Lorain county organizations are bending the curve toward economic growth and regional vitality
MR LORAIN COUNTY SHARES A CAREER WORTH OF INSIGHTS AND MEMORIES
WATERFRONT DINING
THE ANCHOR BRINGS ACCESSIBLE FINE DINING TO LORAIN
45th Annual CAR SHOW
When:
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Registration begins at 8:00AM 9:30-11:30AM Participant Judging
$10 entry fee, all proceeds benefiting the Elyria Apple Festival.
Where:
Enter the Festival at the intersection of West Avenue and Broad Street.
Cars will be parked in the order they arrive.
Enjoy food and drink at the Elyria Apple Festival.
Winners will be announced at 1:00PM
Dash Plaques for the first 300 entries
Best Vintage (Pre-1930)
Best Classic (1931-1949)
Best of the 1950s
Best of the 1960s
Best of the 1970s
Best of the 1980s
Best of the 1990s
Best of the 2000s
Best Truck/Van
Best Paint
Outstanding Display
Best of Show
For more information on Car Show contact: Bob Vandemark Mustangbob1988@gmail.com
COUNTY
12 CHARTING A COURSE FOR GROWTH
Over the next seven years, Lorain County’s projected growth in domestic product, population, industry and employment will outpace that of our state. Find out more about that and the “Bend the Curve” initiative. 6
4 FROM THE EDITOR
6 COUNTY LINE
8
Find out how you get give back during the annual Connect to a Cause day of giving.
CATALYST
After 22 years with the Lorain County Chamber Tony Gallo shares lessons from Lorain County.
10 FOOD & DRINK
The Anchor Lorain is bringing upscale dining that is affordable to downtown Lorain.
22 SNAPSHOT
The Lorain County Fairgrounds are being rennovated to hold even more events.
Plan for Prosperity
“When it comes to economic development, you have to know where you’ve been to chart a course forward.” That’s what this month’s feature is all about. As a part of an area-wide initiative called “Bend the Curve,” designed to accelerate economic development and growth across 14 counties in Northeast Ohio, Team NEO recently partnered with Lorain County Community College to break out and evaluate economic data for Lorain County. And, spoiler alert, the results are good. Really good, in fact. Meet more of the people and organizations who are behind this strong state of growth, and learn why this is such good news for all of us.
Also, this issue includes a conversation with Mr. Lorain County. As Tony Gallo, the president of
the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, prepares to retire, we asked him about his memories and experiences over the course of a long and impactful career. He talked about his start working in printing and how that transitioned to years advocating for businesses in our backyard. But just so it’s not all business — we also chatted about a love of wine, baseball and embracing and loving your fate.
We also explore The Anchor Lorain — a new addition to Lorain’s dining scene that brings you to the waterfront. Check out three great dishes we suggest you try and why this is gourmet dining that is accessible. Plus learn more about the exciting renovation project at the Lorain County Fairgrounds and why this means fun for the whole family. There so much to be excited about.
SINCERELY,
JENNIFER BOWEN SIMA EDITOR, PULSE LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE
Grow your career in a growing job market.
ADULT TRAINING
PROGRAMS
Giving Where it Counts
The annual Connect to a Cause event connects givers to local nonprofits. By
Chrissy Kadleck
As nonprofits face growing budget challenges, seemingly by the hour, Lorain County is stepping up again to show that every dollar counts and every act of giving matters.
On Sept. 18th, the Community Foundation of Lorain County supercharges 12 hours — from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. — into a powerful movement of giving, connection and hope. It’s called Connect to a Cause, and in just six years, it has raised over $1 million for local nonprofits fueling everything from youth programs to food pantries across the region.
“Everyone knows about Giving Tuesday,” says the Foundation’s President and CEO Cynthia Andrews. “But this is Giving Thursday in Lorain County, and we’re super excited to use Connect to a Cause as a community fundraising day.”
Donors can give online by visiting PeopleWhoCare.org, calling or
Help for Others
stopping in, or even sending checks to the Foundation in advance, designating how they want their funds distributed to support any one of 106 participating nonprofits with a single, seamless donation.
Whether it’s a $10 gift or a $10,000 anniversary check — like one couple gave last year — every contribution goes through the Foundation’s streamlined back-office support, and 100% of the donation (minus any applicable credit card charges) is deposited into the nonprofit’s account.
Two weeks after the event, each of the 106 nonprofits receives a full report of the funds raised, with 25% of those dollars automatically invested into their endowment funds — a vital reserve many rely on as a rainy-day reserve, Andrews says.
“A third of our nonprofits choose to keep all their funds in their endowment,” Andrews explains.
“They see it as a way to build stability for the future.”
Andrews says the fundraising stakes feel higher this year, though. With afterschool programs and youth services facing budget cuts, these critical donations offer a lifeline for many organizations.
“Someone may feel passionate about supporting education and youth,” she says. “Through Connect to a Cause, many donors are discovering new organizations doing critical work in these areas — and stepping up to help fill the gaps.”
The same goes for food pantries, which see longer lines as economic pressures mount. “We can’t replace all the dollars agencies are losing,” she says, “but we can certainly add some good news to their day.”
While the Foundation anchors the event, the energy pulses across Lorain County. From Main Street events in Wellington and Oberlin to newsletters and social media campaigns, each nonprofit and community group tailors its outreach to what works best for them.
In 2024, Connect to a Cause raised a record $389,650 in just 12 hours. And with more nonprofits participating than ever before, the momentum is growing.
“Our goal is to support the campaign, support a day of giving in Lorain County and support over 100 nonprofits in one day,”she says. “That’s the mission.”
Call to Action
Join us on September 18th! Make a gift to support 100+ local Lorain County nonprofits working every day to make our community stronger, healthier and more vibrant. Your generosity fuels the programs that help Lorain County thrive — today and for generations to come.
People around the world know Chef Andrew Zimmern for his unique and adventuresome culinary spirit. As an author, TV personality, philanthropist and activist promoting cultural acceptance and understanding through food, Zimmern sees sitting down together for a meal as important as a U.N. meeting.
There is also a very personal side to Zimmern that he shares in the hopes of inspiring others. The chef, an Emmy and fourtimes James Beard Award winner, has struggled with overcoming addiction and longtime sobriety.
“That my story has the ability to help one addict, one alcoholic, at a time is a huge blessing in my life. To help groups like Riveon raise funds to assist in prevention, treatment and sustained recovery to those in need is one of the great privileges of my life,” says Zimmern.
Zimmern is the keynote speaker for the Riveon Mental Health and Recovery Pearls of Wisdom Annual Benefit and Recognition Dinner, October 23, at Embassy Suites Rockside in Independence. Riveon is the result of a merger between The Nord Center and The LCADA Way addiction recovery services. Mental health and addiction treatment are now offered as an integrated plan. The organization serves Lorain, Cuyahoga and Erie counties. — Jill Sell
Fast-Track to a NEW CAREER!
Prepare for a well-paying career in high-demand industries in 16 weeks or less.
Fast-Track Programs:
Advanced Manufacturing
Finance/Financial Technology
Healthcare
Information Technology Trades
• Earn certificates and industry recognized credentials
• Complete in as little as 16 weeks
• Receive career entry, interview preparation, and employment assistance
• Scholarships and funding available
Contact Enrollment Services 440-366-4032 lcccadvising @ lorainccc.edu
Lorain County
As his chapter at the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce closes, Anthony Gallo shares a glimpse into his fondest memories.
By Christine Schaffran
For 22 years, Anthony L. Gallo has stood shoulder to shoulder with area businesses boasting about all that Lorain County has to offer. Although he recognizes most really have no idea what he does as Lorain County Chamber of Commerce President — and that includes his three siblings — his commitment to family, giving back and promoting the area are unwavering.
With a career spent bringing businesses and resources together, the wine lover and baseball enthusiast embraces civic pride as well as his title as Mr. Lorain County. From California to Italy to his own backyard, it’s a badge he wears proudly and prominently.
As he prepares to retire in December 2025, he marvels over the progress and pitfalls the area has faced and overcome with a resilience only Northeast Ohioans can truly appreciate.
I had visions of going to work at an ad agency in Cleveland. I found out after I graduated that ad agencies get interns that work the summer for free. I never had that capability because I worked three jobs to pay for my college to go back to college, so I found out right away that wasn't going to be a possibility.
In 1986, Cleveland was the third-largest print market in the United States. I went to work for Wilmot printing in Elyria, a familyowned business that started in 1929. Over 16 and a half years, I grew to love the company.
My customer at the printing company was the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce. They canceled a set of business cards for a person whose title was Director of Business Development.
Fun fact: I lived in the house I grew up in until I married my wife, Theresa. I had a baseball chair that I bought at a Rotary fundraiser and my clothes. Those were the only things that I brought to my marriage.
People think I go to parties, cut ribbons and drink wine as the Chamber President, and maybe that’s part of what I do.
I'm the person who connects the dots, so if you need something, I can get you in contact or go out of my way to make sure you get what you need through businesses that belong to the Chamber. My ears are always open, I'm always listening to see what people need, and always listening to see, ‘How can we help you be successful’?
When I started at the Chamber, U.S. Steel and KOBE Steel were in a partnership in Lorain and there were Japanese businessmen in Lorain on a non-stop basis. The Ariel Broadway Hotel as we know it today in downtown Lorain was the Spitzer Plaza Hotel. The USS/KOBE contingent had hotel rooms on one floor that were always reserved for the traveling Japanese businessman that would come in and out of Lorain
County that they were conducting business at this new plant. Within a year of KOBE selling their interest, the hotel closed because there was no longer this cohesiveness and that was a big deal for downtown Lorain. It was a knife in their heart.
I’M THE PERSON WHO CONNECTS THE DOTS, SO IF YOU NEED SOMETHING, I CAN GET YOU IN CONTACT OR GO OUT OF MY WAY TO MAKE SURE YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED.”
I like to tell people that I’m published. Harvard Education Press wrote a book called “America's Hidden Economic Engines,” that focused on community colleges and how they can drive shared prosperity. One of the community colleges that they chose was Lorain County Community College and I was given an opportunity to be interviewed. It was a big deal because it focused on how community colleges can be an economic driver in their community and what Chamber of Commerce doesn't want to have a partner like that?
Immigrants are the future for us. We're not going to discover gold in Lorain County and we're not going to discover oil, but if our workforce is here and willing and able to fill the jobs, then the businesses will come here.
The Chamber in partnership with the Small Business Development Center at Lorain County Community College gave away $457,000 to small businesses after we leveraged a $50,000 grant from The Nord Family Foundation. We got it up and running within two weeks after COVID shut everything down. Within four weeks, we were giving out the first checks. It was such a fast turnaround time that I did not think was even possible.
My uncle, Anthony J. Gallo (I'm Anthony L. Gallo) was killed in World War II at the age of 24 and received a Purple Heart posthumously. The Lorain County Veterans Service Commission named a grant in honor of him that will go on in perpetuity because the commission plans on funding it every year. So, my uncle's name will live on, and by default, my name will live on because my name is his name in honoring veteranowned businesses.
“Amor fati” basically means love your fate and it’s something I live by because everything that happens to you makes you who you are. So, if you remove one good or one bad thing, you're not going to be the person you are today.
Mr. Lorain County started as a joke. I was charged with starting a young professionals group for the chamber, and a couple of the young members would refer to me as ‘Uncle Tony’ and a friend jokingly bestowed Mr. Lorain County on me instead. But then it's never gone away. I can't say it'll be on my headstone, but it's a title that I don't wear lightly. It tells me people appreciate me. Whether they say it jokingly or if they say it sarcastically, I wear that title very proudly.
My legacy is to be able to connect people, but also to reflect on our history and where we came from, while moving toward the future because the history is not coming back.
There are so many people who still focus on what we were and what we are no longer, but we need to focus on what we can be.
Anchoring Lorain’s Dining Scene
Don’t think of it as fine dining. It’s dining that finally makes sense.
By Christine Schaffran
While rich mahogany columns and brass accents suggest luxury fit for kings and queens, the crown jewel of The Anchor Lorain is that it brings upscale dining to the masses with affordable pricing.
“This community deserves to have nice things, but it doesn’t mean that they have to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars to have those nice things,” says Head Chef Mark Wilson. “People like to call it fine dining, but it’s dining that finally makes sense.”
A bird’s-eye view of the kitchen reveals Wilson’s hyper focus on madefrom-scratch meals where he grinds his own flour, churns his own butter and grows his own vegetables and herbs. He also relies on local fishermen who pledge sustainable practices to deliver the freshest walleye out of Lake Erie for his signature Seared Walleye Cakes.
In the dining room, the 150-seat, ground-level restaurant gives a rustic yet refined vibe with its wooden tables and simple pendant lights. A palette of watercolors washes over the blue and beige sofas that are punctuated by small pops of lighthouses, driftwood and other indicators of the tranquil Lake Erie scenery framed by floor-toceiling picture windows.
Opened in April, The Anchor Lorain is the most recent addition to the Ariel Broadway Hotel, which once stood in jeopardy of being torn down. Ariel Ventures, a 100% woman-owned entity that specializes in historic restoration,
purchased the building after more than 15 years of sitting vacant, says CoOwner Radhika Reddy.
“Many developers tried and failed to save this building,” Reddy notes. “But because of our specialization, we were able to … put together the financing to make this project happen.”
And you can’t beat the view.
Situated at the intersection of the Black River, Lake Erie and the iconic
to make way for improvements.
Instead, The Anchor Lorain and the lighthouse stand in perfect harmony to guide residents to a place that speaks to them.
“We wanted something that spoke ‘Lorain’ and that celebrated the natural bounty that we have here. Where you could come for a great dinner, a fantastic breakfast and lunch and
“This community deserves to have nice things, but it doesn’t mean that they have to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars to have those nice things.”
– Head Chef Mark Wilson
Charles Berry Bascule Bridge, the scenery provides the perfect backdrop to marvel at the 108-year-old lighthouse,
really kind of celebrate who you are and where you are,” Wilson notes. “We just love it here.”
which also once stood to be demolished
The Anchor Inn Chef Mark Wilson and Co-Owner Radhika Reddy
Three To Try
01 SEARED WALLEYE CAKES
Inspired by crab cakes, two 6-ounce portions stuffed with Lake Erie Walleye deliver a crispy outer crust while fennel and a pickled celery root slaw offer the perfect creamy complement on the inside. Served with gochugaro aioli which packs a spicy, velvety punch, this hearty portion will whet your appetite while still leaving room for the main course. $13
02 BISTRO FILET STEAK
A hand-cut, 6-ounce filet medallion served with reduced Pinot Noir glace de viande, crisp fennel cracklins, which are similar to onion straws, and a choice of two sides, such as asparagus or Midwest Wild Rice Pilaf. Chef Wilson isn’t one to brag, but he would put his “Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes up against anybody’s in the world.” $30
What: 2025 Lorain County Red Kettle Kickoff
When: November 5th, 2025, from 11:30 am to 1 pm
Where: Lorain County Community College
Norton Culinary Arts Building 1005 Abbe Road North in Elyria
Ticket prices: $25 per person
Keynote speaker
Len Howser
03 RUSTIC APPLE PIE
This apple tartlet starts with a classic homemade buttery crust pie shell and is filled with sliced Granny Smith apples sauteed with nutmeg, cinnamon and homemade brown sugar before flambeing it with Triple Sec. Served with a homemade salted caramel sauce and made-fromscratch rosemary ice cream. $12
Co-host of podcast
“Start Your Day Positive” on radio 95.5 The FISH
Reserve your sponsorship by October 17, 2025
Elyria Corps 716 Broad Street, Elyria, OH 44035 440-323-2026 Lorain Corps 2506 Broadway, Lorain, OH 44052 440-244-1921
Service Units support the following communities: Amherst, Avon/Avon Lake, Grafton, Lagrange, North Ridgeville, Oberlin, Vermilion, Wellington
To register for a sponsorship online, please scan the QR code or visit https://salarmy.us/LorainCountyKettleSponsorship
CHARTING A COURSE FOR GROWTH
An initiative called "Bend the Curve" is poised to accelerate economic development and growth. And Lorain County is coming out on top. // By Terry Troy
When it comes to economic development, you have to know where you’ve been to chart a course forward. You need to learn from past experiences, separate what’s worked and what hasn’t, then show the courage needed to take decisive action to adapt to change. That takes an empowered team, with business, academia, government and nonprofits all working toward a common goal.
In a nutshell, that’s exactly what Lorain County has done to become an economic leader in our region, if not all of Ohio.
As a part of an area-wide initiative called “Bend the Curve” designed to accelerate economic development and growth across 14 counties in Northeast Ohio, Team NEO recently partnered with Lorain County Community College (LCCC) to break out and evaluate economic data for Lorain County. The results were surprising, even for the county’s most ardent supporters.
Over the next seven years, Lorain County’s projected growth in domestic product, population, industry and employment will outpace that of our state. Not only that, the county’s growth in most areas of economic development will outpace the nation.
“Team NEO was launching a forecast for the entire region, so we asked them to help us localize the data for Lorain County,” says Tracy Green, vice president of strategic and institutional development for LCCC. “We wanted to know what Lorain County’s economy looks like moving forward, so we can make sure we are serving the needs of our business community as well as the hopes and dreams of our residents moving forward.
“We are thrilled that Lorain County is poised to be the pacesetter for Northeast Ohio’s growth.”
“Team NEO’s ‘Bend the Curve’ initiative has helped cast a defining light on the importance of a strong talent base within a vibrant economy — it's one of their key vibrant economy indicators,” adds Marcia J. Ballinger, Ph.D, president of LCCC. “For LCCC, that means higher education and industry-recognized credentials are not just affordable and accessible to the population, but they’re strategically aligned to today’s in-demand jobs and the jobs of the future.
“That’s where the data gathering, strategic foresight, goal-setting and benchmarking become vital. Because in order for us to ensure that the skilled workforce we produce is going to contribute to the longterm economic vitality of the broader community, we need to be diving into all the aspects of where our industry growth lies now and where it’s headed. LCCC has been doing that for six decades — we’re out into the community and we’re talking to business and industry leaders to understand what they need now and what they'll require in the future.”
35,000 more degrees and credentials of value by 2035. Called “THRIVE 2035” the initiative is designed to advance economic mobility for individuals and families to create a thriving community and economy.
“We have some bold goals when it comes to THRIVE 2035,” says Ballinger. “When our region as a whole reaches that milestone, we will stand among Ohio’s most rapidly advancing regions in terms of economic mobility, economic growth and vibrant communities. And it all stems from that educational attainment piece, because that’s what unlocks real tangible opportunities for our community.
“Earning credentials leads to high quality careers, rising wages and intergenerational transformation. And with that baseline of talent — again the foundation of any vibrant economy — the community can grow in terms of business innovation, expansion and attraction.”
Led by manufacturing, healthcare and professional services, Lorain County’s GDP (gross domestic product) is projected to increase by 17% from 2023 through 2030, while the rest of Ohio is expected to grow at 14%. The growth will come across many industry sectors, led by information technology (IT), manufacturing and healthcare. Within manufacturing, expansions in electric vehicle production, resin production and aerospace part production are expected to drive significant growth.
“We have some bold goals when it comes to THRIVE 2035. When our area as a whole reaches that milestone, we will stand among Ohio’s most rapidly advancing regions in terms of economic mobility, economic growth, and vibrant communities."
1.6%. Over that same time period, national employment is expected to grow at a 3.4% clip.
Just this past summer, LCCC rolled out a bold new vision to deliver
Employment across Lorain County is expected to increase at a rate of 6.4% from 2023 through 2030, while Ohio’s overall employment is projected to grow at a rate of
It’s not just the folks at Team NEO who have noticed that Lorain County is doing an excellent job when it comes to economic development. It should come as no surprise that the base of that future economic growth starts with workforce development.
Marcia J. Ballinger Ph.D., President of Lorain County Community College
“Lorain County Community College is doing a great job of aligning the needs of the workforce, with business and industry and K through 12 students. They are pivoting to the kind of training that is needed for today’s jobs as well as the jobs of the future."
“Earlier this year, I went to Lorain County Community College and had a tour of their CHIP lab,” says Jim Tressel, Ohio’s Lieutenant Governor, who is taking a lead role in our state’s economic and workforce development plans. “We also had a nice conversation with around a hundred or so professionals that included a lot of people from the local school districts as well as business and industry.
“Lorain County Community College is doing a great job of aligning the needs of the workforce, with business and industry and K through 12 students. They are pivoting to the kind of training that is needed for today’s jobs as well as the jobs of the future.
“Dr. Ballinger and her staff, including Tracy Green, have been doing a great job in the workforce space and a great job of tracking their outcomes. They will be leaders as we get into this workforce playbook by region. They will be the leaders in this region that show best practices and help others understand how they have been able to align so well.”
Workforce development starts with education, and the perceptions surrounding education are changing. Traditionally, four-year colleges were seen as a main driver of workforce talent. But industry needs are changing, and there has been an increasing focus on career technical education through both two-year degrees and stackable credentialed programs.
“For years, we have always looked at four-year degrees as a talent engine for workforce development,” says Mario Codispoti, director of marketing and communications at Lorain County JVS, which has been around since 1971. “We’ve been programmed to think of four-year colleges as the primary engine for workforce development. But Ohio’s economy has pivoted. Today we need more people coming out of high school with stackable, industryrecognized credentials. Today, we have sophomores moving into positions with major companies. Yes, we want people to still go to four-year colleges, but the perception is changing. Where once the community’s perception was that vocational studies were secondary, they have now become primary. And that is because Ohio’s economy has changed.”
In the last four or five years, the workforce talent development engine has seen major changes, adds Codispoti. Demand has grown so much from a talent development standpoint, “that we are now offering nontraditional vocational studies in fields like allied health, engineering, technology, advanced
manufacturing and a lot of other programs that you would normally see in a four-year post-secondary college,” adds Codispoti, “and we are starting our talent development in high school.
Located on a 100-acre campus in Oberlin, LCJVS is one of the largest career tech schools in the state. As such it plays a key role in Lorain County’s workforce development, empowering high
Jim Tressel Ohio Lieutenant Governor
school and adult learners with career technical education and skills training. Its programs and educational pathways are designed specifically to address the needs of local employers. And it is extremely active in its partnership with the state through Ohio’s College Credit Plus program, which allows students to earn college and high school credits at
the same time. The program has become very popular as an engine for workforce development, especially in Lorain County. Both LCJVS and LCCC are major partners in the program.
“One of the best things about College Credit Plus, especially for
young people who may be the first generation in their families to attend college, is the belief factor,” says Tressel. “By the end of high school, many have gotten themselves part way toward a college degree, and some actually graduate from high school with a twoyear degree. These students have the belief that they can go to the next level, not to mention that they have saved a lot of money by attending the courses for free. It’s really a win-win situation.”
“So it’s essential that we work with the 13 associated school districts in our county, as well as LCCC,” adds Codispoti. “We are also working with business, philanthropic and civic organizations so everything is working in alignment with a strategic approach. We are not working vertically in silos but have an understanding of where our county and state economies are heading.”
While workforce is at the forefront of economic development, Lorain County has other factors that make it attractive to businesses. Perhaps the most important other than workforce development is a spirit of cooperation which creates a synergy among organizations that reside and
Lorain County Community College students engage in on-site classroom training to be ready to join the workforce.
operate within the county — as well as their relationship with the state.
“Obviously, LCCC has done a great job of laying the groundwork for workforce development and LCJVS is doing more than just picking up their end of the load,” says Tony Gallo, president and CEO of the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce. “We really are focused on making sure our talent pipeline is filled, starting in grade school and going up through college. But employers also consider our partnerships and the collaboration between business and industry, academia and government. And we also work well with organizations like Team NEO and OhioMeansJobs. Potential employers all seem to know that they only need to give us a call, and we can plug in people who are looking for the kinds of jobs that are available. Or we can create training programs for future jobs when they become available.”
Lorain County has an aggressive strategic plan for development including: innovative industry and economic development; transportation; workforce development and education; housing; and natural resources. However, the entire county’s population is only about as big as the City of Cleveland. Being a little smaller, it’s easier for the county to pivot when suddenly in-demand jobs change slightly, or if there is a big influx of jobs or positions.
“The folks at LCCC and LCJVS can change curricula a lot faster because we are a little smaller,” adds Gallo, “so that’s a positive thing.”
“We really are focused on making sure our talent pipeline is filled, starting in grade school and going up through college."
Tony Gallo President and CEO Lorain County Chamber of Commerce
Innovating Ohio: Expanding Opportunities in Manufacturing Powererd By National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement, Manufacturing Works and Lorain County JVS.
On the Edge – Spring 2025 Annual Meeting | Fueling the Future of Manufacturing, Lorain County JVS Manufacturing Summit 2025
PARTNERSHIPS ARE KEY
When locating or building in a new community, businesses often look to the relationships among local organizations, as well as their relationship with state organizations.
“The one thing a lot of people don’t usually consider is the level of coordination that all the entities in Lorain County have,” says Lisa Hutson, president and CEO of One Lorain County, a nonprofit economic development organization. “We work together very well. When I talk with my counterparts in other counties, you don’t usually see the level of collaboration and cooperation that we have here, which is really an asset for our county.
“We work toward common goals. I couldn’t go out and attract new businesses if I didn’t already have a good relationship with LCJVS and LCCC, which are building our workforce. I couldn’t attract new businesses if I didn’t work well with the county, city and townships that are working to improve sewers or utilities that are making energy available.”
Understanding and addressing the needs of business is also key, says David Greenspan, special projects coordinator and manager, who oversees the Lorain County’s office of community and economic development. Greenspan credits the county’s commissioners, Jeff Riddell, David Moore and Marty Gallagher, as well as Lorain County Administrator Jeff Armbruster, with having the kind of business acumen that lends itself to economic development.
“Our county commissioners have all been executives in the private sector before, so they understand the needs of businesses, the needs of the market and how business grows,” Greenspan says.
The approach has already attracted world class manufacturers and businesses that include: Skylift, Cutting Dynamics, Dura-line and Beckett Thermal Solutions.
“We do have some really good manufacturing and business partners here,” adds Gallo. “We have done a good job of working with these businesses so when they need to skill, or re-skill workers, we can simply plug them in.”
“We work toward common goals. I couldn’t go out and attract new businesses if I didn’t already have a good relationship with LCJVS and LCCC, which are building our workforce."
Other major Lorain County companies include Ford, Republic Steel, Ridge Tool, Parker Hannifin and Duck Brand Duct Tape, to name but a few.
“From a future business perspective, you have to look at the reasons why someone wants to invest in Lorain County,” says Greenspan. “Companies invest in an area for two major reasons. The first is quality of product and the quality of management. Clearly, we have quality of product. We have available real estate. We have access to the lake. And we have an available, willing and trainable workforce to fulfill jobs needs.
“But we also have quality of management in terms of our civic leadership. They know how to put Lorain County in a strong position to attract new businesses.”
In addition to manufacturing and industry, Lorain County is also enjoying development from major healthcare organizations like Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals and Mercy Health. Indeed, Cleveland Clinic just announced plans to expand both Avon Hospital and the Richard E. Jacobs Family Health Center as part of a $340 million project that will almost
double the size of its campus, which is located just north of the I-90/Nagel Road interchange in Avon.
“So we have great collaboration in all of our business sectors, from manufacturing through healthcare,” says Greenspan.
While maintaining a ready workforce is a strong positive, another very important driver for economic development is maintaining a “quality of place,” says Greenspan.
“It’s a huge driver for economic growth. We need to talk not only about providing more jobs, which is clearly happening, but we also want to improve the quality of place which attracts potential employees to locate or stay in the area. That includes housing and education, public safety and recreation activities.”
Examples of these include the events and developments that are going on in the City of Lorain with the expansion of its riverfront and lakefront.
“Those are great examples when we talk about quality of place,” says Greenspan. “Employers are already coming here, but we want their employees to live, recreate and raise their families right here as well.”
Lisa Hutson President and CEO of One Lorain County
Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel visits Lorain County JVS. Regional leaders highlight alignment and collaboration in action — expanding the talent pipeline.
NATURAL ASSETS
When it comes to future development, one of Lorain County’s strongest assets is land that can be developed, says Hutson.
“We have access to water and highway infrastructure,” she says, “but we also have a lot of land that can be developed. If you look next door at Cuyahoga County, they really don’t have a lot of developable land.
“It’s true that a lot of our sites need work to get done to make them shovel ready, like zoning and proper utilities and those kinds of things. But those are issues that can be addressed.”
Lorain County has one of only two sites considered a “mega site” in Northeast Ohio and perhaps the state, adds Gallo. The good news is that over the summer funds have been cleared to develop the site.
In making the announcement last July, Lt. Governor Tressel, along with Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced that four
More than $225 million in AOFF funding will be used to improve infrastructure.
properties
have been cleared for future economic development with support from the All Ohio Future Fund (AOFF).
More than $225 million in AOFF funding will be used to improve infrastructure at sites in Lorain, as well as Coshocton, Montgomery and Muskingum counties.
“When major corporations are looking for somewhere to build, they want sites that are prepped and ready for
construction,” says DeWine. “By investing to build infrastructure at the Conesville, Lorain, Dayton and Frazeysburg sites, we’re making Ohio more competitive and positioning those regions to attract projects that create good-paying jobs and boost the state’s economy.”
“There's a lot of work that goes into preparing a site for development, so we're literally laying the groundwork for future jobs and economic development in these communities,” adds Tressel. “We've already generated interest in these locations, and by proactively preparing them with needed infrastructure, these sites won't be vacant for long.”
An ariel view of Lorain County.
As a part of the state-wide developments, the Lorain County Board of Commissioners will receive $67,412,580 for infrastructure improvements at the 1,000-acre Lorain County Mega Site, which is located near the Lorain County Regional Airport. The funding will expand water capacity to deliver up to 10 million gallons per day, improve wastewater service, and support design and engineering for a new wastewater treatment plant. Plans also include expanding the airport runway to 6,500 feet.
Multiple organizations contributed to the project, including Lorain County Rural Wastewater District, Lorain County Sanitary Engineer, JobsOhio, Team NEO, the City of Vermilion and the City of Avon Lake.
“It was great working with Commissioners Moore, Riddell and Gallagher on this collaborative effort with the Department of Development,” says State Senator
“The
Commercial and recreational vessels regularly pass through Lorain County's Harbor via the Black River.
Nathan Manning, who worked alongside State Representative Gayle Manning on the project.
“Along with the commissioners, Lorain County Administrator Jeff Armbruster and his team have been working on this project to get it shovel ready for years, and we are excited to continue working with them.”
With any kind of development, there is a certain amount of resistance. Lorain County leaders
say they will be sensitive to the needs of residents.
“We need to make sure we have utility infrastructure in place and roads and bridges to support growth and expansion in a managed and thoughtful way,” says Greenspan.
With these development projects continually taking place, leaders who work together and programs that are innovative and encompassing, Lorain County stands to stay ahead of the curve.
HELP STARTS HERE JUST DIAL
“We need to make sure we have utility infrastructure in place and roads and bridges to support growth and expansion in a managed and thoughtful way.”
David Greenspan Lorain Special Projects Coordinator and Manager
A view of the Charles Berry Bridge.
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
Event Ready
The Lorain County Fairgrounds renovation project will create more space for fun family events.
The Lorain County Fairgrounds is high-stepping into a new era with a transformative $12 million renovation and expansion project that is expected to redefine the possibilities for the treasured Wellington attraction.
On the eve of the 2025 Lorain County Fair — its 179th annual event — fair organizers will officially unveil the two new major additions with a ribbon cutting at the Ross Exposition Center and the Maureen M. Cromling Memorial Arena.
At a sprawling 67,000 square feet, the Ross Expo Center is designed with flexibility and durability in mind. The climate-controlled facility features oversized overhead doors capable of accommodating semis, antimicrobial flooring that allows for quick transitions between livestock shows and athletic tournaments and a layout that can host everything from car shows to trade expos.
The center includes restrooms on both sides, family shower areas and a staging kitchen. It is also equipped with hookups for food trucks and concession trailers, while digital amenities like two large video walls and vestibule screens enhance the visitor experience. The facility also includes ticket offices and a conference room, making it a turnkey solution for large-scale events.
The Maureen M. Cromling Memorial Arena, located between the fairgrounds’ north and south horse barns, was built specifically for equestrian events. It’s an open-air, competition-sized arena with sound and Wi-Fi throughout, a judge’s office and an announcer’s stand. The addition of 240 box stalls ensures that the arena can accommodate large horse shows.
Judy Key, facilities director at the Lorain County Fairgrounds, says the Expo Center is already booked through mid-October, with events ranging from antique toy shows to career expos and even a visit from the Ohio Gun Collectors.
“It’s no secret that most fairs cannot survive off one week out of the year,” says Key, “For a lot of people, the fair is very nostalgic, and it is hard sometimes to welcome change. But to make sure that it's there for generations to come, you must do something to sustain and fund the fairgrounds. And that's exactly where these projects come in and will help support the fairgrounds 365 days a year.”
It was a vision that began in 2019, just before the pandemic, when a group of board members, volunteers and community advocates launched the Fairs Forever campaign. Their goal was ambitious: to create modern, multi-use facilities that could sustain the fairgrounds beyond its traditional one-week event.
Today, that vision is nearly realized, with $11.93 million raised, which includes a $4 million donation from the Ross Foundation, $1.5 million from the Lorain County Commissioners, $1.5 million from the Lorain County Agricultural Society, and an additional $4 million from individual board members and other community supporters.
These renovations are more than just upgrades — they’re a strategic investment in the future, Key says. Positioned on the west side of the fairgrounds, the new facilities leave room for expansion and additional parking. With 7,500 parking spaces already available, the fairgrounds are well-equipped to handle the 100,000 to 120,000 visitors who attend the Lorain County Fair each year.
The next phase of development is already on the horizon. A new Beef Barn is expected to break ground shortly after this year’s fair, with plans to open by spring. The 16,000-square-foot barn will house cattle and include space for shows and sales, giving local youth a place to work on their summer projects and further expanding the fairgrounds’ year-round utility.
“These renovations reflect a commitment to preserving tradition while embracing growth,” Key says. “We want to ensure that our fairgrounds remain sustainable for our community for generations to come.”
— Chrissy Kadleck
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