Check out the 2025 list of winners in dozens of categories, including restaurants, service, shopping and more. Then discover more about what they offer and what makes them local favorites.
Departments
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FROM THE EDITOR
COUNTY LINE
A collaborative program opens pathways to health care and creates access to indemand health care careers. Plus, learn about new leadership at Lorain County Joint Vocational School.
8
CATALYST
A new public-private partnership guided by the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce will make childcare more affordable.
22
SNAPSHOT
Local manufacturing company Thogus Products celebrates 75 years in business.
The Best of Life
Forget the notion that you need to travel to find something special. Craving fresh seafood or a meal with a view? Lorain County has places for that. Looking for an artisan-made gift that will make someone’s day? Local shops have you covered. You can find wine and coffee in the same cute shop, fitness trails that push (or soothe) you, on-trend, chef-driven dishes and gooey comfort food you’ll crave again.
Ultimately, the things that help us live our best lives are really just backyard finds.
Those places and more are what the annual Best of Lorain County party celebrates. This past July, we gathered at the Spitzer Conference Center at Lorain County Community College, where finalists in dozens of categories were on hand to showcase what makes them special.
Attendees voted for their favorites, and the winners are featured in this issue. You’ll find stories about must-visit restaurants, neighborhood hangouts, local shopping destinations, movers-andshakers and great places to take the kids, among many others.
In this issue we also bid farewell and say thanks to Mr. Lorain County. Tony Gallo has spent more than 20 years working with the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce to support our businesses and lay the foundation for economic growth. We asked him to share his insights and memories from an impactful career — and, as he says, the personal ones have meant as much as the professional ones.
It’s always a great time to honor what makes Lorain County shine.
SINCERELY,
JENNIFER BOWEN SIMA EDITOR, PULSE LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE
Magnolia Meadows
Private, Fenced-In Courtyards – Perfect for Friends, Family and Pets No Maintenance – Lawn Care, Plowing and Shoveling
Clubhouse with Bocci Ball, Swimming Pool, Pickle Ball, and Other Fitness Amenities 5313 Charlotte’s Way Sheffield Village Open 11am to 5pm Wed–Sun Visit livemagnoliameadows.com or call 440.487.4201 to learn more!
ERIC MULL
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly PACE PROVIDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:
• Primary Care physician
• Medical Specialist
• Prescription medication
• Medical clinic
• Transportation
• Adult activity center
• Home healthcare
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy
• Meals
• Dental, vision and hearing
• Home Care Nurse
• Social Services
• Respite Care
• Durable medical equipment (canes, walkers, wheel chairs, hospital bed, commodes, shower bench)
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE AT ANY AGE
It is a powerful reminder that fulfillment, joy, and growth aren’t limited by time. Whether you’re 18 or 80, here are a few timeless principles to help you do just that:
Define What “Best Life” Means to You
Your version of happiness or success may look different from someone else’s. Reflect on your values, passions, and goals—and let those guide your choices.
Stay Curious and Keep Learning
Lifelong learning keeps your mind sharp and your world expanding. Read, take up hobbies, travel, or take courses—there’s always something new to discover.
Prioritize Health and Wellness
No matter your age, caring for your body and mind is foundational. Regular movement, balanced nutrition, rest, and mental health practices go a long way.
Nurture Relationships
Meaningful connections—whether with friends, family, or community—are essential to a rich life. Don’t underestimate the power of shared experiences and mutual support.
Embrace Change and Let Go of Regret
Life brings transitions. Embracing them with resilience and learning from the past without being stuck in it allows you to grow forward.
Contribute to Something Bigger
Whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or creating, contributing gives purpose and can bring deep satisfaction.
Celebrate Every Season of Life
Each stage has its own beauty. Appreciate the wisdom, freedom, or vitality that comes with where you are now.
Lee Ann O’Brien is the Chief Marketing Officer with The McGregor Foundation. Her philanthropic commitment has helped many organizations.
She can be reached at (216) 268-8999 or leeann.obrien@mcgregoramasa.org
Partners Align, Creating Access to Careers
New
program opens health care pathways. By
Starting next month, students in Lorain County will have an opportunity to earn a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential in high school, while opening a wide variety of postsecondary pathways for certificates and degrees in health care careers. The first cohort of the OTC+ North Ridgeville Healthcare Collaborative will be seated mid-January.
Through classroom instruction, clinical training and hands-on patient care experiences, the program is designed to help students build the skills and confidence to step directly into the health care workforce or continue into nursing and allied health technical education programs.
The program was only possible through a unique collaboration among the Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS), North Ridgeville City Schools, Lorain County Community College (LCCC) and O’Neill Healthcare in North Ridgeville, and it is funded through the State of Ohio’s OTC+ program, which is designed to provide access to quality career-technical education to build Ohio’s workforce.
Terry Troy
Codispoti. “Students often have an idea about the profession, but they don’t typically think about the work environment — in this case the clinical setting.”
O’Neill Healthcare’s participation is opportune not only because of its location in North Ridgeville, but also for the quality of care that it delivers there. O’Neill Healthcare North Ridgeville is recognized as one of the premier healthcare facilities in Lorain County and regularly ranks in the top 10% of nursing homes in the State of Ohio for resident satisfaction.
“We started working on it last year,” says Lee Armbruster, coordinator of community partnerships and educational opportunities for North Ridgeville Schools. “We have had a lot of meetings and there have been a lot of people involved from all of our organizations.”
“The OTC+ program is a new model created by the state to expand career-tech programs that are at full capacity,” explains Mario Codispoti, strategy officer and director of marketing and communications at LCJVS. “Programs like health care, engineering and advanced manufacturing are typically at full capacity, so every student does not have the opportunity to access these program. OTC+ allows us to fund programs offsite so students can have access to get into those career pathways.”
“O’Neill Healthcare really stepped up to the challenge when it comes to providing a clinical setting,” adds
As far as students, educators and the county are concerned, this is not a one and done program.
“Students not only earn their CNA certification but also complete their first college credit through our Bridges to Success program,” says Cindy Kushner, director of School and Community Partnerships at LCCC. “We want them to explore the many health care career pathways available to them and build a personalized career plan that supports long-term success and growth.”
With the start of the program, Lorain County has also taken an important first step toward improving the quality of its health care workforce.
“With the connection to LCCC’s Bridges to Success, we are creating a sustainable workforce pipeline,” says Codispoti. “We want to see this kind of continuity, a continuum of education, upscaling and stackable credentials.”
Leading for Tomorrow
Lorain County JVS is entering a new chapter of innovation and opportunity under the leadership of High School Principal Megan Champagne. With a clear vision focused on belonging, collaboration and real-world learning, Champagne is guiding LCJVS toward a future where every student finds purpose and possibility. Her strategy strengthens partnerships with local employers, educators and community leaders to expand career pathways and build a skilled, future-ready workforce. As Lorain County moves into its “Golden Era of Opportunity,” Champagne’s leadership ensures LCJVS remains a driving force in education, economic growth and the development of tomorrow’s leaders.
2025 Lorain County JVS
High School Principal Megan Champagne
Enhancing Lorain’s Workforce
By Terry Troy
A transformative public-private partnership administered by the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce through a grant from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth should make childcare a little more affordable for parents of at least 100 children in 2026. It should also help those parents stay at work while their children are cared for in safe, nurturing environments.
The program is called North Coast CARE (an acronym that stands for
Childcare Access for Retention and Employment). It matches an employer’s contribution of $200 per month with state matching funds for a total benefit of $400 per child per month.
“Early in 2025, we did a survey with our local employers, chamber members, to see who might be interested in participating in the program,” says Tony L. Gallo, former president and CEO of the Lorain County Chamber, who stepped down from his post earlier this month. “The
state is dictating the guidelines in terms of the grant funding.”
Gallo coordinated the efforts for the implementation of North Coast CARE, which will be launched in October 2026. Due to grant funding, the program is capped at 100 children at any time, with enrollment on a firstcome, first-served basis.
“It’s also supposed to sunset on December 31, 2026, but we’re hoping the program will be so well received that it gets an extension,” adds Gallo.
North Coast CARE makes childcare more affordable.
“We want to continue working with employers to help fill available positions while helping their employees with childcare beyond the end of 2026.”
Gallo has led the Chamber for more than 12 years and worked at the Chamber as director of business development for many years before that. Nico Samaniego is the new president and CEO of the Lorain County Chamber.
“I really have to commend our county leaders for getting this program up and running in Lorain County,” says Samaniego. “This program addresses a very significant challenge that our workforce is facing. Childcare costs are often a barrier to people getting back into the workforce.”
Naturally, Lorain County childcare providers also are in full support of the program.
“The grant works by creating a three-way partnership,” explains David Smith, executive director at Horizon Education Centers, a childcare provider with six locations in Lorain County. “The Chamber acts as the grantee passing through state funds that match
an employer’s contributions, with the parents providing the remaining funds for childcare tuition.”
And childcare costs can often run as high as $1,200 per month per child or more.
“While there are a lot of state programs to assist with childcare, the income requirements to qualify for the programs are quite low, so many working-class families don’t qualify for assistance,” Smith adds. “One in three working parents in our state have either reduced their hours or dropped out of the workforce altogether in order to deal with the cost of childcare.”
Obviously, it’s much better for Lorain County’s economy and local businesses if parents can stay in the workforce. It also offers participating businesses a nice edge in terms of employee recruitment and retention.
“We also have to look at this program in terms of workforce development,” says Gallo. “Not only are we keeping parents in their careers, but we are also making sure our children have access to preschool and
are reading early. Now we just have to show the state how this program is a benefit to our local employers so they will extend the program after the end of 2026.”
This, of course, falls on the shoulders of the incoming president and CEO of the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce.
“This program might not be a magic key,” Samaniego says, “but it is a critical piece in solving at least one of the barriers that prevent people from returning to work.”
For more information regarding North Coast CARE, go to loraincountychamber. com/care
BEST OF
STORIES BY CHRISSY KADLECK AND TERRY TROY
WE ASKED YOU to nominate your Lorain County favorites in dozens of categories. Then, we compiled the top three vote-getters in each one and asked you to cast your ballot at the Best of Lorain County party at Lorain County Community College Spitzer Center on July 24. Read on to learn about the winners.
WINE SHOP
THE WINE ROOM & TAVERN 35840 CHESTER ROAD I, AVON, 440-937-6544, avonswineroom.com
WHEN MICHELLE ALLISON TOOK OVER THE WINE ROOM earlier this year, she wanted to build a business around offering a unique experience. Whether you want to buy a bottle of wine to take home or enjoy a glass at the Tavern, Allison has created a cozy, relaxing environment that belies the store’s modern exterior.
There are more than 300 wines to choose from in The Wine Room, many of them unique to this area and retail store.
“We also have more than 12 craft beers on tap in the tavern for spouses, partners or friends who prefer beer to wine,” says Allison, who held a grand re-opening and re-naming in August. “We also do specialty cocktails that change with the season. On Fridays, I have wine tastings where I introduce eight new wines.”
The menu has also been expanded to include a selection of small plates as well as charcuterie boards, which change seasonally, but pair well with house wine selections from Bogle Family Vineyards.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON: Offers notes of cherry, plum and currant with hints of cloves, nutmeg and burnt caramel, which results from its aging in American Oak Barrels.
CHARDONNAY: Has layered notes of green apple, juicy pear and warm baking spices.
CHARCUTERIE MEATS: Usually a selection of hot capicola, prosciutto and genoa salami, the latter often presented decoratively arranged in the shape of a rose.
CHEESES: Cranberry cheddar as well as either a soft buttery gouda or brie as well as goat cheese.
DRIED FRUITS: Mangos, apricots, bananas and grapefruit.
FRESH FRUITS: A seasonal selection that often includes raspberries and blueberries as well as strawberries and dark chocolate as a finisher.
“FOR A LITTLE ADDED CRUNCH AND COLOR, I LIKE TO FINISH IT OFF WITH A FINE JULIENNE PEPPER RELISH OF RED, GREEN AND ORANGE PEPPERS.”
— DEAN DILUCIANO
CHEF
DEAN DILUCIANO, LCCC'S CONFERENCING AND DINING SERVICES
1005 N. ABBE ROAD, ELYRIA, 440-366-4100, lorainccc.edu/spitzer
CHEF DEAN DILUCIANO has a very “well-rounded” culinary career. It started in a pizza shop in Elyria, moved to Downtown Cleveland, then on to Manhattan. It came full circle back home to Lorain County. As executive chef at Lorain County Community College’s (LCCC) Conference and Dining Services, Diluciano is in a position that showcases his talents and his lifelong passion for food. At the age of 10, he started to learn basic culinary skills from whom he describes as “the greatest chefs,” his mother
and his grandmothers. At just 13, he entered his first professional kitchen, making pizzas at DePolo’s in Elyria. Still unsure of a career path, he later attended LCCC and then Kent State University, with an eye toward a career in broadcast journalism.
“I didn’t know back then that cooking food was what I was going to do,” says Diluciano, “I only knew that I loved it. So, I went back to school, this time at the Pennsylvania Institute for the Culinary Arts.”
BRAISED SHORT RIBS
PROFESSIONAL CAREER
Accepted first executive position at Classics, a four-star restaurant at Omni Hotel. Joins Manhattan-based Restaurant Associates, where he opens the company’s Severance Hall dining facilities in Cleveland, adding other upscale venues including the Cleveland Botanical Gardens and Cleveland Museum of Art. Diluciano has also held executive chef roles with Bon Appetit Management Company and Zack Bruell Restaurant Group.
PRESENT POSITION
“We do everything from simple box lunches to fine dining served in the Spitzer Conference Center,” says Diluciano.
FINE DINING FAVORITE
Braised beef short ribs, marinated with mirepoix and garlic and braised slowly for six hours in a cabernet or merlot to create a reduction. Perch atop a creamy polenta infused with mascarpone that’s dusted with a hint of parmesan.
“For a little added crunch and color, I like to finish it off with a fine julienne pepper relish of red, green and orange peppers,” says Diluciano. “And then call it a day.”
FITNESS TRAIL
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’ FRENCH CREEK RESERVATION
4530 COLORADO AVE., SHEFFIELD, 440-949-5200, loraincountymetroparks.com/french-creek-reservation
THE 4.5 MILES OF HIKING TRAILS at Lorain County Metro Parks’ French Creek Reservation wind through 450 acres of mostly wooded landscape that features big cliffs, deep ravines and often traces along the park’s three creeks: Sugar Creek, Fish Creek and the eponymous French Creek.
Whether you’re an avid runner who wants a scenic workout or simply want to meander through the white oaks, sugar maples, walnuts, cottonwoods and other deciduous trees, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. The trails feature a variety of surfaces, including a paved trail near the park’s Nature Center and Theatre, which offers programs, exhibits an indoor play area and wildlife observation area.
“We also have trails that are gravel and wood chips as well as just natural trails through the woods,” says Mariah Deitz, public information officer for Lorain County Metro Parks. “But all of our trails have great views of the forest and waterways. You’ll also see a wide variety of wildlife, including white tail deer.”
The park is open in winter, “but when there is 4 inches of snow or more the trails are perfect for cross country skiing or snowshoeing,” says Deitz. “We even have a snowshoe rental at our Nature Center.”
In warmer weather, the nearby French Creek Kayak/Boat Launch offers water access at the confluence of French Creek and the Black River.
INDEPENDENT COFFEE SHOP
EMILIE’S COFFEE HOUSE & WINE BAR
457 AVON BELDEN ROAD, AVON LAKE, EMILIESCOFFEEANDWINE@GMAIL.COM, emiliescoffeeandwine.com
IF YOU’RE A FAN OF THIRD SPACES — those unique places away from home or work where you can socialize comfortably — Emilie’s Coffee House & Wine Bar in Avon Lake is made for you.
Run by the mother/daughter team of Erin and Emilie Stack, Emilie’s prides itself on being a cozy and welcoming space and offering good food and drinks made with quality ingredients.
In addition to a selection of wine and beer, house drinks include espresso, macchiato, cortado, cappuccino, ice latte, cold brews and batch brew, as well as a selection of seasonal specialty drinks invented by Emilie.
“Emilie creates all the seasonal drinks and the menu changes every month,” says Erin. “But what we are known for most is our toast and toppings.”
All toasts are served on fresh sourdough farm bread. Try the “blueberry,” which features a lemon whipped ricotta, wild blueberry preserves, fresh blueberries accented with a drizzle of honey and lemon zest.
“But our most popular is our avocado,” says Erin. And it’s easy to see why. It starts with mashed, fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes and micro greens dusted with sea salt and crowned with a drizzle of olive oil. Feeling adventurous? Add feta, goat cheese or pickled red onion. Or, try it with everything bagel seasoning and red pepper flakes.
DESSERTS
HEAVEN AND BLISS ELYRIA, 440-488-3929, heavenandbliss.net
IN THE HEART OF HER HOME KITCHEN, Connie Doman has built a sweet empire. As the owner of Heaven and Bliss, a state-licensed and registered in-home bakery, Doman combines traditional recipes with modern dietary considerations to create handcrafted, custommade treats.
“I do anything from cakes, cookies, cupcakes, desserts to wedding cakes,” she says. And she’s not exaggerating. Doman consistently cranks out 200 to 400 custom orders a month, a pace she’s kept for more than two years.
Her menu includes vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and egg-free options, all made with love and the legacy of her grandmother and great-grandmother’s recipes. Everything is by appointment, and pre-orders are essential due to high demand.
THREE TREATS TO TRY:
1
SNICKERDOODLE CAKE A simple yet beloved favorite, this cake is all about the cinnamonsugar flavor and then covered in a delicious vanilla buttercream. Available in any size — from baby smash cakes to tiered wedding cakes.
2
INFAMOUS BUCKEYES This Ohio favorite is extra special with the base made from peanuts Doman processes herself. Then she combines butter, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla before covering it in chocolate. Fans from four to five counties stock up by the dozen.
HUNGARIAN NUT ROLL Moist, nut-packed and available year-round. Locals affectionately call it the “Hungarian Burrito” — because sometimes slicing is unnecessary.
3 CUSTOM MADE
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
“IF I CAN SUPPORT THIS MISSION AND HELP JUST ONE PERSON, THEN I FEEL LIKE I'VE MADE A DIFFERENCE."
— BARB EIFEL
BOARD MEMBER
BARB EIFEL, BLESSING HOUSE
6115 OLIVET AVE, ELYRIA, 440-240-1851, blessinghouse.org
AT 70 YEARS OLD, BARB EIFEL IS A ROLE MODEL for how compassion, commitment and steady leadership can make a powerful impact. As board president with Blessing House, a children’s crisis care center in Lorain County, her story is one of deep faith and admirable service.
Eifel first got involved after retiring from a 37-year career at American Greetings, where she served as a product manager for Target’s gift wrap and stationery lines. Her project management skills quickly became an asset to the nonprofit, especially during its capital campaign to build a new facility.
“I started by helping with administrative work for the campaign,” she recalls. “Then Sister Mary asked me to join the board. That was six years ago — and I’ve never looked back.”
Eifel also chairs the development committee and plays a hands-on role in fundraising, including co-chairing the annual Rock-a-Bye Ball, Blessing House’s largest event. But her contributions go far beyond meetings and strategy. Twice a month, she cooks dinner for the children and caregivers at Blessing House. She also supports the organization monetarily and with in-kind donations.
Her leadership style is grounded in reliability and support. “I follow through,” she says. “I go to every committee meeting — even ones I’m not on — and I support my fellow board members however I can and lead by example.”
What drives Eifel is her deep faith and belief in the mission of Blessing House, one of only two children’s crisis centers in the state. “What really touches me is that Blessing
House provides a safe place for kids — no judgment of the parents — just help,” she says. “If I can support this mission and help just one person, then I feel like I’ve made a difference. I don’t feel so helpless in a community, in a world that’s kind of going crazy right now.”
Jenni Smithberger, development & events coordinator at Blessing House, describes Barb as “incredibly dedicated,” showing up for Blessing House in so many ways. “Not only is she the board president, but she is a co-chair on our gala committee, lead envelope stuffer, part-time thank you writer and full-time cookie provider.”
EIFEL SHARES THREE TIPS FOR GETTING INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY:
1
START WITH WHAT SPEAKS TO YOU “Find something that truly interests you,” Barb says. “Ask the organization, ‘Can you use some help? What do you need?’”
2
DON’T OVERCOMMIT — START SMALL Barb recommends beginning with one task or event. “See how it feels. Do you feel like you’re making a difference? Let that guide how much you get involved.”
3
MATCH YOUR TALENTS TO THE MISSION
Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy, she says. “Then match that with what the organization needs.” Whether it’s cooking, organizing or fundraising, there’s always a way to contribute.
CASUAL DINING
LORAIN BREWING COMPANY AND EVENT CENTER 500 SHIPYARD WAY, LORAIN, 440-434-2020, lorainbrewingco.com
LOCATED IN LORAIN’S HISTORIC HARBOR WALK DISTRICT, Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center is the embodiment of the modern casual dining experience. Charged with the mission of creating craft beer and great food with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, owners Mathias Hauck, Ken Weaver and Brian Weaver went to work renovating the old Ship Building Pattern Warehouse on the east bank of the Black River, incorporating a modern brew pub into an historic building that pays homage to Lorain’s maritime past.
“When the economic development team in Lorain showed us this location, we fell in love with it immediately,” says Hauck. “Not only is it a part of Lorain’s ship building past, it is a key part of the Harbor Walk community.”
With a few upgrades (none of which detract from the aesthetic), the team added a 3,000-square-foot kitchen, but also a catering kitchen to feed patrons in the upstairs event center.
Chef Brian Weaver (Hauck’s brotherin-law) designed a casual menu that includes upscale pub food like wings, smash burgers, hand-helds and flatbreads with more upscale items like Sachetti, a cheese-stuffed pasta served in a white truffle cream sauce finished with parmesan cheese and a fig vincotto.
But Weaver’s best example of modern casual dining fusion is the Buffalo Chicken Melt. It’s a mixture of a classic meatball sub on traditional Texas toast with a prep that is like a classic Cuban.
CHICKEN MEATBALLS Ground
chicken is mixed with ranch and buffalo seasoning, ground celery and carrots, Panko breadcrumbs and egg to create 2-ounce meatballs that are roasted in a 375-degree convection oven.
BUFFALO SAUCE A mild wing sauce infused with gorgonzola is then created, and the cooked meatballs are added. “We let the meatballs set up overnight so they are not as loose,” says Weaver. “It also helps the flavors develop.” The meatballs and sauce are reheated the next day.
THE SANDWICH MELT Thick Texas Toast is placed on the grill. On one side, gorgonzola cheese is added, while the other side receives a thick slice of smoky provolone. When the cheese is melted and the toast is golden brown, four meatballs and sauce are added and the two sides pressed together to create a sandwich with an entirely different taste.
SIDE DISH While the house-made pub chips and dip are great, for an even better experience, try the Southwest Cole Slaw, which includes southwest seasoning, fire-roasted corn, red bell peppers and black beans.
The Buffalo Chicken Melt pairs best with the Lorain Light, a crisp American Lager, an IPA Pale Ale or the Sunset American Pale Ale.
GOLF COURSE
GREY HAWK GOLF CLUB 665 US GRANT ST., LAGRANGE, 440-355-4844, greyhawkgolf.com
A PUBLIC DAILY FEE COURSE, Grey Hawk Golf Club offers a course that blends the need for a strategic game against a backdrop of natural features as well as sand and water on virtually every hole. It’s an unforgettable golf experience.
With a par of 72 set across more than 7,100 yards, there are five tee locations on every hole, making this course challenging for both the experienced player as well as fun for the recreational “duffer.”
Bent grass greens and fairways set against Kentucky Bluegrass in the roughs offer outstanding playability.
“Our signature hole is number 11, one of the only island greens in Lorain County,” says Mark Schuckman general manager. “Our number 7 is a par 5 dogleg left, flanked by water on the left and woods on the right.”
What sets this golf experience apart is the way the course is kept, says Schuckman. Golf instruction and golf lessons are also available.
“Our superintendent/ groundskeeper is Tim Robey, and it all starts with him,” he adds.
While many courses across Northeast Ohio suffered through our mild drought this year, the greens and fairways at Grey Hawk were always lush and green, Schuckman notes.
7,100 YARDS
PULLED PORK TACOS
HAPPY HOUR
BISTRO 83 36033 WESTMINISTER AVE., NORTH RIDGEVILLE, 440-353-2828, bistro83.com
AT BISTRO 83, HAPPY HOUR ISN’T JUST A TIME SLOT — it’s a destination. From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, the bar and dining room buzz with energy as guests gather with friends to unwind over discounted beer, wine and cocktails, plus a tempting lineup of appetizers.
“It’s probably our busiest period at this point, especially on the weekends,” says Branden Hyde, general manager. “We have a lot of people coming in fresh off work with groups to hang out at the bar or really anywhere and enjoy our happy hour specials.”
THREE MUST-TRY HAPPY HOUR BITES:
1 FLATBREADS Choose from four crowd-pleasing options: Chicken Bacon Ranch, Quattro Formaggio (four-cheese), Margherita and Garlic Bomb, a white garlic sauce base featuring mozzarella, peppers, bacon and a sprinkle of garlic salt.
2 PIEROGIES A new addition to the happy hour menu, these eight deep-fried, three-cheese-and-potato dumplings are topped with caramelized onions and sour cream.
3 HAPPY OYSTERS A fresh and briny treat, three oysters on the half shell are served with mignonette and lemon.
DANCE STUDIO
MOVEMENTWORKS DANCE & FITNESS 12077 LEAVITT ROAD, OBERLIN, 440-462-8970, movementworksdance.com
SINCE 2014, MOVEMENTWORKS DANCE & FITNESS HAS BEEN MORE THAN JUST A DANCE STUDIO — it’s a place where children and adults alike grow in body, mind and spirit. Founded by Jess Widener-Pruitt, the studio offers a developmentally appropriate, non-competitive approach to dance that focuses on personal growth and self-worth.
“We’re not about competing with peers,” Widener-Pruitt says. “We’re about asking, Can I do better today than I did yesterday? Can I show up for myself and feel safe and confident in my body?”
With 20 classes a week in styles like hip hop, jazz, Irish, acro, ballet and lyrical, MovementWorks serves around 100 students, from toddlers to adults. The studio also hosts annual fundraisers to provide scholarships for children facing special circumstances, ensuring access to healthy physical education for all.
THREE WAYS TO GET YOUR KIDS INTO DANCE:
1 START AT HOME Play music and move with your child. Dancing together builds social skills, motor development and confidence — especially when kids see their grownups moving freely and joyfully.
2
TRY A “DANCE WITH ME” CLASS For children 18 months to 3.5 years, this class allows a parent, grandparent or caregiver to join in. It’s a gentle introduction to the classroom environment through songs, movement and shared experience.
3
ASK FOR A TRIAL CLASS Many studios, including MovementWorks, offer free trial classes. This enables kids to explore different styles — like ballet or hip hop — before committing. It’s especially helpful for children with sensory needs, allowing them to find the right fit in a supportive setting.
SANDWICH
FRESCO BISTRO
641 BROADWAY, LORAIN, 440-288-1533, frescobistro.online
SINCE OPENING IN 2020, FRESCO BISTRO HAS BECOME A FAVORITE for health-conscious diners seeking bold flavors and customizable meals. Inspired by the vibrant foods of Peru and South America, the bistro offers a unique concept: build-your-own meals with options like salads, wraps, power bowls, sandwiches and soups — all made fresh in-house.
“We love healthy food,” says Laura Vega, owner. “We wanted to give people alternatives they couldn’t easily find elsewhere.”
The menu features vegan and vegetarian options, including
seasoned tofu. Or, try the housemade chicken salad and tuna salad. Pair your meal with a fresh juice, smoothie or coffee, and enjoy it in their cozy dining room, on the patio or take it to go.
MUST-TRY SANDWICH: THE SPICY ITALIAN
Created by Fresco’s Jacqueline Nunez, the Spicy Italian is a toasted favorite served on a 7-inch Italian herb bread. It’s loaded with ham, pepperoni, salami, provolone, mixed greens, tomato, banana peppers, onions and bacon. Most guests finish it off with a drizzle of Italian dressing. At $13, it’s a bold, satisfying bite that delivers.
JONES BONES BBQ & GRUB 35015 ROYALTON ROAD, GRAFTON, 440-748-4343 (RESTAURANT), 216-298-3851 (FOOD TRUCK), jonesbonesbbqandgrub.com
LIKE MOST MASTERS OF THE ART OF BARBECUE, Bryan Jones, who, along with his wife Krista, owns Jones Bones BBQ & Grub in Grafton, closely guards the recipe for the rub used on his award-winning ribs — and for two good reasons. The recipe goes back more than 50 years to the late Mabel “Grandma” Jones, who developed the unique smoky flavor in Johnson City, Tennessee. And, Jones Bones’ ribs have consistently been recognized as among the best not only in Lorain County but in all of Greater Cleveland as well.
“Growing up, I worked with my grandma in the kitchen,” says Bryan. “As I got older, I wanted to try my hand at barbecue. I took what she taught me and developed my own style, but the recipe for the ribs and sauce are still very similar to what grandma had.”
Jones Bones uses a St. Louis style rib, “and I rub it down with kosher salt and our special Jones Bones rub,” says Bryan. “And if you want to know what’s in the rub, it will cost you a whole lot of money.
“I don’t put any sauce on until it’s going out the window,” he adds. “You don’t need sauce if you have good food.”
In addition to the ribs, try the brisket burnt ends, pulled pork or smoky pulled chicken.
COURTESY
FRESCO
BISTRO
JONES
BONES BBQ & GRUB
BEST OF
SEE BELOW FOR THE FULL LIST OF THIS YEAR'S WINNERS.
FOOD
Best Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings, Avon Lake, Elyria
Best Ribs
Jones Bones BBQ & Grub, Grafton
Best Burrito Don Tequila Company, Amherst, Elyria
Best Sushi Jin House Company, Amherst
Best Italian Fratello’s, Avon Lake
Best Asian
Pho Ever Vietnamese Cuisine, Lorain
Best Latin
Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, Avon Lake
Best Healthy Menu (Restaurant)
Aladdin's Eatery, Oberlin
Best Bar Food Ziggy's Pub & Restaurant, Amherst
Best Cheap Eats Hot Dog Heaven, Amherst
Best Brunch Heck's Cafe, Avon
Best Family Dining
Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Best Appetizers
Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
Best Sandwich
Fresco Bistro, Lorain
Best Deli Fligner’s Market, Lorain
Best Bakery Kiedrowski’s Bakery, Amherst
Best Chocolate Malley’s Chocolates, Avon
Best Desserts Heaven and Bliss, Elyria
Best Donuts Peace, Love and Little Donuts, Avon
Best Ice Cream Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, Avon
Best Independent Coffee Shop
Emilie’s Coffee House & Wine Bar, Avon Lake
Best Fish Fry American Slovak Club, Lorain
Best Caterer LCCC Conference & Dining Services, Elyria
ENTERTAINMENT
Best Winery Cooper’s Hawk Winery, Avon
Best Sports Bar
Ziggy’s Pub & Restaurant, Amherst
Best Happy Hour
Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
Best Brewery
Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Best Live Music Venue
Black River Landing, Lorain
Best Theater Lorain Palace Theatre, Lorain
Best Golf Course
Grey Hawk Golf Club, LaGrange
Best Local Festival
North Ridgeville Corn Festival, North Ridgeville
Best Charitable Event
Blessing HouseRock-a-Bye Ball, Elyria
HEALTH
Best Fitness Center
Glow Fitness Studio, North Ridgeville
Best Fitness Trail French Creek Reservation, Sheffield Village Best Yoga Studio Cultivate Yoga, Avon
Best Healthy Food Selection (Retail)
Doc Watson’s Market, Amherst
Best Senior Living Rose Senior Living, Avon
SHOPPING
Best Shopping Area
Avon Commons, Avon
Best Gift Boutique Over the Moon Gifts, Lorain
Best Clothing Boutique
The Mermaid’s Tale, Amherst
Best Gallery
Beth K. Stocker Art Gallery, Elyria
Best Jeweler
Peter & Co. Jewelers, Avon Lake
Best Florist Puffer’s Floral Shoppe, Elyria
Best Garden Center
The Original Don Mould's, North Ridgeville
Best Bookstore
Ben Franklin | MindFair Books, Oberlin
Best Pet Boutique Grateful Dog Bakery, North Ridgeville
Best Farmers Market
Vermilion Farm Market, Vermilion
Best Wine Shop
The Wine Room, Avon
Best Beer Selection 1 Stop Beverage, Avon
SERVICES
Best Day Spa Fitness Center at UH Avon Health Center Day Spa, Avon
Best Mani Pedi Nails by Sierra, Lorain
Best Home Builder Kopf Builders, Avon Lake
Best Home Remodeler Northern HammerWorks, Avon Lake
Best Landscaper
The Original Don Mould’s Garden Center, North Ridgeville
Best Dry Cleaner Ridge Cleaners, Multiple Locations
Best Car Wash Blue Falls Car Wash, Amherst, North Ridgeville
CHILDREN
Best Gymnastics
Great Lakes Gymnastics, Avon Lake
Best Dance Studio MovementWorks Dance & Fitness, Oberlin
Best Learning Center LCCC Children’s Learning Center, Elyria
Best Music Instruction Rock Town Music Academy, Lorain
PEOPLE
Best Local Volunteer Summer Deichler - United Way of Greater Lorain County, Lorain
Best Board Member
Barb EifelBlessing House, Elyria
Best Chef Dean Diluciano - LCCC Conference & Dining Services, Elyria
Best Bartender
Jeff GreskoBistro 83, North Ridgeville
Best Fitness Instructor
Amy DeFilippo - Amherst HealthPlex, Avon
Best Master
Stylist
Alicia DolanManeology Salon Shop, Amherst
Best
Chiropractor Dr. Jeremy Watson - Watson Wellness, Amherst
BISTRO 83
36033 Westminister Ave. North Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 440-353-2828 bistro83.com
Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10 pm
Since opening its doors in 2013, the award-winning Bistro 83’s knowledgable and well-trained staff has strived to make every customer’s dining experience a special one. Located on the border of North Ridgeville and Avon, Bistro 83 wants its guests to experience upscale dining in a laid back, comfortable atmosphere.
GREY HAWK GOLF CLUB
665 U.S. Grant St. LaGrange, Ohio 44050 440-355-4844 greyhawkgolf.com
Not just the Best Golf Course in Lorain County for 2023 through 2025— it’s where your golf game meets pure excitement. With five tee boxes per hole — you’ll find the perfect challenge whether you’re a scratch golfer or just here for the good vibes. When the round’s over, kick back at our sports bar with 12 icy beers on tap or hit the pro shop and treat yourself to something sharp.
ROSE SENIOR LIVING
33200 Health Campus Blvd. Avon, Ohio 44011 avon.roseseniorliving.com
Independent living assisted living and memory care in a loving setting, Rose Senior Living Avon provides maintenance-free living at its best within the warm, welcoming feeling of home. From first-class amenities to services designed around your preferences, you’ll love life here.
Blessing House serves as a safety net for families in crisis by providing safe shelter for children and support for their families. They are a proud 4x winner of Best Charitable event in Lorain County for their Rock-ABye Ball. The event takes place on the second Saturday of November and helps support the children and families they serve.
RIDGE CLEANERS
Avon Lake 440-930-7300
North Ridgeville 440-327-7294
Amherst 440-434-4185
ridgecleaners.com
Ridge Cleaners provides expert garment care and tailoring. A family owned and operated business since 1946, their home and corporate pickup and delivery service is a convenient concierge for today’s professionals.
THE WINE ROOM & TAVERN
35840 Chester Road Avon, OH 44011
AvonsWineRoom.com
Tues-Thurs 4-10pm, Fri 2-11pm, Sat 12-11pm, and Sun 12-6 pm; Monday Closed
The Wine Room & Tavern is Avon’s hidden gem. Offers unique wines and weekly wine tastings, a full-service bar cocktails, craft beer and appetizers, PLUS Live Music. A welcoming environment where every customer can relax, connect, and enjoy meaningful social interactions.
“I felt I owed it to him to come back and help carry on what he [my grandfather] built.”
—Matt Hlavin, Thogus CEO
Steady and Strong
Local manufacturing company
Thogus Products marked 75 years of good business in 2025.
In the heart of Avon Lake, Ohio, Thogus Products, which celebrated 75 years in 2025, stands as a testament to American manufacturing, entrepreneurial grit and generational vision. Founded in 1950 by Jack Thompson, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient who fought in the Battle of the Bulge, Thogus began as a tool and die shop called Master Mold and Die.
“My grandfather risked it all,” says Matt Hlavin, CEO and third-generation owner. “He came home from the war, started making injection molding tools for Packard, and, in 1958, bought his first injection molding machine. That’s when he created Thogus, a name celebrating the two original business partners, Thompson and his toolmaker, Walter Gus.”
Together, Jack and Walter built a business that would pioneer the first plastic fittings for low-pressure applications with threads and
barbs. “He was tired of spending money on metal fittings to plumb water lines for tools,” Hlavin explains. “So he made his own, and that product line is still alive today.”
Thogus grew steadily, with the automotive industry driving over half of its business through 1997. Then the company moved away from this market, and today it makes up 1% of the company. The second generation joined the company, including Hlavin’s mother and uncle. “My grandfather was my idol,” Hlavin says. “I felt I owed it to him to help carry on what he built.”
Hlavin returned in 1997, took over sales in 2003, and became president in 2008 just as the Great Recession hit. “It was a terrible time to buy a manufacturing company,” he recalls. “But we had already started to divest from automotive and pivot toward brands like Vitamix and Steris.”
Determined to transform Thogus into an engineering-driven company, Hlavin partnered with Penn State Behrend — the No. 1 plastics engineering school — hired interns and graduates and invested in 3D printing.
“We help customers redesign parts to be manufacturable, print them in 24 hours, and show them what’s possible.”
Between 2009 and 2014, Thogus grew by 400%, driven by automation, diversification and a commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing. Today, the company operates two facilities with 140 employees and 60 molding machines.
“Our vision is simple,” Hlavin says. “If we’re not improving or increasing our offering, we’re dead. We play the long game — and we wake up every day thinking about how to bring more value to our customers.”
— Chrissy
Kadleck
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL WYPASEK PHOTOGRAPHY