This is Our Avon Lake 2021-22

2021-2022

THE POWER OF PLANNING

The city looks at how a new set of plans can shape the community PLUS

Turbine Hall at the Avon Lake Power Plant

A Park for Everyone

How residents can make the most of outdoor spaces Supplement to Pulse Lorain County’s Magazine

Service you can trust.

Serving the community since 1979.

Family-owned and operated.

“Providing excellence in workmanship with customer satisfaction and safety as our prime goals.”

For residential and commercial customers we provide complete mechanical repairs and scheduled maintenance on all makes and models of cars, light and heavy duty trucks, semi-trucks, trailers, buses, and heavy equipment.

Fleet Maintenance Specialists/DOT Inspections Fully Insured, ASE Certified Technicians and Service Personnel, Free Estimates and AAA Vehicle Safety Inspections, Emergency service during business hours, Pick-up and Drop-off of customers available, All work is guaranteed.

Residential and commercial.

Hours: Monday - Friday, 7am - 6pm Saturday, 7am - 12pm Sunday, CLOSED

38219 Colorado Ave., Avon, OH 44011

RaysAutoAndTruck.com

440-934-4318

table of

contents

2021-2022

Departments 4

Letter from the Mayor

6

City News

Learn about Beach Park Railway and how the City is expanding its police force.

10

21 Restaurant Directory

22 City Scene

Avon Lake enjoyed a summer of live music in the park.

6 Mayor Greg Zilka Council President Martin O’Donnell Council Members Zach Arnold Billie Jo David Jennifer Fenderbosch David Kos Mark Spaetzel K.C. Zuber

Features 9

150 Avon Belden Road Avon Lake, OH 44012 440-933-6141 • avonlake.org

F O R A DV E RT I S I N G I N F O R M AT I O N, P L E A S E CA L L 216-377-3693.

@AvonLakeCity @AvonLakeCity Facebook.com/ AvonLake Podcast: Avon Lake Matters

22

Growing Places

Land use plans that build in opportunities for modern, mixed-use development are just one aspect of the City’s next generation — that connects this lakefront community with what’s next.

18 Form, Function & Beauty

Updates to Miller Road Park provide increasing perks for residents. avonlake.org

3

mayor

from our

Change is in the Air MUCH HAS HAPPENED SINCE last year’s issue of This is Our Avon Lake magazine. The closing of the GenOn power plant, a behemoth that has dominated our skyline for almost 100 years, will occur in March 2022. It has operated under a number of names over the years, including Cleveland Electric Illuminating, Orion, NRG and, most recently, GenOn. Those who worked at the plant will recall how it helped them support their families, while others might focus on the challenges created by living near the smokestacks that grew more numerous over the years. Many of the structures will be demolished, but we hope that some will remain as an acknowledgment of the considerable role the power plant has played in Avon Lake’s rich history. The city does not own the property, but our goal is to help steer its future by increasing access to Lake Erie and engag-

ing the community in the transformation of this rare lakefront site. There will be a number of public input sessions so that residents will have the opportunity to share their ideas.

We wrote last year about the replacement of the Avon Lake Play Space (ALPS). The current structure will be coming down soon with the first phase of ALPS scheduled to open in June 2022.

Younger kids will enjoy phase one, while older children and adults will be the focus of phase two, scheduled to be constructed in 2023. Public engagement was vital in determining the design and components to appeal to people of all ages. Making ALPS accessible to people with mobility challenges was a critical aspect of the design.

I encourage you to browse through the 2021-2022 edition of This is Our Avon Lake magazine. You’ll learn a great deal

about our community and why it is a grand place to work and live. Exciting changes are on the horizon, please join us in helping to shape the future.

Sincerely,

Gregory J. Zilka Mayor

Exceptional Dentistry for Exceptional People Dr. Pyke and his staff make going to the dentist a good experience. The entire office is set up to make a person feel relaxed. They are very knowledgeable and explain the procedures. Going to the dentist is not one of my favorite things to do, but I feel comfortable coming to Dr. Pyke.

Michelle H.

As always my son ( 5 years old ) and I had an amazing experience. Dr. Pyke and his staff are very professional and extremely nice. My wife and I have been coming here for At over 10 years and started bringing my son and daughter this past year. We live in Hinckley and make the 45 minute drive because of the trust that has been built with the staff. I have referred a couple of family members and will continue to do so. Thank you.

John H.

Awarded Top Dentist Year After Year Since 2007

My experience is always great when I come here.

That’s a lot to be said for a dentist office. Everyone is always so friendly and the office is spotless.

33399 Walker Rd., Suite D Sheri H.

440.933.2549

4

Avon Lake, OH As always your staff almost makes it a pleasure to come www.avonlakedental.com here. Actually this is the nicest dental office I have ever been to.

David B.

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

He cares about his patients and has excellent SKILLS AND ABILITIES. You Will be very happy!

Julie P.

John Pyke Dentistry Offers a Full Array

Our State-of-t

JohnofPyke Dentistry, You and Your Family Can Expect: Eco-Friendly C Dental Restorative Services: Best Dental Care on• Cleveland’s West Side •The Bonding Jaw/TMJ Therapy • CAD/CAM Dentistry • Root Canal Therapy An•Experienced Team Dedicated to Your Oral Health Cosmetic Contouring • Scaling and Root and Overall Comfort • Cosmetic Denistry Planing • Crowns and Bridges • Tooth Colored Fillings • DentalAImplant • Dental Sealants State-of-the-Art Office Crowns • Veneers • Extractions • Whitening A Full Array of Dental Services to Help You Maintain • Implant Supported Healthy Teeth and a Healthy Body Dentures

Using the Latest Technology Means Enhanced Patient Comfort and Satisfying

Our efficient, pape from digital radiog by 90%), a diode blood-free soft tis water in all lines.

We also have a co allows patients to make appointmen

news

Patrolling the City

C O U RT E S Y C I T Y O F A V O N LA K E

Avon Lake is expanding its police force.

WITH POLICE OFFICERS RETIRING, the Avon Lake Police Department has welcomed two new full-time police officers and one part-time police officer to the force within the last 12 months.

The goal of the department is to have a well-trained force, says Chief Vince Molnar, and there are multiple facets to that process. Full-time officers Jeremy Weissinger and Matthew Majercak attended the Lorain County Community College Police Academy. In Weissinger’s case, he was hired first and sponsored by the department to attend the police academy, whereas Majercak was already attending the academy through open enrollment and was hired by Avon Lake.

“What we focus on once they graduate from academy is the field training program we have here,” Molnar says. That is a five-step process that starts with shadowing a veteran officer.

“They go out and ride with a veteran patrol officer, and initially it’s the veteran patrol officer doing the majority of the work and explaining how they are handling the call, teaching geography and teaching policies and procedures.”

As the steps progress, they are assigned more complex calls while still working with an experienced officer who supervises them and provides suggestions. By step four, the officer is accompanied by an experienced officer in plain clothes as an observer

who can step in only if the officer or public safety is at risk. When the officer reaches step five, he or she will go out on solo patrol; the officer will be supervised from afar. Steps one through four take about 14 weeks and help prepare officers for the day-to-day duties they’ll assume during a normal shift. Step five lasts a year; the officer is in a probationary status and is supervised.

Weissinger has prior experience in criminal justice, as he worked at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Detention Facility prior to working at Avon Lake. Majercak has an accounting degree from Cleveland State University, and Molnar says that will help the city with the financial and identity theft cases they encounter.

Part-time officer Sandra Bockelman is also currently in the field training program, and local residents may recognize her, as she is also a lifelong resident of Avon Lake and a teacher in the Avon Lake school system. She previously worked as a parttime patrol officer at the LaGrange Police Department. — JP

Ohio’s Best Value in Higher Education – the LCCC University Partnership

You can save an average of $74,000 on your bachelor’s or master’s degree through LCCC’s University Partnership. Our 14 college and university partners deliver more than 100 bachelor’s and master’s degrees right on the LCCC campus.

Register today!

Visit Lorainccc.edu/up 440-366-4949

avonlake.org

5

culture

THE HISTORY OF AVON LAKE is being preserved for all at the new Beach Park Railway Museum. The museum details the story of how the railway system helped build city after city along the Lake Erie shoreline. In a March 1908 article from the Norwalk Reflector, the Lake Shore Electric Railway Company announced they wanted to “Father a City.” That city became Avon Lake.

Excerpt from the article: “This is just what my company wants to do — father a city at Beach Park” — said General Manager Stout to a Reflector representative. “There is no more desirable residence located along the south shore of the lake between Cleveland and Lorain than is Beach Park. It is a short ride from Cleveland, Lorain and Elyria, and we would like to see people from those three cities build homes at Beach Park.”

“To make it an inducement for them to come to Beach Park we are going to build a waterworks plant there, lay several miles of water mains, and pump water from the lake into residences where water is desired.”

Learn about the railway’s plan to create a modern city.

• • • • • •

6

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

Keeping Your Financial Interest in Mind Personable & Professional National Sales Excellence Award Winner Quality Award Winner Residential Relocation Specialist Certified Negotiation Expert

C O U RT E S Y C I T Y O F A V O N LA K E

In the Beginning

“A real estate boom is already on at Beach Park…A large number of the employees of the Lake Shore Electric make their home at Beach Park, many having moved there from Cleveland and other points along the line of the railway. It is said that a large number of the employees in the offices of the steel plant in Lorain and other offices in Lorain, Elyria and Cleveland, are thinking of buying lots at Avon Beach Park and building homes there. …I believe that in the near future this number will be increased to such an extent that Beach Park will be a small city.”

When the Lake Shore Electric Railway ended operations in May 1938, Beach Park Station was emptied of all furnishings and equipment, which were loaded into box trailers and transported to Sandusky for storage and disposal. Not everything was destroyed. Our museum will now provide a safe home for these pieces of history.

Tom Patton is the curator of Beach Park Railway Museum, providing a safe house for treasures he has been collecting for years. The Avon Lake Historical Society is the guardian of our museum, and it is pulling the community together to preserve this important piece of the City’s past. The Avon Lake Kiwanis have been working diligently on cataloging items and preparing them for display. On October 23 the public was invited for a preview of the museum’s progress.

One man who is personally invested is Steve Lynn. A carpenter for Northern Hammerworks, Lynn is helping to preserve his family legacy. “My great-grandfather, William Wallace Lynn, worked the Lake Shore Electric Southwest Line before becoming an accountant for the Federal Reserve of Cleveland,” states Lynn. “Northern Hammerworks has donated so much, and it is really appreciated,” notes Patton.

To learn more about how you can make a donation, become a sponsor or volunteer your time go to avonlakehistoricalsociety.org.

avonlake.org

7

Growing Places Land use plans that build in opportunities for modern, mixed-use development are just one aspect of the City’s next generation — that melds this lakefront community with what’s next.

8

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

RON JANTZ

By Kristen Hampshire

A

von Lake’s landscape is ever-evolving, and the City’s continued growth over the years has introduced a wide selection of residences and community assets like park space and retail conveniences. Now, the lakefront community is approaching a new phase of development — and it promises modern, walkable and vibrant opportunities.

Proactive zoning and a new Planning and Zoning Code will allow opportunities for mixed-use overlay districts in three focus areas of the City. “This is a significant step for the city because the available land here is shrinking, and a new iteration of the master plan is critical because we are not focusing on greenfield land like in the past,” says Ted Esborn, Avon Lake Economic Development Director. “Now, we are focused on redevelopment and reinvestment.”

This includes the reimagining of the halfmile property the GenOn power plant currently occupies. Recently acquired by Charah Solutions, they are working with the City on a redevelopment plan for the site. “This is drawing attention from across the region. How often do you see a half-mile of lakefront become

Back to pursuing your dreams.

tri-c.edu/ startnow

21-0716

avonlake.org

9

available all at once?” Esborn relates.

Avon Lake’s citizens will get a chance to weigh in on the future of the site, says Mayor Greg Zilka, adding that there is potential for repurposing the original 1923 building with the expansive turbine room.

In many ways, the City is experiencing a next generation, with plans in play to renovate and update City Hall, community engagement efforts to inspire improvements to sidewalks and other infrastructure, and zoning to attract new business. “We will reconfigure areas of our city to make it more friendly to small businesses, residents and customers,” Zilka says, speaking to proactive zoning and land use implementation.

Growth is ongoing — and the momentum continues.

In fact, 600 living units have been approved by the City in the last 18 months and have yet to be built, says Fire Chief Jeremy Betsa, speaking to Avon Lake’s expected growth. The population has doubled since 1978 when there were about 12,000 residents to today’s population of more than 25,000.

Joe Reitz, Director of Public Works, says, “I’ve been here for 33 years, and we are coming back into another building boom with a number of developments going up around town at the same time. It’s great to see the different type of housing being built that is attracting new families.”

Modern & Mixed Use

Capturing opportunities to reinvent existing properties throughout the City will allow for progressive development that integrates retail, dining, housing and business. The new

MAKE A SPLASH IN YOUR COMMUNITY REACH CONSUMERS AND GET THE MOST IMPACT FOR YOUR MARKETING DOLLAR 2021-22

2021

COM M U NITY

GU IDE

2021-2022 LORA IN COUNT Y’S MAGAZINE

THE POWER OF PLANNING

2021 | Issue 2

Plus

Development & infrastructure improvement updates

As Lorain County Public Health Commissioner, helped Dave Covell lead us through . the pandemic

Details about the proposed new police station

2021 Reconnect Refocus Rebound

Spotlight on four North Ridgeville residents

Difference

Makers

Spirit gC

ommunit

y

Celebra

People Who Are Lifting Up Lorain County

tin

Make a Reservation for Patio Season Common Purpose on Common Ground

Local entrepreneurs highlight North Ridgeville as the perfect destination to turn their passions into successful businesses.

Sponsored by the City of North Ridgeville and the North Ridgeville Chamber of Commerce

Membership Directory and Resource Guide

FRONT LINES FIRST

The city looks at how a new set of plans can shape the community

The community works together to protect healthcare workers + Chamber Member Success Stories

PLUS

Turbine Hall at z the Avon Lake Power Plant

A Park for Everyone

How residents can make the most of outdoor spaces

Sponsored by the North Coast Chamber of Commerce Special Promotional Section

Supplement to Pulse Lorain County’s Magazine

Community magazines have a long history of helping local businesses by giving them direct access to readers who buy local to support where they live.

Let us help you reach your Lorain County markets in new, exciting ways!

For information, call 216-377-3638.

10

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

Lear Road Proposed Streetscape

Family-owned and operated since 1984

avonlake.org

11

Road at Electric Blvd., north to Lake Road; and Beach Park Station, west on Lake Road. “The mixed-use zoning will allow us to combine residential and retail, and provide flexibility in how the mixed-use will look,” Esborn says. It could include street-level retail with residential situated behind the commerce. “This will bring vitality to those areas.”

For instance, Beach Park Station — formerly known as Artstown Plaza — was built initially in the 1890s as a train station and flourished in the mid-20th century, when Lake Road was a major artery. It was an Inner Urban Railroad Stop, so it’s a place of historical significance to the city. “But since the introduction

A digital edition of 2021-2022

THE POWER OF PLANNING

2021-2022

is available online at

avonlake.org The city looks at how a new set of plans can shape the community PLUS

Turbine Hall at the Avon Lake Power Plant

A Park for Everyone

How residents can make the most of outdoor spaces Supplement to Pulse Lorain County’s Magazine

12

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

COURTESY CITY OF AVON LAKE

Planning and Zoning Code, now being reviewed for final adoption, will allow for mixed-use overlay districts that will encourage a range of commercial, office, service and residences in walkable environments.

Because of previous zoning code’s over-stressed need for parking, “we ended up creating vast areas of asphalt,” Zilka points out.

By decreasing those requirements and implementing shared parking that offers more flexibility for businesses and customers, the City can reclaim space for more inviting development.

The City’s mixed-use overlay districts include three focus areas: Towne Center at State Route 83 and Walker Road; Lear

“The new code will give developers more flexibility for how the properties can be used.”

—Mayor Greg Zilka of I-90, that area has gotten less traffic,” Esborn relates.

Mixed-use development will inject that area of town with energy — housing, shopping and walkable space. The same is true for Towne Center and Lear and Lake roads. The new planning and zoning code will be adopted in early 2022, and Esborn says the “community-oriented planning process” is underway.

Zilka adds, “The new code will give developer[s] more flexibility for how the properties can be used.”

Calling on the Community

Along with introducing dynamic development opportunities, the City is encouraging residents to take an active role in beautification and safety initiatives through a new app called Engage. It allows residents to communicate seamlessly with City officials, report hazards like trees down, find links to city information and receive follow-up notifications after submitting non-emergency issues related to quality of life: streetlight problems, potholes, park maintenance, sidewalks, etc.

Engage Avon Lake has a “notify-the-City-of-an-issue” option that includes GPS locating and an ability to upload photos.

Saint Joseph Parish & School 32929 Lake Road, Avon Lake, OH 44012

Weekend Mass Schedule:

Saturday Vigil 4:30 pm* Sunday 8:30 am*, 11 am, and 5 pm

*=livestream

Weekday Mass Schedule: Monday – Friday 8 am* Find us on

Stjosephavonlake.org

440.933.3152

“The app walks you through a triage to help you connect with the right person the first time,” explains Barb Cagley, Digital Media Director for Avon Lake.

Engage Avon Lake launched in July and was promoted on social media — Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, along with the City website. Cling-on sidewalk stickers, the ones used to remind people to stand 6 feet apart, advertised the app in public spaces like parks. “We want to reach people where they are,” Cagley says.

Austin Page, the City’s Sustainable Development Coordinator, says Engage Avon Lake will also play a key role in the City’s initiative to fill in missing sidewalks to create a more connected, walkable community. “We’re working toward fully sidewalked streets to promote a healthy lifestyle and allow residents to access shopping districts from subdivisions,” he explains. This is an example of Avon Lake’s proactive zoning, he says.

Page’s newly created role is another forward-thinking measure geared toward coordinating City departments, providing the best experiences for both residents and businesses. Page says

Holy Spirit Catholic Parish 410 Lear Road, Avon Lake, OH 44012

Mass Schedule

Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:00 pm Sunday Masses: 9:00 am | 10:30 am | 12:00 pm Weekday Masses: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 8:30 am

Contact Us

Parish Office: 440-933-3777 Website: www.hspal.org Email: hsp@hspal.org Twitter: @HSP_AL Facebook: HolySpiritAL Instagram: hsp_al YouTube: Holy Spirit Parish Avon Lake

One Family in Christ

Preschool Program Kindergarten — Grade 8

Open Enrollment Stjosephparishschool.org 440-933-6233

Parish Office Hours

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Confessions: Saturday, 3:30 - 4:40 pm

avonlake.org

13

about future development and community involvement, “exciting things are on the horizon.”

Expanding & Elevating Services

As the City attracts more residents and a healthy mix of retail, office, business and dining venues — the resources to serve everyone increase, and Avon Lake is making plans to preserve the high level of service and safety the community appreciates.

Specifically, City Hall has identified opportunities to enhance security, provide more comfortable and accommodating meeting space, and centralize a reception area for departments. The existing building was modified in the 1970s, Zilka explains. The construction included a compact vestibule and entryway. Then in 2002, City Hall underwent renovations, but the reception area was not addressed. With the pandemic and overall sensitivity to enhanced security, the City responded with plans to reconfigure, expand and update areas of the building.

MORE! Benefits + MORE! Opportunities = MORE! Business for YOU! That’s the

“We’re working toward fully sidewalked streets to promote a healthy lifestyle and allow residents to access shopping districts from subdivisions. This is an example of Avon Lake’s proactive zoning. ” — Austin Page

Join Us for a FREE! Business After Hours Networking Event & Experience how the Power of MORE! Can Help You Grow Your Business

Visit: www.PowerOfMore.org 14

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

The existing conference room can only accommodate 12 people, and under COVID-19 restrictions the capacity reduces to four individuals. “We’d like to triple the size of the meeting [room] to allow for 40 people in non-COVID-19 situations, and with restrictions 12 to 20 guests,” Zilka says. “That gives us more flexibility to meet in a space that includes the technology for presentations and video conferencing.”

Proposed plans include an emergency exit on the north side of the building.

A new reception station and foyer with personnel at the desk would help direct community members to the appropriate department or office. “Overall, there will be a more open feel when you enter, and more security,” Reitz says. “Someone will

City Snapshot

Avon Lake By the Numbers

Don’t get soaked by utility rate surprises.

Choose NOPEC: the safe choice for Avon Lake residents.

25,206

For-profit energy suppliers offer low rates at first. But it never lasts.

As a non-profit, NOPEC minimizes rate volatility by buying electricity and natural gas in bulk, then passing the savings and benefits on to you.

Enjoy peace of mind with NOPEC’s fixed term, monthly variable and 100% renewable product options. You can even move among those choices without fees or penalties.

Avon Lake population (2020 Census)

#4

Safest community in Northeast Ohio

To learn more, call (855) 667-3201 or visit nopec.org.

(Cleveland Magazine 2021 rankings)

Education

#8 Best in Cleveland

(Cleveland Magazine 2021 rankings)

#30 in Ohio

SM

(U.S. News & World Report)

#756 Nationally

(U.S. News & World Report)

#2

Highest number of home sales in the region

(Cleveland Magazine 2021 rankings)

85%

Developed land in Avon Lake

35 Miles of bike trails

ISTOCK

8

220 Acres of parkland Historic Landmarks

11.64

square miles

The size of Avon Lake

IMPROVE YOUR HOME WITH CONFIDENCE Additions Bathrooms Basements Kitchens Design & Build Interior & Exterior Remodels Custom Carpentry Painting Handyman Services Computerized Plans Itemized Specifications Electrical & Plumbing (State License #28631) Roofing, Siding & Gutters Driveways Patios Basic Home Maintenance Replacement Windows & Doors

FREE ESTIMATES CALL 440-777-4406 4486 West 220th Street Fairview Park, OH 44126 www.KlotzbachCustomBuilders.com avonlake.org

15

Before After Refacing

This Holiday Season..

GATHER IN YOUR DREAM KITCHEN VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS

440.491.2580

kitchentuneup.com Locally owned and operated by Jim and Dawn Berlekamp.

Available!

KITCHEN TUNE-UP CLEVELAND WEST

Refacing & Redooring • Cabinet Painting • New Cabinets • 1 Day Tune-Up

xo, Theresia, Tammy & Kim PETERJEWELERS.COM

16

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

COURTESY CITY OF AVON LAKE

PROUD TO BE PART OF A WONDERFUL COMMUNITY

buzz you in and you’ll be met with a receptionist. Currently, people don’t know which direction to go. This will provide a more centralized point of contact.”

Additional office space will accommodate Avon Lake’s growth and development. The current L-shaped design of the building will remain, with the addition filling out the east end. The single-floor addition will maintain a consistent façade. “The old will blend with the new,” Reitz says.

Architectural details will bring character to City Hall, such as a raised-roof front porch entry with interior glass walls that will integrate an Avon Lake relic that has been in storage since the demolition of the iconic Aqua Marine Hotel & Resort on Miller Road. It’s a 4-by-6 foot glass panel with an etching of a ship — one of three panels that were in the hotel’s restaurant. Zilka says it’s a nod to Avon Lake’s past and future. “The Aqua Marine was the place to go in the 1950s and sixties[60s] for getaways, and we now have a very nice housing complex where it once stood, and we want to keep this part of our history,” he relates.

Finally, the proposed renovations will include greater accessibility to City Hall front entrance, Reitz says. Today, those who need to use the ramp to the door must walk across the parking lot. An updated layout will provide a direct pathway to the entrance. Not to mention, the project will give the City’s landscape and maintenance specialists an opportunity to beautify the grounds.

At Avon Lake’s Safety Center building, a demand for more capacity and updated infrastructure is also prompting plans to manage the existing population and expected growth, Chief Betsa says. In 1978

Sign Up Today:

when the current facility was constructed, the fire department fielded about 600 calls per year. “Now we are up to almost 3,000 calls a year,” he says.

In 2002, the police department and municipal court were relocated to the current Safety Center site with an expansion project. The fire department portion of the building was refaced to blend with the new addition. But infrastructural and special improvements were not made. Training space was re-allocated to increase dorm space for 24-hour shift fire personnel.

Now, the Safety Center, including fire, police and courts, is engaged in an assessment of the facility and its future needs. The center is working in partnership with Columbus-based firm, Mull & Weithman Architects. “Our plan is to present the needs of the department today and into the future and come up with a plan,” Betsa says.

Response needs have evolved drastically over the years. “We continue to develop our specialties,” Betsa says, pointing to equipment required to manage emergencies on Lake Erie and beaches, the cliff’s edges, trenches and confined spaces. There are fire prevention services like inspections, public education and plan reviews — and more administrative space is needed for these initiatives, along with records.

With Avon Lake’s growing population, the City has progressive development plans to provide the community with the high level of services for which it is known.

Now is an exciting time of progress and positive change for Avon Lake. Zilka says, “We have all kinds of dreams and ideas we will pursue in the next several years.”

Wash & Fold Delivery

ridgecleaners.com

Shoe Repair

avonlake.org

17

Form Function & Beauty Updates to Miller Road Park continue to help area residents and visitors enjoy the beauty of the park on the shores of Lake Erie.

By Jennifer Polanz

R

18

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

Art in the Garden In June the Bicentennial Garden at Miller Road Park was dedicated with a lovely ceremony. The garden features a sign with notable dates in our City’s rich history written by local author and historian Sherry Spenzer. To build on that, members of City Council are working with local artist Judy Keane from Creative Space Studio on a fundraiser to bring public art into the garden.

In July one piece of art from three individual artists was auctioned off at the studio and raised about $700 as seed money to put toward the project, says Councilwoman Billie Jo David.

“Part of the long-range comprehensive plan for the City is to bring public art into the City,” she says. “The Bicentennial Garden was dedicated this sum-

mer and it represents the past and future of Avon Lake. It’s nestled in the spot by the power plant that will have a lot of redevelopment coming into it. It’s a very special spot for welcoming people into Avon Lake.”

The project is in its beginning stages, and an ad-hoc committee has been formed to talk about what the art should represent, feel like and look like, she says. While it was too early to talk about a timeline for installation, those involved in the project are working on gathering more details like potential costs, and fundraising options through public and private donations as well as possible grants.

“We’re keeping up with the trends of cities that people love to visit and to live

COURTESY CITY OF AVON LAKE

esidents have long used Miller Road Park for everything from fishing to celebrating special events at the rentable pavilion to listening to free music on a hot summer night. The City of Avon Lake continues to work with residents to create new ways for residents to enjoy the park. Here are just a few improvements and events that have either taken place or are coming soon.

Show us the in,” David says. “We’re taking the time to do it right rather than rushing through it. Hopefully this will be the first of many public art projects within the City. If people have ideas about public art, we’d love to hear about them.”

The Spirit of St. Louis There’s already a bit of art and history combined at the entrance to the Miller Road Boat Ramp with the installation of the Spirit of St. Louis airplane, an homage to a longstanding landmark at the old Kekic’s Service Station. Avon Lake Historical Society President Tony Tomanek remembers the original fondly, which commemorated Charles Lindbergh’s crossing of the Atlantic.

“We think it was the last airplane left standing in the state,” he says, adding once the land was sold the airplane disappeared. “Nobody knows what happened to it. I grew up three houses down from that little gas station, and it hit me that we could get it recreated.”

He enlisted the help of Eagle Scout candidate Nicholas Zangas, who took on the role of project manager to coordinate efforts to rebuild the 10-foot orange beauty. It took about two and a half years from concept to installation because of delays due to COVID-19.

The effort was truly a community event with many local residents and businesses offering services, monetary donations and supplies, including Northern Hammer Works and Gras-

LoCo

sa’s Body Repair, among others. Officials from the City pitched in to get the project to completion.

The airplane installation recently won Project of the Year from the Avon Lake Community Council, an entity made up of community organizations, businesses, service groups and others. It’s an honor that highlights the community spirit involved in all aspects of the project, even down to the plaque at the foot of the plane, which recognizes all who were involved. It was funded by area residents via a Facebook donations request.

“Now I see people come up there and I see people getting their picture taken all the time in front of this little orange plane,” Tomanek says proudly.

Fish Cleaning Station The City is working with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife to create a fish cleaning station at the boat launch office, which will be fully funded with a $500,000 state grant. The grant would pay for a partial renovation to the current building to provide a fish cleaning station, concession stand, improved bathroom ventilation and more storage, as well as a commercial grinder, says Tim Pinchek, Avon Lake Recreation Director Tim Pinchek.

“We’re obviously very excited about

You Love!

Send us your favorite images of the people, places and events you love in Lorain County, and we will post them to our online gallery!

Visit pulselorainmag.com to submit your favorite pics today! avonlake.org

19

this opportunity and we’re moving forward,” Pinchek adds. “It’s going to be a huge asset to people who are fishing to offer a site they can clean their fish as soon as they get off the water.”

City officials are hopeful the renovations will be completed in time for spring 2022.

Leave a legacy, not a predicament Estate Planning and Elder Law in Avon Lake and surrounding communities Joe Motta

Protect your family and assets. Call for a free consultation.

440-930-2826 www.JosephLMotta.com Check out our website to learn more about how we can help you.

Glenn J. Kuemerle, D.D.S New patients are always welcome!

33398 Walker Road Suite A Avon Lake, Ohio 44012

440.933.4486 Fax: 440.930.4681 www.avonlakedentistry.com

216-410-1468 (Cell & Text) annettepisco@howardhanna.com

Annette D. Pisco, CNE, RRS, HOD

BEST OF THE BEST 2019 • Cleveland Magazine’s Top Real Estate Agents • 2020 OAR’s President’s Sale Club • Top 5% Nationally – Champions Club • National Sales Excellence Award Avon Office Howard Hanna Real Estate Services #1 Real Estate Broker in Ohio Real Estate | Mortgage | Title | Escrow | Insurance

20

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

Beer Fest Bigger Than Ever The pandemic forced the cancellation of Beer Fest in 2020, but it was back in 2021 and more residents than ever enjoyed the event held at Miller Road Park. The event featured four live bands performing throughout the day while visitors enjoyed more than 49 craft beers on tap, as well as canned beer, non-alcoholic beverages, a cocktail and seltzer station and wine tasting.

Attendees also had access to food truck vendors, popcorn and pretzel vendors and a wide variety of activities, including cornhole, a speed pitch booth, football pass or soccer ball kick. All told, more than 3,000 people came to Beer Fest, which co-organizer Kristi Blosser says is more than double the attendance from 2019. Proceeds for the event go to the Avon Lake Athletic Boosters.

“Part of the long-range comprehensive plan for the City is to bring public art into the City.”

— Billie Jo David “Our event was made possible by our VIP and corporate sponsors who were all present with their staff and guests, equating to more than 31 local businesses giving back to the community,” says Blosser on behalf of the team of coordinators, including Avon Lake Athletic Boosters President Tracey Corbo, Treasurer Erin Schaefer and Secretary Shelly Collier (Blosser is vice president). “We couldn’t have run our event without the 300-plus volunteers who gave their time selflessly to help us facilitate everything from planning to setup to tear down and event-day operations.”

If you missed it this year, you can find out details about next year’s event at avonlakeathleticboosters.org, on the Facebook page @avonlakeathleticboosters or on Twitter @ALBoosters.

3rd Base Bar and Grill 118 Moore Road 440-933-9939 Big M Pizza 153 Lear Road 440-653-5280 Buffalo Wild Wings 32914 Walker Road 440-933-7325 Cafe Melissa 32950 Walker Road 440-961-0072 China Chef 33382 Walker Road 440-933-7002 China King 1 375 Lear Road 440-933-6006 China Star 114 Moore Road 440-933-6688 Close Quarters Pub 31953 Lake Road 440-933-5217 Dairy Queen 33720 Walker Road 440-933-2208 Dogg House Bar & Grill 33475 Lake Road 440-933-7000 Domino’s Pizza 33382 Walker Road 440-933-3099 Fenik’s Frozen Custard 684 Avon Belden Road 440-930-8499

Fratello’s Restaurant 32085 Electric Blvd.

440-933-3380 Game On 33382 Walker Road 440-961-0763 Gitta’s Table and Wine Shop 32457 Lake Road 440-933-5888 Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant 33481 Lake Road 440-653-5953 Isla’s Ice Cream 140 Lear Road 440-961-0892 Jake’s on the Lake 32485 Lake Road 440-933-8304 Johnny’s Boathouse 33424 Lake Road 440-930-2685 Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes 720 Avon Belden Road 440-653-5883 Lakeside Nutrition 426 Avon Belden Road 440-835-4707 Las Cazuelas Mexican Restaurant 445 Avon Belden Road 440-930-4910 Lear Road Inn 164 Lear Road 440-653-5143

Legacy Restaurant & Grille 750 Jaycox Road 440-930-5570 Marco’s Pizza 32730 Walker Road 440-930-7200 Mark Pi’s China Gate 32730 Walker Road 440-930-2623 McDonald’s 32799 Walker Road 440-933-2738 Mr. Hero 32730 Walker Road 440-933-5207 Mimzy’s Bakehouse 32824 Walker Road 216-200-6718 Old School Pizza and Wings 445 Avon Belden 440-961-0892 Parker’s Grille and Tavern 32858 Walker Road 440-933-9400 Pizza Cutter 33501 Lake Road 440-933-5570 Pizza Hut 377 Lear Road 440-930-8600 Rico’s Tacos and Tequila 33493 Lake Road 440-961-1050 Rio Coffee Brewery 33388 Walker Road 440-930-7201

Romeo’s Pizza 428 Avon Belden Road 440-930-8575 Salad KraZe 690 Avon Belden Road 440-933-9123 Starbucks (inside Giant Eagle) 31990 Walker Road 440-933-5078 Subway 33382 Walker Road 440-930-27 Subway 375 Lear Road 440-933-9099 Taco Bell 510 Avon Belden Road 440-930-4371 Tailgators Sports Bar 33499 Lake Road 440-933-4007 Taki’s Greek Kitchen 377 Lear Road 440-930-8888 Thai Chili 32730 Walker Road 440-933-8424 The Caslon 33451 Lake Road 440-653-5995 The Kitchen All Day Brunch 32822 Walker Road 440-653-5699 The Quarry 182 Lear Road 440-653-5103

J. CRAIG SNODGRASS, CPA, CGFM Lorain County Auditor

226 Middle Avenue, 2nd Floor • Elyria, OH 44035 General: (440) 329-5207 Auditor Snodgrass: (440) 329-5170 Appraisal: (440) 329-5488 Board of Revision: (440) 329-5269 CAUV: (440) 329-5485 Homestead: (440) 329-5222 Licenses: Dog, Vendor, Junk Yard and Cigarette (440) 329-5717 Real Estate: (440) 329-5212 Special Assessments: (440) 329-5210

Tax Exemption: (440) 329-5739 Tax Map: (440) 329-5272 Owner Occupancy: (440) 329-5203 Weights and Measures: (440) 329-5657

www.loraincounty.com/auditor • auditor@loraincounty.com

Proudly Representing the Agriculture Community in Avon Lake Since 1935

Growing and Producing Delicious Wines for 3 Generations! Stop in our store and try some today.

33050 Webber Rd, Avon Lake, Ohio www.klingshirnwine.com • 440-933-6666

Serving the communities of Avon and Avon Lake for Serving the communities of Avon and Avon Lake for over 30 years.

We provide basic needs assistance over 30the years.

Weresource provide basic needs assistance and individualized referral services.

Serving communities ofand Avon and Avon LakeWe for do this30 through food pantry and through We and individualized resource and referral services. over years. our We on-site provide basic needs assistance financial assistance for rent, medical expenses, and individualized resource and referral services.

We do this through our on-site food pantry and through utilities, repairs and otherfood emergency expenses. do thiscar through our on-site pantry and through

financial assistance for rent, medical expenses, financial assistance for rent, medical expenses, utilities, car repairs and other emergency expenses.

33479 Road, Avon Lake, expenses.

OH 44012 utilities, carLake repairs andSuite otherC,emergency

www.aalcrs.org | (440) 933-5639

33479 Lake Road, Suite C, Avon Lake, OH 44012

www.aalcrs.org | (440) 933-5639 avonlake.org

21

Summer of Music Residents enjoy the sweet sounds of fun.

Avon Lake residents had access to a plethora of musical options during this past summer, and the future looks promising as more plans are in the works for each of the series listed below. Here’s a rundown of the summer fun.

Party in the Park

This free music program started years ago on Sunday evenings, and in 2021 the City expanded it to include a Saturday event, as well as three Acoustic Thursday events. “I think it was really well received,” says Recreation Department Program Manager Jacqui Hoffman.

“People look forward to it. I’ve talked to guests at the park and they’re coming from other cities, so we’re drawing from more than just Avon Lake.”

Next year residents can expect more activities with these events, including more vendors and food trucks along with the musicians.

Watch the Avon Lake Parks & Recreation Facebook page and the City website for announcements on acts and show dates.

These concerts take place at Beach Park Station (Stop 65 for those in-the-know) on the west side of town and are put on for free with the request for donations to help fund the Avon Lake Historical Society and Museum. President of the Avon Lake Historical Society Tony Tomanek worked with the City of Avon Lake and Beach Park Station owner Todd Houston to stage multiple concerts this summer.

22

This Is Our Avon Lake | 2021-2022

Day of Music

Anyone can make music, and the international effort called Make Music Day is geared toward proving that. This year was the first year Avon Lake participated via efforts by Music on a Mission, a local nonprofit led by Marilyn Zeidner. The event around the world takes place on June 21 every year in celebration of the Summer Solstice (so mark your calendars now!). “Because of COVID-19, we thought it was something we could do that would give the whole community the chance to experience the joy of making music together,” Zeidner says. Concerts and musical activities took place at Bleser Park, Veterans Memorial Park and Beach Park Station and included bucket drummers, harmonicas, children’s sing-alongs, choirs, bell ringers, bagpipers, rock bands and more. Next year’s plans are already in the works, Zeidner says, and while it may look a little different, the schedule will likely be expanded to a full day.

Watch MakeMusicDay.org/AvonLake for an updated schedule as it gets closer to June 21.

— Jennifer Polanz

COURTESY CITY OF AVON LAKE

Rockin’ the Rails

The bands, which range from country to tribute and contemporary music, bring in residents to partake of food from local pubs and sit in the plaza to listen to the music. In the meantime, donations from the concerts have raised more than $6,000 for historical society efforts.

“Local owner Todd Houston is kind enough to support us by funding the musicians,” Tomanek notes. “If he didn’t do that we wouldn’t be able to do this. We have great support from the community and our city, too. When we do a concert the City owns the stage and they let us use it. Without them, this wouldn’t happen.”

Check the Avon Lake Historical Society Facebook page and the future AvonLakeHistoricalSociety.org website (currently under construction) for announcements about the 2022 musical lineup.

The City of Avon Lake Does Ribbon Cuttings > Job Postings > Job Growth Grants > Business Spotlights > Small Business Grants > Shop Local Raffles > Business Expo > Networking Resources > Marketing >

So Get Out There and

local Dance > Dine > Scoop > Drink > Thrift > Indulge > Exercise > Celebrate > Treat > Groom > Insure > Nosh >

& shop

Yet to Come This Year...

Business Spotlights > Shop Local Raffles > Small Business Support Plan >

Go to AvonLake.org for the most up-to-date information.

Support