Pulse - Volume 16: Issue 3

LO R A I N C O U NT Y’S MAGAZINE October 2023 | Volume 16, Issue 3

BEST OF

LORAIN COUNTY 2023 WINNERS

Find out which of your favorites took top honors this year

INSIDE: HOW YOU CAN CONNECT TO A CAUSE FALL FUN FOR THE FAMILY

Diners enjoy the patio at Oberlin's Thìnì Thai

MARIEL HEMINGWAY SHARES HER STORY

SAVE SAVE BIG

ON BUSINESS BUSINESS EXPENSES EXPENSES ON

Save on expenses like:

Group Medical Insurance Energy Solutions Workers Compensation Savings Merchant Solutions and much more...

Savings available through your local chamber of commerce Visit noacc.org/benefits for more information noacc.org 2 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

216-447-9900

info@noacc.org

contents

ORAIN COUNTY

Feature

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BEST OF LORAIN 14 COUNTY WINNERS Discover which restaurants, shopping hotspots, entertainment destinations, services, people and more got this year’s top votes.

Departments

4 FROM THE EDITOR LINE 6 CFindOUNTY out how you can support a crowdsourcing campaign that helps Lorain County nonprofits.

8 CTheATALYST ninth annual Lorain County Chamber

8

of Commerce Business Expo highlights the importance of local organizations.

& ENTERTAINMENT 10 ARTS Author, producer and mental health advocate

Mariel Hemingway shares her story, plus party pics from the Best of Lorain County party.

NAPSHOT 30 STake your family or your friends to a fun corn

11

maze and local farm that offers a variety of fall fun.

PRODUCTION MANAGER ALYSON MOUTZ COWAN OPERATIONS MANAGER COREY GALLOWAY PUBLISHER ■ PAUL KLEIN klein@glpublishing.com EDITOR ■ JENNIFER BOWEN SIMA bowensima@glpublishing.com ART DIRECTOR ■ MEGAN ROSTA mrosta@glpublishing.com

TRAFFIC COORDINATOR KRISTEN BRICKNER AUDIENCE AND EVENTS MANAGER JENNIFER ROBERTS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Karen Beis, Linda Feagler, Lesley Gibson, Kristen Hampshire and Sarah Webb

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julie Bialowas, Sarah Desmond and Tiffany Myroniak PARTNERS & ADVISORY COMMITTEE Community Foundation of Lorain County Lorain County Board of Commissioners Lorain County Chamber of Commerce Lorain County Community College Lorain County JVS

CLEVELAND MAGAZINE OHIO MAGAZINE LAKE ERIE LIVING BRANDED CONTENT DEVELOPMENT DIGITAL MARKETING

1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730 Cleveland, OH 44115 216-377-3693 glpublishing.com

For more information about how GLP can assist you with your communications needs, email klein@glpublishing.com.

pulselorainmag.com 3

ORAIN COUNTY

FROM THE EDITOR

The Things We Love WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT?

F Attendees voted for BEST O their favorites, and the winners are featured TY COUN in this issue. You’ll find stories about must-visit restaurants, neighborhood hangout locations, local shopping destinations, movers-and-shakers and great places to take the kids, among many others. We hope you use this as a chance to discover a few new favorites.

LORAIN

3 2 0 2 rs e Winn

SINCERELY,

JENNIFER BOWEN SIMA

ERIC MULL

Do you have a favorite restaurant that always just gets it right? What about a shopping destination where you can always find a great gift that makes someone smile? Or a hotspot for having fun and kicking up your feet a bit?

Luckily for all of us, Lorain County has got all of this covered.

And that is what the annual Best of Lorain County party celebrates. This past July, we gathered at the Spitzer Conference Center at Lorain County Community College to honor so many of the places that make this a great place to live. Finalists in dozens of categories were on hand to showcase what makes them great — and that included lots of delicious food to sample and goods to peruse.

EDITOR, PULSE LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE

WELCOME TO OUR LORAIN COUNTY CHAMBER

NEW MEMBERS

61 AND COUNTING SO FAR FOR 2023!

5W&Co Ability Works Abraham Buick GMC Ford Advanced Diversity Contracting, LLC AMC Contracting Group Avenue at North Ridgeville Beaver Park North Inc Biomat USA Inc. Bumble Bee Blinds Butchko Electric Inc. Crumbl Cookie Amherst/Lorain Culver’s of North Ridgeville D&S Automotive David B. Giminiani, CPA, LLC deesdreamtravels Dragonfly Transformations Bodywork & Coaching LLC Empowered Community Services, LLC Estrela Consulting Exclusive Balloons, LLC Family Planning of Lorain County Flanigan Industries Glow Fitness Studio Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity Handshake Digital

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I-90 Nissan Inontime, Inc. Integrated Network Concepts Iris Imaging James A. Yorks Architect and Associates Jeremy Thornburg Shelter Insurance Agency Knight Market Lamar Advertising of Cleveland, OH Liz Manning - Howard Hanna Real Estate Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative LORCO Data Mark Wahlberg Airstream & RV / Road Adventures by Mark Wahlberg NBN Powder Packaging, LLC OneDigital Paper Airplane Peck & Gambish, CPAs Perales Law Perfect Blend Painting LLC PIRTEK Elyria Pradnya Martz at Keller Williams Citywide Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Rate Tracker Payments Representative Gayle Manning

Roman Avery Preschool SERVPRO Sheetz - Elyria Synergy Facility Management The Cleaning Authority West The Franklin Brewing Company Ltd The Reserves Network Unplugged Brewing Company Up Close Home Inspections Viapath Technologies Walker Wealth Management Weeden Waterproofing Welded Products Inc. Xcell Medical Group

LORAIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 226 Middle Ave., Fifth Floor, Elyria, OH 44035 440-328-2550 – loraincountychamber.com

Apply Now for the 2024 - 2025 school year!

Attend our Open House on Sunday, November 19 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm lcjvs.com/Start Lorain County JVS 15181 State Route 58 Oberlin, Ohio 44074 (440) 774-1051 www.lcjvs.com pulselorainmag.com 5

COUNTY LINE

HERE’S A SNAPSHOT OF A FEW NONPROFITS YOU CAN CONNECT WITH DURING THE EVENT.

Connecting with Causes

An annual crowdfunding campaign supporting Lorain County nonprofits involves a growing number of organizations that benefit from the daylong giving.

By Kristen Hampshire

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PARTNERS WITH PAWS OF LORAIN COUNTY It started in 2003 as a radio show featuring homeless pets on Kool Kat Oldies WDLW and Gold Country WOBL. Partners with Paws has raised thousands for pets in need and reunited lost and found pets with families. partnerswithpawslc.com YWCA OF ELYRIA As the oldest, largest multicultural women’s organization in the world, the YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. YWCA of Elyria started in 1913 and in the 1930s was the first local group to host multiracial events with women socializing and serving on boards together. The YWCA is also the creator of the Lorain County Racial Equity Center. ywcaelyria.org

Lovett describes the dedication and excitement that took place during Connect to a Cause — a flurry of phone-in donations, walk-ins who give in person, online giving and networking at the evening event that included a game show: Lorain County Family Feud, NonProfit edition, hosted by Tony Gallo, Lorain County Chamber president.

“We had 33 business champions that sponsored Connect to a Cause and over $50,000 in bonus dollars benefiting the nonprofits including the bonus match,” Lovett relates.

THE NORD CENTER A comprehensive behavioral health and advocacy provider, The Nord Center offers mental health programs, prevention and education, along with emergency stabilization services, crisis intervention and a housing services program. Services are available around the clock. nordcenter.org MAIN STREET AMHERST From recruiting new businesses to rehabilitating buildings, Main Street Amherst promotes the city’s downtown and commercial districts. It holds Beautification Days for community-wide cleanup, and Morning Mingle, held on the first Thursday of each month at 9 a.m. mainstreetamherst.org

COURTESY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LORAIN COUNTY

It was a 12-hour crowdfunding campaign that will change the trajectory for Lorain County’s difference makers and infused donations into nonprofits that rely on community support. The Community Foundation of Lorain County’s Connect to a Cause kicked off on September 21 at 8 a.m. and wrapped up at 8 p.m., along with a celebration and rally from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It took place at the Lorain Palace Theatre.

“What is unique about the event this year is we had more than 94 nonprofit organizations that participated — the most at one time,” says Brittany Lovett, staff lead for the project.

Since the first campaign in 2020, the foundation has raised $750,000 that directly benefits nonprofit recipients.

“Lorain County has so many organizations that partner and collaborate, and some of the bigger names people know, but there are other nonprofits people may not be as familiar with,” Lovett says, pointing those interested in participating to a comprehensive list on peoplewhocare.org.

Education, animal rescue, recovery, children, food and shelter — the list of participating groups goes on.

Lovett says, “There’s a cause that matters for everyone.”

LORAIN COUNTY URBAN LEAGUE Since 1978, the league has been empowering and connecting African Americans and minorities to opportunities and programs including employment, entrepreneurship, housing and education.

The league holds youth development workshops for college readiness along with career speakers, and a Road to Success College Tour with 40-plus students grades 10 and 11 to expose them to a variety of campuses. lcul.org

A VOTE FOR ISSUE 23 IS A VOTE FOR THE METRO PARKS

There’s a lot to be proud of, from birding and hiking to fishing and biking, from Cascade Park to Lakeview Beach, from Mill Hollow to Sandy Ridge Reservation, and everything in between.

The Lorain County Metro Parks are in every major community and are only minutes from all county residents. With 145 miles of trails, 11,000 acres of land, and a record 4 million visitors annually, the parks have grown to be a place for everyone.

The Lorain County Metro Parks are fiscally responsible, with 70% of its operating budget coming from a 10-year levy. Now facing rising costs, the parks are asking voters to support a 1.6 mill replacement levy. For an additional $1.50 a month (on a property valued at $100,000), your vote will help ensure our parks continue to operate and are maintained at the quality you expect—now and into the future.

Be Proud of Your Vote. Be Pro Parks.

Vote FOR Issue 23.

Early Voting Begins: October 11

|

At the Polls: November 7

w w w. P r o u d O f O u r Pa r k s . c o m

Paid for by Citizens’ Committee for Lorain County Metro Parks | 12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, Ohio 44050 pulselorainmag.com 7

CATALYST

Growing Our Businesses The ninth annual Lorain County Chamber of Commerce Business Expo offers a lively venue for networking, learning and keeping business close to home.

By Kristen Hampshire A networking hub and platform for connecting with local businesses, the ninth annual Business Expo on November 2 at Tom’s Country Place in Avon brings together Lorain County Chamber of Commerce members across industries and guests. “The whole purpose of the B2B expo is to keep business local, and we sell out every year,” says Tony Gallo, the chamber’s president and CEO. From 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., attendees can meet more than 115 exhibitors and mingle with business owners.

Gallo expects at least 650 people to circulate through the halls — and they’re at the expo with a mind to develop business partnerships.

“Every year, there is usually at least one member who comes up to me to say, ‘I’m so glad we were here. I met someone and we already have an appointment scheduled,’” Gallo says.

He adds, “Ultimately, we all know someone who needs something that is on display at the expo, whether a banker, accountant, travel agent, real

estate agent or service provider. There is a wide variety of business opportunities on display.”

Live coverage from WEOL and WOBL radio stations adds more exposure to business exhibitors, sponsors and the collaboration taking place on the expo floor.

“We’re working hard to make sure our local businesses thrive,” Gallo says, adding that he is known as “the guy who helps connect the dots” and refers businesses to local vendors and suppliers. “The chamber really is that connector, that’s what we exist for — to make sure that people know about your business and to help grow your business.”

Remember to bring business cards, Gallo adds. Even in our digital world, business cards are a helpful leave-behind and a helpful introduction tool.

And, he urges exhibitors to step out from behind their display tables to

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Louis Moreno and Jeremy Damstra from GEM Service/Rudolph Libbe Group

COURTESY LORAIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

City of Avon Mayor Bryan Jensen and Lorain County Chamber President/CEO Tony Gallo

encourage conversation, as well as listening. There’s a lot to learn about local business at the expo.

That includes finding out more about the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce and its benefits, including access to quality, group health insurance, business development workshops and a range of events. For instance, the Business Dialogue series held several times per year addresses relevant issues. The September 28 session focused on Resilience Reinvented: Empowering Businesses for an Unpredictable Future.

Ultimately, there is strength in numbers — member businesses supporting each other’s success, and Business Expo employees collaborating to keep business in the county.

We look forward to the expo every year, and it’s a great way for the chamber to give back to help small businesses grow,” Gallo says.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best of Lorain County 2023 Nearly 400 guests gathered to enjoy an evening of food, entertainment and fun at this year’s Best of Lorain County, held July 20 at Lorain County Community College. More than 40 Best of Lorain County finalists were on hand to showcase what makes them a Lorain County favorite. Sponsors of the event included Bendix, Lorain County Community College, Lorain County Commissioners, Lorain County Chamber and Lorain County JVS.

2023 Best of Lorain County Party

Jeannie Gielty, Kim Edsell and Erin Hallahan from the Lorain Public Library System

Bill Hricovek, Ashley Spooner and George Yovanovich of Tom’s Country Place

Eden Maynard and Paige Barricklow of Doc Watson’s Market

Joe and Maggie Matuscak of The LCADA Way

Kierstin Hilditch, Barb Kushen and Casey Hilditch of Ten Point O Gymnastics

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Balance and Purpose

Author, producer and mental health advocate Mariel Hemingway shares her story and passion for connecting mental and physical health.

COURTESY THE LCADA WAY

By Kristen Hampshire Running from crazy. Mariel Hemingway aptly produced a documentary film by this name, recounting her storied family’s history of suicide, substance abuse and mental illness.

As a girl spending summers at her family’s homestead in Ketchum, Idaho, she’d ride her bike seven miles into town. “That was my mode of transportation because the house was a little bit crazy, and so, the way I got out was on my bicycle, by myself,” says the author, film/television producer and unstoppable voice in the conversation of how to live a healthier, more meaningful life.

“My family wasn’t totally aware that it was mental illness,” she relates of their living a life of excess. “They just

thought they were screwing up as parents. And I watched my older sisters, also struggling, growing up in a family that loved them so much, and I knew that something wasn’t adding up. The way they were living wasn’t working.”

Hemingway never met her paternal grandfather, the Pulitzer Prize winning novelist. He took his own life four months before Mariel was born, continuing a string of suicides in the family that later included her sister, Margaux.

“ Our physical and mental health are incredibly and very closely linked. It works hand in hand, and it’s not the norm for people to look at mental health from that perspective.”

– Mariel Hemingway

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pulselorainmag.com 11

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Hemingway intentionally, desperately took a different path.

She has dedicated her life to studying the connection between mental and physical health, with a focus on transforming damaging messages and influences into healing — balance, energy and a sense of purpose.

“Initially, it was control. I was trying to control my life, circumstances and environment,” she relates. “But over the years of doing that, it made me realize that our physical and mental health are incredibly and very closely linked. It works hand in hand, and it’s not the norm for people to look at mental health from that perspective.”

Hemingway is this year’s keynote speaker at The LCADA Way Pearls of Wisdom Annual Benefit and Recognition Dinner on October 26 at Embassy Suites Rockside in Independence. The LCADA Way provides treatment for addiction and support for individuals in Cuyahoga, Lorain and Erie counties and surrounding communities.

Interactive raffles and auctions include a four-day Bahama cruise.

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“ When we hear personal accounts from people we see in movies and on TV who have the same problems and worked through them, it is inspiring.

‘Wow, I can do that, too.’”

– Joe Matuscak This year, LCADA Way will honor Premier Truck Sales & Rental of Valley View with the President’s Award, and LifeCare owner Maud de la Porte will receive the Community Service Award.

Mental health struggles do not discriminate, and The LCADA Way’s tradition of inviting individuals of notoriety to share their stories is intentional. “Addiction and behavioral health issues affect so many people, regardless of faith, creed, color, social and economic status,” relates Joe Matuscak, director of marketing and development for The LCADA Way. “When we hear personal accounts

from people we see in movies and on TV who have the same problems and worked through them, it is inspiring.

‘Wow, I can do that, too.’”

“Sharing your story is the start of finding your solution,” Hemingway adds, relating that she has told hers so often, yet learns something new about herself every time she shares.

She knows it can empower others to do the same. “The hardest thing for people can be that feeling of isolation and not being understood or feeling heard,” she says.

Everyone’s recipe for wellness is different, Hemingway notes. “And it is always changing,” she relates, adding, “The more I know, the less I know.”

Hemingway shares knowledge from thought leaders in the mental health space on her new podcast, “Out Comes the Sun,” with Melissa Yamaguchi, part of a larger project of the Mariel Hemingway Foundation to become a resource navigator and clearinghouse for vetted behavioral health and psychiatric programs. “That is the dream,” she says.

Kopf Builders is proud to be voted “Best Homebuilder” Thank You Lorain County!!!

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BEST OF

LORAIN

COUNTY

2023 Winners Stories by Lesley Gibson, Kristen Hampshire and Sarah Webb

Restaurant

The wasabi deviled eggs at Foundry Kitchen & Bar in Elyria are packed with mouthwatering flavor — and not by chance.

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LAURA WATILO BLAKE

Foundry Kitchen & Bar

The dish, which takes more than a day to execute to creamy perfection, may be better described as a labor of love.

“To make wasabi deviled eggs, it takes almost 30 hours from beginning to end to get that finished product to the table and to the customer,” says Greg Dabran, co-owner of Foundry Kitchen & Bar. To help us get a better sense of what goes into this tasty dish, Dabran boils down the steps and ingredients.

Eggs: Extra-large eggs are boiled for 12 minutes until the inside of the egg is solid. The eggs are then bathed in ice, cooled, cracked, peeled and cleaned. From there, the eggs are set to marinate for 24 hours.

Marinade: The marinade is created by combining saki pie spice ginger tamari — which is actually a gluten-free soy sauce — and balsamic vinegar.

“The 24-hour marinade allows the anise flavor and the saltiness of the soy from the tamari to penetrate the egg,” Dabran says. “It is also what gives the egg a nice tan color.”

After 24 hours, the eggs are drained, rinsed and cut in half. The yolks are pulled out to be used in the filling.

Filling: The egg yolks, wasabi and various spices are blended together to create a creamy filling. Once the filling has reached a velvety texture, it is carefully piped back into the soft hollow of the egg white.

“The biggest thing to making the wasabi deviled eggs is probably the creaminess and velvetiness of the egg filling itself,” Dabran says. “It really coats your mouth as you’re chewing.

That’s when you’re really going to taste the anise and the saltiness of the soy that prevails through.”

COURTESY UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS AVON HEALTH CENTER

Garnish: The eggs are served with rice noodles, which are freshly made in-house, and topped with pancetta, a smattering of chives, a sprinkling of crispy wontons and a dash of sriracha.

“The dish is really a nice combination of flavors and different palates being worked at the same time,” Dabran says. “This is one of the few dishes that we’ve had on our menu since we opened seven years ago. It has definitely been one of our crowd favorites here.”

Foundry Kitchen & Bar 525 Broad St., Elyria, 440-281-9181, FoundryKitchen.Bar

Personal Trainer Linda Lavalle

No drill sergeants here: Linda Lavalle, a personal trainer at University Hospitals Avon Fitness Center, gets her clients in shape with compassionate care centered around achievable goals. “I’m not whipping people into shape by making them do things they hate,” she says. “I try to find out what people enjoy, and what they can do safely.”

Lavalle started her career as a physical trainer and eventually transitioned into personal training.

She now coaches clients individually and teaches group courses at UH’s state-of-the-art fitness center in Avon. “I work with a lot of older people, and people who don’t have a high level of fitness,” she says. “I just want my clients to get better and achieve their goals.”

Lavalle suggests her top three tips for staying fit.

1 2 3

KEEP MOVING. “No matter what you like to do for exercise, that’s what you should do. Keep moving because the more we stay sedentary, the harder it is to get back,” she says. “I say it’s like a rusty bike chain. You don’t put a bike away for 40 years and pull it out and expect that all of a sudden it will start moving like it did when it was brand new.”

FOCUS ON DIET. Lavalle stresses the importance of making smart dietary choices. “Weight loss is 90% about what you eat; you can’t use the gym to burn off what you ate.” As for what to focus on? “If you grow it, eat it,” she says. “Avoid processed foods.”

SET SMALL GOALS. Lavalle recommends breaking your goals into small steps so you can build them into your day-to-day life. “If someone comes in with a goal of losing 50 pounds, that can feel overwhelming,” she says. “Think of a healthy thing you can do to eventually get there.

Are you going to come to the gym more often? Focus on portion control?

I tell people to set small goals and reevaluate every two weeks to see if they’re working.”

University Hospitals Avon Fitness Center 1997 Healthway Dr., Avon, 440-988-6800, uhhospitals.org pulselorainmag.com 15

View

The Shipyards

Dance Studio

Miss Kristin’s Dance Studio “We like to say we’re not here just to teach dance; we’re here to teach better humans,” says Kristin Perry, owner of Miss Kristin’s Dance Studio in Avon Lake. “We believe in family, friends and fun.

Miss Kristin’s, which has been serving dancing feet in Lorain County since 1992, offers classes in everything from ballet to jazz, tap and lyrical dance. The stateof-the-art facility on Pin Oak Parkway boasts 10,000 square feet and four dance studios, all equipped with sprung floors and professional sound systems.

Students from age two through 18 flock to Miss Kristin’s for the variety (including summer camps and competitive teams) and high-quality instruction, plus the warmth and sense of community.

Unsure which class to choose? Perry has a few recommendations:

ACRO

HIP-HOP

“Ballet is the basis of all dance,” says Perry. She notes that the techniques taught in ballet are used in almost all styles of dance.

“No matter what kind of dance you love, ballet is foundational,” she says.

Students in these classes learn “balance, limbering, tumbling and flexibility,” says Perry.

“Students learn a lot of techniques that help in dance transitions.”

“Hip-hop is everywhere,” she says. “It’s very popular in the general population, and anyone can do it.” Students in this one-hour class learn popping, locking and breaking techniques.

Miss Kristin's Dance Studio 32925 Pin Oak Parkway, Avon Lake, 440-933-8400, avonlakedance.com 16 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

The Shipyards 500 Shipyard Way, Lorain, 440-230-8481, theshipyards.com

COURTESY MISS KRISTIN’S DANCE STUDIO / COURTESY THE SHIPYARDS

BALLET

PICTURE THIS: It’s golden hour on a warm summer evening. You’re sipping a cocktail, swaying to the melody of live music and taking in the last orange and pink rays of sunlight glittering off of the Black River.

That’s what patrons of The Shipyards in Lorain can expect to experience while dining at the venue.

“It’s a remarkable setting,” says Nichole Fantauzzi, assistant general manager at The Shipyards. “You get the sun, the bridge that opens and closes, the boats and the lighthouse.

Everything is gorgeous and very one with nature.”

She adds that at nighttime, the bridge and lighthouse light up, providing a soft glow over the restaurant’s guests.

“We’re just far enough away that you can get some really great pictures but also see everything from right here,” Fantauzzi says. “We want to provide a great overall experience with great food and drinks and an overall fun atmosphere.”

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Executive Chef Dean Diluciano,

Lorain County Community College (LCCC) Conference & Dining Services

“I’m a chef who likes to take what is put in front of me and create something from it. That utilizes my talents as opposed to doing the same dish over and over again.”

— Dean Diluciano

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to venues including the Cleveland Botanical Garden and Cleveland Museum of Art, along with luxe catering off-site.

When Restaurant Associates was acquired by Bon Appetit Management Co., he carried on and traveled across the country to train, learning new styles and techniques.

Diluciano joined Zack Bruell, which led to managing catering for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and large-scale events like VeloSano Bike to Cure. “I was brought on to build their catering business,” he relates.

“I’ve learned from these experiences,” Diluciano adds.

“With my style of cooking, I keep it simplified where I want the food to be the focus and the flavor is about what we are cooking,” Diluciano says.

Now, he has returned to the root of his culinary adventure.

Executive Chef Dean Diluciano lorainccc.edu/spitzer/conferencing

COURTESY LCCC CONFERENCE & DINING SERVICES

ean Diluciano’s culinary career rounded full circle when the executive chef steered his upscale dining and catering pursuits back to his hometown, Elyria. As a 14-year-old, he cooked pizza pies at a local joint up the road from Lorain County Community College (LCCC), and a few years later he pursued a media broadcasting career on campus.

“I realized I wanted to get back into the culinary scene, so I chose that path that led me to where I am now,” Diluciano says. The executive chef for LCCC oversees the dining program for two facilities, along with opening Corner Bistro in the Health Science Building. Additionally, Diluciano instructs non-credit culinary classes open to the community with hands-on experiences like a Thanksgiving side dishes class.

Diluciano attended Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts and continued his study and career at the former Classics on Carnegie Avenue in Cleveland, a fine-dining institution and the city’s only four-diamond restaurant in its time. He was promoted to executive chef within his first year.

Next stop: Manhattan-based Restaurant Associates Inc., where he opened the Severance Hall dining program in 2000, along with adding venues in the following years. This grew

Congratulations

Best of 2023 Lorain County Winners

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www.lorainccc.edu • 800-995-5222 • 1005 N. Abbe Road • Elyria, Ohio pulselorainmag.com 19

Senior Living

Sprenger Healthcare

T

hey know the family, the reputation and importance of community. Those are reasons residents choose Sprenger Healthcare as home for the next chapters in life, says Amy Sanfilippo, vice president of acquisitions and development for the thirdgeneration business with 13 communities, six in Lorain County.

“Most of our staff live and work in the hometowns where we have communities, and a good amount have been with us for 20 or 30 years,” she adds, relating that cousins CEO Nicole Sprenger and COO Michael Sprenger spent their young adult years in the buildings alongside staff — just as they do today.

Socially engaging and packed with amenities, Sprenger Healthcare treats its residents like family, with a goal to provide plenty of activities, outings and programs, Sanfilippo says. For instance, one community organized a trip to see the Barbie movie and have dinner out. Daily happy hours welcome residents and families. Meals are chef designed. “We want them to live their best life,” Sanfilippo says.

Here are some pointers for doing just that and staying sharp.

EAT SMART “Our meals are reviewed every week by a dietitian, and we choose menu options that keep our residents as healthy as possible,” Sanfilippo says. Beyond the menu, socializing during mealtime provides important engagement that keeps minds active.

WORK IT OUT Purposeful exercise is targeted toward diagnoses at Sprenger. For example, Amherst Manor offers a specific Parkinson’s Disease-driven program that is open to the public and families, too. Focusing on movement that improves balance is important for everyone as the years pass.

GET INVOLVED Each Sprenger community connects to a local philanthropic effort the residents select. “Some make homemade dog treats for the APL, others sew blankets for a homeless shelter, and some residents fundraised through a car show and sent the money to a battered women’s shelter,” Sanfilippo shares. “This provides a sense of purpose.”

Sprenger Healthcare Multiple Locations, sprengerhealthcare.com

Desserts

Mama Jo Homestyle Pies

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impressive array of sweets for lucky Lorain County residents.

Try a creamy, old-fashioned butterscotch or Buckeye pie piled high with whipped cream, or go for a fresh fruit pie with one of three crusts — double, crumb or lattice. Since its founding in 1993, everything has been made from scratch

with high-quality ingredients. There are no extra fillers or preservatives. Can’t make it to their 14,000-square-foot bakery in Amherst? You can find their pies at Heinen’s throughout the Cleveland area.

Mama Jo Homestyle Pies 1969 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, 440-960-7437, mamajoepies.com

COURTESY SPRENGER HEALTHCARE

A

t Mama Jo Homestyle Pies in Amherst, bakers begin mixing, filling and baking at 5 a.m. every day. With 36 flavors of pies that come in three sizes — plus strudels, Buckeyes, cookies and a single style of cake (carrot) — Mama Jo’s keeps them busy as they craft an

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pulselorainmag.com 21

Local Festival North Ridgeville Corn Festival

The North Ridgeville Corn Festival began in 1975 as a way to celebrate America’s upcoming bicentennial in 1976 and has continued to pop its way into the community’s hearts ever since.

“We wanted to memorialize the fact that North Ridgeville is part of the nation’s birthday activities, so we decided on a festival and focused on the fact that a lot of corn was farmed in North Ridgeville,” says John Butkowski, president of The North Ridgeville Corn Festival and member of the first committee.

The original festival was a single-day affair with 13 booths and celebrated the community, along with Harold Sweet Farm, the largest agricultural business in the community at the time.

If you missed this year’s festival, there’s no need to stalk off disappointed. Here are three ways to enjoy corn at home, all year round:

Winery

Vermilion Valley Vineyards A humble countryside winery set in the Vermilion River Watershed, Vermilion Valley Vineyards prides itself on valuing its roots — or rather, its vines.

“We take wine seriously, but we’re not pretentious,” says Joe Juniper, co-owner and wine maker at Vermilion Valley Vineyards. “We follow sustainable practices, and how we operate ultimately comes back to the land.”

While Vermilion Valley Vineyards is an estate winery that boasts more than a dozen wine selections, Juniper zeroes in on three bottles on which the winery hangs its hat.

CABERNET FRANC

A robust and spicier wine, the Pinot Noir is a dry red that brings up hints of crushed red pepper flakes, violet, overripe strawberries, coarse tannins and salty prosciutto. A perfect parallel to pork, this wine pairs wonderfully with barbecue.

PINOT GRIS

A dry white wine with a big palate weight, the Pinot Gris is bright and earthy with hints of the rind of honeydew melon, green tomato, bright acidity and more.

Because it is so robust, it pairs well with chicken and vegetables such as beets and Brussels sprouts.

Vermilion Valley Vineyards 11005 Gore Orphanage Road, Wakeman, 440-965-5202, vermilion-valleyvineyards.com 22 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

Street corn.

Roll the corn in butter, slather it in a mayonnaise that’s been livened up with lime and sprinkle it with parmesan cheese.

Grilled corn.

Soak a full unhusked ear of corn in water and grill it.

Afterward, rip off the husk and dip it in butter.

“A lot of people just add salt and pepper to corn, but you can add a lot of other things to it,” Butkowski says.

North Ridgeville Corn Festival PO Box 39103, North Ridgeville, 440-218-9802, nrcornfest.org

COURTESY NORTH RIDGEVILLE CORN FESTIVAL

A medium- to full-bodied dry wine featuring soft tannins, the Cabernet Franc leans to the savory side with an herbal, perfume-y style. It can be paired with a ribeye strip steak, a pork tenderloin or even a salmon dish not usually associated with red wine.

PINOT NOIR

1 2 3

Amish-style cooked corn.

Instead of boiling the corn in water, boil it in a condiment of your choosing.

Home Builder Kopf Builders

The tradition scrolls back five generations to Switzerland, and Kopf Builders as we know it in Avon Lake was incorporated by Bucky Kopf in 1964, who likes to say he started with “a hammer and a saw out of the back of a truck,” says Brett Kopf, vice president.

From its stomping grounds in the far east parts of Lorain County along the lakeside and up to Catawba, Kopf Builders is known for its communities that offer plans to accommodate a range of lifestyles: attached condos, detached cluster homes and single-family homes.

Here are some in-demand design and decor requests that Kopf is fielding from clients.

Kopf Builders kopf.net

Making Room. “The dining room has almost become obsolete for most people,” Kopf says, relating that instead homeowners want dual first-floor offices for him and her. “Morning rooms off the kitchen are used for dining, and people want oversized islands, up to 10 feet long and 6 feet deep.” Also, there’s a recent trend toward firstfloor master suites for clients of all ages.

What’s Outside. Mixed materials still rule the exterior finish market: standing-seam metal accent roofs over garages and porches, shake siding and stone veneer. “I think I’ve built only one brick house in the last eight years,” Kopf relates. Plus, clients are investing in backyard living features like stamped concrete patios, seating walls, outdoor kitchens and fire pits.

Coastal Colors. The trending palette for walls and finishes includes shades of white and blue, along with warmer grays. But ultimately, clients steer color decisions.

Kopf says, “We allow individuals to make personalized selections for their homes.”

Charitable Event

COURTESY KOPF BUILDERS / COURTESY BLESSING HOUSE

Blessing House Rock-A-Bye Ball

B

lessing House started in 2005 as a support for families in crisis before entering the child welfare system. The residential crisis center serves children from newborn to age 12 as a temporary, safe place to stay while guardians get the help they need and stabilize.

This year marks the 19th anniversary of the Rock-ABye Ball, and Blessing House has signed more than 1,800 children into its home for care. “We become part of that extended family for children,” says Donna Humphrey, finance/development director, who co-founded Blessing House with Sister Mary Berigan.

The annual fundraiser at Tom’s Country Place in Avon hosts about 300 guests for a silent auction with

about 125 items to bid on, ranging in value from $50 to $3,000 and including entertainment, experiences, home goods and sporting event tickets. (You can bid at the event or from home.)

The event includes dinner and entertainment. Plan to dress for the theme — most everyone does. This year: Northern Lights & Cozy Nights.

“People ask, ‘What can we do, how can we get involved?’ and it’s uplifting to be surrounded by people who really want to help our children,” Humphrey says.

Mark your calendar for November 11, 6 to 11 p.m.

Blessing House Rock-A-Bye Ball, blessinghouse.org pulselorainmag.com 23

Asian Food ThìNì Thai

Khao Soi

Begin with a paste of lemongrass, galangal (ginger family, spicy), garlic, shallot, coriander seed, pickled mustard greens and imported Thai curry powder.

Add coconut milk, palm sugar and sea salt.

Pour atop soft-cooked egg noodles, garnished with crispy deep-fried noodles with a side of shallot, cilantro and lime.

Choose a protein — slow-cooked chicken, ribs, tofu or shrimp.

ThìNì Thai 18 Carpenter Court, Oberlin, 440-598-THAI, thinithai.com/visit

W

Chef Aon Krittathiranon 24 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

most of us associate with the cuisine. You won’t find Americanized dishes on this menu. Flavors are infused with freshly mortared herbs and hard-to-find spices like Mah Kwan Wild Peppercorn sourced from the city of Chiag Mai. In Thai, ThìNì means “here.”

“What we are telling you is, you are going to get authentic Thai food here,” Matt says, noting the rooster logo is a nod to how the Thai people associate it with attributes of prosperity and good luck. There’s the American cock-a-doodle-doo wakeup connotation, too. Chef Aon says, “We want you to wake up to the local flavors and real tastes.”

If you’re not sure what to order on the first visit, ask the chef for a recommendation and he will offer a sample. Expect to share family style with the table.

The popular Khao Soi is a dish that Matt says “is like a trip to northern Thailand without a passport.”

COURTESY THINI THAI

hile traveling northern Thailand, the chef of a top-rated culinary school stepped in as a tour guide and introduced Jason Adelman to the region’s distinct flavors. It was a serendipitous encounter. They cooked together, and eventually, Jason and his brother, Matt, entered serious discussions about opening a restaurant in Oberlin with chef Aon Krittathiranon. He came to the U.S. in 2019, and ThìNì Thai began serving wait-lines of guests in January 2020.

Classically trained Chef Aon introduces fresh flavors, throwing a curveball at the Pad Thai type of fare

HELP ST A RTS HERE Best Shopping JUST DI A L DO YOU OR ANYONE YOU KNOW NEED ASSISTANCE WITH:

COURTESY INDIVIDUAL BUSINESSES

Beer Selection: 1 Stop Beverage

Pet Boutique:

Grateful Dog Bakery

Garden Center:

Craft beer is as hot as ever — and you can’t miss with some seasonal selections.

Swing by to peruse the stock of Ohio brews. Grab some stouts or pilsners for your next football watch party. Or opt for some pumpkin flavors for the spooky season.

Our pets are part of the family — so it makes sense when we want to spoil them. Pamper your pooch with a CeleBARKtion cake designed just for our fourlegged friends. Pick up some treats for your other furry friends, too.

Pandy’s Garden Center

The Clothing Loft Boutique

It doesn’t need to be summer to surround yourself with green. Bonus: It’s healthy for your home to outfit it in indoor plants. Look through the selection of houseplants for one that fits your vibe — happy, soothing or both.

So you want to be exude natural style that’s fun? You can find any number of colorful items to really make that outfit pop and help you stand out in a crowd. Check out its social channels for the latest styles.

37565 Coloado Ave., Avon, 440-934-6141, 1stopbeverage.com

33101 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, 440-353-1990, gratefuldogbakery.com

41600 Griswold Road, Elyria, 440-324-4314, pandysgardencenter.com

1917 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, 440-282-9500, theclothingloft.net

Food & Meals

emergency food pantries

Boutique:

Transportation

to and from medical appointments

HELP ST A A RTS HERE JUST DI JUST DI A AL L Heating & Utilities

Shopping

United Way of Greater Lorain County

DO OR YOU avoiding disconnections DO YOU YOU OR ANYONE ANYONE YOU KNOW KNOW NEED NEED ASSISTANCE ASSISTANCE WITH: WITH: clothes & personal hygiene

Food Food & & Meals Meals

Transportation Transportation

emergency emergency food food pantries pantries

to to and and from from medical medical appointments appointments

Heating Heating & & Utilities Utilities

Shopping Shopping

avoiding avoiding disconnections disconnections

clothes clothes & & personal personal hygiene hygiene

24 24//77.. FREE FREE..

Phone:

24/7. FREE. Phone: 2-1-1 Web:

211lorain.org pulselorainmag.com 25

WINNERS Host your next golf outing at Grey Hawk Golf Club! Our stunning course promises to challenge and delight players of all levels. Don't miss out on the ultimate golfing destination in Northeast, OH.

FOOD Best Restaurant Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria Best Fine Dining Strip Steakhouse, Avon Best Casual Dining Avon Brewing Company, Avon

GreyHawkGolf.com Phone: (440) 355-4844 665 U.S. Grant St. LaGrange, Ohio 44050

Best Patio Veranda Bistro & Bar, Avon Best View The Shipyards, Lorain

LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE April 2023 | Volume 16, Issue 1

LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE June 2023 | Volume 16, Issue 2

rating Lorain County’s His Celeb 10 Businesses that Helped Build the Foundation tory

Lorain County Community College Graduates get schooled for success

PLUS

Lorain County JVS Helps Adults Find New Career Paths

Best of Lorain County Finalists

Say Cheers to Cinco de Mayo

LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE October 2023 | Volume 16, Issue 3

Surf’s Up on Lake Erie

Summer of Fun Festivals

LORAIN COUNTY’S MAGAZINE December 2022 | Volume 15, Issue 4

BEST OF

LORAIN COUNTY 2023 WINNERS

Find out which of your favorites took top honors this year

LORAIN C

O TY

BE

S

OF

UN

T

Winners 55+ Winners in dining, shopping, services and more

INSIDE: HOW YOU CAN CONNECT TO A CAUSE FALL FUN FOR THE FAMILY

Diners enjoy the patio at Oberlin's Thìnì Thai

MARIEL HEMINGWAY SHARES HER STORY

FIND OUT WHAT MAKES LORENZO’S PIZZA THE BEST

PLUS

How Ukrainian Refugees Found a Local Home

SUBSCRIBE TODAY pulselorainmag.com 26 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

Best Latin El Kefon, Lorain Best Healthy Menu (Restaurant) Aladdin’s Eatery, Oberlin Best Bar Food The Feve, Oberlin Best Cheap Eats Midway Oh Boy, Elyria Best Sunday Brunch The Feve, Oberlin

Best Steak Strip Steakhouse, Avon

Best Family Dining Avon Brewing Company, Avon

Best Seafood Bistro 83, North Ridgeville

Best Appetizers Avon Brewing Company, Avon

Best Burger Foundry Kitchen & Bar, Elyria

Best Sandwich The Feve, Oberlin

Best Pizza Lorenzo’s Pizzeria, Oberlin

UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITY

Best Asian ThìNì Thai, Oberlin

Best Deli Fligner’s Market, Lorain

Best Wings ZZ’s Big Top, Avon

Best Pastry Shop Kiedrowski’s Bakery, Amherst

Best Ribs Parker’s Grille & Tavern, Avon Lake

Best Chocolate Malley’s Chocolates, Avon

Best Burrito Don Tequila, Amherst, Elyria

Best Desserts Mama Jo Homestyle Pies, Amherst

Best Sushi Jin House, Amherst Best Italian Fratello’s, Avon Lake

Best Donuts Peace, Love and Little Donuts, Avon

Best Ice Cream Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, Avon Best Coffee Cawley’s Confections, LaGrange Best Fish Fry American Slovak Club, Lorain Best Caterer Tom’s Country Place, Avon ENTERTAINMENT Best Winery Vermilion Valley Vineyards, Vermilion Best Sports Bar Ziggy’s Pub & Restaurant, Amherst Best Happy Hour Bistro 83, North Ridgeville Best Live Music Venue Black River Landing, Lorain Best Theater Lorain Palace Theatre, Lorain Best Golf Course Grey Hawk Golf Club, LaGrange Best Local Festival North Ridgeville Corn Festival, North Ridgeville Best Charitable Event Blessing House Rock-A-Bye Ball, Elyria

HEALTH Best Fitness Center UH Avon Fitness Center, Avon Best Fitness Trail French Creek Reservation, Sheffield Village Best Senior Living Sprenger Health Care, Multiple Locations Best Yoga Studio UH Avon Fitness Center, Avon Best Healthy Food Selection (Retail) Doc Watson’s Market, Amherst SHOPPING Best Shopping Area Avon Commons, Avon Best Boutique The Clothing Loft Boutique, Amherst Best Gallery Beth K. Stocker Art Gallery, Elyria Best Jeweler Peter & Co. Jewelers, Avon Lake Best Florist Off Broadway Floral & Gift, Lorain Best Garden Center Pandy’s Garden Center, Elyria Best Book Store Ben Franklin | MindFair Books, Oberlin

Best Farmers Market Vermilion Farm Market, Vermilion Best Wine Shop Giuseppe’s Wine Cellar, Amherst Best Beer Selection 1 Stop Beverage, Avon SERVICES Best Day Spa UH Avon Fitness Center Day Spa, Avon Best Mani Pedi UH Avon Fitness Center Day Spa, Avon Best Home Builder Kopf Builders, Avon Lake Best Home Remodeler Northern Hammerworks, Avon Lake Best Landscaper Born’s Landscape & Lawn Care, Amherst Best Dry Cleaner Ridge Cleaners, Multiple Locations Best Car Wash Rainforest Car Wash, Avon CHILDREN Best Gymnastics Ten Point 0 Gymnastics, North Ridgeville

Best Dance Studio Miss Kristin’s Dance Studio, Avon Lake Best Learning Center LCCC Children’s Learning Center, Elyria Best Music Instruction Rock Town Music Academy, Lorain ©2023, Ridge Tool Company. All rights reserved.

Best Pet Boutique Grateful Dog Bakery, North Ridgeville

PEOPLE Best Local Volunteer Lorie Wilber Partners With Paws of Lorain County, Oberlin Best Board Member Barb Eifel, Blessing House, Elyria Best Chef Dean DiLuciano, LCCC Conference & Dining Services, Elyria

MADE HERE. DEMANDED EVERYWHERE.

PROUD TO CALL LORAIN COUNTY HOME SINCE 1923.

Best Bartender Jeff Gresko, Bistro 83, North Ridgeville Best Personal Trainer Linda Lavalle, UH Avon Fitness Center, Avon Best Master Stylist Nicole Dovin, Salon Belle Vie, Amherst Best Chiropractor Nicholas Fabian, Xcell Medical Group, Elyria

GET MORE FROM YOUR SOURCE FOR ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, DINING, NEWS AND EVENTS IN LORAIN COUNTY.

SIGN UP FOR THE PULSE NEWSLETTER TODAY! pulselorainmag.com 27

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BEST OF LORAIN COUNTY

2023 Winners AVON BREWING CO.

BISTRO 83

37040 Detroit Road Avon, Ohio 44011 440-937-1816 avonbrewingcompany.com

36033 Westminister Ave. North Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 440-353-2828 bistro83.com

Tue-Thu 3 pm-Midnight Fri-Sat 11 am-Midnight

Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm Happy Hour In The Bar Mon-Sat 3pm-6pm

Avon Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery featuring 22 award-winning ABC Beers on tap, a chef-inspired menu, daily specials and a large patio overlooking French Creek.

Since opening its doors in 2013, the awardwinning Bistro 83’s knowledgable and well-trained staff has strived to make every customer’s dining experience a special one.

Located on the border of North Ridgeville and Avon, Bistro 83 wants its guests to experience upscale dining in a laid back, comfortable atmosphere.

BLESSING HOUSE

THE CLOTHING LOFT BOUTIQUE

6115 Olivet Ave. Elyria, Ohio 44035 440-240-1851 blessinghouse.org Blessing House serves as a safety net for families in crisis by providing safe shelter for children ages 0-12 years and support for their families.

28 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

1917 Cooper Foster Park Road Amherst, Ohio 44001 440-282-9500 theclothingloft.net Tues-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm Sun and Mon - Closed The Clothing Loft Boutique is your one-stop shop in Amherst for the trendiest women’s clothing shoes and accessories. We are a style destination for women of all shapes and sizes, small through 3x and sizes 0-24w. Our staff is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable!

Live social selling on Tuesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm through Facebook.

FOUNDRY KITCHEN & BAR

GREY HAWK GOLF CLUB

525 Broad St. Elyria, Ohio 44035 440-281-9181 foundrykitchen.bar

665 U.S. Grant St. LaGrange, Ohio 44050 440-355-4844 greyhawkgolf.com

Open since July 2016, Foundry Kitchen & Bar has been serving Lorain County for seven years! Food items are prepped daily in our scratch kitchen. Foundry also offers a great wine listing, 24 draft beers and extensive bourbon and upscale tequila menus! Every month Foundry features a new and exciting burger and pizza of the month!

Discover Grey Hawk Golf Club, a Lorain County favorite located in LaGrange.

Immerse yourself in scenic fairways and exceptional hospitality. For the best rates, book online at greyhawkgolf.com or call us at 440-355-4844. Elevate your golf experience today!

KOPF BUILDERS

LORAIN COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

440-933-6908 440-871-8234 kopf.net Open Daily 11 am-5 pm With over 55 years of building, successful and desired communities, Kopf Builders is committed to building the best quality homes and providing the best value for our homeowners.

PARTNERS WITH PAWS OF LORAIN COUNTY, INC. P.O. Box 13 Oberlin, Ohio 44074 440-897-8696 partnerswithpawslc.com Partners With Paws began as a radio show on WOBL & WDLW Radio in Oberlin, OH, in 2003 and aired for 20 years. In 2011, it became a non-profit organization serving homeless animals. They are considered a “Pay It Forward” rescue, as they do not take in animals but helps rescue groups who do.

Currently, Partners With Paws financially assists over 25 rescues in and around Lorain County, and beyond when the need is great.

All donations help homeless animals in need.

ZZ’S BIG TOP 35015 Detroit Road Avon, Ohio 44011 440-695-0536 zzsbigtop.com FB/IG @bigtopbrewingco Warm and cozy neighborhood tavern with award-winning wings, cheap eats, Avon Brewing craft beer, cold domestics, and spirits. Avon’s Own Craft Beer Dive Bar!!

1005 N. Abbe Road Elyria, Ohio 44035 440-366-4032 lorainccc.edu Established in 1963, Lorain County Community College is the first community college in Ohio with a permanent campus.

For six decades, LCCC has served the diverse needs of the greater Lorain County region by providing affordable access to higher education and now serves approximately 13,000 students each year in certificate, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

PETER & CO. JEWELERS 32020 Walker Road Avon Lake, Ohio 44012 440.933.4871 www.peterjewelers.com Our hand-selected pieces are more than jewelry – they’re expressions of your unique style and moments. From engagement rings to custom designs, find your perfect piece today.

LORAIN COUNTY

IS HOME TO A WEALTH OF FANTASTIC RESTAURANTS, SHOPS, FESTIVALS AND MORE.

pulselorainmag.com 29

snapshot

ORAIN COUNTY

A-Mazing Autumn

Fall is family fun time at the Brasee Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, a 20-year tradition.

N

30 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3

of the house and there are hundreds of people here to enjoy all there is to do, it’s such a special feeling.”

Aside from the dual mazes, there’s a “pitch black corn maze” inside the barn. “You have to feel your way through,” Brasee says.

You’ll also find an infinity climber that twists and turns, a scaling challenge, plus a petting zoo, generous bounce house, kids’ zipline and pumpkin bowling with real gourds and pins. Test your skills on a mechanical pumpkin bull October 14 or 21 from noon to 6 p.m. A store sells nostalgic corn maze T-shirts, costumes, fall decor and Halloween costumes.

New this year, a pavilion with tables provides a shaded place for the picnic fare offered on site — burgers, ’dogs, nachos, slushies, coffee and hot apple cider. Plus, with the help of friends Felix and Pam Gonzales, the Brasees are hosting a one-night-only Haunted Walk on October 21. The hayride through the woods is a departure from the farm’s traditional fall tour with zombies and other Halloween surprises in store.

— Kristen Hampshire

COURTESY LOU BRASEE

estled into the Brasee family farm in Wellington is a good, old-fashioned mecca of fall fun, starting with two corn mazes that span seven acres and are riddled with dead-ends, U-turns and wandering paths through 12-foot-high cornstalk walls.

One is designed specifically for the younger set and is fenced in with a single entrance and exit so you can rest assured the kids will safely work their way to the end. The other more expansive corn maze can take more than an hour to navigate. Along the way, you’ll find stamps to mark a passport to trade in for candy at the finish.

Lou Brasee’s tip: Let the kids lead the way. “They don’t question their sense of direction, so most families that let their children lead are out in 20 minutes,” she says.

The mazes are a family tradition for many who return annually — and this is the 20th year for the Brasee Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, which is open through October 29, Fridays through Sundays. The $6 admission has never changed. “This is our little piece of the world, and I love that we can share it with people,” Brasee says. “When I come out

pulselorainmag.com 31

Photos Courtesy of Lorain County Historical Society, Elyria, Ohio

32 puLse ■ VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 3