Food and Drink
Welcome to our Food and Drink issue.
Welcome, fall! The season of cozy gatherings, colorful leaves, and comforting flavors has arrived. October always feels like an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in the tastes that make this time of year so special.
This issue is all about celebrating food and drink. The flavors that warm us from the inside out and the simple joys that come with sharing them. From recipes that inspire new traditions to timeless favorites that never go out of style, each page is designed to spark a little creativity in your kitchen and a lot of comfort at your table.
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Nicole Certo | nicole.certo@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Brian Bailey, Emily Shea, Rachel Hagenbaugh, Sarah Finke
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Julie Mertes | julie.mertes@citylifestyle.com
For me, autumn flavors have always carried a sense of nostalgia. The scent of baked apples, simmering soups, and pumpkin spice instantly brings back memories of family kitchens and evenings spent gathered around the table. Food is more than nourishment, it’s connection, memory, and joy.
Here’s to embracing the season, one delicious bite at a time.
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA ESPOSITO PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED
Rooted in Resilience
Master Arborist Tina Graver blends science, stewardship, and heart in caring for trees
From her earliest childhood days, Tina Graver felt most at home outside among the trees. While other children spent summers chasing games, Tina wandered the woods, captivated by the life growing all around her. At just eight years old, she filled an entire roll of film with nothing but photographs of a single amaryllis, capturing its bloom from every angle. “My dad still laughs about it,” she recalls, “but it was the moment he realized I had a pull toward plants.” By fourteen, she had a garden of her own. One she tended so faithfully that the local water company called to ask about the unusually high usage.
That early passion set the course for her life. A first-generation college student, Tina pursued a degree in botany and, in time, found her calling in arboriculture. Today, she stands as one of fewer than two percent of ISA-certified professionals worldwide to hold the distinguished title of Board Certified Master Arborist
But the path wasn’t easy. In a field historically dominated by men, Tina faced skepticism, dismissive remarks, and moments of discouragement. “There were people who told me I wouldn’t last two weeks,” she says. “Even with credentials and years of experience, I was told it wasn’t possible to be both a great arborist and a great mom.” Yet Tina’s resilience carried her forward. As a single mother raising her son while building her career, she leaned on mentors who encouraged her and silenced the voices that doubted her. “The lesson I’ve learned is that the good people, the ones who believe in you, make all the difference,” she says. Her business, Trees and Gardens Consulting, reflects that hard-won strength and integrity. Tina brings both science and heart to every consultation.
She insists on meeting clients in person, learning the history of their trees, and balancing intuition with diagnostic data. From sounding mallets and soil tests to advanced resistograph readings, her process is grounded in precision. Yet she always circles back to education. “When people understand their trees, they become better stewards,” Tina explains.
That philosophy has led her to remarkable projects. In one case, she helped preserve a 200-yearold white oak slated for removal during a dam restoration. With a carefully written letter explaining its ecological importance and irreplaceable history, the plan was changed, and the tree was saved. For Tina, moments like these embody what it means to be both a scientist and a steward.
While her consulting work emphasizes diagnosis and prescription, she collaborates closely with climbing crews to ensure her recommendations are carried out safely and skillfully. She’s often right there alongside them, working on-site, explaining the “why” behind every step. “It’s not just a task list,” she says. “It’s a shared understanding of what’s best for the tree.” CONTINUED >
“When people understand their trees, they become better stewards.”
Outside of her professional life, Tina recharges in simple but meaningful ways: gardening, kayaking and painting. Much of her joy comes from time with her son, whether they’re working out together at the gym, traveling, or playing Minecraft. Community engagement is also central to her life; she lends her time and expertise to groups like Rotary and Keep Akron Beautiful. Looking ahead, Tina is focused on mentoring others in the same way mentors once guided her. She leads
study groups, speaks at community events, and continues advancing science-based tree care across Northeast Ohio. Her goal is clear: to build resilience, not only in landscapes and neighborhoods, but also in the next generation of arborists.
For Tina, arboriculture has never been just a profession. It’s a responsibility. It’s a way of life rooted in respect for the natural world, for community, and for the quiet strength of trees that endure through seasons and storms.
Beyond Beauty: The Science of Healthy Trees
At Trees and Gardens Consulting, we guide you through the puzzles of tree health, from subtle diseases to potential risks. Our mission is to empower you with knowledge and deliver personalized, researchdriven solutions that promote sustainability, enhance safety, and foster a deeper appreciation for the ecological value of your trees.
(440) 289-7993
TreesGardensConsulting@outlook.com
G H
P O M O D O R O
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY
Enjoy this simple, flavorful food for the soul. ‘Po modoro’ means tomato in Italian, and that’s what this dish is - a fresh tomato sauce with basil, garlic, onion, and olive oil.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 Tbsp salt
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely diced or minced
• 1 lb fresh tomatoes, halved or chopped (I use garden cherry tomatoes if in season or Roma tomatoes are a good choice)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 basil sprigs, divided
• 1 lb. spaghetti
• 1 cup Parmesan, finely grated, divided
• 1 Tbsp butter
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat medium-size Dutch Oven or large skillet over medium heat then add extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Once hot, add chopped onion then saute until tender, 2-3 minutes. Add fresh garlic and saute until golden but not brown, another 30 seconds.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan with a pinch of sugar then simmer on medium-low for 20-25 minutes. Stir and press the tomatoes against the bottom and sides of the pan to make saucier. If sauce begins to pop too much, turn down even further. (If sauce starts to thicken too much add pasta water as needed.)
3. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta and season generously with salt.
4. When sauce is almost ready, add fresh basil leaves torn into small pieces, plus butter, remaining salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Add more salt to taste if needed.
5. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente then transfer it to the sauce pot with tongs to finish cooking directly in the sauce. Add splashes of pasta water if needed to cook pasta all the way and to keep it saucy.
6. Toss pasta and sauce with 1/2 Parmesan cheese. Serve in pasta bowls and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil.
crowd pleasing
comfort foods
Fall entertaining has never been easier than with these deliciously simple recipes.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN LANE & AMANDA STOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY
Whether you plan to host family for holiday festivities or come together for a Friendsgiving you’ll need plenty of options to feed a crowd. Lauren Lane knows how to make everyone feel cared for and cozy. As a distinguished culinary influencer recently showcased on a Netflix cooking competition, Lauren has cemented her status as a prominent figure in the world of food and entertainment. We hope her recipes inspire you to slow down and gather around the table to feed the dreams of those you love. For tips on these comfort foods and more fall inspiration, visit Lauren-Lane.com
INGREDIENTS
• 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
• 2 medium carrots, chopped in rounds
• 2 ribs celery, sliced in half moons
• 1 large (about 1 pound) sweet potato, peeled and chopped in large chunks
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon, chicken flavor
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 2 large handfuls of kale, roughly chopped with thick stems removed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Fall Vegetable, Kale & Rice Soup
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil over medium-high heat in a large stock pot. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add in the chicken stock, carrots, celery, sweet potato, Herbes de Provence, bay leaf and Better than Bouillon. Stir to combine.
3. Add rice and bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add kale and mushrooms and stir gently until combined. Cook for 3-5 minutes.
5. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed.
DRESSING
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
SALAD
• 1 small head of butter lettuce, torn into pieces
• 1 small head radicchio, core removed and torn into pieces
• 1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and very thinly sliced
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and finely crumbled
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2-3 ounces of goat cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt and black pepper and whisk to combine. Taste, add more salt and pepper as desired.
2. Add Brussels sprouts to a bowl and toss with a small amount of the dressing.
3. Arrange lettuces, Brussels sprouts, apples and shallots on a platter.
4. Top with bacon, nuts and goat cheese if using.
5. Drizzle with additional salad dressing, to taste.
Fall Radicchio Brussels Sprouts Bacon Salad
Parmesan Bread
Bites with Thyme Honey
INGREDIENTS
• 1 refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought or homemade pizza dough)
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (heaping)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (use good quality Parmesan)
• Honey and a few sprigs of thyme for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Divide dough into 4 pieces.
3. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope shape. You’ll want it to be about 1 inch thick all the way around.
4. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 1-inch pieces.
5. Melt butter and add salt. Brush the tops of the bites with the butter mixture.
6. Dip the top of each piece of dough into Parmesan.
7. Bake for 15 minutes. They will be very lightly golden. Do not overbake or they will become hard.
8. Serve sprinkled with thyme leaves and honey. Garnish with sprigs of thyme.
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
How To Stay Festive And Healthy? Sure Thing
Halloween is typically filled to the brim with salt, sugar and carbs. It can be hard to stay on the nutrition wagon during spooky season, but there are plenty of fun ways to add a festive spin to favorite healthy dishes.
pumpkinFRUIT BOWL
With luck finding a melon or watermelon at the store, simply carve it like a jack-o-lantern and make the mouth large enough to have other sliced fruit emerging, such as cut pineapple, sliced grapes and apple chunks. Along the side, peel mini oranges and add a green stem to mimic pumpkins.
spooky CHARCUTERIE
These fan favorite boards can easily be kept healthy with some additions. Make any treat spooky with edible eyeballs. Adding them to a small snack such as mini bell peppers or grapes and strawberries is a fun way to stay on theme without sacrificing a healthy streak. Eyeball salami rolls also can be added, starting first with a green olive in the center, surrounded by a roll of mozzarella cheese and then surrounded by salami or even prosciutto.
stuffed PEPPERS
This fall staple easily can be incorporated into a fall gathering or Halloween night by carving jacko-lantern faces in orange peppers, and resuming a favorite recipe from there. Serving bread on the side? Use a skull or pumpkin shaped cookie cutter to re-shape it.
ghostly DIP
Hummus and pitas can be made scary in no time. Use a ghost shaped cookie cutter to shape pita bread, lightly toast and serve with red pepper hummus, which is usually orange in color.
jack-o-lantern VEGGIE TRAY
The easiest bet for a quick and healthy Halloween treat? You can’t go wrong with a veggie tray shaped like a jack-o-lantern. Use baby carrots as the base, and cucumber or celery to shape the mouth and stem. The eyes? Two round bowls of veggie dip.
FEAST YOUR WAY TO WINTER
Fall’s best cookbooks for perfect cold season prep
Crisper air and shorter days call for cozy nights, whipping up a homemade meal in soft slippers and your favorite robe. Staying home on a Friday night in the fall doesn’t mean you’re giving up — quite the opposite! Think of it as carb loading before the championship game or a prep session before that major test. You’re practicing your winter hibernation skills, stretching those lounging muscles, and getting ready to win winter. And consider this roundup of cookbooks as your personal trainer. If you can make a hearty, succulent roast with confidence and ease as the leaves fall outside, imagine what you can do when it’s 20 degrees and snowing. Now, go get ’em!
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Pizza Night:
Deliciously
Doable Recipes for Pizza and Salad
When you hear “Pizza Night”, a picture appears of the entire family gathered ’round with good food and lots of laughs (with popcorn and a movie to wrap up the occasion, naturally). This collection of yum contains 52 seasonal pizza varieties, each with unique salad pairings. It’s like pizza night on overdrive. Now, when you plan the family’s favorite end-of-the-week event, you’ll have this in your arsenal.
Mastering Bread:
The Art and Practice of Handmade Sourdough, Yeast Bread, and Pastry
We know you want to turn and run in the opposite direction after reading this title, but don’t be afraid! Take a glance at the reviews, and you’ll see words like easy, lovely, informative, inspiring, and our favorite, “great for beginner bread makers!” No equipment is required, just basic ingredients and a can-do attitude. It’s also a nice little piece of décor for your kitchen countertop.
The Modern Hippie Table: Recipes and Menus for Eating Simply and Living Beautifully
You’ll find more than 70 recipes in this gorgeous compilation. Author/lifestyle blogger Lauren Thomas wants her readers to slow down and create a whole mood around their food, one that is beautiful, inviting, and… delicious. Her recipes are achievable for the novice and experienced chef and come with tips on tablescaping, cocktail mixing, and more. So, double knot that apron because you’re going to learn some stuff and eat very, very well.
Health Nut: A Feel-Good Cookbook
You may see Health Nut and say to yourself, ‘Booooring!’ but healthy food doesn’t have to be tasteless food. Flip through the vibrant pages of this trusty sidekick, and you’ll find good-for-you dishes with flavorful combinations the whole family will love. With practical instructions and helpful tips, it’s almost as if the author peeked into your pantry and built her recipes around ingredients you already have.
THE SEASON’S BEST SANDWICHES
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Stacked forFall
There’s something deeply satisfying about a well-made sandwich—especially when it comes together with minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. As the season changes and appetites grow heartier, fall is the perfect time to get creative with ingredients tucked between slices of crusty bread or buttery rolls. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your lunch routine, enjoy comforting flavors and bold textures, or impress guests with a no-fuss meal, these easy-tomake sandwiches strike the perfect balance between simple and sensational.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 slices crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, French bread)
• 6 oz roast beef
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)
INSTRUCTIONS
• 2 ½ tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp horseradish sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Arugula
• Cherry tomato
• Caramelized onions
Toast the bread. Butter one side of each slice and toast in a skillet until golden. Heat roast beef briefly in a pan. To make the spread, mix mayo, horseradish sauce, and Dijon. Spread on the toasted bread. Layer roast beef, cheese, and broil briefly to melt. Add arugula, tomato, and caramelized onions if using. Top with the second slice of bread.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 grilled chicken breast
• 2 slices pepper jack cheese
• 2 slices cooked bacon
• 1 tbsp fruit jam (fig, raspberry, or jalapeño recommended)
INSTRUCTIONS
• A handful of fresh arugula
• 3–4 cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 tbsp garlic aioli
• 1 brioche bun (toasted)
Lightly butter the inside of the bun and toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown. Spread a layer of garlic aioli on the bottom bun. Add the sliced grilled chicken breast. Place the pepper jack cheese over the hot chicken to slightly melt it. Layer on the crispy bacon slices. Add halved cherry tomatoes and a small handful of arugula. Spread the jam on the top bun. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
• 3 oz goat cheese
• Fresh arugula
• ¼ cup caramelized onions
• 1 pear, thinly sliced
INSTRUCTIONS
• Honey, to taste
• Butter for toasting the bread
• Rotisserie chicken breast thinly sliced
• Sourdough bread, buttered (optional)
Spread goat cheese on one side of the bread. Top the cheese with arugula, caramelized onions, sliced pears and chicken breast. Drizzle with honey. Top with remaining slice of sourdough bread. Use a griddle or panini press to heat the sandwich.
INGREDIENTS
• French bread loaf, halved lengthwise
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme or rosemary
• Salt, pepper, chili flakes (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 cup arugula
• 2–4 tbsp pesto (thinned with olive oil)
• Balsamic glaze
• Optional: 4 slices prosciutto
• Fresh basil
Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Roast at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until soft and caramelized. Brush bread with olive oil. Toast in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp. Layer mozzarella slices on the toasted bread. Add fresh basil. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until melted. Optional: Top with roasted tomatoes, arugula, and prosciutto (if using). Drizzle with pesto and balsamic glaze.
Nicole turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Canton Lifestyle
Published by Nicole Loved by Canton
Celebrity Cruises is a real treat for foodies! They offer a unique culinary journey featuring dining experiences crafted in collaboration with renowned chefs. The cruise line has a history of making culinary excellence a key part of its brand, thanks to partnerships with chefs like Michel Roux. Dining and food are iconic pieces of their offerings, so if you love delicious meals at sea, Celebrity Cruises is a great choice!
Maria DiSanti
Myvacationmd.com 330-907-1491
Maria.disanti@cruiseplanners.com
OCTOBER 9TH
Vintage Canton
Downtown Canton 330 Court Avenue Northwest | 4:30 PM
The celebration returns to its roots in downtown Canton for an evening you won’t forget. Sample exceptional wines, craft brews, and creative cocktails, perfectly paired with small plates from beloved local eateries. Enjoy live music, browse artisan vendors, and take in the vibrant atmosphere that only Market Avenue delivers. Visit business. cantonchamber.org/ap/Events for more information and to buy your tickets.
OCTOBER 17TH
Moonlight Market in Hartville
1289 Edison Street Northwest Hartville | 5:00 PM
A beloved tradition is back! Gather family and friends for an evening under the pavilion at the Moonlight Market. This outdoor event offers something for everyone in a festive fall atmosphere: Indoor Shops, Food Trucks, Local Crafters & Artisans, Seasonal Activities, Hay Rides. Don’t miss this community favorite!
NOVEMBER 6TH
Stark Library Presents:
An Evening with Marlee Matlin
Canton Palace Theatre | 6:30 PM
Join Stark Library for an unforgettable evening with Academy Award–winning actress and New York Times best-selling author Marlee Matlin! On Thursday, November 6, she takes the stage as part of the Speaking of Books Author Series. Matlin, author of I’ll Scream Later, has inspired millions with her journey of perseverance, talent, and advocacy. Tickets available October 16 at StarkLibrary.org/Marlee.
At 63 Corks, every dish tells a story—crafted from locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Ohio, the Midwest, Appalachia, and the Deep South. Join us for a dining experience where regional flavor meets elevated execution.
...Okay, let's bust the myth: Chiropractic for kids is NOT what you see in adult adjustment videos. Think soft touches or light presses - gentle enough to test a peach’s ripeness. Bubanic Chiropractors are professionals at working with tiny spines, using gentle techniques tailored for babies, toddlers, and teens. We focus on fixing subluxations (fancy word for misalignments in the spine or joints) that can mess with the nervous system, which is like the body’s control center for everything from sleep to digestion. We are specially trained to make kids feel at ease, and the proof is in the giggles-most kids love their visits! Studies, like those in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, show parents rave about the results, thrilled with how safe and effective it is. What Can Bubanic Chiropractic Fix? A Lot!!...
Written by Dr. Troy Bubanic
