entrepreneurs.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity to be in my position, and I’m grateful for it every day,” he says. “It’s all about helping them get to that goal.”

Dr. Dan Fuline Jr.

Adam Haas

POWER WASHING WITH THE PROS

LOCALLY OWNED EXACT PROWASH CLEANS OUTDOOR SPACES SO HOMEOWNERS CAN FOCUS ON FUN AND ENTERTAINING

ARTICLE BY JACQUIE MAZZIOTTA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Mold and algae can often be found around leaking pipes and ceilings, but the green slime is also commonly found in outdoor living spaces.

“Over time, algae, mildew, molds and fungus can grow and migrate underneath your siding and roofing. It can cause serious health risks as well as expensive repairs. Washing your home not only eliminates those concerns but also restores your home to the beauty it should be,” says Brent McKimm, president of Exact Prowash Inc., a locally owned and operated residential and commercial power washing company founded in 2007.

Specialized power washing services provided by Exact Prowash include house washing, concrete clean and seal, cleaning services for roofs, gutters, decks, windows and kitchen exhausts.

Power washing is also commonly performed in commercial settings, for example, removing graffiti from concrete bridges and brick buildings.

Additionally, the soft washing method is also used on surfaces when warranted. This process is a gentle cleaning technique that removes grime, dirt, stains and algae without affecting the integrity of the home. Due to the use of low water pressure, soft washing is often used to clean more fragile surfaces to avoid damage. Depending on the area being cleaned, professional washers will determine the best method.

Unfortunately for do-it-yourself enthusiasts, a regular garden hose doesn’t have the same power offered by power washing, which removes stubborn bubble gum and stains from driveways, patios and walkways.

“Right now a lot of people out there who have grabbed a power washer off the shelf at a hardware store think they can do what we do. (But) there’s more to it, and professionalism and experience is something you pay for,” says Brent.

The recommended power washing schedule for homes and outdoor living spaces is annual. However, wooded lots and areas with a lot of tree growth and heavy landscaping can typically be done twice a year. Other areas like roofs, patios and driveways vary based on wear, discoloration and exposure to various elements. Regardless of the surface that needs cleaned, Exact Prowash can help determine best practices.

Brent McKimm

“We are rooted in family values. We love helping out our communities and bringing smiles to our neighbors' faces. Having been born and grown up in Stark County, I couldn’t think of a better place for our business,” says Brent.

Thinking globally and acting locally, Exact Prowash’s methods are ecofriendly. The company has also partnered with Habitat for Humanity and is donating a portion of its proceeds to the local organization, according to Brent.

His passion for cleanliness and community can be seen in his work.

“There’s something so extremely satisfying about stripping away algae, mold, mildew, fungus and gunk,” he says.

The company offers a 100% guarantee on work for residential and commercial customers in Northeast Ohio, as well as Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Call 330.639.5249 for a free consultation or learn more by visiting ExactProwash.com

THREE REASONS TO HIRE AN EXPERT

1. It’s faster, saving you time and money.

2. It’s safer, preventing personal injury and house damage.

3. Professional contractors use an eco-friendly solution that complies with EPA requirements.

TJ Richards

IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

Grown From a Dream and a Desire

From Humble Beginnings, Three Generations of Haymakers Provide Tree and Landscape Services

ARTICLE BY JACQUIE MAZZIOTTA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Luke and Alex Haymaker

Mark, Allison, Paula and John Haymaker

More than 50 years ago, Larry and Paula Haymaker needed trees removed from their Jackson Township property. After receiving an overpriced quote from a local landscape company, Larry picked up a chainsaw and removed the trees himself. Armed with a dream and a desire to make a living, the pair began mowing lawns and performing tree and landscape work for neighbors and ultimately founded Haymaker Tree and Lawn.

Since then, three generations of Haymakers have continued to grow the full-service tree business, which started in 1968. Today, owners Mark and John Haymaker employ approximately 40 people and 13 crews who service the Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties, as well as all over eastern Ohio. Family members can also be found climbing trees, operating bucket trucks and equipment, and working in the administrative offices of accounting and operations.

Located at 6854 Wales Ave. NW in Jackson Township, Haymaker offers tree work and landscaping for both residential and commercial customers. According to Mark Haymaker, customer service and treating employees well are the guiding principles for the company’s success. Customers can expect quick estimates, timely response to answering and returning phone calls, honoring estimates, reasonable pricing and fixing mistakes when necessary.

“We have a love for the industry, the business and being part of the community,” says Mark. “We treat employees like family.”

Many employees have been at Haymaker for at least a decade, and some have been with the tree and landscape business for two decades, while many others have a minimum of five years of experience.

In a competitive industry, Haymaker continues to thrive. Tree work can be hazardous, and safety and training are top of mind.

“We want everyone to come home safe each and every day,” says Mark.

From rock beds to tree trimming, staff members are eager to educate and help point customers to resources for answers they need. Personal preference and least maintenance tends to guide decisions.

Spring cleanup services include weed removal and prevention, trimming and grooming bushes and hedges, and cleaning and edging landscape beds. Some other services include new yard installation and repair, hydroseed, landscape design, rock wall and border installation, and stone landscape bed and mulch installation.

Mulch is often top of mind for many homeowners, and understanding choices is often a priority — especially for those who choose to add a light coating each year.

“Our recommendation for the amount of mulch a homeowner needs is around a depth of two inches,” explains Mark. “There are many mulch calculators online for homeowners to determine the amount of yardage for the coverage they want. Typically, a homeowner just needs to figure out the square footage of the area they are looking to cover. The formula is length x width = square footage.”

Dark brown natural mulch can vary in shade based on the length of time for decomposition. However, dyed mulch is different because it decomposes at a slower rate. Because of this, a landscape bed may need to be dug out due to the buildup of dyed mulch.

“Our preference is the natural mulch we produce ourselves with the recycled materials from the tree work we perform in the area,” adds Mark.

Whether trees were a top priority prior to recent wind and storms, uprooted evergreens and others have produced a spotlight on large, overgrown trees.

“We have a love for the industry, the business and being part of the community. We treat employees like family.”

— Mark Haymaker, co-owner

The timing for tree trimming is determined by the fruit and flowers that bloom. However, according to Mark, the majority of bushes and trees can usually be trimmed throughout the year.

Haymaker Tree and Lawn follows the ANSI standards for tree trimming. The dormant season during winter months is a great time of year to address trimming, but

many homeowners are not always thinking about trees during that time of year. However, oak trees especially should be trimmed during winter months to avoid oak wilt disease. If unsure, the tree experts at Haymaker offer a free consultation.

For more information, call 330.499.5037 or visit HaymakerTreeAndLawn.com .

LEARN MORE: When it comes to tree and lawn maintenance, Mark Haymaker offers three tips for success. First, conduct routine thinning and remove dead wood from trees to minimize roof and yard damage. Second, don't over mulch trees. This can cause root disease and girding roots, which will kill a tree over time. Third, consider tree removal and trimming in winter when prices may be cheaper.

“Our preference is the natural mulch we produce ourselves with the recycled materials from the tree work we perform in the area." — Mark Haymaker, co-owner

Our Favorite Bourbons

Under $150

ARTICLE BY ANTHONY ADAMS

We were recently asked to suggest the Best Bourbon under $150 and as I reflected on my list of favorites, providing a single answer wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared.

Think of it like this. If we asked 100 people in our community what their favorite restaurant is—the answers would be varied based on the individual’s personal palate or even the moment you asked them in!

Here is our list of favorites that will have you covered at any price point and occasion.

BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL BOURBON

Blanton’s is recognizable on sight due to the round bottle with a brass horse and jockey for a stopper. Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon.

— BlantonsBourbon.com ($100-$150)

BASIL HAYDEN’S RYE BOURBON –AGED 10 YEARS

In a sea of cask-strength offerings, Basil Hayden’s stays true to its 80 proof roots. The high rye content of its mash bill charges the nose and palate with notes of caraway and spice, while 10 years in the barrel have added leather and an attractive nuttiness. If you aren’t looking for high proof, this is a remarkable bourbon.

— BasilHaydens.com ($75-$100)

PINHOOK ‘BOURBON WAR’ VERTICAL SERIES 5 YEARS

Pinhook pulls 150 barrels from a special lot to create this straight bourbon whiskey with a lively nose of butterscotch,

cinnamon stick, licorice, and vanilla. These aromas set the stage for a robust palate of cherry, chocolate, toasted brown sugar, and chicory. With the additional 5th year of age, what was tropical fruit transitions to darker fruit flavors and what was brighter candy is now rich and caramelized; hints of smoke now start to appear for the first time.

— PinhookBourbon.com ($75-$50)

EAGLE RARE 10 YEAR

Eagle Rare 10 Year lives somewhat in the shadow of its 17-yearold elder sibling, but don’t let that shy you away. This is a sweet and mellow bourbon with definite signs of maturity and its orange peel and toffee aromas are a little shy, but the palate serves sturdy sweet and spice notes and a toasty finish.

— EagleRare.com ($30-$50)

OLD FORESTER 86 PROOF

While others in Old Forester’s impressive lineup claim the hearts of bourbon geeks (such as the 1920 Prohibition Style), this bottle stands head and shoulders above everything at this proof and price point. It oozes aromatic charm and follows with a palate that is lithe but in no way lacking flavor.

— OldForester.com ($20-$30)

MCAFEE’S BENCHMARK OLD NO. 8

Sometimes you find a $20 laying around or just need a good mixing bourbon. Benchmark Old No. 8 is made at the same distillery as Blanton’s and the ever-coveted Pappy Van Winkle! The nose bears caramel notes with a delicate stone-fruit backdrop. A robust and sturdy palate with some fine leather notes mingling with dry tobacco, a touch of oak, and a hint of dried cherries. The finish is smooth and calming.

— BuffaloTraceDistillery.com (Under $20)

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 2ND

Eagles Tribute Band Hotel California

7454 COMMUNITY PKWY. NW, JACKSON TOWNSHIP, OHIO 44646 | 5:30 PM

The 2023 Nash Family Jackson Amphitheater Summer Concert Series kicks off with Eagles tribute band Hotel California! Presented by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, tickets are now on sale to all 10 of your favorite shows — or buy a 2023 Season Pass and get 10 concerts for the price of nine! Find more information at JacksonAmphitheater.com.

North Canton Craft Beer Festival

2260 INTERNATIONAL PKWY., NORTH CANTON, OHIO 44720 | 5:00 PM

Join other beer connoisseurs for this fourth annual celebration of locally crafted flavors, present by the North Canton Area Chamber of Commerce. Located in the MAPS Air Museum, sample craft brews from 20 breweries around Northeast Ohio, including several in Stark County. NorthCantonChamber.org/North-Canton-Craft-Beer-Festival

JUNE 8TH - 10TH

Canton Greek Fest

251 25TH ST. NW, CANTON, OHIO 44709

Celebrate summer the Greek way during this weekend festival featuring unique dishes — from moussaka and pork souvlaki to baklava keftethes and much more  — and engaging in entertainment — including dance performances, cooking demonstrations, church tours and fireworks — at the historic St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church. CantonGreekFest.com

JUNE 11TH

Oddmall Riverside Ramble

700-1150 STADIUM PARK DRIVE NW, CANTON, OHIO 44709 | 10:00 AM

Meander through a village of Oddmall vendors and entertainers in a beautifully scenic outdoor setting among the trees, next to a lake and across from a gently flowing shallow river. Enjoy outdoor games and activities, costume contests and food trucks — from Twisted Grill & Grind to Sassy Shay’s Twisted Mac & Cheese and D-BO’s Grill. Oddmall.info/Riverside-Ramble

JUNE 12TH - 17TH

North Canton Jaycee Fair

348 7TH ST. NE, NORTH CANTON, OHIO 44720

A summertime tradition for seven decades, this weeklong extravaganza at Dogwood Park offers tons of fun for the entire family, from great food and rides to games. All proceeds from the event help fund the North Canton Jaycees’ variety of service projects, including the Special Olympics, Safety Town and Fourth of July parade and fireworks. Facebook.com/NorthCantonJayceeFair

JUNE 14TH - 17TH

The Country Fest 2023

12951 PATTERSON ST. NW, NORTH LAWRENCE, OHIO 44666

Headliners at the four-day music festival include Riley Green, Kane Brown, Jon Pardi and Sam Hunt. For information on concert tickets and camping, visit TheCountryFest.com.

JUNE 16TH

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Canton

JRC Cruise-In Classic Car Show

3300 PARKWAY ST. NW, CANTON, OHIO 44708 | 2:00 PM

Enjoy raffles, music, food and classic cars while supporting the JRC Adult Day Center. Register for free by June 9 at JRCcares.org or by contacting LeeAnn Chievitz at 330.454.3471, ext. 405 or LeeAnn.Chievitz@JRCcares.org.

JUNE 20TH

Old Carolina BBQ Guest Appreciation Day

OLD CAROLINA BBQ (ALL LOCATIONS) | 11:00 AM

Old Carolina BBQ is celebrating its 20th anniversary this summer with raffles, giveaways and special guest appreciation days on June 20, July 20 and August 20. Join us June 20 for $2 Pulled Pork Sandwiches! Limit 4 per person. While supplies last. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit OldCarolina.com for more information and to register to win Free BBQ for a year!

JUNE 23RD

Jackson Night Glow 5K & Kids Fun Run

7355 MUDBROOK ST. NW, MASSILLON, OHIO 44646 | 9:00 PM

Have a blast and make memories with friends and family during this evening experience where booming fireworks start the race and more than 1,000 luminaries light your way as hundreds of spectators cheer you on. Add to that amazing race T-shirts and glow necklaces for every runner, and you’re all set for a night you’ll never forget. Facebook.com/JacksonNightGlow5k

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

GRILLING GO-TO: JUICY GRILLED CHICKEN THIGHS

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).

I love chicken thighs! I eat them all the time for my lunch, dinner or even just a low carbohydrate snack. Thighs have a rich, meaty flavor that is more satisfying than other cuts of chicken. Their higher fat content makes them moist and juicy when cooked. And the price? Just compare the cost to chicken wings the next time you visit the grocery store! Although I cook thighs in an air fryer in the winter and love that crispy skin, when it’s grilling season I enjoy the slight char of a sticky sweet barbecue sauce that’s been kissed by an open flame. This marinade recipe has great flavor and is easy to customize by adjusting the amount of spices and seasonings to your taste. So, fire up your grill and enjoy the delicious taste of grilled chicken thighs!

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper until well combined.

3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a Ziploc bag, and cover with marinade. Make sure that all the chicken thighs are well coated.

4. Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb.

5. When ready to cook, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let any excess drip off.

6. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and cook for 10-12 minutes.

7. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

8. OPTIONAL: Baste the thighs with your favorite sweet barbecue sauce and char to your desire.

9. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help to keep the juices inside and prevent the chicken from drying out.

10. Serve the grilled chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, salad or rice.

“Nancy and Meredith

a rockstar team to work with! They

terrific advisors throughout the process for us first time home buyers! We really appreciated their attention to detail combined with helping us to keep in mind the big picture throughout the search, offer, and buying process. Highly recommend!”

— CORY W.