The Gentleman’s Issue
FOOD + BEVERAGE
MASTERING FLAVOR: CHEF NATHAN KELLY
ARTS + CULTURE
SCULPTING STORIES: THE ART OF DAVE MCDOWELL
A WORLD IN LEGO
BRICK BY BRICK: LOGAN PERDUK BUILDS
Celebrating the Men Who Inspire Us
Welcome to our Men’s Issue—a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and passion, seen through the stories of extraordinary men shaping our community in unique ways.
This month, we step into the kitchen with Chef Nathan Kelly , whose culinary boldness and precision have made him a standout in our local food scene. His journey is a reminder that artistry isn’t confined to the studio—it can be plated, savored, and shared.
Speaking of studios, you’ll meet Dave McDowell, whose work captures movement, memory, and meaning. His art invites us to slow down and consider what it means to create something that lasts—a rare and grounding experience in today’s fast-paced world.
And then there’s Logan Perduk, whose 400-square-foot LEGO studio is equal parts design lab and dream space. At just 23, he’s transformed childhood play into architectural expression, proving that imagination knows no age limit.
This issue is a tribute to the incredible men who enrich our lives every day—our fathers, brothers, sons, partners, mentors, and friends. As we look toward Father’s Day and the start of summer, it’s the perfect time to pause and celebrate the quiet strength, humor, love, and guidance these men bring into our homes and hearts.
We’re also proud to highlight the young students of Central Catholic High School, whose commitment to service stands as a model for us all. With over 18,000 hours of volunteer work contributed each year, these students embody the belief that service isn’t just a requirement—it’s a calling.
These stories aren’t just profiles—they’re invitations. Invitations to follow your passion, pursue your purpose, and maybe even pick up an old hobby that once made you feel more like yourself. Whether it’s food, art, play, or parenthood this issue honors the men in our community who dare to build, shape, and inspire.
We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
Warmly,
NICOLE CERTO, PUBLISHER @CANTONLIFESTYLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Nicole Certo | nicole.certo@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Sarah Finke | sarah.finke@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Agnes Vale
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Alexa P Artistry
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHERE BIG CITY FLAVOR MEETS HOMETOWN HEART
63 CORKS
“WE
Tucked into the charming town of Strasburg, 63 Corks is not just a restaurant—it’s a story. A story of resilience, passion, and a deep love for food that reflects both heritage and innovation. At the helm is Chef and owner Nathan Kelly, whose
farmers,” Chef explains. “That brings the highest quality ingredients to our guests with a unique experience and presentation.”
Those ingredients are often foraged or sourced seasonally—from
WANT YOU TO FEEL WELCOMED AND SPEND TIME EXPLORING OUR CUISINE.”
culinary journey began in southeastern North Carolina and has blossomed into one of the most unique dining experiences in Northeast Ohio.
ROOTED IN RESILIENCE
Chef Nate didn’t follow a straight path to fine dining. “I climbed my way up through kitchens and developed a passion for food,” he recalls. That passion eventually led him to culinary school, where skill met ambition. But in 2019, after a family tragedy, he chose to shift his focus to entrepreneurship, building a business that would allow him to be closer to home and family.
That decision gave rise to 63 Corks , a restaurant rooted in farm-to-table philosophy and elevated by a devotion to seasonality, local sourcing, and creative execution.
A TASTE OF OHIO, WITH A SOUTHERN-ITALIAN SOUL
At 63 Corks, every dish tells a story. “We develop partnerships with local
wild morels and ramps to the restaurant’s signature local wagyu beef. The menu draws from the chef’s southern and Italian heritage, but with a distinctly Ohio twist. Signature dishes like Trout Saltimbocca and handmade pasta are examples of the artistry that defines each plate.
THE ART OF THE PLATE— AND THE MOMENT
Stunning presentation is part of the 63 Corks experience. As Chef puts it, “Our visual presentation is only highlighted by our creativity and quality of ingredients. It must look as stunning as it tastes.”
That philosophy extends beyond the food to the overall experience. The space feels both elevated and welcoming—what the chef describes as “a big city restaurant with a hometown feel.” Guests aren’t just diners; they’re treated like family, and many become regulars.
FROM DONNIE’S TAVERN TO 63 CORKS
Before 63 Corks, Chef Nate and his wife ran the more casual Donnie’s Tavern. That experience helped shape the vision for what would come next. “They’re two very different concepts,” he says. “63 Corks is the type of experience we want to provide—different, intimate, and rooted in connection.”
A NAME WITH MEANING
So where does the name come from? “63 is a number dear to our family,” Chef Nate shares. Initially, the idea was to feature 63 wines—a nod to the restaurant’s wine bar roots. But as the wine list grew, so did the name’s significance. Today, it symbolizes heritage, passion, and a nod to their past, while always looking ahead.
WEEKLY MENUS, SEASONAL INSPIRATION
One of the defining traits of 63 Corks is its ever-changing menu. “We change our menu weekly to monthly,” Chef says. “As the weather changes, so does our menu.” Inspiration comes from what's available locally, from what's in season, and from what excites the chef and his team creatively.
Trends might come and go, but the focus at 63 Corks remains on quality, connection, and creativity.
AT 63 CORKS, EVERY DISH TELLS A STORY.
A WARM WELCOME—AND A LASTING IMPRESSION
From crispy brussels sprouts to the tableside presentation of their smoked s’mores, guests at 63 Corks are encouraged to savor the moment. “Our goal is for you to make your next reservation before you leave,” Chef says. “We want you to feel welcomed and spend time exploring our cuisine or making your way through our wine menu.”
And in the years to come? Chef Nate sees 63 Corks becoming the region’s go-to destination for elevated, locally sourced dining. “We want to keep the excitement building. To be the place foodies bring their friends to show off what Ohio ingredients can do.”
DON’T MISS
Chef’s Pick for First-Time Guests: Start with the brussels sprouts or bread service, and don’t leave without trying the smoke s’mores. Dessert first? Totally acceptable.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, 63 Corks offers more than seasonal flavors—it delivers an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Where there’s a Will, there’s a way.
Free consultation for any estate planning service.
CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL SERVING STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE. FAITH. SOCIAL JUSTICE.
17:1 Class Sizes
100% Graduation Rates
99% Student Involvement
100% Participation in Service
SERVICE. DISCIPLINE. FAMILY. TRADITION.
100% of families are eligible for EdChoice Scholarships 100% of families receive grants, discounts, & scholarships SCHEDULE A TOUR, CALL 330.478.2131 OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE.
we’re closer than you think!
DAVE MCDOWELL
Burnt Marshwiggle & the Art of Awe
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Step into the world of sculptor and artist Dave McDowell, and you may think you've wandered into a mash-up of an art studio, fantasy novel, and cosmic observatory. From crafting a mural mid-air (while queasy on a cross-country flight) to channeling the spirit of a marshwiggle named Puddleglum, Dave’s story is anything but ordinary.
Jacket fabric designed by the Artist
“Choose truth—even if it burns.” That’s Dave in a nutshell: fierce imagination, heartfelt values, and fearless creativity.
Let’s start with that name—Burnt Marshwiggle Studio. If it sounds like something straight out of Narnia, that’s because it is. Inspired by a fiery moment of courage in The Silver Chair, Dave named his creative HQ after a character who stomps out an evil spell with his bare foot. The message? Choose truth—even if it burns. That’s Dave in a nutshell: fierce imagination, heartfelt values, and a big splash of whimsy.
FROM SCRIBBLES TO SCULPTURES
According to his parents, Dave has been creatively intense since birth—literally staring down blank paper as a baby before unleashing a flurry of scribbles. His kindergarten art teacher once recommended a future in medical illustration. Instead, Dave’s journey led him to Indiana Wesleyan University, where he found a home in an art department with the motto: “Make our work our worship.” That calling stuck.
Though the road wasn’t always smooth—he struggled post-college to find work that was both creatively fulfilling and financially viable—Dave soon found his groove in stained glass, outsider art, and eventually, large-scale sculpture.
His first big break? A stained-glass piece for a friend’s mother that snowballed into more commissions and a call from his old high school art teacher. She invited him to create a piece for Sandy Valley High School. Without hesitation, he pitched the now-iconic Heritage Tree sculpture—and from there, Dave became a fixture in Stark County’s creative scene.
THREE DIMENSIONS, TEN THOUSAND IDEAS
“I’m a three-dimensional thinker,” Dave says. And he means that literally. While some artists sketch, Dave often sculpts a model first, needing to see the volume before flattening it onto paper. This brain-wiring makes him uniquely suited to sculpture, where materials, light, and space collide.
Top: Heritage Tree at Sandy Valley High School, Magnolia, OH.
Bottom: Aultman Hospital Angel
But don’t expect repetition. Dave lives for creative challenges—especially the ones with a high chance of failure. “Doing the same thing all the time is death by stagnation,” he laughs. “I want the hardest thing I can do—and then I want to make it harder.”
ART FOR THE PEOPLE
From the Aultman Angel to park benches that double as urns (yes, really), Dave's work isn't just beautiful—it’s deeply personal. He once translated abstract museum paintings into sculptural panels for the blind, a project that earned accolades—and moved one visually impaired viewer to say, “Tonight is the first time I get it.”
Ask him his proudest moment, and you’ll hear that story. Not the awards. Not the installations. But the connection.
CANTON’S CREATIVE CHEERLEADER
A self-proclaimed extrovert who thrives in the collaborative chaos of Canton’s art community, Dave credits the city’s geography, industrial roots, and supportiveness for his success. “We cheer each other on,” he says. “This isn’t some cutthroat scene. We want each other to win.”
He may not keep a tidy studio, and no, he’s not inviting you to tour it anytime soon—unless you like dodging piles of creative chaos. But you can find him at the Hub Art Factory, Synergy Sign and Graphics, or hanging with his foundry friends at Gyalog Aluminum, where ideas (and sparks) fly.
Meeting Dave in person only deepened my appreciation for his work. He’s the kind of person you don’t come across often—genuine, warm, and effortlessly likeable. At one point in our conversation, he described his success as coming “by the grace of God and the goodness of others”—a sentiment that stuck with me. It’s something I too can relate to. More than just a talented artist, Dave is the kind of person you immediately want to call a friend. He’s special.
“He’s the kind of person you don’t come across often—genuine, warm, and effortlessly likeable. More than just a talented artist, Dave is someone you immediately want to call a friend.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
Dream project? A full artist retreat, complete with chapel, gardens, and maybe some whimsical architecture straight out of a Renaissance fairytale. But until then, he’s busy sculpting 360° murals, public gates, and—plot twist—a line of Christmas ornaments.
For Dave, art isn’t just expression—it’s connection. Between past and future, emotion and imagination, artist and viewer. And if you’re lucky enough to stand in front of one of his works, don’t be surprised if you hear yourself whisper, “Wow.”
Just don’t expect him to stop there. After all, he’s still chasing the next hard thing—just to see if he can make it even harder.
davidjaredmcdowell.com
instagram.com/burnt.marshwiggle.studio/
He Came to Bring a Sword
THE BRICK COLLECTOR
ARTICLE BY AGNES VALE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXA P ARTISTRY
Turning a childhood fascination into a stunning LEGO gallery of creativity and color.
Step into Logan Perduk’s world, and you’ll quickly realize that for some, LEGO isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. At 23 years old, Logan has managed to transform what began as a childhood fascination into a full-blown architectural art form, complete with a 400-square-foot studio that would make even Emmet from The LEGO Movie pause in awe.
“My love for LEGO started when I was around five,” Logan shares. “I remember being completely mesmerized by my dad’s old sets at my grandma’s house. It was like looking at time capsules in technicolor.” Fast forward nearly two decades, and those early bricks have multiplied into a collection of over half a million pieces, all meticulously sorted, displayed, and adored in what can only be described as a designer’s dream playroom.
Once just a humble bar and storage area, Logan’s LEGO room underwent a complete transformation in 2022, turning into a vibrant, purpose-built studio that reflects both his passion and precision. “I wanted it to feel like a gallery—light, open, colorful. A place where the pieces paint the walls,” he explains. The result? A vibrant, ever-evolving LEGO sanctuary that’s as functional as it is fantastic.
And yes, he’s that guy with a 10,001-piece Eiffel Tower standing nearly five feet tall. “It took me three weeks to build, and it’s probably my most ambitious project so far,” Logan says proudly. Among his other favorites: the intricate Rivendell set from Lord of the Rings, the sprawling modular building series, and the colossal Colosseum. “I tend to gravitate toward builds that feel like art pieces. I love the ones you just want to stare at.”
Though many LEGO fans dabble in freeform building, Logan considers himself more of a set guy. “I have a massive backlog, but there’s no rush. For me, building is like therapy—it’s how I wind down at the end of the day.” Accompanied by music and mood lighting, his studio turns into a Zen retreat, one colorful brick at a time.
When he's not surrounded by LEGO, Logan works as an interior design assistant to Josette Kark—a role that blends surprisingly well with his plastic passion. “Design teaches me about function and form, and LEGO keeps me playful and open-minded,” he says. “Both help me create spaces—whether full-scale or micro-scale— that tell stories.”
Speaking of stories, Logan dreams of one day opening a LEGO gallery or museum that honors not just the sets, but the imagination behind them. “I want people to see the artistic value of LEGO. It’s not just a toy—it’s a creative medium, a nostalgic escape, and a celebration of design and innovation.”
His friends and family? 100% on board. “They’ve always been supportive. I think they get that it’s a big part of who I am.”
So what’s next for this LEGO maestro? Maybe a spot as an official LEGO brand ambassador. Maybe that gallery. Maybe just one more set before bedtime. But whatever it is, Logan’s building it—brick by beautiful brick.
And if you’re wondering what three LEGO sets he’d take to a desert island? Let’s just say, he’s still deciding. “As long as I’ve got something to build, I’m happy.”
SUMMER GRILL RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely, chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
SUM MER
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
CENTRAL CATHOLIC CRUSADERS
A CULTURE OF SERVING OTHERS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
At Central Catholic High School service is a core part of the school’s mission. With an emphasis on social justice and community involvement, Central Catholic students are given numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful volunteer work.
Each year, Crusaders dedicate more than 18,000 volunteer hours. 100% of students participate in service, an involvement not just to fulfill a requirement. Instead, students are taught that service is not just an act—it’s a way of life.
One highlight of the year is Crusader Outreach Day, an annual day when the entire school—students and staff— spends the day volunteering in the community. Whether students are passing out diapers, filling care bags, organizing donations, or distributing food, the day is a reminder of the impact of collective action.
Students contribute to countless organizations such as Gigi's Playhouse, the Stark County Diaper Bank, Refuge of Hope, the Massillon Boys & Girls Club, and Project Rebuild, to name just a few. Each year, they hold an Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive and Easter Basket Drive for families in need, donating thousands of items. Through hands-on involvement, students see firsthand the challenges some people face.
They also offer numerous community events on their campus such Trunk or Treat, Breakfast with Santa, Easter Egg Hunts, and youth days. Students regularly visit local elementary schools, participating in recess games, read-aloud activities, and art projects, etc. These visits provide younger students with positive role models and help high schoolers develop leadership skills.
“Service is not just an act—it’s a way of life.”
At the heart of the emphasis on service is a commitment to social justice. Teaching an understanding of the underlying causes of poverty and lessons in empathy, compassion, and advocacy. Central Catholic believes that education goes beyond academics—it’s about shaping young people who are knowledgeable but also committed to making the world a better place.
Priceless Memories
Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Learn Together
Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.
Retro
Movie Night
Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.
CONTINUED >
Chef’s Kiss
Take the food pressure off Dad and invite local culinary experts to prepare a meal. A fun theme, based around his favorite vacation, such as Hawaiian food, will make the evening memorable. Alternatively, try a local cooking class together based on his favorite cuisine.
Blast From The Past
Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.
JUNE 14TH
4th Annual Touch-a-Truck Extravaganza
Central Catholic High School | 10:00 AM
Explore and experience first responder vehicles, vintage cars, local bookmobiles, big trucks, and more! Have a blast meeting farmers and firefighters, petting farm animals, and touching trucks. This event benefits the Stark County Imagination Library. Snacks, beverages, train rides, and more will be available for purchase.
JUNE 23RD
Songs In the Sky
The Sky Terrace atop Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium | 6:00 PM
Join us for Songs in the Sky—a lively evening benefiting the Canton Symphony Orchestra! Enjoy The Cleveland Keys Dueling Pianos, appetizers, a wine pull, silent auction, and more. Reserve your tickets: 330-452-2094 | boxoffice@cantonsymphony.org
JUNE 28TH
Canton Woman's Club Gala Anniversary Luncheon
CANTON WOMAN'S CLUB, 822 Market Avenue North, Canton, Ohio 44702 | 11:00 AM
Founded in 1920, the Canton Woman’s Club unites women in civic service, friendship, and historic preservation. Join us for a charming “Through the Decades” luncheon and discover 105 years of impact, tradition, and enduring community spirit! Cost: $50.00/per person. Pre-paid Reservations ONLY. For more information or to make a reservation visit our website at www.cantonwomansclub.biz
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.
