Canton, OH February 2026

Love Local F E B R UA RY 2 02 6

CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Helping students write their story since 1905

The Central Catholic Difference

A school built on FAITH Where everyone knows YOUR NAME A school setting that feels like FAMILY An environment that fosters your UNIQUE INTERESTS Outstanding student organizations instill LEADERSHIP Emphasis on service encourages ENGAGED CITIZENS Small 17:1 class sizes create PERSONAL CONNECTIONS Academic excellence and discipline create STRONG FUTURES

$3 Million in Scholarships & Tuition Assistance We work with families to craft an affordable tuition package. 100% of famlies can receive scholarships, discounts, grants, or EdChoice.

EXPLORE THE DIFFERENCE. SCHEDULE A TOUR. 330.478.2131.

WANT TO LEARN MORE? Scan the QR code, listen to Crusader stories or visit CentralCrusaders.org.

Let us help you make a POWERFUL DESIGN statement with these fabulous

JOHN RICHARDS accessories or shop other EXQUISITE BRANDS. Josette Kark Owner

(330) 956-4001 JosetteKarkDesign.com 5158 Whipple Ave NW

Store Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 3pm

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love is in the Canton air!

As February rolls around, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday, yet on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweet moments it brings—an excuse to celebrate love in all its forms.

Do we opt for a Valentine’s Day date out or settle in for a cozy night at home? A handwritten card or a heartfelt kind word? For me, it’s usually a mix of both. Each of us will find our own ways to mark the occasion, shaped by our unique preferences and personalities. But what unites us all is the opportunity to remind those around us just how much they mean to us.

This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that—celebrating and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community.

In my youth, Valentine’s Day would mean teenage expectations and inevitable letdowns. A melodrama, really. But now, thanks to my wonderful husband, our sweet girls, and Duma’s Meats... it’s all about simple joys: steaks on the grill, daddy-daughter dances, game nights, and quietly celebrating each other.

As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.

“Love local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in your area—it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense. So, why not grab a cup of coffee at M&H Beans or enjoy a game night by the fire with your family? Or pick up a bottle of wine from Gervasi for a relaxed movie night in.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger.

Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.

February 2026 PUBLISHER

Michael Cooney | michael.cooney@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Danielle Burke | danielle.burke@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Anita Tulodzieski | Anitaephoto@gmail.com

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 CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

DA N I E L L E B U R K E , E D I TO R @CANTONLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Canton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Canton area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CANTONOH

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Canton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

OLSEN’S JUNK REMOVAL Your Mess. Our Mission.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 6 | LOV E LO CA L

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Featured

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Teaching with Heart

How Canton Christian School is Reimagining Education through Faith, Community, and Curated Curriculum

Sealed With Love

Rediscover the timeless art of handwritten letters and wax seals

Pure Barre Belden

A Labor of Love: Built by family, fueled by community

On the Cover

Departments

What began as a conversation between families on a summer night has grown into Canton Christian School—an innovative, Christcentered learning community redefining education through collaboration, creativity, and meaningful community partnerships.

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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City List

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Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE

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Locally Sourced LIFE + CULTURE

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Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE

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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

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Inspired By EDUCATION

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How To LIFE + CULTURE

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Our Town FITNESS

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Mental Wellbeing WELLNESS

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Events

Photography: Anita Tulodzieski

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Rooted in the Region.

Refined on the Plate.

Reservations Highly Encouraged 9185 US-250 NW, Strasburg 330.878.4050

We offer the perfect coffee for your home, business, non-profit organization, or white label needs. Our coffee is consistently fresh and readily available, crafted with love and care.

Transform your Valentine's Day into a heartfelt celebration for the coffee lover in your life!

Located at 1003 Cherry Ave. NE Canton, Ohio 44703 Ph: 330-483-5297 www.cherryblendcoffeeroasters.com

we’re closer than you think!

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FEBRUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1-7: Feed Kids First’s Holiday Break Meal Box Program provides nutritious food to local students during extended school breaks when school meals are unavailable. Through the support of more than 100 volunteers and community partners, nearly 30,000 pounds of food were collected and packed into meal boxes. As a result, 795 students across 13 local schools received support throughout the winter break, demonstrating the power of community coming together to care for its children.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C A N T O N L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E

PICKS FOR

RY ’S TOP BU SI

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We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

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CITY LIST

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Best Jeweler Julz by Alan Rodriguez julzbyalan.com/ | 330.455.5555 Anne-Marie's Fine Jewelry annemariesfinejewelry.com/ | 330.479.9088 Biris Jewelers https://www.birisjewelers.com/ | 330.494.8182 Nick Changet Jewelers https://www.changetjewelers.com/ | 330.494.5234 Henry B. Ball Jewelers https://www.henrybball.com/ | 330.499.3000

Best Fine Dining Restaurant The Bistro at Gervasi https://gervasivineyard.com/the-bistro/ | 330.497.1000 Bender's Tavern https://www.benderscanton.com/ | 330.453.8424

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/CANTONOH

Social at the Stone House https://www.socialstonehouse.com/ | 330.809.0461 Lucca Downtown https://www.luccadowntown.com/ | 330.456.2534 Club Prive https://clubpriveohio.com/ | 234.215.2407

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LOV E L E T T E R S TO C A N TO N A collection of heartfelt reflections from the local leaders shaping our community

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE BURKE

LYNN & DAVE SHIMKO

Since starting our maker markets in 2016, Canton and the surrounding communities have supported 720 Market in ways we never expected. As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary, it’s clear that what we’ve built here is more than a business — it’s a community. We’re grateful every day to be part of Canton’s story and proud to call this place home.

Community Connectors 720 Market

MIKE GALLINA

Canton has captured the ability to make memories in ways that no other city of its size has been able to do. From the Pro Football Hall of Fame, to First Fridays, to the Canton Ballet/ Cultural Center for the Arts, to the Palace Theater, to unique shopping and dining experiences of all types, to the symphony, to high school and college athletic events, you can knit together experiences that are exciting and memorable.

There is so much to do all year long and it can be found right here! Canton, continue to let your light shine!

Vice President of Organizational Development and Community Engagement at The Aultman Health System

MAUREEN 'MO' ATER

I grew up in Canton, surrounded by people who showed me what community really means. I see that same spirit today in the arts—on our stages, in classrooms, and through partnerships that bring people together. The arts here don’t exist in isolation; they thrive because this community believes in shared investment and collective care. Canton is a place where collaboration fuels progress, stories are honored, and community is truly a way of life.

President and CEO of Arts in Stark Cultural Center

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H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE + CU LT U RE

“I grew up in Canton, surrounded by people who showed me what community really means. I see that same spirit today in the arts—on our stages, in classrooms, and through partnerships that bring people together.”

— MAUREEN ‘MO’ ATER

Better Living Starts Here Offering a full range of apartments and living options for seniors, Canton Regency provides a vibrant lifestyle that adds life to your years.

Come See for Yourself 330-477-7664 CantonRegency.com

4515 22nd Street NW, Canton Independent Living | Assisted Living Memory Care | Respite with Outpatient Therapy

SLOW DOWN & THAW OUT THIS WINTER

in Ohio Amish Country!

Winter in Ohio Amish Country invites a different kind of travel pace. It’s a season for warm spaces, unhurried meals, and places that feel like a retreat from the cold.

From a nostalgic diner serving comfort food and homemade pie, to treehouses and cabins designed for

Set your schedule. Make an impact.

Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most.

What if that someone was you?

cozy winter stays.

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Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

Markets available nationwide.

Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

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ARTICLE BY DANIELLE BURKE

styled, locally 5 B O U T I Q U E S T O S H O P Y O U R P E R F E C T D AT E - N I G H T L O O K Here are five local boutiques where you’re sure to discover your next favorite outfit; whether you’re shopping for a special occasion, a memorable date night, or a chic seasonal refresh for your winter wardrobe.

Boutiques Laura of Pembroke in Canton: Known for timeless, feminine pieces with a modern twist for the chic, everyday wardrobe. | 3119 Whipple Ave NW, Canton, OH 44718 https://www.lauraofpembroke.com The French Rooster in Hartville: A charming, Europeaninspired boutique that also features home décor and gifts that bring an elevated look to any space or wardrobe. | 465 W Maple St, Hartville, OH 44632 Windy Roots Boutique in Medina: Specializing in high-quality, earthy neutrals and wearable basics, Windy Roots delivers comfortable, versatile pieces designed for real life. Shop online or visit their pop-up location. | 220 N. State Road, Medina, OH | https://www.windyrootsboutique.com Reverie in Cuyahoga Falls: Beautifully curated selections of clothing, jewelry, and lifestyle pieces. | 2152 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 | https://reveriegifts.com Favorite Sister in Hudson: Showcases playful yet polished fashion with thoughtfully designed pieces for every occasion. | 150 N Main St, Hudson, OH 44236 https://shopfavoritesister.com

Shop Local This February, we’re celebrating local love in more ways than one. From romantic dinners to weekend adventures, the perfect date-night look starts with a little boutique browsing from your most beloved small businesses. This area of Northeast Ohio is home to thoughtfully curated shops offering everything you need to feel confident, trendy, and effortlessly yourself.

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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

Find calm in the cold.

I F YO U A R E READING THIS...

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT O F 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH US. LEARN MORE AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CANTON

Find calm in the quiet of winter at The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard. Book a Valentine’s Day retreat or a luxurious spa day.

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Date Night AT HOME THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

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T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

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T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER

BREAKFAST IN BED

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative painting - each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.

Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

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PERMISSION

cheesy

to be

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake?

Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE, YOU’LL NEED: • • • • • • •

1 pound cream cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 prepared graham cracker crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined.

Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.

For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whipped cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is, you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

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Teaching with Heart

How Canton Christian School is Reimagining Education through Faith, Community, and Curated Curriculum

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE BURKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANITA TULODZIESKI

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I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON

It began in a local family’s backyard one summer night with eight school-aged children, four families, and five teachers who shared a vision for something different. What started as a simple conversation has since grown into Canton Christian School, a new and innovative learning community tucked within Malone University’s campus.

Here, educators and leaders are carving a fresh path in education; one that prioritizes collaboration, interactive and inquiry-based learning, and wisdom drawn not only from textbooks, but from meaningful partnerships throughout the greater Canton community.

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Canton Christian School was founded on a mission to empower children with knowledge, confidence, and a Christ-centered foundation, equipping them to meet modern-day challenges with creativity and purpose.

Laura and RJ Fryan were part of the founding families that built the school out of a desire to create a space rooted in hands-on, experiential learning. In just sixty days, the founding team brought an entire organization to life, establishing policies and procedures for preschool through fifth grade, designing classrooms, and developing curriculum from the ground up. “We raised more than $100,000 from families and community members who heard about our cause and believed in it,” Laura said. “It was the opportunity to start the school we wished we had when we were young, to reimagine education in a fun, electric environment charged with creativity.”

When you walk into the school, you are met with a sense of peace. Natural light fills the hallways, accompanied by the sound of children

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I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON

“When students are laughing, learning, and often singing worship songs.

Classrooms are designed without rigid rows of desks, instead intentionally tailored to support learning through play, collaboration, and realworld projects guided by teachers. With a combined 100 years of teaching experience in progressive, student-focused methods such as Reggio Emilia, this collective group of educators is committed to integrating faith with learning and encouraging students both spiritually and academically.

While Canton Christian School aligns its instruction with Ohio state standards, teachers are given the freedom to lead from their expertise. Several educators hold advanced certifications in OrtonGillingham, a structured literacy approach grounded in the widely used science of reading research.

“Meeting state standards is essential, but how we get there matters,” said Laura. “Our teachers are experts in their fields, and they design learning experiences that begin with what sparks curiosity in our students.”

That flexibility is especially evident in the science classrooms, where lessons often grow out of student-led inquiry. When the children became fascinated by the cicadas they spotted this fall, learning did not come from a worksheet or video. Under the guidance of science teacher Mrs. Stacey Gall, younger primary students designed and built largerthan-life cicada models while exploring the insect’s life cycle and anatomy.

Older students took the project a step further, writing and performing an original play that traced the cicada’s life cycle. They designed costumes, rehearsed together, and ultimately performed the production for their peers on the school’s outdoor stage. “That’s what learning looks like here,” Laura said. “When students are engaged and curious, creativity follows, and state standards are met in such a way that produces mastery of concepts.”

engaged and curious, creativity follows, and state standards are met in such a way that produces mastery of concepts.”

That philosophy is reinforced by educators like Mrs. Andi DeLap, who trained in the Reggio Emilia approach at The Ohio State University and championed her philosophy on mastery, curiosity, and process-based learning in this area of Ohio. Focused on deep understanding rather than rote memorization, students explore concepts through all of the senses and hands-on projects. Laura added, “As a great example of this- the students are learning about the Statue of Liberty so they are building a life size version of the Statue and oxidizing pennies to discover why it's green! Also, when the students learned the Pledge of Allegiance, they discussed what each line means and pieced it together line by line on a giant mural. Our teachers focus on the process and approach learning as a two-way street with dynamic feedback.”

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Also at the core of the school is a commitment to preserving childhood. Technology is intentionally limited, allowing classrooms to remain places of conversation, imagination, and presence. “In a culture that often measures children by speed and performance, we have chosen to protect childhood itself,” said Laura. “Our goal is to foster growth that is academic, emotional, and spiritual, and to give students the space to become who they are meant to be.”

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I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON

The school has grown not only in enrollment, but in community impact and cultural influence as well. Canton Christian School is thoughtful about gathering as a school family and creating spaces for connection. “We hold an opening ceremony for our school community right before the year begins,” said Laura. “It includes a time of praise and worship and a fun, welcoming open house where families can connect with teachers.

It’s not a boring orientation night.”

Likewise, each Friday has been set aside as a “Fun Friday,” a day dedicated to community partnerships and collaborative learning beyond the classroom.

“Community is a priority for us,” Laura added.

These days might include animal demonstrations hosted by Malone University’s biology department, complete with live animals, visits to the Canton Fire Department, or multigenerational activities alongside residents at the Canton Christian Home.

As Canton Christian School continues to grow, its impact is felt not just within the classroom walls, but across families and the wider Canton community.

By slowing down in a Christ-centered environment, teaching with a carefully curated curriculum aligned to Ohio standards, and designing classrooms that foster collaboration and creativity, the school offers a compelling model of what education can look like when purpose guides every decision.

“Our goal is to foster growth that is academic, emotional, and spiritual, and to give students the space to become who they are meant to be.”

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SEA LED W ith L ove Rediscover the timeless art of handwritten letters and wax seals

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H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

There is a lost art in letter writing that I wish to hold onto. In this speedy world where anything can be done lickety-split, a handwritten letter takes time and shows thoughtfulness. The handwriting of a loved one that has passed or the writing of a child that time has aged will forever be treasured because of who they are, not how beautiful the calligraphy.

I invite you to join me in handwriting a letter to someone you care for this month.

Whatever is written, write it in your own handwriting as a gift to be treasured by the person you give it to.

WA X SEA LS Since a handwritten letter is a gift then the envelope should be treated like wrapping one. Sealing a letter with a wax stamp is a beautiful way to turn a standard paper letter into the gift that it is.

SUPPLIES NEEDED 1. Wax Sealing Stick 2. Sealing Stamp 3. Match or Lighter

HOW TO A PPLY A WA X SEA L 1. Light the wick and hold the stick parallel to the work surface.

2. Let wax slowly drip into a coin sized circle onto the paper. It’s tempting to angle the stick down to increase the speed of drips but avoid this as pieces of soot will fall into the wax and discolor it.

3. Blow out the flame and set the stick aside.

4. Press the sealing stamp onto the melted wax. Hold for a few seconds before lifting away. If it sticks, gently rock the seal back and forth to release. *Wax seals are able to be sent through the mail but you may consider an additional outer envelope to protect it from potential damage.

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PURE BARRE BELDEN

A Labor of Love: Built by family, fueled by communit y ARTICLE BY DANIELLE BURKE

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O UR TOWN | FI TNESS

At the heart of Belden Village, one woman has turned her passion for fitness into a thriving community that has left a lasting mark on Canton’s wellness scene. Here, strength is nurtured, confidence is built, and everyone is welcomed exactly as they are. When you walk into Pure Barre Belden, intimidation is gone. You’re met with smiling faces at the front

“True strength isn’t just built in the studio,” Stacia says. “It’s built through service, generosity, and showing up for each other. That’s the legacy I want us to build.” desk, a bright, open space, and a sense of instant belonging that is only crafted by intentional choices made long before a grand opening. For owner Stacia Waffen, these choices were at the core of her vision to create an inviting place where anyone could feel at home regardless of pilates experience.

Married to her husband Keith for five years and a devoted mother to four children, Stacia balances family, fitness, and entrepreneurship with grace and determination. Her kids keep her busy with travel sports. Likewise, for Stacia, being active isn’t optional; it’s a complete lifestyle, one she has been able to carry forward into her career at Pure Barre Belden.

What started as a personal journey in fitness quickly evolved into a mission for a studio that could bring together her love for movement and

her commitment to family. Traveling frequently with her corporate job left her disconnected from her own family. With some encouragement from loved ones and close friends at Pure Barre Hudson, the leap happened.

“My dad was driving me to the airport, and I was emotional about leaving again, and he turned to me and said, ‘well, if you weren’t doing this, what would you do?’ I told him I’d open my own Pure Barre.” Stacia said.

Within hours of arriving at her hotel, she had filled out the intake form and scheduled a meeting with the corporate Pure Barre team to explore opening a studio. The team, intrigued by her vision, was supportive. From that moment, Pure Barre Belden began to take shape.

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What sets Pure Barre Belden apart isn’t just the classes, it’s the family-oriented, community-first foundation that Stacia has so carefully curated. Her children are part of the studio’s daily rhythm. Her daughter helps in retail and daily tasks while her son works the front desk, and her husband played a hands-on role in constructing the studio itself. “This is truly a family business,” Stacia says. “I get to teach my daughter’s gymnastics team, have my son next to me in class, and know that if there’s ever an issue, my husband is just a call away. That doesn’t happen in any old job.”

Pure Barre Belden has become a cornerstone of the Canton fitness community, offering classes for all levels. The Pure Barre Classic is the original 50-minute barre workout using light weights, resistance tubes, and small balls, perfect for anyone from those recovering from injury to beginners. Empower blends classic barre with high-intensity interval training for cardio and strength, Align emphasizes flexibility and balance, and Define fuses barre technique with heavier dumbbells for full-body strength.

“You can meet all your fitness needs in one place with cardio, strength, recovery, stretch, and resistance training under one roof,” Stacia says.

When envisioning Pure Barre Belden, she recognized that fitness can be intimidating, and she aimed to create a space where everyone could feel comfortable. Early pop-up classes in parks and local venues allowed the community to gather even before the studio doors opened. “Watching men and women come together in the middle of a park or at the airport to invest in themselves was so special,” Stacia recalls. The studio itself reflects that vision so beautifully. It’s simple, clean, open, and big enough to feel spacious but warm enough to feel inviting.

Transitioning from client to owner presented both challenges and pleasant surprises, Teaching, she says, has been among the hardest yet most rewarding experiences of her life. Certification is rigorous, and she owes gratitude to fellow owners, teachers, and the wider Pure Barre community for their support and guidance.

Looking ahead, Stacia’s dream is for Pure Barre Belden to leave a lasting imprint on Canton’s wellness culture. Beyond individual transformations, she hopes the studio’s influence extends through local schools, youth sports programs, and charitable initiatives like Love Our Community.

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O UR TOWN | FI TNESS

“You can meet all your fitness needs in one place with cardio, strength, recovery, stretch, and resistance training under one roof.”

Members aren’t just clients, they are advocates, volunteers, and supporters, creating ripples of positive change throughout the area.

“True strength isn’t just built in the studio,” Stacia says. “It’s built through service, generosity, and showing up for each other. That’s the legacy I want us to build.”

Pure Barre Belden is more than a fitness studio. For Stacia, it’s a reminder that passion,

persistence, and a leap of faith can transform not only her own life, but the lives of everyone who steps through the studio doors. “I can never adequately convey my gratitude for leading this community,” she says. “We wouldn’t be this amazing place without every member, every teacher, and every person who’s supported us along the way.”

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M IR ROR WOR K FOR SELF-LOV E AND ACCEP TA NCE

Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? Everyone knows this line from Snow White. The Queen wanted to be the fairest.

When she wasn’t, she poisoned beautiful Snow White. Most of us do not believe ourselves to be the fairest, but quite the opposite.

As February is widely known as the month of love, let’s focus on self-love. Often people, especially parents, tend to give a lot to their partners and their children and less to themselves. Sometimes it is challenging for us to silence the inner critic that speaks harshly to ourselves in a way we would never speak to a loved friend or family member. This is where mirror work can help.

Many people have a complicated relationship with the mirror. We don’t always like to look at our reflections. We may find it confronting. Taylor Swift even sings about it in her song Anti-hero: “I’ll stare directly at the sun but never in the mirror.” Why is it so difficult for some of us to gaze with love–or affection–into the mirror?

Mirror work, a term coined by transformational teacher and selflove expert Louise Hay, founder of Hay House Publishing, and the author of You Can Heal Your Life and Mirror Work: 21 Days to Heal Your Life, is the practice of looking at yourself in the mirror and saying nice things to yourself. You can start with something simple. “I like myself.

I am doing the best I can today.” Or even, “Hey sweetie! You look great!” One of my favorites is, “I love, accept, and forgive myself fully

ARTICLE BY LEA GRIMALDI

and completely.” Mirror work combines well with affirmations, which are positive phrases said in the present tense as if they are already true. The practice of saying affirmations combined with mirror work can increase the benefits of both practices.

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M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | WE LLN E SS

C I K D L H I S M A D A M S

I A M S T RONG . I A M CAPABLE. I CAN DO THIS I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I KNOW MY WORTH. I CAN DO HARD THINGS. MY LIFE IS ABUNDANT. I AM HAPPY AND HEALTHY IN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT. I BELIEVE IN MYSELF. I AM KIND AND COMPASSIONATE. I DE SERV E LOV E A ND ABUNDANCE. I AM DOING MY BEST. I AM SMART. I AM BRAVE. I AM The objective of mirror work is to help people silence their inner critic and believe the positive words they are telling them-

selves while looking at themselves in the mirror.

Mirror work can help with self-esteem issues and can achieve

results such as changing a negative body image to a more positive one.

Hay developed the practice to increase self-compassion and self-love as part of the daily activities detailed in her 1984 book You Can Heal Your Life.

Although it can be confronting and challenging, it is important to practice mirror work regularly to reap the benefits. Set a daily

goal of saying affirmations while looking at your reflection in the mirror and seeing how it makes you feel. Start with two minutes a day and work up to five.

As a yoga teacher, I have included mirror work in my classes

with clients. Often the first experience with the exercise is somewhat uncomfortable, but with practice, it becomes more natural.

When resistance comes up, ask yourself what you are feeling, allow the emotion to be present, and then release it. It may be rooted in a past experience and just needs to be acknowledged and felt before you can let it go.

HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE GUIDELINES FOR HOW TO CREATE A MIRROR WORK PRACTICE:

• Make sure you will be alone and uninterrupted so you can let your guard down and allow emotions to surface • Try to do it for a set amount of time, such as five minutes every day • Allow yourself to feel and process whatever emotions show up • Keep a journal to record your feelings, reactions, and experiences • Start with less confronting or difficult phrases, and as you become comfortable increase the intensity

Mirror work can be used in tandem with inner-child work because many of the negative limiting beliefs that play in our minds are the result of something we were told as a child that is not true about us or our life. If something negative comes up during mirror work, we can challenge it and write about the feelings in the journal, thus freeing us from that limiting belief.

Inner child work is an approach to recognizing and healing child-

hood trauma. We all experience traumas as children which affect the way we experience the world. As adults, we can reconnect with the child we once were, in order to heal. Mirror work is one way to help facilitate that process, in addition to talk therapy, meditation exercises, and setting healthy boundaries.

Here are some ideas for affirmations to use with your mirror work. I am strong. I am capable. I can do this. I believe in myself.

I know my worth. I can do hard things. My life is abundant. I am

happy and healthy in mind, body, and spirit. I believe in myself. I am kind and compassionate. I deserve love and abundance. I am doing my best. I am smart. I am brave. I am powerful.

In the words of Hay, “Doing mirror work is one of the most lov-

ing gifts you can give yourself.”

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FEBRUARY 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

F EB RUA RY 4 T H

Rustic Romance Wreath Workshop at Lost Trail Winery 5228 State Street Northeast Canton, Ohio 44721 | 6:00 PM Enjoy a creative evening perfect for a ladies’ night out or a cozy date night. Learn to weave evergreens, roses, and berries into a fragrant heart-shaped wreath. This is perfect for decorating your door or garden gate all winter long.

F EB RUA RY 6T H

Canton’s First Friday: Par Tee On A Little Green 400 Market Ave. N. Ste. 400, Canton, Ohio 44702 | 5:00 PM Your favorite businesses will transform into mini golf courses for Downtown Canton's March First Friday. This is a vibrant, walkable celebration of the arts and businesses where galleries, shopping, dining and entertainment meet in Hall of Fame Centennial Plaza.

F EB RUA RY 7 T H

Candlelight Tribute to Adele Lions Lincoln Theatre 156 Lincoln Way E. Massillon, OH 44646 | 6:00 PM Candlelight Concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to beautiful locations. This Adele inspired performance is a one-of-a-kind concert, illuminated by the soft glow of flickering candlelight.

F EB RUA RY 1 2 T H

Chocolates in The Cave at Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55th Street NE, Canton, OH 44721 | 6:00 PM Step into a sweet and sparkling Valentine’s wonderland at Gervasi Vineyard’s Chocolates in The Cave. This romantic, open-house-style evening invites guests to indulge in decadent chocolate-inspired desserts, sip wine, and soak up the cozy glow of The Cave.

F EB RUA RY 1 3T H - 2 2 N D

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Broadway Version) Firehouse Theater 450 East Market Street Alliance , Ohio 44601 | 7:30 PM This reimagined Cinderella features Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic score, striking stage transformations, and a modernized story centered on courage and kindness. Lavish costumes, clever humor, and timeless music bring fresh energy to the beloved fairytale at Firehouse Theater.

F EB RUA RY 2 2 N D

Grand Kyiv Ballet presents: Snow White Canton Palace Theatre 605 Market Avenue North Canton , Ohio 44702 | 2:00 PM Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs brings the classic Grimm fairy tale to life as a colorful ballet inspired by the charm of a Disney-style cartoon and set to music by Polish composer Bogdan Pavlovsky. Filled with dazzling costumes, playful humor, and a timeless love story, this enchanting performance delights audiences of all ages.

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G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C A N T O N O H

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EVE N TS

Celebrating love, family & the sparkle that connects us.

From our family to yours, thank you for letting us be part of your most meaningful moments.

Wishing you a brilliant New Year.

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