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12 CRUSHING IT
COUNTY
The Lake Erie Crushers bring fun and energy to our summer season. Find out what you can expect with a trip to the ballpark. Plus the inside scoop on why this is a big deal for Lorain County.
Featured on the cover: From left to right: Bob Moullette, Len Komoroski and Vic Gregovits.
6 COUNTY LINE
Avon is creating more ways to travel through trails in the city, plus parks to enjoy this summer.
7 CATALYST
A Lorain County Community College graduate shares her culinary training success.
8
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Summer is festival season in Lorain County. Book your calendar for these events.
10 FOOD & DRINK
Warm weather calls for eating ice cream treats outside. Try these hot spots around the county.
22 SNAPSHOT
Find out what you’ll discover at the new South Lorain Community Park
The Great Outdoors
Discover fun ways to enjoy various parks and trails this summer. By
Jill Sell
There was a time when only golfers were allowed to use the cart trails along the edge of French Creek in the Bob-O-Link Golf Course in Avon. But golf carts are now being replaced by pedestrians, joggers, cyclists and baby strollers.
“We are in the process of converting some of those old cart paths into park trails and we have made a small parking lot at Jaycox Road
from the Schwartz Road Park soccer fields all the way through our parks and back up through the city and its subdivisions and neighborhoods. Families will never have to be on a major road,” says Ziemnik.
Expanded trails also involve Miller Nature Preserve, a 145-acre park area best known for its 5,000-squarefoot conservatory, Butterfly House and popular Orchid Cafe. A new
into a trailhead,” says Jim Ziemnik, director, Lorain County Metro Parks (LCMP). “Our ultimate goal is to work with some families who own other properties nearby and run a trail closer to where we connect with the Riegelsberger Road wetland site.”
LCMP acquired 42 acres of the golf course in 2022 and officially “took the keys,” in January of this year, according to Ziemnik. Avon will also benefit from improved and expanded connectivity to city facilities, gathering points and even local shopping areas via LCMP trails and city-owned pathways.
“We want to work with the City of Avon to make the connection
pedestrian bridge over French Creek will connect two existing neighborhoods, Wyndemere Estates and Kensington Park Estates to the park.
“Before the expansion of trails and sidewalks through Avon, primarily it was only residents who would use trails in their neighborhoods. But now, with the Lorain County Metro Parks trail expansions and our partnership with the city, many more people can visit and use the park and travel farther distances,” says Ziemnik, noting that standard multipurpose trail is a minimum of 10 feet wide.
Enjoy LCMP This Summer
Lorain County Metro Parks consists of 35 park properties, 118 total miles of multi-purpose trails, 11,257 acres of park land and 27 designated water trails for kayaking, canoeing and water-related programs. It would take more than one summer to experience everything available to park visitors. But Bev Walborn, LCMP outdoor experiences manager, offers suggestions for starters.
Schoepfle Garden features 77 acres of botanical gardens and natural woodlands that delight visitors of all ages. Youngsters particularly find the Children’s Garden to be magical with its restored carousel and musicalthemed areas. Children learn and play while crawling through the Flute-A-Pillar and climbing the Rocky G Clef. 11106 Market St., Birmingham; 440-965-7237; loraincountymetroparks.com
Wellington Reservation is a 541-acre park with an outstanding visitor center overlooking a 21-acre lake formed by the Wellington South Reservoir. Four miles of trails follow a reservoir loop plus pass through a variety of habitats, including wetlands and grasslands. Walking, hiking and biking are popular here and fishing is allowed. Paddleboats and kayaks can be rented. 535 Jones Road, Wellington; 440-647-2509; loraincountymetroparks.com
Lakeview Park is a paradise for those who enjoy summertime recreation. Located on Lake Erie, the park offers a beach, bathhouse and changing rooms with showers, lawn bowling court, beach volleyball and a cafe. Sunsets are memorable.
1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain; 440-458-7630; loraincountymetroparks.com
Miller Nature Preserve Butterfly House, Lorain County Metro Parks
“I now manage my own kitchen, overseeing operations and ensuring exceptional dining experiences for residents. It’s a rewarding milestone.”
– Alexis Kimbrough
Recipe for Success
One Lorain County Community College grad shares how her culinary arts education prepared her for a life of caring for others. By
Leigh Keeton
When Alexis Kimbrough thinks about graduating from Lorain County Community College (LCCC), she can’t help but get emotional.
“I’m about to cry,” she says, remembering how it felt crossing the commencement stage. “I’m about to cry,” she says. “I never thought I would get to this point. It’s an overwhelming feeling and I’m so proud.”
This summer, Kimbrough, of Lorain, will earn an associate of applied business in hospitality with a culinary arts major. It is an accomplishment culminating five years of hard work, determination and grit.
There was a lot going on in Kimbrough’s life when she came to LCCC in 2020. The now 36-year-old wife and mother of three was already working full time in the hospitality industry. In fact, she was excelling in it. Kimbrough had advanced from prep cook and dishwasher at a Lorain County assisted living facility to morning cook and then chef production manager.
“I honed my leadership and culinary expertise as chef production manager,” Kimbrough says. “And being at an assisted living facility is so rewarding. For some of the people who live there, there’s not a lot they can control. But they can control what they eat, and I love giving them great food to choose.”
As rewarding as her role was, Kimbrough wanted to keep moving up. And she knew earning a degree would help. After completing several general education courses online, Kimbrough transitioned to the oncampus, culinary-arts-focused classes.
From preparing simple dishes, to creating international cuisine, Kimbrough learned a variety of cooking skills and techniques with an emphasis on safety, sanitation, nutrition and health. LCCC’s culinary arts program, which includes the opportunity to work at LCCC’s on-campus, student-operated Sage and Seed restaurant, prepares students to enter a variety of careers in the food industry, or, in Kimbrough’s case, to advance in a career already begun.
As course material intensity picked up, so did Kimbrough’s connection to the instructors and her classmates.
“It was different at LCCC,” Kimbrough, who had spent a couple years at a four-year university before coming back home. “Chef Ashley Black and Chef Brad Ball are amazing. It’s hands-on learning that doesn’t feel like class work. You’re just learning what you love with a group of people who are passionate about the same thing.”
Program director and culinary instructor, Chef Bradley Ball, came to know Kimbrough well from her first
class to her last. He said her positivity and willingness to learn were clear throughout her journey, which he knows included many commitments outside of LCCC.
“Alexis had a full life with her family and a full-time job while in school,” he says. “While balancing all those things, she took her education seriously and I am so proud of her. Her growth is one of the best representations of what this program can do.”
Kimbrough says her support at LCCC carried over at home, where her husband and children were always there to encourage her.
“They helped make it happen,” she says. “My husband is my biggest supporter.”
In fall 2024, Kimbrough was promoted to director of dining, a role in which she’ll bring to life everything she’s learned at LCCC.
“I was proud to assume that role,” Kimbrough says. “I now manage my own kitchen, overseeing operations and ensuring exceptional dining experiences for residents. It’s a rewarding milestone.”
That one word — rewarding — was the same word Kimbrough says she would use to describe her time at LCCC. And earning her degree was most certainly a milestone.
The Slow Down Season
Nothing beats summertime in Ohio. Lorain County has a busy lineup of affordable family fun and experiential festivals embracing history, culture, maritime and the iconic corn on the cob.
“Lorain County has long been known for its wide variety of experiences, entertainment, dining and small-town shopping,” says Garry Gibbs, director of the Lorain County Visitors Bureau. “All great reasons for residents and visitors alike to come and explore what we have to offer.”
Mark your calendars for these blockbuster events:
DISCOVER AVIATION AIRPLANE & CAR SHOW
A highlight of this year’s Discover Aviation Airplane & Car Show will be a one-of-a-kind display honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, who were Black pilots, crew and personnel associated with the Army flight training school in Tuskegee, Alabama, during World War II. The display includes a 30-seat theater where participants can learn about how these remarkable pilots overcame segregation and racism to become a decorated flying force during WWII.
This collaboration between Discover Aviation & Lorain County Visitors Bureau showcases one of Lorain County’s gems: the Lorain County Regional Airport. It will feature over 40 military and civilian aircrafts including: TMB Avenger, Stearman Biplane, Ford Tri-Motor (offering rides on Sunday), B-25 Mitchell, Beach City Baby (offering rides on
Saturday), C-53 Sky Trooper, L-21B Italian Piper, P-26 The Queen Mother, Royal Air Force Bulldog, Metro Life Flight Helicopter and Kent State University School of Aviation.
“By showcasing these amazing vehicles and aircrafts, we aim to inspire the next generation of pilots and engineers,” says Gibbs.
On Saturday, the tarmac will be packed with an incredible lineup of static aircraft, from historic icons to modern marvels. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the day, as well as a car show with classics and antiques.
Saturday, July 12 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Location: Lorain County Regional Airport | 44050 Russia Road, Elyria Cost: $10 per vehicle
Young Eagle Flights Available –only on Sunday, July 13 – must register online at youngeaglesday. org (ages 8-17) FREE
OUTDOOR BOAT SPORT AND TRAVEL SHOW
One of the largest outdoor recreational shows in the Midwest will take place at Lorain’s Black River Landing on July 19 and 20.
Sponsored by Lorain Port and Finance Authority, the Outdoor Boat Sport and Travel Show will encompass 15 plus acres of vendors from a variety of industries including Marine, RV/ camper, Motorcycle, Power Sports, Karting, Water Sports, Auto and more.
“This show is a fantastic opportunity for outdoor lovers to discover new
products and experiences,” Gibbs says. “We really want to drive people to the waterfront and expose them to our great natural resources with Lake Erie and the Black River.”
General Admission is priced at $3 for online presale and $5 at the gate. Kids 12 and under are free. Lorainport.com
NORTH RIDGEVILLE CORN FESTIVAL
Celebrate 50 years of kernel-inspired fun at the North Ridgeville Corn Festival, one of the largest attended festivals in Ohio. A weekend-long community extravaganza in August is non-stop fun with a grand parade, car show, corn-eating contest, inflatables and rides, live entertainment, and kids games and activities.
Lorain County Visitor Bureau will kick off the festival by flying the first drone light show on Friday night showcasing a dazzling display of lights and creativity.
“We are thrilled to celebrate 50 years of the Corn Festival in North Ridgeville,” Gibbs says. “This milestone is a testament to our community’s spirit, and we invite everyone to join us for a weekend of fun, laughter and memories.”
Friday, August 8 | 6-11 p.m. Saturday, August 9 | Noon-11 p.m. Sunday, August 10 | Noon-6 p.m. Free admission, entertainment and parking located on Bainbridge Road. The festival is between Route 83 and Root Road in North Ridgeville. For more details on the schedule of events, visit nrcornfest.org.
Don’t miss these fun events this summer. By Chrissy Kadleck
Sweet Summer
Kick back and relax with a treat from these
By Chrissy Kadleck
Old fashioned, swirled with chocolate, scooped on a waffle cone or sitting on a banana boat, ice cream is summer’s most delicious pastime, especially when the area’s independently owned shops around Lorain County become the melting spots for family desserts, first dates and friend meetups.
SCOOPS & MORE ICE CREAM, ELYRIA
In its 20th year of operation, Scoops & More Ice Cream has a devoted following of families who have supported the business through multigenerational ownership.
“We wouldn’t be here without community support, and we appreciate our customers greatly,” says Alexis Susak, owner of Scoops & More Ice Cream. “A lot of our staff are family or family friends and it’s been that way since I was a kid when my grandparents owned it.”
Scoops & More features Toft’s ice cream from Ohio’s oldest dairy offering more than 40 hard scoop flavors and other favorites such as shakes, sundaes and tornados (vanilla ice cream with mix-ins such as cookies, brownies or candy).
“New this year is our Taste the Scoop, which is a flight of four
different hard scoop ice creams so you can try a variety or even share,” Susak says. “We’re often very busy during the season but we try to keep the vibe light and the atmosphere fun. Whenever a guest tips, we always yell ‘Woohoo!’ as a token of appreciation.” 528 W. River Road N, Elyria, 2-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, Noon-10 p.m. Saturday and 2-9 p.m. Sunday
THE VILLAGE COFFEE & CREAMERY, GRAFTON
With its custom handmade tables and antique pieces of furniture, a stop into The Village Coffee & Creamery is a cozy coffeehouse
Chairs,
atmosphere reminiscent of the '90s and early 2000s.
“We own Nancy’s Main Street Diner and in 2021 we purchased the Village Coffee & Creamery so that Grafton could still retain a local ice cream place,” says owner Denise Worthy.
“We definitely do much more than ice cream, including smashburgers, breakfast and brunch sandwiches, onion rings, iced coffee, lattes, energy drinks, popping boba lemonades and more,” she says. “Our ice cream comes from the company Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream and they’ve been around since the ’60s out of Wisconsin. That means our ice cream is made with Wisconsin dairy and sugar and no high fructose corn syrup, which equals richer ice cream, premium quality and better flavor.”
486 Main St., Grafton, 6:45 a.m.-8 p.m.
Monday-Saturday
SUNDAE CAFE, WELLINGTON
A rustic and inviting ice cream shop situated in historic downtown
Wellington, Sundae Cafe opened in June 2024 to fill a frozen treat gap in the community, says Tiffany Warner, who co-owns the concept with her sister Darla Metz. The pair also owns Donny’s, a family friendly sports-themed spot that’s only a street away.
Like an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, Sundae Cafe has more than 40 seats where guests can enjoy one of more than eight sundaes and 22 different ice cream flavors, including lactose-free options — all from Chocolate Shoppe, a super-premium ice cream maker out of Wisconsin.
“Our customers can create their own sundaes and shakes with any ice cream or sauces they want,” Warner says. Its best-selling flavors include Zanzibar Chocolate, Exhausted Parent (a bourbon-spiked espresso), Fat Elvis
(banana ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate chips), and This $&@! Just Got Serious (salted caramel with sea salt fudge and salted cashews).
“We are always switching up the flavors throughout the summer to keep it interesting and fun.”
In addition to traditional frozen delights, Sundae Cafe also has shaved ice, dirty sodas and ice cream nachos, which is ice cream served with waffle cone chips. It will soon start selling birthday cakes and has recently bought an ice cream trailer to offer mobile treats.
113 East Herrick, Wellington, Summer hours: Noon-9 p.m.
Monday-Thursday, Noon-9:30 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, Noon - 8 p.m. Sunday
CRUSHING IT
"We have a tremendous community asset for Lorain County here and are working hard to bring it to life every day.”
—
Len Komoroski, Lake Erie Crushers chairman and managing partner
Lorain County’s minor league team is
hitting it out of the park.
It’s an early spring day and aside from a strong wind blowing from west to east, you couldn’t ask for better weather. The sun is high and the grass on the field of Crusher’s Stadium is so green, it almost hurts your eyes, contrasting perfectly with the orange infield baselines and running track.
It’s hard to believe, but that grass will only get greener into summer.
I’m greeted by Vic Gregovits president and partner of the Lake Erie Crushers of the Frontier League in an upper-level luxury box. As he looks out onto the field ahead of us, a warm genial smile comes easily across his face.
“The way I look at it, I get to come to a ballpark every day, and they call it work,” he says, “so life for me is pretty good.”
We’re soon joined by Len Komoroski, chairman and managing partner, and Bob Moullette, vice president of sales. The three make up a triumvirate that oversees day-to-day baseball operations.
The first question is obvious: Why a minor league team?
“My wife Denise and I have always been minor league fans,” Komoroski says, but the tipping point happened in Minnesota where the couple got a big kick out of onfield frolics which added an appropriate atmosphere. “There was a team in the twin cities area called the St. Paul Saints, which was owned by Bill Veeck’s son Mike, Bill Murray the actor and another principal named Marv Goldklang.
“We decided to go to the opening game because Bill Murray was going to throw out the first pitch. So out waddles this pig with a ball sack on his back. The umpire throws a ball to Bill Murray who throws out the first pitch to the catcher, who in turn throws it up to the press box. From there, it was just a lot of fun.”
Bill Murray, of course, needs no introduction. But Mike Veeck’s last name might not be recognized by younger Guardians fans. However, the name is easily recognized by longtime Cleveland baseball fans.
His father Bill Veeck, a classic baseball showman, brought a sense of fun to the ownership of the Cleveland Indians back in the day. He was also well known for his promotions and antics during a major league career that spanned three different franchises. Hoping to get a walk for his team, he once sent a midget to the plate. (In a confidential onfield meeting behind closed gloves, the opposing catcher actually advised the pitcher to throw it low.) Veeck also a staged a burial of the 1948 championship flag, when it became obvious that the Cleveland Indians would not repeat their world championship performance in 1949.
The St. Paul Saints have kept the Pig promotion on opening days, even creating a “Name the Pig Contest.” While there have been many creative names for the pig, as you can imagine, last year’s name of “Ozempig,” and previous names like “Squealon Musk” have created some controversy, while bringing a smile to the team’s fans.
// By Terry Troy
Inside the Stadium
As a Frontier League venue, Crushers Stadium offers seating for 5,000 in six different types, including Outfield Reserve, Infield Reserve, Dugout Box, Homeplate Box, Homeplate Box Premium and Four-Person Terrace. Tickets range from $8 for Advanced Outfield Reserve to $25 for Day of the Game Homeplate Box Premium. A four-person table can be as much as $150 for the day of the game. For an extra $5, there’s a Kid Zone that includes a bounce house and an obstacle course as well as other attractions located just beyond the right field fence.
Like many other ballparks in the Frontier League, it’s an intimate venue, meaning there really isn’t a bad seat in the house.
According to Joe Juda, manager of stadium operations (considered one of the best Stadium Ops professionals in the Frontier League), it’s 400 feet to dead center and 325 feet down the lines. The stadium sits at 2009 Baseball Boulevard in Avon, just off I-90.
It's that same kind of fun and unabashed whimsy that you’ll find at many minor league ballparks, and the Lake Erie Crushers are certainly no exception. From the dancing and in-game high jinks of the Savannah Bananas to the highly competitive play of AAA Buffalo Bisons, Minor League Baseball runs the full spectrum of family entertainment, from the sublime to the ridiculous.
“We like to think that we are a part of that spectrum,” says Komoroski. “We will take a few risks and will have a little more fun than what you might expect. We have the latitude of having fun and games, and that is the beauty of being in minor league sports and Minor League Baseball in particular. We like to have some fun like the Savannah Bananas, but we are still very much a professional baseball team.”
On Sundays, kids eat for free. If you’re under 12, you get a soft drink, dog and chips. Kids are also allowed to run the bases prior to the game and play catch with a parent on the field. And of course, there’s easy access to players for autographs, some of whom make it to the majors.
“What we are doing here, in addition to running a minor league team, is creating memories for multiple generations of families,” says Gregovits.
So Minor League Baseball not only develops players for the major leagues but also helps to grow its fan base.
“One of the greatest things we offer is access, especially to our players,” says Komoroski, who can often be seen along with Gregovits at the main gate welcoming fans into the stadium, especially on weekends. “We have players who are still hungry, who still haven’t made it, who love to interact with the community.”
One of the most intimate ways Crusher players connect with the local community doesn’t happen at the park. It’s actually something of a throwback to the earliest days of professional baseball, when local communities would offer jobs for players so they could play for the local team and live in the community.
As a part of its Host Family Program, families from local cities offer Crusher players a home away from home. The players get to know local families, while the families get a first-hand look inside Minor League Baseball.
“We have local host families who live anywhere from Vermilion to Rocky River, usually within a 20-minute radius of the ballpark,” says Gregovits. “The players stay with the families all season long, the families inviting the players into their house for four and a half months of the year.”
Naturally, the players get to know the families, but the families also get to know the spouses, girlfriends or family members of the players.
“Players are also going to family activities like weddings or baptisms and the families stay close with the players the whole time and even afterward,” says Gregovits. “This year we have a significant number of host families, some are hosting two players. Last year, we even had a family that hosted three.”
Fireworks
every Friday & Saturday
Stomper the Bear
At the Ballpark
When it comes to Minor League Baseball, there’s one thing you can count on: affordable family fun, especially if you compare it to Major League Baseball. Ballpark food is the stuff of legend and is an absolute requirement if you are going to have the complete baseball experience.
“When it comes to attending a Sunday matinee game, you can really stretch your family dollar,” says Len Komoroski, chairman and managing partner of the Crushers.
It all starts with parking, which is just $6. Specials:
Kids Eat Free Sundays (under 12 get a hot dog, chips and a drink)
$2 $2 Tuesdays (12-oz sodas, small pretzels, popcorn and hot dogs are $2 each)
$5 Hot dogs
$6 Bratwurst with kraut
$9 Hamburgers $5.50 Pizza Slice $4.50 Candy $6 Walking Taco $5 Peanuts $5 Soft Pretzels
$8 Chicken Tenders
$6 Cheese Curds $5 Fries $5 Cracker Jacks $8 Nachos
“We have the ability to hold 200 events a year, and we want to make sure that we are engaging with everyone that is reflective of our community.”
— Bob Moullette, Lake Erie Crushers vice president of sales
$8 Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Specialty dining options include: Chick-fil-A, Dippin' Dots and the Beverage Bar in Party Plaza.
Hijinks and entertainment aside, this is still a high risk, high
reward business
Komoroski, Gregovits and Moullette are a part of the Crusher’s new management team which took over in March of last year after purchasing the team from Tom Kramig. The executive team has been praised for its strong professional sports pedigree and its experience in Northeast Ohio.
“We like to joke that between us we have more than 150 years of sports experience,” quips Komoroski, “but maybe that just makes us old. Actually, we share a common passion for sports and we love minor league sports in particular.”
The investor names are easily recognizable if you follow Northeast Ohio’s sports scene. Komoroski is a former CEO and now senior advisor of Rock Entertainment Group. Nick Howley, chairman of the Howley Foundation, is the vice chairman for the Crushers.
They are joined by investors Nic Barlage, CEO of the Cavaliers, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Arena and Mike Levy, who’s been with Canton Charge as well as the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Village. Nick Howley’s son Mike, who is
managing partner of Bratenahl Capital Partners, is also involved.
Gregovits, who runs a lot of the dayto-day operations and is also a part of the ownership, served previously as executive vice president of global sales for the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment company in Canton, where he helped the company realize a 50% revenue increase in 2023. But Gregovits also has ample experience in baseball, including a couple of stints with the Cleveland Indians and the AAA Louisville Bats.
For his part,
Bob Moullette has more than 11 years of experience in professional baseball, beginning his career as an intern for the Modesto Nuts before moving to New Orleans where he helped rebrand the New Orleans Zephyrs into the New Orleans Baby Cakes.
While a passion for minor league sports initially fueled the team’s interest in the Crusher franchise, there were also some very practical reasons for the acquisition as well, says Komoroski.
“If you look at it from an overall point of view, Minor League Baseball is a wonderful way to commune with fans and lift people up in a unique way — which is a privilege we have in sports,” Komoroski says. “But from a purely business standpoint, you have to think of it as a fan and how they access your entertainment.”
The first thing you have to think about is location, says Komoroski.
“For us, that’s real easy,” he says. “You don’t have to leave a bread crumb trail to find our stadium. We are a baseball throw away from the fourth busiest highway in the nation (I-90).”
The second part is how you access the stadium.
“In our case we have access right off the highway and a dedicated service road that goes right into our facility,” Komoroski adds. “The third thing is parking, which can be a pain, but ours is really easy. So for us, what are pain
Vic Gregovits
Bob Moullette
BEST OF LORAIN COUNTY 2025 FINALISTS
Join us July 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Spitzer Conference Center. Go to pulselorainmag.com/bolc for ticket information.
Best Restaurant
• Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
• Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria
• Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant, Avon Lake
Best Fine Dining
• Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant, Avon Lake
• Nemo Grille, Avon
• Strip Steakhouse, Avon
Best Casual Dining
• Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
• Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria
• The Feve, Oberlin
Best Patio
• Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
• Papasitos and Beer Mexican Grill, Lorain
• Veranda Bistro & Bar, Avon
Best View
• Beaver House, Lorain
• Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
• Papasitos and Beer Mexican Grill, Lorain
Best Steak
• Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant, Avon Lake
• Parker's Grille & Tavern, Avon Lake
• Strip Steakhouse, Avon
Best Seafood
• Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
• Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant, Avon Lake
• Nemo Grille, Avon
Best Burger
• Between the Bun, North Ridgeville
• Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria
• Heck's Cafe, Avon
Best Pizza
• Lorenzo's Pizzeria, Oberlin
• Olde Town Pizza House, Amherst
• Pizza Cutter, Avon Lake
Best Wings
• Buffalo Wild Wings, Avon Lake, Elyria
• Wingstop, Amherst
• ZZ's Big Top, Avon
Best Ribs
• City Barbecue, Avon
• Jones Bones BBQ & Grub, Grafton
• Moosehead BBQ Grill, Amherst
Best Burrito
• Don Tequila, Amherst, Elyria
• Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, Avon Lake
• Te'kila Mexican Grill, Vermilion
Best Sushi
• Fujiyama, Avon
• Jin House, Amherst
• Plum Asian Fare and Sushi, Avon Lake
Best Italian
• Fratello’s, Avon Lake
• Nino's Italian Restaurant, North Ridgeville
• Sorrento Ristorante & Pizzeria, Sheffield Village
Best Asian
• Pho Ever Vietnamese Cuisine, Lorain
• Plum Asian Fare and Sushi, Avon Lake
• Thi Ni Thai, Oberlin
Best Latin
• El Kefón, Lorain
• Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, Avon Lake
• Mi Casa Sabor Latino, Lorain
Best Healthy Menu (Restaurant)
• Aladdin’s Eatery, Oberlin
• Fresco Bistro, Lorain
• Salad KraZe, Avon Lake
Best Bar Food
• Bascule Brewery and Public House, Lorain
• Mulligan's Pub & Grille, Avon
• Ziggy's Pub & Restaurant, Amherst
Best Cheap Eats
• Breakthrough Kitchen, Lorain
• Hot Dog Heaven, Amherst
• Two Bucks, Avon
Best Sunday Brunch
• Cole's Public House, Amherst
• Heck's Cafe, Avon
• The Feve, Oberlin
Best Family Dining
• Blue Sky Restaurant, Amherst, Elyria
• Johnny's Boathouse, Avon Lake
• Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Best Appetizers
• Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
• Edacious Kitchen + Bar, Avon Lake
• Ziggy's Pub & Restaurant, Amherst
Best Sandwich
• Fresco Bistro, Lorain
• Sundays Plus, Amherst
• Tree House Gallery & Tea Room, Avon
Best Deli
• Fligner’s Market, Lorain
• Rubin’s Deli, Elyria
• Sundays Plus, Amherst
Best Bakery
• Blue Rooster Bakehouse, Oberlin
• Kiedrowski's Bakery, Amherst
• Marta's N More Bakery, Lorain
Best Chocolate
• Faroh’s Finest Chocolates, Lorain
• Malley’s Chocolates, Avon
• Suzin L. Chocolatier, Amherst, Elyria
Best Desserts
• Heaven and Bliss, Elyria
• Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes, Avon, Avon Lake
• Mama Jo Homestyle Pies, Amherst
Best Donuts
• LaGrange IGA, LaGrange
• Marta's N More Bakery, Lorain
• Peace, Love and Little Donuts, Avon
Best Ice Cream
• Fenik's Frozen Custard, Ice Cream
• K-Cream Korner, Lorain
• Mitchell's Homemade Ice Cream, Avon
Best Independent Coffee Shop
• Emilie’s Coffee House & Wine Bar, Avon Lake
• Magdalen’s Gallery + Espresso, Lorain
• Sweet Bee Coffee Co., Elyria
Best Fish Fry
• American Slovak Club, Lorain
• St. Teresa of Avila Parish, Sheffield Village
• St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Sheffield Lake
Best Caterer
• LCCC Conference & Dining Services, Elyria
• Pink Peppercorn Catering, Elyria
• Tom’s Country Place, Avon
ENTERTAINMENT
Best Winery
• Cooper's Hawk Winery, Avon
• John Christ Winery, Avon Lake
• Klingshirn Winery, Avon Lake
Best Sports Bar
• Dawg House Bar & Grill, Elyria
• Tailgators, Avon Lake
• Ziggy's Pub & Restaurant, Amherst
Best Happy Hour
• Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
• Edacious Kitchen + Bar, Avon Lake
• Speak of the Devil, Lorain
Best Brewery
• Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
• Bascule Brewery and Public House, Lorain
• ESP Brewing Company, Amherst
Best Live Music Venue
• Black River Landing, Lorain
• The Dogg House Bar and Grill, Avon Lake
• Unplugged Brewing Co., Elyria
Best Theater
• Apollo Theatre, Oberlin
• Lorain Palace Theatre, Lorain
• Stocker Arts Center, Elyria
Best Golf Course
• Grey Hawk Golf Club, LaGrange
• Valley of the Eagles, Elyria
• Sweetbriar Golf, Avon Lake
Best Local Festival
• Fire Fish, Lorain
• Lorain International Festival, Lorain
• North Ridgeville Corn Festival, North Ridgeville
Best Charitable Event
• Blessing House - Rock-a-Bye Ball, Elyria
• Riveon Mental Health and Recovery - Pearls of Wisdom
Benefit, Lorain
• Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio - Generous Helpings, Lorain
SHOPPING
Best Shopping Area
• Avon Commons, Avon
• Downtown Amherst, Amherst
• Olde Avon Village, Avon
Best Gift Boutique
• Over the Moon Gifts, Lorain
• Talents, Avon Lake
• Robinson Family Soaps & Gifts, Vermilion
Best Clothing Boutique
• The Clothing Loft Boutique, Amherst
• The Mermaid's Tale, Amherst
• Truly Simple Boutique, Wellington
Best Gallery
• Beth K. Stocker Art Gallery, Elyria
• Elyria Arts Council, Elyria
• FAVA Gallery, Oberlin
Best Jeweler
• Nielsen Jewelers, Lorain
• Peter & Co. Jewelers, Avon Lake
• Vandemark Jewelers, Elyria
Best Florist
• Elegant Designs in Bloom, Wellington
• Puffers Floral, Elyria
• Zelek Flower Shop, Lorain
Best Garden Center
• The Original Don Mould's Garden Center, North Ridgeville
• Pandy's Garden Center, Elyria
• Petitti Garden Centers, Avon
Best Book Store
• Ben Franklin & MindFair Books, Oberlin
• Commodore Books & More, Elyria
• Ship To Shore Books, Records & Coffee, Lorain
Best Pet Boutique
• EarthWise Pet, Avon Lake, Sheffield Village
• The Grateful Dog Bakery, North Ridgeville
• Polished Paws Salon & Boutique, Avon Lake
Best Farmers Market
• Grobe Fruit Farm, Elyria
• Pickering Hill Farms, Avon
• Vermilion Farm Market, Vermilion
Best Wine Shop
• Giuseppe's Wine Cellar, Amherst
• Minotti's Wine & Spirits, Avon
• The Wine Room, Avon
Best Beer Selection
• 1 Stop Beverage Avon
• Johnny's Carryout, Oberlin
• Minotti's Wine & Spirits, Avon
SERVICES
Best Day Spa
• Beauty Spot Med Spa,
North Ridgeville
• Fitness Center at UH Avon
Health Center Day Spa, Avon
• Serendipity Med Spa, Amherst
Best Mani Pedi
• Alora Nail Bar, Avon
• Fitness Center at UH Avon
Health Center Day Spa, Avon
• Nails by Sierra, Lorain
Best Home Builder
• Dale Yost Construction, Elyria
• Green Quest Homes, North Ridgeville
• Kopf Builders, Avon Lake
Best Home Remodeler
• JSD General Contracting, Elyria
• Northern HammerWorks, Avon Lake
• Remodel Me Today, Olmsted Falls
Best Landscaper
• Lifestyle Landscaping, North Ridgeville
• The Original Don Mould's Garden Center, North Ridgeville
• The Yard Works, Avon Lake
Best Dry Cleaner
• Pat's Cleaners, Avon
• Ridge Cleaners, Multiple Locations
• Tide Dry Cleaners, Avon
Best Car Wash
• Blue Falls Car Wash, Amherst, North Ridgeville
• FriendShip Car Wash, Amherst
• QuickBrite Car Wash, Avon
Best Fitness Center
• Amherst HealthPlex, Amherst
• Glow Fitness Studio, North Ridgeville
• Fitness Center at UH Avon Health Center, Avon
Best Fitness Trail
• Black River Reservation, Elyria, Lorain
• French Creek Reservation, Sheffield Village
• North Coast Inland Trail, Kipton to Elyria
Best Yoga Studio
• Cultivate Yoga, Avon
• Fitness Center at UH Avon Health Center, Avon
• The Studio at Doc Watson's, Amherst
Best Healthy Food Selection (Retail)
• Doc Watson’s Market, Amherst
• Fitch’s Farm Market, Avon
• Red Wagon Farm, Columbia Station
Best Senior Living
• Independence Village of Avon Lake, Avon Lake
• Rose Senior Living, Avon
• Sprenger Health Care Systems, Multiple Locations
CHILDREN
Best Gymnastics
• Flippers Gym Program, Avon
Thursday, June 26, 2025 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
• Great Lakes Gymnastics, Avon Lake
• Ten Point 0 Gymnastics, North Ridgeville
Best Dance Studio
• BDD Dance Studio, LaGrange
• Miss Kristin's Dance Studio, Avon Lake
• MovementWorks Dance & Fitness, Oberlin
Best Learning Center
• LCCC's Children's Learning Center, Elyria
• Roman Avery Academy & Preschool, Lorain
• The Child Garden, Multiple Locations
Best Music Instruction
• Avon School of Music, Avon
• Oberlin Community Music School, Oberlin
• Rock Town Music Academy, Lorain
PEOPLE
Best Local Volunteer
• Ike Amison - Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio, Lorain
• Jerry Smith - LaGrange Lions Club LaGrange
• Summer Deichler - United Way of Greater Lorain County, Lorain
Best Board Member
• Barb Eifel - Blessing House, Elyria
• Brad Yuronich - United Way of Greater Lorain County, Lorain
• Mikayla Hyland - Lorain County Public Health, Elyria
Best Chef
• Chris Taylor - Emerald Event Center, Avon
• Dean Diluciano - LCCC Conference & Dining Services, Elyria
• Nicholas Pate - Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria
Best Bartender
• Jack Maple - Speak of the Devil, Lorain
• Jeff Gresko - Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
• Corey Kirkpatrick - Unplugged Brewing Co., Elyria
Best Personal Trainer
• Amy DeFilippo - Amherst HealthPlex, Amherst
• Gina Shaffer - Fitness Center at UH Avon Health Center, Avon
• Rae Lynn Esser-Moore - Fitness Center at UH Avon Health Center, Avon
Best Master Stylist
• Alicia Dolan - Maneology Salon Shop, Amherst
• Kristell Thompson - Francesca's Unleashed, Elyria
• Tammy Wargo - Shear Thairapy, Lorain
Best Chiropractor
• Dr. Geoffrey Poyle - Chiropractic Concepts, Sheffield Village
• Dr. Jeremy Watson - Watson Wellness, Amherst
• Dr. Nicholas Fabian - Xcell Medical Group, Elyria
CONGRATULATIONS 2025
BISTRO 83
36033 Westminister Ave. North Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 440-353-2828
bistro83.com
Mon-Thu 11 am-9 pm Fri-Sat 11 am-10 pm
Since opening its doors in 2013, the award-winning Bistro 83’s knowledgeable and well-trained staff has strived to makwe 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.
EMILIE’S
HOUSE & WINE
BAR
457 Avon Belden Road Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 emiliescoffeeandwine.com
Tues-Sat 6:30 am-2:30 pm Sun 7 am-1 pm
Wine Bar Fri-Sat 4:30-9 pm
Charming, warm and welcoming, this mother-daughter owned cafe has become a popular destination for Clevelanders. LORAIN BREWING COMPANY AND EVENT CENTER
35015 Detroit Road Avon, Ohio 44011 440-434-2020
lorainbrewing.co
Facebook and Instagram @lorainbrewingco
Located in a historical, industrial shipyard building that occupies 25,000 sq ft. The unique building houses a tap house, restaurant, event center, cocktail lounge, coffee shop, extensive water front outdoor patio/ beer garden, and boat docks!
BIG TOP BREWHOUSE
820 Center Road
Avon, OH 44011
440-695-0536
bigtopbrewhouse.com
Facebook and Instagram
@bigtopbrewhouse
Located in Avon, Big Top Brewhouse brings bold creativity to every pour. Known for award winning craft beers, famous wings, and a flair for originality. Follow along on social media for beer releases, music events, and more.
BLESSING HOUSE
6115 Olivet Ave. Elyria, Ohio 44035 440-240-1851
blessinghouse.org
Blessing House is a children’s crisis care center that serves as a safety net for families in need. This year, we are making waves with our 21st Annual Rock-A-Bye Ball – Oceans of Dreams. It will take place on November 8th, 2025, at Tom’s Country Place in Avon. We would love to have you join us for a magical night of food, fun, and dancing that supports the children and families we serve. Tickets go On Sale October 1st.
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 and 2024 — 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.
talentsgifts.com
Talents is a destination stop with over 80 artisans, nostalgic candy, Campbell’s popcorn, and so much more! Bring the entire family for a fun day out. We are located near beaches, parks, and surrounded by wonderful restaurants.
Among the park’s amenities:
A MULTI-PURPOSE INDOOR OUTDOOR flex space available for programming by community partners
COMMUNITY GARDENS cared for by Raise Up in partnership with local organizations and residents AN OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE SPACE AND STAGE for musical groups, lectures and summer movies
A LARGE, ACCESSIBLE, SAFE PLAYGROUND “designed to take the curiosity of kids to another level,” according to Matias LANDSCAPING that will provide shade structures, beauty and an appreciation for the natural world
Play Time
Find out what you’ll discover at the new South Lorain Community Park.
For now, because of space and financial limitations, residents of South Lorain are not getting the community center that some have asked for. But they are getting just about everything else they want when South Lorain Community Park opens in late summer. Community engagement was vital when planning this $1.3 million, multi-functional park located at 30th Street and Vine Avenue. The property is owned and maintained by Raise Up (formerly Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority) and developed with the cooperation of the City of Lorain. The park is part of the Southside Gateway Community Plan, with a mission to reimage Raise Up's Southside Gardens with improved public space and housing.
Gale Sayers Proby, Raise Up's chief operating officer, admits it took a bit to empower residents to use their voice.
But once Raise Up won the trust and respect of the neighborhood — and those bulldozers and backhoes started pushing dirt around after a February groundbreaking — community support really kicked in.
“We tried to give everyone everything they wanted,” says Judith Carlin, Raise Up chief executive officer. “It was our desire to do something bigger and better for this community. There wasn’t a safe, secure play area or gathering point for the people who live here with us at Southside Gardens. Our partners on this project and our residents told us there was also a great need for a permanent programming space.”
Greater ambitions mean greater expense, and the park went from having a $200,000 budget to its present cost ($1.3 million). But Carlin says the grander plan helps promote community pride, health and education.
The park is being funded by a $100,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Choice Neighborhood Planning Grant awarded in 2022 and philanthropic donations. Fundraising efforts are continuing.
“The park is just the first step in the Southside Gardens redevelopment,” says Carlin.
Rolando Matias, market lead and design strategist with MA Design in Columbus, is a project lead for the park. Although South Lorain is multi-cultural, Matias, born in Puerto Rico, is especially proud that he is a part of South Lorain’s revitalization, which historically has had a large Puerto Rican population.
“We are already seeing the valuable impact this park has with added interest in affordable housing and a new sense of community,” says Carlin.
South Lorain Community Park Aerial Perspective View Rendering
• Open floorplans of single-family luxury ranches with zero entry no steps, old world designs with a modern twist
• Private courtyards fenced in pet friendly for each residence
• Clubhouse with Fitness center gathering area, Pickleball and bocce courts swimming pool firepit lake with fountain lights up at night
• Enjoy a true lock-and-leave lifestyle with landscape maintenance included, so you can focus on living
• Much more than a home—Community with lifestyle
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