March - Home & Design Issue
Home. So much is contained in that four-letter word. It’s our foundation, our sanctuary, and the space where life’s most meaningful moments unfold. While home looks different for each of us, its significance remains universal—it’s where we gather, create, and recharge.
Author Wendy Wunder once said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” With that in mind, this issue celebrates the spaces we cherish and the talented professionals who bring them to life.
This month, we are thrilled to feature Josette Kark of JLK Interior Design, whose artistry transforms houses into dream homes. We also highlight the craftsmanship of S. Flynn Design + Build, known for creating custom homes that reflect timeless elegance and modern function. And, of course, no home is complete without beautiful outdoor spaces—Rice’s Landscapes Redefined continues to be a trusted name in elevating landscapes with expertise and vision.
We feel fortunate to showcase the incredible individuals and businesses that shape our city’s design landscape. Their dedication to craftsmanship and beauty inspires us all, reminding us that home is more than just a place—it’s a feeling.
As you flip through this issue, we hope you feel inspired and connected to the spaces, people, and creativity that make our community so special.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your home.
Happy March!
NICOLE CERTO, PUBLISHER @CANTONLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Nicole Certo | nicole.certo@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Brian Bailey, Emily Shea, Rachel Hagenbaugh
Katie Bode, Christian Williams
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Julie Mertes | julie.mertes@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Christian Williams
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Let’s
A m e r i c a C o r p o r a t i o n C I M A ® i s a r e g i s t e r e d c e r t i f i c a t i o n m a r k o f t h e I n v e s t m e n t s & W e a l t h I n s t i t u t e ® T h e C o l l e g e f o r F i n a n c i a l P l a n n i n g I n s t i t u t e s C o r p o w n s t h e s e r v i c e m a r k s C h a r t e r e d R e t i r e m e n t P l a n n i n g C o u n s e l o r ™
inside the issue
For nearly 60 years, Echoing Hills has provided person-centered services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What started as a summer camp experience in 1967 has grown to include recreational, residential, adult services, and educational programs throughout Ohio, including five new homes in Stark County
info@ehvi.org
Scan to Learn More ehvi.org
BEAUTIFUL SPACES
Designed for six individuals per home, each location in Stark County features open-concept floorplans, lots of natural light, and ADA-accessible spaces.
ENGAGING LIFESTYLES
Working, volunteering, or exploring the community. No matter how individuals spend their days, they return home to do life together.
PERSONAL CHOICES
What’s for dinner? What color do I want to paint my room? What do I want to watch? Individuals make choices every day, turning their houses into homes.
TIMELESS INTERIORS, elevated living
THE JLK DESIGN LEGACY
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For over 25 years, JLK Interior Design has been transforming interiors into spaces of elegance and sophistication. As a premier full-service interior design firm based in Northeast Ohio, JLK Interior Design specializes in creating traditional and transitional interiors with a contemporary flair. Their work extends nationwide, including projects in Florida and California, reflecting their ability to craft designs that are both timeless and tailored to their clients’ lifestyles.
THE JLK PHILOSOPHY: MORE THAN DESIGN
At JLK Interior Design, creating exceptional interiors goes beyond selecting fabrics and finishes—it’s about defining lifestyles. The firm’s meticulous approach ensures each space reflects the personality and needs of its client, delivering both timeless charm and contemporary practicality.
Josette Kark, the visionary behind JLK Interior Design, built her expertise at the New York School of Interior Design. Her signature style shines in both residential and commercial projects, including her work designing model homes for Schumacher Homes, an award-winning national builder. Through close collaboration, Josette ensures every client receives a space that is functional, luxurious, and uniquely theirs.
The JLK team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, making the design process as enjoyable as the final product. This commitment to excellence has established JLK Interior Design as one of Northeast Ohio’s premier design firms.
TRANSFORMING SPACES WITH STYLE
From kitchens to master baths, JK Design delivers innovative solutions that combine aesthetics and functionality. Below are highlights of some of Josette’s most stunning transformations seen in the pictures within this article:
MODERN KITCHEN MASTERPIECE
Gone are the dated kitchens of the early 2000s. This remarkable remodel features deep charcoal LVT plank flooring, a durable and modern foundation that replaces small, grout-heavy tile. Full-overlay cabinetry in putty-glazed finish pairs beautifully with satin nickel hardware, while upper cabinets with reeded glass inserts and stainless trim add a contemporary touch.
The island serves as the kitchen’s centerpiece, housing a Blanco black quartz sink, Delta chef’s faucet, and seating for casual dining. GE Café appliances, including a gas range, wine cooler, and a drawer microwave, enhance functionality. Completing the look is a stunning iridescent metallic backsplash that extends to the ceiling, paired with polished chrome stools and black LED pendant lighting.
A SPA-LIKE MASTER BATH
This master bath transformation took outdated features like platform tubs and diagonal square tiles and reimagined them into a serene retreat. A freestanding therapeutic tub now serves as a centerpiece, complemented by large-format tiles for a sleek, elongated look.
The shower, framed with glass walls and accented by a pebble-tiled floor, is both functional and elegant. Custom vanities with floating cabinetry, integrated lighting, and tower cabinets for storage further elevate the design. Semi-mount vessel sinks and optional shower jets add modern sophistication, turning this bathroom into a luxurious escape.
POWDER ROOM PERFECTION
In this powder room remodel, removing a built-in shower allowed for a larger, more open layout. A free-floating vanity with integrated lighting is the centerpiece, paired with a vertical penny-tile mirror and decorative sconces. The faux-finished walls and dimensional metal wall plates designed by Paul Perduk Designs add depth and character, making this space a true showpiece.
HOLLYWOOD GLAM PIANO ROOM
This dramatic piano room embodies Hollywood glam with bold design choices. Dark black walls and oversized modern art create a striking backdrop, while the leopard-patterned carpet
adds playful sophistication. Mirrored furniture and mixed metals enhance the room’s luxurious feel, showcasing how daring design can be both glamorous and cohesive.
OLD WORLD MEETS MODERN
A traditional gathering room was transformed into a transitional haven. Marble-look tile flooring replaced wood for a contemporary base, while Chesterfield black sofas and a custom neutral-toned rug modernized the space.
The room’s old-world charm remains in the custom stone fireplace and wood-paneled walls, which house a curated art collection. A gold metallic chandelier under a gold-leaf faux-finished vaulted ceiling serves as the room’s focal point, blending traditional and modern elements seamlessly.
ELEVATING THE DESIGN EXPERIENCE
Josette Kark’s passion for interior design extends beyond aesthetics. She believes in crafting environments that enrich her clients’ lives. With a team that prioritizes client relationships and a commitment to quality, JLK Interior Design transforms interiors into reflections of each client’s unique style and vision.
From contemporary kitchens to luxurious bathrooms and bold statement spaces, JLK Interior Design turns dreams into reality. With over 25 years of expertise and an impeccable portfolio, Josette and her team continue to set the standard for luxury interior design in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
Explore the artistry of timeless interiors with JLK Interior Design and discover how they can elevate your lifestyle with spaces that inspire and endure.
Visit www.josettekarkdesign.com for inspiration and to contact Josette’s team.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
KEY SECRETS FOR A SPARKLING HOME
A SPRING KIND OF CLEAN
TIP #1 Freshen up the Kitchen
A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”
To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.
TIP #2 Spruce up the Living Room
The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”
To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.
TIP #3 Brighten up Windows
Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”
CRAFTING PERSONALIZED SPACES WITH CARE
S. Flynn Design + Build
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Design has always been our starting point, and construction flows out of it.
In the heart of Berlin, Ohio, Kyle and Sadie Beachy have built more than a business—they’ve created a haven for homeowners seeking spaces that reflect their individuality and style. Together with their dedicated team at S. Flynn Design and Build, they have redefined what it means to create custom homes and remodels. Their unique selling points include a relentless focus on client satisfaction, a blend of timeless craftsmanship with modern innovation, and a commitment to creating homes that tell a story, making them stand out in the industry. At S. Flynn, the client is not just a part of the process but the heart of it, ensuring that their satisfaction is always the top priority. Their journey began in 2012 when Sadie set out to establish her reputation in the industry after earning her degree in Interior Design. Her eye for detail and passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces quickly garnered attention. By 2018, her husband Kyle joined the venture with over a decade of experience as an aircraft mechanic. His technical expertise and methodical approach brought a new dimension to S. Flynn. His hands-on approach allowed for the construction and complete home remodel, allowing the company to take off and be united by a shared mission: “To create a beautiful home that reflects you and your family.”
CRAFTSMANSHIP ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Operating in the heart of one of Ohio’s most significant Amish communities, S. Flynn draws on the area's legacy of exceptional craftsmanship. This close collaboration of artisans and contractors ensures that every project benefits from the quality of work and materials S. Flynn offers. This gives S. Flynn the ability to pride themselves on being ahead of the design curve when it comes to their projects, especially when it combines modern aesthetic skills with the enduring artisan skills of the Amish community craftsman.
A TEAM EFFORT
The success of S. Flynn is a testament to the dedication of its talented team. “We don’t do what’s easiest; we
do what’s best,” Sadie says. This commitment extends to everyone they work with, from architects and contractors to artisans and suppliers. Their commitment to excellence and quality reassures clients that each project is meticulously planned and executed.
A CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH
At S. Flynn, the client is at the heart of everything. Unlike other builders who prioritize efficiency, S. Flynn emphasizes the joy of the creative process. “Building a home can be an incredibly stressful project, but our view is that it should be fun, and you should enjoy it,” Sadie explains. This approach ensures that the customer is fully immersed in the process, feels valued and understood and that every home they build is as unique as its owner's.
From presenting the clients with a curated image package to exploring innovative trends and design elements, S. Flynn ensures that every detail is aligned with the client's vision. Whether it’s a modern lake house, a european farmhouse, or a bespoke office space, Sadie and her team's designs are tailored to fit the homeowners' personalities and the landscape they will be sculpted upon.
This in-depth discovery process allows Sadie, Kyle, and the rest of the team to delve into their client's lifestyles, preferences, dreams, and who they are on a fundamental scale while keeping their budget in mind. Throughout a series of meetings and discussions of floor plans, they can craft a vision board of images to ensure that the final design reflects the client's uniqueness.
SAVING MARRIAGES, ONE HOME AT A TIME
One of the admirable aspects of S. Flynn’s work is their ability to harmonize different design preferences. When working with couples, they expertly blend their styles and create a combined space that feels cohesive and balanced. “We like to joke that we’re saving marriages one house at a time,” Kyle laughs. “But honestly, it’s true. We help couples find common ground, which makes the result so special.”
Our top priority is to create a beautiful home that reflects you and your family. “
Prioritizing quality and personalization over efficiency and emptiness, ensuring each project stays on time, on budget, and true to its client's vision. As Sadie says, “Most custom builders bring on designers out of necessity; we are the opposite. Design has always been our starting point, and construction flows out of it.” This unwavering commitment to quality and personalization sets S. Flynn apart in the industry, instilling confidence in their clients and ensuring the reliability of their work.
Regarding S. Flynn’s statement on “Home Matters,” that is because of how customers, whoever it may be, your home matters. It is your safe place to retreat, relax, or recharge after the day. The design of a great home takes on many forms and can be adaptable for many events, such as hosting parties, sleepovers, or family gatherings. S. Flynn is there to ensure those opportunities can be available to you to enable their clients’ homes to work well for them and their guests. CONTINUED
DESIGN MEETS INNOVATION
When it comes to the approach of combining newly popularized trends with traditional craftsmanship, S. Flynn is ahead of the curve. Searching for the inspiration for these builds allows Sadie and her team to become immersed in the world of interior design. Whether online, social media, print, or travel, they bring those designs onto the scene, creating timeless, unique, custom spaces. Sadie’s design tips reflect this balance:
• Mix hardware finishes: Combining metals adds depth and interest to any room, from lighting to plumbing fixtures.
• Add charm: Incorporate unique details like plate rails on shelving or backsplashes that extend to the ceiling.
• Celebrate natural wood: Use character-grade wood with visible knots, imperfections, and rich, warm stains.
• Embrace brown tones: From cabinetry to wall colors, brown makes a versatile and inviting neutral comeback.
The S. Flynn blog offers insights and inspiration, sharing project reveals, DIY tips, and remodeling advice.
EXPANDING HORIZONS
In addition to building custom homes and large-scale remodels, S. Flynn also takes on more small-scale commercial projects such as boutiques and offices. As S. Flynn grows, they focus on innovation and designs' never-ending evolution. Working more to draw new clients
to their website and multi-use commercial building, The Atlee, located in downtown Berlin, Ohio. Opening in the fall of 2023 in The Atlee, S. Flynn Home was designed to showcase furniture and curate home décor collections; however, this is also where customers can schedule appointments. It’s in this new building where S. Flynn is ready to receive new customers with the help of their sales team, who are happy to help when it comes to styling and decorating your home.
BETTER BY DESIGN
For Sadie and Kyle, this journey is more than just building homes; it’s about creating spaces that feel like home, an exterior extension of their clients that they can express to their guests. With their establishment in Amish country Berlin, their eyes on the horizon, S. Flynn is determined to continue transforming the way we think about home and what truly makes a home. Embodying a perfect balance so that the results are extraordinary and unique, just like their clients. For couples dreaming of creating homes that are more than just walls, a roof, and a yard, S. Flynn offers you a chance to turn those dreams into a reality—and to enjoy it while doing it. With S. Flynn, why settle for ordinary?
For more information, visit sflynnhome.com to explore the S. Flynn store or sflynn.com for S. Flynn Design + Build services.
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Having the opportunity to work together and build something meaningful has been such a blessing.
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STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
luxury landscapes redefined
The Artistry and Service of Rice’s Landscapes
When it comes to luxury, it’s not just about products or services—it’s about the experience. At Rice’s Landscapes Redefined, this philosophy is clear: exceptional service and meticulous care transform landscaping into an art form. Serving both residential and commercial clients, Rice’s delivers a concierge-level approach that mirrors the quality of the world’s finest luxury brands.
For over 80 years, Rice’s Landscapes has set the benchmark for crafting transformative outdoor spaces and building enduring client relationships. Their dedication to quality, communication, and efficiency has earned them a reputation as the trusted partner for those who demand excellence.
A CONCIERGE APPROACH TO LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT
At the core of Rice’s is their signature concierge service, tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. “Our clients often come to us because they were not receiving the level of service that they desired,” explains Bryan Rice. “We don’t just resolve those issues—we elevate their expectations entirely.”
This approach emphasizes strong relationships and detailed attention. From the moment a client engages with Rice’s, the team becomes an extension of the property owner, handling every detail with precision. Proactive maintenance, regular communication, and a deep understanding of each property ensure every project exceeds expectations.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE CERTO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
EXPERTISE IN BOTH RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SPACES
Rice’s Landscapes excels in both residential and commercial maintenance, seamlessly blending expertise across these realms. While their trucks may be seen on expansive corporate campuses, their dedication to high-touch, residential-style service remains central to their reputation.
“Some think we only work on commercial properties because they see us at large sites,” shares Bryan, “But homeowners who notice us in their neighborhoods are often surprised to learn we bring the same level of care to residential properties. We intentionally focus on both, balancing our services to deliver exceptional results in every setting.”
Whether transforming the grounds of a private residence or enhancing the curb appeal of a commercial property, Rice’s Landscapes demonstrates a consistent commitment to quality and refinement.
STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS FOR EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS
Rice’s success stems from their strategic approach to resource management. Balancing residential and commercial projects allows them to deliver consistent, high-quality results.
“We don’t operate in a silo,” they emphasize. “Being both effective and efficient—with your assets and ours—is key to providing exceptional service.”
Their services range from seasonal plantings and irrigation management to meticulous pruning and lawn care, all executed with an eye for perfection. By combining practicality with luxury, Rice’s ensures every property reflects both functionality and beauty.
LANDSCAPES THAT TELL A STORY
At Rice’s, every project is seen as an opportunity to tell a story—crafted through thoughtful design, expert maintenance, and unparalleled service. A landscape becomes more than just greenery; it becomes an extension of the property owner’s personality and vision.
From creating tranquil outdoor retreats to ensuring corporate properties leave lasting impressions, Rice’s delivers spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
READY TO ELEVATE YOUR LANDSCAPE?
Becoming a Rice’s client begins with a simple conversation. Many of their long-standing relationships started with a landscape project or a desire for better service. The results speak for themselves.
If you’re ready to work with a partner who sees your landscape as a reflection of your lifestyle or brand, Rice’s is here to help. Visit www.riceslandscapes.com to learn more and take the first step toward a redefined outdoor experience.
Luxury reimagined. Service perfected. That’s Rice’s Landscapes.
“Find
the things that you love. Take the stress out of food. Feed people because all they really care about is spending time with you. Bring joy back into the kitchen.
Bringing Joy
Back into the Kitchen
Chef Dennis Prescott Talks Falling in Love with Feeding People and the Connection Food Creates
Whether you know him from the Netflix hit Restaurants on the Edge or from his absolutely mouth-watering food photos as @DennisThePrescott on the ‘gram, this former-musician turned internationally-renowned Chef is an amazingly talented, thoughtful, and globe-trotting force to be reckoned with. When it comes to inspiration for creating experiences around food and your community, as well as creating travel bucket lists to some of the world’s most unique and delicious destinations off the beaten path, Chef ‘Dennis The Prescott’ is a culinary change maker whose feed you’ll want to feast on.
Originally an aspiring musician, Canadian-born Dennis Prescott’s journey began while in university with a single invitation from another solo musician
who asked him to tour with them around the US. This eventually took him to Nashville where they began making records and pursuing their musical dreams. After searching for nearly 10 years, Dennis felt he finally found a home in Nashville living amongst an entire city of creatives.
Yet, in the midst of all of this, Dennis was not taking care of himself — eating take out, dollar menus, etc, had become a way of life. A friend had a “come to Jesus” moment with him and stressed that he needed to start taking care of himself. Having no idea exactly what that meant or how to do so, the advice was simple: “You need to start eating better.” The problem was that the world was different then, and the accessibility to knowledgeable guidance had Dennis at a loss. He knew his bad eating habits weren’t good for mind, body or spirit, but he didn’t know where to begin to make changes. YouTube didn’t exist and he was not going to culinary school yet at this stage in his life. However, Prescott thought to himself, “I KNOW good food because I have literally traveled all over America, all over Canada, and into Europe with my music, eating great food and learning what I like.”
The Start
“Go to the library and borrow some cookbooks,” his friend suggested. Dennis went to a nearby library and borrowed three books only to have his friend ask why he chose those in particular. Dennis remembers saying verbatim, “I don’t know? The guy on the cover looks kinda good looking, and I feel like I could probably pull these recipes off, and he seems really happy too!” As it turned out they were three books by Jamie Oliver; it’s just that he had no idea who Jamie Oliver was at the time.
Flash forward and Dennis’ first dinner-hosting experiment was made up of twenty people from the music studio, all sitting in camping chairs with beer koozies and makeshift tables in his apartment.
“I remember at the time this moment of, okay, the food is on the table, it’s a stressful thing, and then everybody tucks in and they take their first bite, and there’s a moment of hush that kind of came over everyone; it got really quiet just for a second, and then everyone started talking and getting into it and I fell in love with food right there at that moment. I didn’t realize that you can create these beautiful experiential moments at the table in the same way that I did playing someone’s favorite love song. Knowing that that was a thing to me was the most fascinating thing in the world.”
From that point on it felt like he was cooking constantly and he realized very quickly that he was actually better at food than he was at music — go figure.
Dennis even got to the point where he was cooking so much that he started to forget what recipes he had successfully made, so he began a photo journal and started taking photos of all his completed dishes. The same friend who guided Dennis into finding his path to eating better foods asked, “Have you heard of this app called Instagram? It’s pretty cool, and I think you should download it.” And so it began like it does for most; Dennis began posting photos for the next few years, with every one of them being a food photo.
He soon realized there was a “whole global food community who loved to share food stories.”
If I can inspire more time as a community at the table, then that’s a win.”
“All of that was initially with no agenda, no intentionality; I just loved it and I wanted to share. I fell in love with feeding people.”
“If I can inspire more time as a community at the table, then that’s a win.”
Regarding social media, Dennis’s professional advice is to check your DMs. A person who worked at Food & Wine Magazine at the time sent him a DM, asking if he would do recipes for the magazine, which turned into writing a monthly column. That experience helped him land a cookbook deal, which led to a wealth of TV and media publicity and Dennis feels he owes a lot of his success to that first opportunity with Food & Wine Magazine for taking a chance on him and giving him an elevated platform. Oh, and did we mention he is a self-taught photographer who now does all of his own food shots? This guy has drive.
His drive and innate talents ultimately led him to the opportunity of a lifetime via another DM. This time, it was a Netflix executive producer who offered him the chance to work for two seasons on Restaurants on the Edge, a show where “three food and design experts travel the world to revive failing restaurants by connecting them to the local culture beyond their gorgeous views.“
What followed were 13 episodes over nine months where they traveled to and filmed restaurant revivals that included three in Canada, one in the continental US, one in Hawaii, and others outside of North America, including Hong Kong, Slovenia, Austria, Malta, St. Lucia and Finland.
“I ate food and experienced new ingredients, and I grew so much as a chef just working on this show.”
Dennis stresses what a spectacular journey it is to eat foods in their most natural state.
“We can all eat a mango that you buy from a great grocery store, and then you eat a mango that you picked from a tree and you go, AHHH that’s what it’s supposed to taste like! And I think that’s what travel does. I’ve been so fortunate to travel and co-write The Chefs’ Manifesto for the world food program for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals,” which takes him to a lot of developing communities in places like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
CONTINUED >
“When you get off the beaten path a little bit, you learn the difference between vacation and travel.
Travel Recommendations for Foodies
“Slovenia borders Italy and Croatia, which is to say there are a lot of shared values in and around food; they have really great cheese, dairy, beef, pasta, but very few tourists, hardly any. So if you love Italy, that kind of specific travel and food experience, particularly Northern Italy, because you can see the Alps from where they are. It’s picture perfect, a beautiful place, and also where orange wine is from.”
Dennis also highly recommends Costa Rica, Hawaii and Finland.
“Most people love the idea of travel, but we tend to pick the same places when we travel, and there is nothing wrong with that, they are amazing for a reason, but when you get off the beaten path a little bit, you learn the difference between vacation and travel.”
In his travels, Dennis is a huge advocate for supporting local businesses.
“Everywhere that you live now you can access local goods. There are farmers markets everywhere. There are also stores that only bring in local products. Chefs understand that we can only operate with the actual heroes of the culinary world, who are our fishermen, our farmers, our producers and providers.
Restaurants on the Edge is important and meaningful to Chef Prescott because it tells stories of hope and joy and redemption around the kitchen. Oftentimes the food space can be very stressful, but he believes that at the end of the day, people just want to spend time with other people that they love.
One of the most common fears Dennis hears from people cooking and/or grilling at home is, ‘where do I start? I don’t know how to get going, so I just don’t.’
Rather than overcomplicating it, Dennis recommends cooking the things that bring you joy — things that are on a restaurant menu you can’t NOT order because you’re so pumped that those dishes are on there. Learn how to make those dishes and they will inspire more ideas and creations.
“Find the things that you love. Take the stress out of food. Feed people because all they really care about is spending time with you. Bring joy back into the kitchen.”
Dennis is also a @traegergrills Pro Team Ambassador.
“Grilling is inherently communal. You talk to your neighbors, they smell it, they ask you what you’re cooking; the whole act of it is a community.”
Ultimately, Dennis warns it’s all about the slippery slope of falling in love — falling in love with a better, more meaningful lifestyle, new dishes, new ingredients and traveling to find those things. All of it turns into something that’s much bigger than you expected, but at the end of the day it’s because you fell in love with feeding people.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 12TH
Live at Arcadia! Comedy Nights
Arcadia Grille Downtown | 8:00 PM
Join us every Wednesday night at Arcadia Grille Downtown for Canton’s only weekly stand-up comedy show! This after-hour showcase books a cast of comedic talent from all over northeast Ohio and beyond. Stop by for the laughs and enjoy a great meal, drinks, and a friendly staff. This intimate venue creates a warm atmosphere for our guests to enjoy.
MARCH 14TH
Pi(e) Day
Historic Zoar Village | 11:00 AM
Celebrate International Pi(e) Day at Historic Zoar Village on March 14, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., to celebrate pi, the mathematical constant of 3.14, with a variety of delicious, fresh, mouthwatering pies available in the Zoar Bakery. The Zoar Store will also be open with a selection of merchandise including baking mixes, teas, cutting boards and other merchandise.
MARCH 22ND
Kidfest 2024
Canton Memorial Civic Center | 11:00 AM
Come by for a day of indoor, family fun where children can enjoy a variety of entertainment such as: Inflatables, Video Games, Magic Shows, Crafts and many more! Presented by Mix 94-1 & News/Talk 1480 WHBC to bring the biggest family event of the year to Stark County!
