summer 2016 - write 2 the pointpark grew to its current size of 1,000 acres. punderson manor the...

geaugaS u m m e r 2 0 1 6

Punderson State Park and Manor pg 2

Chesterland Native Takes Art World by Storm pg 6

Lake Erie Video Productions in the Spotlight pg 12

and more...

2016 Geauga County CIC

Award Winner

ON THE COVER:

P U B L I S H E RChris Yuhasz

Owner, Persistence of Vision, Inc.

E D I T O R - I N - C H I E FMargie Wilber

Owner, Write 2 the Point

C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R SPaige Hosier

Margie Wilber

D E S I G NEllen Seguin

Write 2 the Point

Persistence of Vision, Inc.16715 West Park CircleChagrin Falls, OH [email protected] p. 440.591.5443 x222

2 M A K I N G Y O U R B U S I N E S S O U R B U S I N E S S P U N D E R S O N S TAT E PA R K A N D M A N O R

6 C H E S T E R L A N D N AT I V E T A K E S A R T W O R L D B Y S T O R M

9 W I C K E D W O O D S G O L F C O U R S E U N D E R G O E S T R A N S F O R M AT I O N

12 L A K E E R I E V I D E O P R O D U C T I O N S I N C . , I N T H E S P O T L I G H T

14 E X P E R I E N C E A F U N E X P L O S I O N AT P I O N E E R W AT E R L A N D & D R Y F U N P A R K

18 G E A U G A B U S I N E S S M A G A Z I N E R E C E I V E S P R E S T I G I O U S C I C A W A R D

20 S T E P B A C K I N T I M E AT B U R T O N V I L L A G E ’ S U P T O W N E ’ S B A R B E R S H O P P E

22 G G P A N N O U N C E S 2 0 1 6 F R A N K S A M U E L D I S T I N G U I S H E D S E R V I C E A W A R D R E C I P I E N T

24 W H AT ’ S B U G G I N G Y O U ? A A R D V A R K P E S T C O N T R O L S E R V I C E K E E P S C R E E P Y C R A W L E R S A W AY

26 A U T O J U N C T I O N

27 U H G E A U G A M E D I C A L C E N T E R

28 G E A U G A G R O W T H P A R T N E R S H I P U P C O M I N G E V E N T S

29 K E N T S T AT E G E A U G A C A M P U S N E W S

Write 2 the PointPO Box 385Newbury, OH [email protected]. 216.410.2395

Geauga Business articles are written and selected for their general interest and entertainment value. Authors’ views do not necessarily represent the policies of POV Print Communication, Inc. nor does their publication constitute an endorsement by POV Print Communication or Write 2 the Point. All submissions are subject to space availability and editing. For advertising opportunities or submissions, contact Margie Wilber at Write 2 the Point.

A special thanks to our partners whose financial contributions make this publication possible.

GEAUGA

Junction Auto FAmily

Our 85th Anniversary

1931

2016

GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016

Geauga Medical Center

Letter from the Editor

GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016 1

This issue was particularly fun to write, design and produce due to the amazing people being

featured. While many folks throughout northeast Ohio and beyond are familiar with Geauga

County’s breathtaking scenery, quaint villages and seasonal fairs, we also have some of the nicest,

hardest-working, and generous people living here.

Take Jacqueline DelBrocco for instance. She is a remarkably talented artist who also uses her

talents to offer live-event painting for corporate and private events, celebrations and fundraising

activities. Jacqueline graciously offered to do a live-event painting at my mom’s 90th birthday

celebration this May. I will cherish the painting forever. If you have a corporate event, anniversary,

or other special event coming up, I highly recommend including Jacqueline in your party plans.

Then there’s Ed Babcock. Many of our readers know Ed as the owner of Junction Auto and Wicked

Woods Golf Course. But Ed is also active within Geauga County, generously supporting such

worthwhile charities and organizations as the Boy Scouts, WomenSafe, 4-H, Fieldstone Farm,

Geauga County Lyric Society, and our local schools, to name just a few. I applaud Ed and his wife,

Connie for their service and leadership within Geauga County.

Finally, I cannot say enough about Chris and Jeff Grau, owners of Lake Erie Video Productions.

In business since 1995, the brothers approach each assignment with enthusiasm, creativity and

diligence. In addition to running a business and raising a family, Chris also currently serves as a

Chardon trustee. Despite hectic schedules and long hours, they know how to laugh and have fun

while producing quality work.

I hope you enjoy this issue as well, and may you enjoy a healthy, memorable summer.

With Great Appreciation,

Margie WilberEditor -in-Chief/Publisher, Geauga BusinessPresident, Write 2 the Point

Chris YuhaszPublisher, Geauga BusinessPresident, POV Print Communications

B Y M A R G I E W I L B E R

Making Your BusinessOur Business

Punderson State Parkand Manor



Nestled in the scenic, rolling hills of Geauga County, Punderson State Park is a local treasure. The state park offers a host of activities and amenities for people of all ages — from a cozy English Tudor manor and hillside cabins to miles of scenic wooded trails; marina with boating, kayaking, and fishing; 150-acre glacier lake and beach for swimming and sunning; classic 18-hole golf course; challenging disc golf course; indoor and outdoor pools; outdoor toboggan run in season; beautifully maintained campgrounds with view overlooking the lake; and much more. So whether you are looking for a fun vacation spot or if you are a business owner or executive in need of an ideal venue for corporate meetings or teambuilding events, Punderson State Park should be first on your list.

HISTORY OF PUNDERSON STATE PARK AND MANOR

The history of Punderson Lake dates back to the ice age when retreating glaciers left behind a number of glacial lakes. Several such lakes are found in Northeast Ohio. Punderson Lake, with a total of 90 acres, is one of the largest, and its depth of 85 feet makes it one of the deepest of our glacial lakes.

Lemuel Punderson, the founder of the Punderson family and for whom the area and lake are named, came to Geauga County in 1806 from New Haven, Connecticut. He built his home and grist mill near the foot of the lake, utilizing mill irons brought by an ox team from Pittsburgh and mill stones from Burton. The grist mill operated for over a century.

Lemuel Punderson passed away in 1822. Beginning in 1902, W.B. Cleveland began purchasing the land bordering Punderson Lake. After he owned the lakefront property, he acquired the lake rights by court decree in 1908. In 1927, the property was co-owned by Mr. Cleveland and his brother-in-law Dr. E.P. Coppedge.

Karl Long, of Detroit, purchased the property and planned to make it his home. Mr. Long started construction of the mansion and after spending $250,000 was forced to abandon the project due to

financial difficulties during the Depression. During the Depression, the property was returned to Mr. Cleveland’s widow and her brother Dr. Coppedge.

In 1948, the former Division of Conservation and Natural Resources purchased 505 acres, including the lake and unfinished mansion. As a result of a legislative act in 1949, the Department of Natural Resources and Division of Parks were created. At this time, the Punderson area was transferred to the Division of Parks with the responsibility of developing the area for a state park recreational facility.

Since the original purchase of the lake and land in 1948, the state has bought additional land. In 1988, Punderson State Park grew to its current size of 1,000 acres.

PUNDERSON MANOR

The historic manor and lake provide a memorable backdrop to celebrate a wedding and reception, anniversary, family reunion, bridal or wedding shower, or other special event.

Punderson Manor is also an excellent venue for corporate functions, indoor and outdoor team building exercises, church retreats, and overnight or short-term stays for business guests.

In regard to corporate clients, Melissa Arnold, General Manager, and Amy Otto, Catering Sales Manager of Punderson Manor, says “We provide a combination of facilities and resources for getting down to

business in a relaxed and beautiful natural setting. Our team of meeting and catering professionals will work with businesses to manage guestrooms and confirm dining arrangements. We are happy to tailor menus, particularly for those with dietary restrictions. In addition, we will deliver audio/visual equipment to your meeting room and facilitate VIP amenities.”

Guests may book a room in one of the seven original estate rooms, furnished with antique reproductions that complement the English Tudor-style architecture, or in one of the 24 modern rooms that were added to the original estate. Be warned, there are those who believe several original estate rooms are haunted. Previous guests reported unaccountable noises and seeing figures in their room or walking the halls at night. Even Otto describes, ” When I am in the attic, I have the feeling of a presence staring at me.”

In addition to the 31 manor rooms, Punderson State Park has 26 two-bedroom guest cottages sprinkled throughout the woods that butt up to Punderson Lake. Each cabin is equipped with a full kitchen, 3/4 bath (showers only), satellite TV and DVD, central air, heat, linens for bedrooms, bath and kitchen, and screened-in porch with picnic tables and lawn chairs. A few cabins are also pet-friendly.

I

I

C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 4


4

TEAM- BUILDING

Teambuilding is all the rage in corporate circles. Punderson’s teambuilding strategic partners are happy to work with businesses and organizations to create a more-structured teambuilding event and find activities that meet the company’s unique goals, themes and budgets.

“We partner with the Nuhop Center for Experiential Learning,” Otto says. “They create highly motivated training sessions based on current research in the experiential education field as well as from organizational and management principles being integrated into cultures of many businesses across the country. The Nuhop Center consistently provides our corporate clients with hands-on training sessions that are fun, challenging and results-oriented,” says Otto.

Below is a small sample of the unique corporate or organizational teambuilding experiences Punderson Manor and State Park can provide:

• Straight Up Play: Taking the best traditional and not-so-traditional lawn games and creating an event full of playful surprises dedicated to the pursuit, discovery, and mastery of the art of play. A team that plays together, stays together!

• Mission Possible: A high-tech event utilizing iPods & smart phones creates a journey with twists and turns and an event full of strategy, communication and humor.

• Ignite: Ignite is a digital networking event for conventions, meetings and seminars. Ignite is a great way to engage conference attendees and provide them with unique and interactive ways to network with their peers

• Cycle Works: Give back to the community through building bikes. An event full of surprises and an opportunity to enhance communication skills in a process that attendees will be talking about for years to come.

• America’s Cup Challenge: Create a functional boat with an array of materials, then race the other teams across one of the beautiful Ohio State Park Lodge Lakes.

• Custom Events: Custom-designed events with an experiential focus. Let Punderson’s team design a program as unique as a company and team using the best of experiential tools and training pedagogy!

Many successful Geauga County businesses have utilized Punderson State Park and Manor. These companies and groups include Leadership Geauga, Dillon, Hexpol, Kinetico, and many churches and youth organizations. Amy Otto encourages other local businesses, organizations and clubs give her a call at 440.564.9144, ext. 406, to schedule an event.

I“ I believe

Punderson

Manor offer

more amenities

than hotels

since we are

located in a

state park.”

Melissa Arnold, General Manager, Punderson Manor

Making Your BusinessOur Business

Punderson State Parkand Manor

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 3


SEASON OF CHANGE

The friendly sales manager says fall is their busiest season. “A lot of people come to Punderson State Park to see the fall colors,” Otto describes. “Summer is also very busy, and we tend to have a lot of business conferences in April.”

”Punderson Manor is unique. It is more like a retreat since it is located in the country. People are more relaxed here and can focus on their objective,” Arnold says. “I believe Punderson Manor offer more amenities than hotels since we are located in a state park.”

“Punderson Manor has received an extensive facelift over the past two years, including new indoor and outdoor pools, furniture and fresh paint in all the cabins, and upgraded plumbing and wiring throughout,” Arnold states. “ODNR also has a few projects planned, like extending the boardwalk behind the manor to the shoreline by the cabins and adding a kayak station behind the manor so boaters can pull up and enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner before heading back on the water.”

Arnold adds, “We have an amazing team here at the manor; the team truly enjoys working here, and passes that joy onto our guest. A majority of our guests return each year. It’s like a family, and the staff knows them by name and are excited when they arrive.”

She continues, “Our restaurant really thrives year-round with local Geauga County residents coming here to enjoy the food and atmosphere at the lodge. We will be changing our menu each spring and fall — offering a healthier, lighter fare for spring and summer and heartier meals during the cold winter months. Our chef, Brad Bukovics, does an amazing job with the restaurant. Brad began working at Punderson Manor as a dishwasher at 17. He left to attend culinary school at the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute and returned to work here as chef. He’s been here now for more than 20 years and is simply exceptional. In addition to being a great cook, Brad is very flexible with groups and will create something delicious on the spot for those with meal restrictions.”

Punderson State Park and Manor employs approximately 43 full-time and 100 seasonal staff in such capacities as banquet and restaurant employees, housekeeping, pool monitors and golf. It is also a good neighbor, supporting several scout troops and donating produce from their garden to the county home. They plan to donate their used linen and furniture to WomenSafe when renovations are complete.

* Punderson Manor was also recently named an “American Historic Hotel.”

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESSPunderson Manor also offers a variety of recreational activities ideal for group outings, including:

• Indoor & Outdoor Pools

• 18-hole Championship Golf Course – golf outing menus

• Fishing

• Lake Activities

• Marina/Boat Rentals

• Hiking Trails

• Tennis

• Volleyball & Basketball

• Shuffleboard & Horseshoes

• Video Games

• Movie Rentals & Board Games

• Outdoor Bonfire Pit for Group Use

• Winter Sledding, Cross Country Skiing & Snowmobiling

• Area Horseback Riding

• Rock Climbing

• Sandy Beach

• Outdoor Children’s Playground

In addition to on-site activities, Punderson’s sales team is happy to work with groups to create more structured events to meet specific goals, themes, and budget such as the following:

Group Activity Stations• Apple Stack

• All Together

• Three Headed Tee-Shirt

• Knot Exchange

• Landmine

• Pipeline

• Fish Head

• Tower Building

• Tarp Flip

• Toxic Waste

• Strickline

Group Courses• Amazing Race

• Geocaching

• Mini-Olympics

• Minute to Win It

• Scavenger Hunt

Companies can combine any of the above courses.

IOP

OP GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016 5

Chesterland Native Takes Art World

By Storm B Y M A R G I E W I L B E R

“My goal as a live event painter is to capture the unique energy and memory of the event and immortalize it in a painting that can be cherished for years to come.”

- Jacqueline DelBrocco


Jacqueline DelBrocco is taking the art world by storm. Her experience in the local art community includes everything from gallery to large-scale, multi-media event direction. The Chesterland native is also actively involved in public art projects including murals and outdoor sculpture painting. In addition, Jacqueline is experienced in live-event painting including on-site performances at locations such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Crawford Museum, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“I operate a business where people hire me to create paintings on site during their events and celebrations. My goal as a live-event painter is to capture the unique energy and memory of the event and immortalize it in a painting that can be cherished for years to come,” Jacqueline describes enthusiastically. Popular live painting events include weddings and corporate events. “I was commissioned to paint a Kentucky Derby party at a beautiful, private residence in Thompson a couple years ago. It was set up in the most beautiful and luxurious horse stable I’ve ever seen -- mahogany, wrought iron, vaulted ceilings. It was a gorgeous venue, and the horses were fun to paint, too!”

Jacqueline first started live-event painting professionally when she was commissioned to paint the 50th Anniversary Gala for the Rat-ner School at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Local RootsJacqueline attended St. Anselm from grades K-8 and graduated from Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School in 2003. Jacqueline insists her art classes at NDCL provided the springboard for her now successful art career. “My art classes allowed me to experiment and grow as an artist, especially AP studio art,” she says. “My favorite art teachers at NDCL were Mrs. Pat Schroeder and Wendy Neto, and while I did not have Mrs. Mary Ann Sedivy as an art teacher, I interacted with her a bit when I was running my art gallery in Chesterland, and she would definitely fall under my list of favorite art teachers at NDCL.”

The exceptional artist went on to earned a BA in Biology and a BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in painting from Wittenberg University in 2007. She also studied painting in Rome, Italy and at the Cleveland Institute of Art.

“In 2010, I opened an art gallery in Chesterland called JADE gallery,” Jacqueline says. “I organized a number of group and solo shows in the space along with a monthly open house. In 2011, I moved to Avon with my husband, and unfortunately, the distance was too much. I had to close the gallery in 2014.”

Jacqueline’s work has been shown in galleries, museums and various other venues throughout the Midwest, and her paintings are in private collections across the country.

Live-Event Painting“Live-event painting is a great way to add a unique and memorable element to any event -- whether private or corporate,” Jacqueline says. “Not only do you end up with a one-of-a-kind work of art capturing the energy and memory of your event, but it’s a great way to entertain your guests and add an unforgettable element to any celebration. In our digital world where constantly snapping photos with a phone has become second nature, it’s easy to be inundated with images. Painting an event on-site during a celebration has a unique way of capturing the essence of what is going on in a whole different way — and it’s all right before your eyes!”

Her live paintings have auctioned for as much as $5,000. “A lot of artists don’t like to have someone watching over their shoulder while they are working, but I’m the exact opposite. I love the thrill that comes with live-event painting. Creating art can be a solitary activity. It’s so much more enjoyable to be surrounded by people and activity while I’m creating,” describes the gifted artist. “It’s invigorating to explain to interested guests what I’m doing and witness their delight as the painting begins to take shape. All that liveliness and spirit get infused into the painting and makes it that much more special.”


C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 8 GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016 7

Jacqueline is also employed as a designer at Pointe Blank Solutions, a software development company in Westlake, but “when it comes to my art, I’m self-employed,” she insists. “I’ve been juggling two careers for as long as I can remember. At Pointe Blank Solutions I get to work with a team of brilliant engineers, including my brother Matt DelBrocco. I design software for the legal, healthcare and education industries.”

Self-Employment Obstacles“For me, the biggest challenge as a self-employed artist is accepting the fact that there is limited time in the day, and sleeping and eating are necessary,” admits Jacqueline. “There just never seems to be enough time to create all the art that I want to, and I really hate having to say no to projects or ideas.”

She continues, “I loved having my own gallery, but eventually I came to terms with the fact that creating artwork was a more important priority to me than running the gallery. I also made a decision to not accept commission jobs other than live-event painting because it’s the only way I’ll have time to create the paintings I’ve had outlined in my sketchbook for years. These paintings do not deserve to hit the backburner. I think being an ‘idea person’ goes hand-in-hand with being an artist, but the bigger challenge for creative people is following through with what is necessary to make the ideas happen.”

To book Jacqueline DelBrocco for an event, or simply request more information, email her at [email protected]. Also, please make sure to check out her website, DelBroccoArt.com, which has a video of Jacqueline live painting in action at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

“Not only do you end up with a one-of-a-kind work of art capturing the energy and memory of your event, but it’s a great way to entertain your guests and add an unforgettable element to any celebration.”

- Jacqueline DelBrocco


Chesterland Native Takes Art World

By Storm

8

Connie and Ed Babcock, new owners of Wicked Woods Golf Course, have made great strides in making Wicked Woods an outstanding destination for golfers seeking a fair but challenging course to play that is maintained very well. Wicked Woods, conveniently located in the center of Geauga County on Ohio 44 (Ravenna Road) about a mile north of Route 87 in Newbury, was designed and built by local golf course developer Dalton “Tucker” Pfouts, who also built Pleasant Hills in Claridon and two clubs in Pennsylvania. Wicked Woods opened 25 years ago as Pleasant View Golf Course. After a few owners, the Babcocks purchased the course in March of 2015 and have been busily working on improvements since.

When Ed, owner of Junction Auto Family, was asked why a golf course, he chuckles and says, “I’ve always had an affinity for golf and Connie and I both love beautiful property. This opportunity certainly combines both. We understand that golf is not a growth business, but we feel this course has room to grow with better conditioning. The club house has a spacious banquet room that had been idle for three years and has one of the most amazing views in the county. Between golf and banquets, we certainly see the opportunity to be a favored place that people think of for either.”

WICKED WOODS GOLF COURSE Undergoes Transformation

C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 1 0

Connie Babcock, co-owner, Wicked Woods 9

The course is 18 holes that are playable for those who enjoy a fun day of friendly golf and yet will challenge even a single-digit handicap player. The course does not require 300-yard drives but rather puts a premium on smart golf and good putting. The Babcocks feel fortunate that one of their first hires was Orry Lehtonen as Greens Superintendent. Orry is a young man with excellent training, having a four-year degree in turf management from The Ohio State University and prior hands-on experience at Quail Hollow, Sand Ridge, and Shaker Country Club. The entire greens’ team works hard to make Wicked Woods a well-groomed public course that you will thoroughly enjoy. The Babcocks have invested in many new pieces of grounds-keeping equipment, had 70 trees removed over the winter, filled the traps with sand, and replaced thousands of feet of drainage pipe that had become plugged. You will always see projects in progress as the team constantly looks for ways to improve the playing experience.

The clubhouse is a large two-story building with a totally redesigned golf check-in area downstairs, a matching

new snack bar, newly updated mens’ and ladies’ restrooms, indoor dining seating for 40 and a comfortable outdoor patio with additional seating. There is not an equipment and clothing pro shop at this time but the basics of balls, tees, gloves, markers, and logoed caps and towels are available. The snack bar serves the best hot dogs anywhere, salads, homemade sandwiches, ice cream, water, pop, and beer.

Upstairs you will find “The Venue at Wicked Woods.” This beautiful banquet room is 90 feet by 40 feet with a full balcony that looks out across the course over the Cuyahoga River Valley to the rolling hills of Claridon. While the outside views are awe-inspiring, especially in autumn, the inside is just as pretty as man-made can be. The entire room is paneled with native cherry harvested and planed off the property as the course was being built. This is another connection the Babcocks have as their uncle, Dan Hess, who was one of the carpenters that installed the paneling. Connie designed and had an entirely new Amish-made bar area put in with a wide zinc bar top. As this goes to press, construction continues

WICKED WOODS GOLF COURSE Undergoes Transformation



to add storage for the banquet area and, most importantly, a full stone fireplace is being constructed with a 10 foot inglenook seating area. Krystal Philllips, Wicked Woods clubhouse manager, describes The Venue: “We call the clubhouse rustically elegant. You cannot beat its country charm that features framed antique pictures of Geauga County. No other banquet center in Geauga County can boast such a spectacular view.”

Connie and Ed have held off on advertising until the main projects are completed but by word of mouth have already hosted or scheduled several weddings and private parties as well as local businesses and organizations like University Hospitals, Arms Trucking, Leadership Geauga, Tarkett Flooring, Company 119, Chardon and Chagrin Valley Chambers of Commerce, Burton Rotary and Maple Leaf Residences.

Ed concludes, “One thing that sets us apart from many others is our staff. They are friendly, accessible, and ready to help you plan an exceptional event.” Since 1931, when Junction Auto started, Ed’s grandfather, Cliff, preached, “Take care of the customers and employees, and everything else will fall into place.”

This same business principle lives on at Wicked Woods. With the Babcocks’ proven track record in business and their generous support of so many

community organizations, we are confident that Wicked Woods will be a success and enjoyed by many.

Wicked Woods has a full liquor license, is air-conditioned, and has a fully modernized professional kitchen to support the four caterers who have been vetted and approved to provide meals. Original building plans call for seating of nearly 200, but The Venue is currently limiting events in the 160 guest range.

As Connie says, ”We want our brides and other guests to have a wonderful experience. When we are comfortable that we are providing that, we can always add a few tables. There is no second chance to make a great first impression.” For more information visit wickedwoodsgolfclub.com or contact Rebecca Klein, Event Coordinator.

The Babcocks believe in giving back

to the Geauga community. For years,

Junction Auto has pledged their

support by donating $50 for each car

sold at their dealership in the month of

April, Child Abuse Prevention Month.

That month, more than 500 pinwheels

representing each case of child abuse

and neglect investigated in the year are

displayed on the corner of U.S. 322 and

Ohio Route 44. Other organizations and

charities financially supported include

the following:

4-H

American Cancer Society

Boy Scouts

Christ Child Society

Cleveland Play House

Fieldstone Farm

Geauga County Agricultural Society

Geauga County Lyric Society

Geauga County Schools

Geauga Historical Society

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Leadership Geauga

Police and Fire Departments

Sisters of Notre Dame

United Way

WomenSafe

“ Wicked Woods is a

very rolling course —

challenging but enjoyable

for golfers at all levels.”

- Ed Bacock, owner,

Wicked Woods Golf Course


12

Spotlight

For brothers Chris and Jeff Grau, it’s been a long yet rewarding road since opening their business in 1995. Today, located on South Street on Chardon Square, Lake Erie Video Productions, Inc. has an impressive list of corporate clients, and the founding principles of hard work, honesty, diligence and excellence still guide the company moving forward. Oh, and they enjoy having fun at work, too.

“My role in this business is studio engineer, primary videographer and creative manager,” explains Jeff. “Chris handles the business side including sales, writing and directing. We can switch sides because we both have talents in all the areas, but that’s primarily how we differentiate our roles.”

“We’re lucky to have careers that are demanding but often creatively rewarding,” comments Chris. “Clients often ask us to communicate a product or an idea with humor or emotion. We’ve featured Bigfoot in a series of television commercials. There are few things more fun than directing someone in a Bigfoot costume. We all end up laughing on location and during the post production edit sessions.”

Chris estimates that 75 percent of Lake Erie Video’s revenue is generated through corporate accounts with the remaining 25 percent generated by Geauga and Lake County residents who may need family home videos converted to DVD or digital files. They also provide video production for weddings, anniversaries, funerals and other occasions.

Lake Erie Video’s impressive list of current and past corporate accounts includes Geauga Park District, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, G-TV, ASM International, Chardon Local School District, The Cleveland Orchestra, Gold Key Processing, Moldings One, and D.P. Ball Advertising, to name just a few, in addition to nonprofit organizations like United Way Services of Geauga County and Cleveland Catholic Charities.

“On the corporate side, Lake Erie Video produces a number of training, promotional and sales videos in addition to television commercials,” Chris says. “I would estimate we have produced more than 600 commercials over the past 10 years that have aired throughout the United States and Canada. These commercials are primarily for the RV dealership market.”

Lake Erie Video Productions Inc., in the



Training videos for manufacturing companies also keep Jeff and Chris busy throughout Northeast Ohio. Working with their clients’ training or human resource teams, Lake Erie Video provides final product on DVD or digital formats that can be uploaded to websites for ease of use. They also offer Spanish translations for training and sales videos.

For almost 20 years, Jeff and Chris have been involved with Geauga Local Access Cable Corporation, G-TV. During that time, they have assisted with recording hundreds of school music programs, graduations, sporting events and community-wide events like the Geauga County Maple Festival and the Great Geauga County Fair.

Through the years, Geauga resident Bill Ward has been the amazingly versatile voice for countless scripts on Lake Erie Video productions. Ward was a familiar voice of WJW Fox television in Cleveland for more than 30 years as well as the announcer for the critically acclaimed network show, “Talking With David Frost.” His work in front of the camera includes motion picture roles in “Unstoppable,” starring Denzel Washington, “Hostile Witness,” with Sam Waterson, and “Sunset,” featuring Bruce Willis and James Garner.

“I’ve been working for Lake Erie Video Productions since the late 1990s. These guys are fantastic to work with. They are both so creative in different ways,” says Ward, selected as one of Northeast Ohio’s 50 Most Interesting People by Cleveland Magazine and recipient of four local Emmy Awards. “Jeff is a video genius. His brain works overtime. Chris is a good director and the brains of the business on the operation end. They are receptive to an artist’s interpretation and are really good directors. I’ve worked with some of the best in the industry, and these guys are great.”

Chris is quick to return the compliment. “Bill has spoiled us. One of our favorite clients is Geauga Park District. They challenge us to help them creatively educate the residents of Geauga County about their programs and opportunities to get out and enjoy nature. Bill has been part of many of those productions, and we’ve put him in caves, on cliffs or

standing in waist-deep water wearing waders. Bill often improves the scripts after he has read them over. He not only does what we ask, he thinks for us,” Chris humbly describes.

Another satisfied corporate customer of Lake Erie Video Productions is Jake Kouwe, of the Chardon Polka Band. He says he stopped in one day after seeing the Lake Erie Video sign on the square and needed a VHS tape transferred to DVD. “That’s when I learned about the studio and green screen editing capabilities,” Kouwe recalls. “I was beside myself when I saw some of the cool stuff they were doing. We were doing some of our own video productions but wanted to take them to the next level.”

The Chardon Polka Band leader says he has not been disappointed with their work. “We had shot with other people and worked in other creative communities. Chris and Jeff get it. Their tweaks were great and throughout the project offered good ideas and concepts. They were able to give us the quality we wanted to achieve,” he describes enthusiastically.

“For one project, they were able to put our band into Lawrence Welk footage from the 1950s. It looked fantastic. Everyone who saw it asked us how we were able to do it,” Kouwe says. “As a creative person, you want people to share and add to your vision. These guys do that.”

“Jake has great video sense. He gave us a very clear vision and was excited about the technical suggestions we offered,” Jeff adds.

Looking at the future, the brothers see drones as an inevitable element. “We want to do it strictly by the law which requires a 333 exemption from the FAA as well as a pilot’s license. Combining drone capabilities with extensive video editing will permit us to serve a larger client base.”

“The multimedia / video production field matches Jeff and my talents. I am confident that today, we can provide any video or television production needed for any company in Geauga County,” says, Chris.

“ I would estimate we have produced more than 600 commercials over the past 10 years that have aired throughout the United States and Canada.”

- Chris Grau, owner, Lake Erie Video Productions, Inc.


Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun

Park

Experience a Fun Explosion

at

Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the sun by a pool, enjoy the thrill of waterslides, or race around a quarter-mile go-kart track, Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park offers something for all ages.

Located at 10661 Kile Road in Chardon, Pioneer Lake first opened its doors in the 1970s under the ownership of Al Vitantonio. For thousands of families, couples and organizations, Pioneer was a favorite summer destination park. Unfortunately as the years rolled by, Pioneer became weathered. However, in November 2014, seven visionary businessmen took ownership of the park with the goal of giving the park a face lift and bringing it back to the exciting, family-fun destination of its past.

Dan Sammon, one of Pioneer Waterland’s owners, as well as owner of Everybodies Gym in Chardon, sees Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park as a diamond in the rough. “This park has a ton of potential,” the successful businessman states enthusiastically. “I idolized the previous owner when I was growing up. When I heard it was for sale, I wanted in.”

Sammon admits running the 75-acre park with seven owners can be a challenge at times. “Sure, it can be a struggle with seven different opinions; we bump heads a bit, but we make sure we work together as a group.” All the owners share the same goal, says Sammon. “To bring Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park to where it once was times 100. Back in the day, Pioneer was the happening place,” he exclaims.



C O N T I N U E D O N P A G E 1 6

Since taking ownership, the owners have invested a great deal of money and time to improve the park including renovating all the restrooms; re-gelling the waterslides and painting them in bright, vibrant colors; reopening the 8-foot and greater deep end of the pool; offering tiki huts for rent to enhance privacy; and painting the paddle boats and many of the other attractions.

“I believe if you clean and fix up a park, people will treat it differently,” Sammon adds. “If you see something nice, people will take better care of a facility.” Sammon wants to host concerts in the park this summer as well as other events and activities. In the future, he also plans to add a zip line.

Visitors to Pioneer will appreciate the price. A general admission ticket costs only $24 per person. Groups of 25 and more who pre-purchase tickets on pioneerwaterland.com receive special discounted pricing of

$15.95 per ticket which includes admission, beverage service, free reserved area all day. Pavilions are also available through Pioneer’s business office (minimums apply to receive pavilion for free). Additional options and packages are also available. Internet tickets must be pre-purchased one day in advance. Children under 40 inches are free. (Height restrictions apply at certain attractions.) Parking costs $4; pre-paid parking is available for corporate groups.

“The biggest challenge is the weather,” Sammon states. “The whole park is weather dictated. Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is currently open three months in summer. We are considering adding activities through the winter as well.”

Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is an ideal location for company picnics, church picnics, family reunions or youth group outings. Mary, one of the managers of

Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park, says, “Whether you are planning a picnic for 25 or 10,000, Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park offers fun for all ages. Pioneer is really two parks in one — a traditional picnic park complete with pavilions, grills, food and beverage facilities and traditional picnic games and a water park with activities from tots to advance swimmers.”

Past groups visiting Pioneer include Iron Workers 17, UAW Local 1112, Invisible Fence, Window Nation, Junction Auto, Accurate Landscaping, Riverside and Madison schools, Chardon’s marching band, and many more.

Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends (check online).

Mondays are half-price admission (online only).

“ALL THE OWNERS SHARE THE SAME GOAL: TO BRING PIONEER WATERLAND & DRY FUN PARK TO WHERE IT ONCE WAS TIMES 100.”

- Dan Sammon, owner, Pioneer Waterland & Dry Run Park


Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park Attractions

WATER FUNLAND

• 6-story high waterslides - Two Bonzai Speed Slides - Thriller Spiral Waterslide - Screamer Spiral Waterslide - Black Hole Enclosed Dark Slide

• Lazy innertube ride

• Cement activity/swimming pool including deep water (1 ft. to 8 ft. and greater) - Water volleyball - Dinosaur Slide - Elephant Slide

• Paddleboats on a 6-acre natural lake

• Gorilla Double Slide

• Turtle Slide

• Frog Slide

KIDSLAND

• Kiddie Waterslide

• Pelican Slide

• Raindrop

• Adventure Island

• Tot-Land Play Area

SPORTSLAND FUN AREA

• Golf Driving Range Cages

• Air Cannon Shooting Range

• Water Cannon War Zone

• 18-hole Miniature Golf Course

• Bankshot Basketball Course

• Basketball Arcade

Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park

“WE SEE ABOUT 50 PERCENT OF OUR EMPLOYEES RETURN EACH SUMMER. THEY LOVE WORKING HERE, AND WE ARE HAPPY TO WORK WITH SCHEDULES.”

- Mary Groudle, general manager, Pioneer Waterland & Dry Run Park

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 1 5


In addition, Pioneer has professional batting cages and a game arcade that are pay-as-you-play. Visitors can also experience the thrill of driving over a quarter-mile Grand Prix in a sleek-styled single or 2-seater Formula K Racer. Tickets are $5 or $4 if purchased in advance on their website.

Folks also won’t go hungry at Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park. Guests can bring their own picnics or purchase food at the concession stand. Prices are reasonable, ranging from $4.50 - $7.50 for pizza slices, hot dogs, corn dogs, chicken fingers and chicken wraps, to name just a few menu items. A gift shop sells apparel, candy, swimming accessories and more.

Pioneer hires two full-time employees as well as approximately 100 summer employees in the following areas: fast food concession, dry attraction attendants, landscaping and grounds, housekeeping, emergency medical technicians/paramedics, lifeguards, gift shop clerk,

front gate attendants, go-kart attendants, handyman, cashiers and mechanic.

“Our retention is phenomenal,” Mary Groudle, General Manager, states. “We see about 50 percent of our employees return each summer. They love working here, and we are happy to work with schedules.”

She says some of the top reasons companies/groups and families should consider coming to the park include free pavilion use all day with advance reservations and a 75 minimum ticket purchase; all attractions are free except go-karts, batting cages and fun zone arcade; you can bring your own food; no long lines; special parking for drop offs and pickups at pavilion; and extra group activities are available such as sand volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole toss and bocce balls.

“Safety is a top priority,” adds Mary. “We have certified lifeguards on duty at all times and trained personnel who supervise all

activities. We are proud to have received many safety awards.”

Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is also a good neighbor. May 28-30, veterans received free admission to the park and all Geauga County residents entered at half price; June 18-19, police, firefighters and their family members were admitted for half price; and fathers were admitted at half price with the purchase of one regular admission. Youth groups such as YMCAs, recreation departments, schools and church youth also receive discounted rates Monday through Friday with a minimum of 15 people: $11 per person for the first two visits and $10 for additional visits if prepaid and non-refundable. The adult leader and uniformed bus driving are also free.

For more information or to book a group event or corporate picnic, call Lisa at 440.285.5200 to reserve a date. Visit their website at pioneerwaterland.com.

Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park Attractions

KIDSLAND

• Kiddie Waterslide

• Pelican Slide

• Raindrop

• Adventure Island

• Tot-Land Play Area

SPORTSLAND FUN AREA

• Golf Driving Range Cages

• Air Cannon Shooting Range

• Water Cannon War Zone

• 18-hole Miniature Golf Course

• Bankshot Basketball Course

• Basketball Arcade


18

Geauga Business

Magazine receives prestigious

CIC Award

BusinessgeaugaW i n t e r 2 0 1 3

PLUS:Flambeau Celebrates 65 Years of

Shaping the Products of Tomorrow...in Plastic pg 6

Unlocking Business Potential via Red Key Network pg 12

and its implications for GeauGa county

Shale GaS RuSh

ohio’s

geaugaS u m m e r 2 0 1 5

Independent Tree Enjoys Solid Growth – Knock On Wood pg 6

Perfect Timing for Middlefield’s Big Ben pg 12

It’s “Tee” Time in Geauga County pg 14

and more...

M. Steven Jones Positions UH Geauga Medical Center for the Future

PLUS:

geaugaF a l l 2 0 1 4

How About Them Apples? Geauga County Orchards in Full Fall Swing pg 4Caring for the Aged A Big FAMILY Business in Geauga County pg 8

Family-Owned Plastics Fabricator Values Its Employees and Geauga County Roots pg 12

and more...

KraftMaid Cabinetry: Celebrating 45 Years of Continuous Improvement

PLUS:


Margie Wilber, editor-in-chief, Chris Yuhasz, publisher, and Ellen Seguin, designer, recently received an award for Geauga Business Magazine at the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) 2016 awards dinner at St. Denis Party Center on April 28th. Other companies and organizations recognized include the 2016 Legacy Company Hexpol Compounding, LLC/Burton Rubber Processing, Troy Chemicals Industries, Newbury Business Park and Leadership Geauga. Geauga County Commissioner Blake Rear presented the awards on behalf of the U.S. Senate, U.S. Congress and local government representatives.

“We are honored to receive this award for Geauga Business Magazine,” Wilber told the 120 business professionals and guests at the award banquet. “Chris and I began producing this publication five years ago with the goal of educating Geauga business owners and leaders about the services, products or goods being produced in the county, and hopefully, facilitate networking opportunities among each other. Geauga County has a thriving business community, and it has been a pleasure meeting the outstanding CEOs, facility managers, and business owners in Geauga County. We are thrilled to receive this recognition.”

Yuhasz mentioned that POV Printing originally published the magazine several years before but lacked the time and creative talent to keep the magazine in production. Five years ago, he partnered with Wilber, president of Write 2 the Point, a Geauga-based marketing and public relations firm,

to

resurrect the publication after seeing the continued need to communicate business happenings locally. POV proudly hires employees through the Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities, serving as a site for one of their work enclaves within the county.

The magazine has featured such Geauga manufacturing giants as Great Lakes Cheese, Tarkett Johnsonite, Flambeau, Truline Industries, KraftMaid, Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling, ETNA Products, HF Group and AssureVault, Drummond Manufacturing, Mar-Bal, Chem Technologies and Third Dimensions. Other businesses featured included University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, Hastings Dairy Farm, Arborwear, Western Reserve Farm Cooperative, Patterson’s and Sage’s apple farms, Tom’s Foolery Distillery, Independent Tree and Sharon James Cellars. Additionally, the magazine’s editorial team investigated such topics as Geauga County’s heroin drug epidemic, the implications of fracking in Geauga County, and Kent State Geauga campus academic offerings to strengthen the local businesses workforce.

Geauga Business Magazine also received a national award in 2013 from Graphic Design USA.

Since 1970, CIC has been recognizing Geauga businesses that have increased sales and employment and have been active community members.

geaugaF a l l 2 0 1 4

How About Them Apples? Geauga County Orchards in Full Fall Swing pg 4Caring for the Aged A Big FAMILY Business in Geauga County pg 8

Family-Owned Plastics Fabricator Values Its Employees and Geauga County Roots pg 12

and more...

KraftMaid Cabinetry: Celebrating 45 Years of Continuous Improvement

PLUS:

“ Geauga County has a thriving business community, and it has been a pleasure meeting the outstanding CEOs, facility managers, and business owners in Geauga County. We are thrilled to receive this recognition.”

- Margie Wilber, Editor-in-Chief,

Geauga Business Magazine


Outside 14543 Main Street, in Burton Village, a traditional red, white and blue

rotating pole sign hangs near the picture window of Uptowne’s Barber Shoppe.

Barbershop regulars refer to the owner and barber Larry Moore as “Floyd,” from the

Andy Griffith Show. It’s easy to see why. The gregarious, 73-year-old barber knows

all his customers by name and enjoys trading barbs with them as he cuts their hair

or trims their beard and eyebrows.

And Moore believes in doing business the old-fashioned way. For instance, he does

not take appointments. “Folks just walk in when they get a hankering or when the

little woman sends them,” explains Moore with a grin. “And people walk by on the

sidewalk and wave at me through the picture window while I’m cutting hair.”

Step Back in Time @

Burton Village’s Uptowne’s Barber Shoppe


20

“A lot of old-timers get their hair clipped here. I do have two women who come in regularly because they wear their hair short, like a man’s. I also cut a lot of boys between the ages of 2 and 16. Most

teenage boys go to beauty shops now. They like to be primped. It’s not like it used to be. It’s a different generation,” Moore considers while his steady hands guide the razor across a customer’s neck. “And like ladies at beauty salons, us men enjoy telling stories and trying to out-lie the other one.”

The cozy shop contains two barber chairs, and cartoons, family photos, and signs that reflect the traditional values of the owner fill the walls. One sign reads: “Teenagers: If You Are Tired of Being Hassled By Your Stupid Parents, Act Now. Move Out, Get A Job and Pay Your Own Bills While You Still Know Everything.” Another sign advertises: “Wanted! Good man About 90 Years Old, Half Blind, Bad Leg, Good With a Gun, To Watch My Wife While I’m Out Hunting.”

Moore is no stranger to Geauga County. He grew up in East Claridon until his family moved to Middlefield in 1953 where he graduated from Cardinal High School in 1962. The local barber also proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1967. Even then, his dream was to become a small-town barber.

“As a young boy, I was always hanging around my grandfather’s barber shop in Garrettsville. Eventually, I earned my barber’s license in 1969 from the Cleveland Barber College, located at West 25th Street in Cleveland. After that, I worked for two years in his shop,” Moore recalls, carefully clipping the hair of Bill Ferritto, of East Claridon, who has been coming to the barber shop for a couple of years.

“Cows may come and cows may go, but the bull goes on forever in here,” Bill describes with a laugh, holding steady as Moore’s scissors continue trimming. “I like coming here because I like to deal with good, honest people.”

“Back in the 60s with the hippies, business was slow. Young men weren’t getting their hair cut,” recalls Moore, shaking his head. “That’s when I left this field to attend trucking school. I drove a truck from 1972 to 1980.”

Moore eventually returned to Geauga County, opening Uptowne’s Barber Shoppe in 1989. The friendly barber says he sees approximately 25 customers each day. Each cut takes approximately three to four minutes. “In the old days, Saturdays used to be the busiest day,” Moore says. “I would say Tuesdays are my busiest days now.”

“When I learned to cut hair, we used to call it a ‘clip all around.’ I’ve seen some crazy hairstyles through the years,” the affable barber admits. “The craziest thing I was asked to do was a mohawk. As styles came in, my son was my guinea pig. I would try the new cuts on him. He couldn’t say nothing because he was getting a free cut.”

“When military men on active duty come home to visit, I don’t charge them. I’m proud to cut their hair. That’s what my barber did for me when I served,” Moore adds.

Uptowne’s Barber Shoppe hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The shop is closed on Wednesday and Sunday.

“I love having this barber shop in Burton,” Moore concludes with a smile. “I like making people look good. Working in this town is like working at Cheers. Everybody knows your name.”

Burton Village’s Uptowne’s Barber Shoppe

“ When I learned to cut hair, we used to call it a ‘clip all around.’”

- Larry “Floyd” Moore, owner, Uptowne’s Barber Shop

21GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016

Geauga Growth Partnership (GGP) is pleased to announce Jay P. Giles as the 2016 recipient of the Frank Samuel Geauga Growth Partnership Distinguished Service Award, which will be presented at the GGP Annual Partnership Meeting on Wednesday, June 22, at 7:30 a.m. at the Notre Dame Educational Center.

Inaugurated in 2013, this award recognizes prolonged service and outstanding achievement by a GGP member or company, who through relentless determination, diligence and dedication, has made significant contributions to enhance the value, quality, effectiveness and stature of the Geauga Growth Partnership and embodies the following:

• Demonstrated community service and support both personally and organizationally.

• Evident investment in economic development in Geauga County

• Recognized advocate for the county

• Commitment to leadership excellence and development of human capital

• Major impactful accomplishments and results

• Reputation for the generosity, transparency and a critical thinker

• A strong business acumen with a collaborative leadership style

Jay Giles is a founding member of Geauga Growth Partnership and continues to serve with distinction, acting for the first five years as GGP Treasurer. He has served on the Executive, Finance, Board Development and Membership committees, and the Shale Energy Task Force. Additionally he has made significant contributions to the growth and development of Geauga County through his service to numerous non-profit organizations in Geauga County.

“There is no one more deserving of this honor,” says GGP Board Chair John Epprecht. “Jay’s passion for Geauga County preservation and economic development is consistently demonstrated in his service to Geauga Growth Partnership and the community at large.”

GGP Announces 2016 Frank Samuel Distinguished Service Award Recipient

“There is no one more deserving of this honor.”

- John Epprech, GGP Board Chair

Jay P. Giles, 2016 Frank Samuel Distinguished Service Award Recipient

B Y P A I G E H O S I E R


Mr. Giles has served as a founding member and treasurer of the Berkshire Community Planning Association (BCPA) (1999 to present), which played a critical role in the formation of Geauga Growth Partnership. Along with Frank Samuel and other founders, the BCPA broke new ground by developing a land use plan that included multiple political jurisdictions. After successfully completing a Regional Voter Opinion Survey in 2001 and the comprehensive Berkshire Community Master Plan (released in 2006), Jay Giles, Frank Samuel, Tracy Jemison and Mia Moore were encouraged and motivated to create a county-wide organization to support economic development in Geauga County – Geauga Growth Partnership.

Jay Giles was Senior Vice President/Senior Loan Officer for The Middlefield Banking Company from September 1998 until his retirement in 2015. Prior

to Middlefield Bank, he served as Vice President and Senior Commercial Lender at Huntington National Bank in Burton, Ohio.

Jay Giles has served on the Board of Trustees and is among the adjunct faculty of Kent State University Geauga, where he teaches economics. He was a founding board member of Leadership Geauga. He has served as a trustee and treasurer for Geauga Park District Foundation and still volunteers on the Geauga Park District Bike Patrol. He has formerly served on the YMCA Board, on the Workforce Employment Board, the Ohio Humanities Council, and on the Watershed Committee of the Headwaters Land Trust, which merged into the Western Reserve Land Conservancy.

$100,000 TO $500,000BUSINESS LOANS$100,000 TO $500,000BUSINESS LOANS

FOR Real Estate, Equipment and Machinery, or Business Acquisition

WITH AN OHIO REGIONAL 166 PROGRAM LOAN

up to 10 Yearsto Pay Back

3.25% APRFixed Rate Geauga County, Ohio

www.geaugaced.com

or call for more information

440-279-1790This loan opportunity facilitated by the partnership of Geauga County Department of Community and Economic Development and Mahoning Valley Economic Development Corporation.

330.759.3668 | www.MVEDC.comM a h o n i n g Va l l e y E c o n o m i cD e v e l o p m e n t C o r p o r a t i o n

THE GROWTH PEOPLE


What’s bugging you? Ants, yellow jackets, wasps, flies, spiders, beetles? Aardvark Pest Control Service, Inc. can help resolve your pesky problems so you can sleep soundly at night.

John Kluchar, president/owner of Aardvark Pest Control, began his pest control business in 1990. The Class of 1978 Kenston High School graduate earned a Bachelor in Business Administration from Kent State University in 1983 and worked in sales before returning to the creepy, squirmy industry he loves.

“I worked my way through college working for a pest control company. I’d attend classes in the morning and work all afternoon as an exterminator. This left evenings and weekends for me to study,

play sports and chase girls,” recalls Kluchar with a laugh. “After a few years in sales, I realized my heart was in pest control.”

Twenty-six years later, Aardvark Pest Control Service, based in Bainbridge, is a thriving business, debugging an impressive list of commercial, industrial, residential and institutional clients that include Burntwood, Bass Lake and Gamekeepers taverns; Mayfield, Tanglewood and Sand Ridge Country Clubs; Sharon James Winery; Anna Marie Nursing Home, as well as several schools and hospitals — not to mention several thousand residential accounts.

Aardvark’s service territory includes all of Geauga, Cuyahoga, Summit and Portage counties and occasionally Lake and Ashtabula counties. To handle all

the unwanted bugs, insects and rodents in these counties, Kluchar employs two additional servicemen.

Kluchar reports that ants, mice, wasps and yellow jackets are the most common pest problems he sees in Geauga County. “But, recently there has been an increase in calls for stink bugs. We see them outside eating our flowers during the summer. In October, they find their way into our homes and emerge in the spring.”

The successful business owner says most commercial, industrial and institutional accounts require monthly visits while homes are typically treated on a quarterly basis. “We do everything from small homes and condos to large estates,” Kluchar describes.

Aardvark Pest Control Service Keeps Creepy Crawlers AwayB Y M A R G I E W I L B E R

WHAT’S BUGGING YOU?

(l-r) John Kluchar, president/ owner of Aardvark Pest Control,

and serviceman Chris Chittock

24

Sure, the work of an exterminator can be demanding, but there are times that bring a smile to Kluchar’s face. “One of the most interesting calls I received since starting Aardvark Pest Control was from a homeowner who had a white, snowy owl fall down his chimney,” Kluchar recalls. “While I do not deal with wildlife, I was able to find someone to help rescue the owl. Another interesting call I received was from a gentleman who had rats and mice in his dairy barn. He wanted me to get rid of the mice, but he said his hobby was shooting the rats at night with his .22 caliber with a night scope.”

Kluchar continues, chuckling, “Another woman called Aardvark because she had chipmunks and mice in her home. She asked if we could get rid of the chipmunks but not the mice because the mice were her friends.”

The dedicated businessman says the pest control business has changed through the years. “We have more precise and more effective applications available because of technological

advances in the industry. Our applications are also more sensitive to the needs of those environmentally conscious.”

What makes Aardvark superior to other pest control companies? Kluchar insists, “While our costs are comparable to our competitors, I would say our undying preoccupation with ridding pests and preventing problems through IPM (Integrated Pest Management) so clients do not have conditions that cause infestations.”

For more information or to schedule a service call, please call Aardvark Pest Control Service at 440.543.4648 or 800.686.0408.

“We do everything from small homes and condos to large estates.”

- John Kluchar, president/owner of Aardvark Pest Control

John Kluchar inspects a home for bug infestation

Serviceman Chris Chittock sprays the exterior of a local restaurant to prevent pest infestation.

25GEAUGA BUSINESS Summer 2016

At University Hospitals, we know that older adults who take an active role in managing their health are more likely to remain independent and enjoy a longer, healthier life. That’s why we offer outpatient senior adult assessments at two Eastside UH locations.

Our multidisciplinary team of clinicians provides assessments customized to each patient’s unique needs, including:

• Medical evaluation • Psychological evaluation• Memory testing • Medication review• Occupational therapy home safety assessment• Falls risk assessment and more

Results and recommendations are shared with each patient, their family and their primary care physician so that a plan of care can be developed.

Program components vary. Call today to find out which location offers the services that best fit your needs or those of your loved one. Physician referral is required.

For UH Bedford Medical Center, call 440-735-4200. For UH Geauga Medical Center, call 440-285-3030.

© 2014 University Hospitals REG 00093

L I V I N G A L O N G E R , H E A LT H I E R L I F E

I S N O W W I T H I N R E A C H .

Our Senior Adult Assessment Program is available at two convenient locations.

UH Bedford Medical Center,a campus of UH Regional Hospitals 44 Blaine AvenueBedford, Ohio 44146440-735-3900UHBedford.org

UH Geauga Medical Center13207 Ravenna RoadChardon, Ohio 44024440-285-6000UHGeauga.org

REG 00093 10.125x13.75 Ad.indd 1 6/2/14 4:08 PM


Christie & Richard J. F R E N C H I E

g e a u g a g r o w t h p a r t n e r s h i p , i n c .l e a d i n g b u s i n e s s g r o w t h i n G e a u g a C o u n t y

Great Lakes Cheese, Hungry Bee Gourmet Catering, University Hospital Geauga Medical Center, Richard & Christie Frenchie, Glenmede Investment & Wealth Management, Kent State University at Geauga, Patterson Farms, Geauga County Farm Bureau, Kinetico Incorporated, Middlefield Banking Company, POV Communications, Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling, Company

119, Engineered Endeavors, Mar-Bal, Inc., Newbury Business Park, Dr Patra Duangjak, Electrolock, Inc., Hardwood Lumber Company, HR Strategies & Solutions, Wealthcare Group of Raymond James

HomeGrown Geauga

Partnering People, Products & Produceand a whole lot of fun!

Saturday, September 24, 20165:30 - 10:00 PM

The Federated Church Family Life Center,16349 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge

2016 Annual Partnership MeetingWednesday, June 22, 2016

7:30 - 10:00 a.m.Notre Dame Education Center, 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon, OH 44024

Register now at http://bit.ly/1rfKj9Ror contact GGP at [email protected] or 440-564-1060

Thank you to sponsors: UH Geauga Medical Center, Caritas Financial, Hexpol Compounding/Burton Rubber, Kent State University at Geauga, Middlefield Banking Company, Polychem Dispersions Inc., Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling, Thrasher, Dinsmore & Dolan, Burton Station Fixture Company, Etna Products Incorporated, Federal Improvement

Co., FirstEnergy, Geauga Credit Union, Geauga Savings, Kinetico Incorporated, Troy Chemical, The Frenchie Group, Wealthcare Group of Raymond James, John Wilhelm.

Geauga Growth Partnership welcomes the Geauga business community to a breakfast meeting featuring Keynote Speaker Mr. Dennis Eckart. Also featuring a presentation of this year’s Frank Samuel Distinguished

Service award to Mr. Jay Giles, a brief business meeting, and updates on youth workforce education programs.

Join Geauga Growth Partnership for an evening of food, spirits, music and other entertainment featuring home-grown talent for an unforgettable experience. Funds raised will benefit GGP’s Youth Workforce Development programs, provided to Geauga teenagers with the

goal of Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce Today.”

4th Annual


Christie & Richard J. F R E N C H I E

g e a u g a g r o w t h p a r t n e r s h i p , i n c .l e a d i n g b u s i n e s s g r o w t h i n G e a u g a C o u n t y

Great Lakes Cheese, Hungry Bee Gourmet Catering, University Hospital Geauga Medical Center, Richard & Christie Frenchie, Glenmede Investment & Wealth Management, Kent State University at Geauga, Patterson Farms, Geauga County Farm Bureau, Kinetico Incorporated, Middlefield Banking Company, POV Communications, Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling, Company

119, Engineered Endeavors, Mar-Bal, Inc., Newbury Business Park, Dr Patra Duangjak, Electrolock, Inc., Hardwood Lumber Company, HR Strategies & Solutions, Wealthcare Group of Raymond James

HomeGrown Geauga

Partnering People, Products & Produceand a whole lot of fun!

Saturday, September 24, 20165:30 - 10:00 PM

The Federated Church Family Life Center,16349 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge

2016 Annual Partnership MeetingWednesday, June 22, 2016

7:30 - 10:00 a.m.Notre Dame Education Center, 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon, OH 44024

Register now at http://bit.ly/1rfKj9Ror contact GGP at [email protected] or 440-564-1060

Thank you to sponsors: UH Geauga Medical Center, Caritas Financial, Hexpol Compounding/Burton Rubber, Kent State University at Geauga, Middlefield Banking Company, Polychem Dispersions Inc., Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling, Thrasher, Dinsmore & Dolan, Burton Station Fixture Company, Etna Products Incorporated, Federal Improvement

Co., FirstEnergy, Geauga Credit Union, Geauga Savings, Kinetico Incorporated, Troy Chemical, The Frenchie Group, Wealthcare Group of Raymond James, John Wilhelm.

Geauga Growth Partnership welcomes the Geauga business community to a breakfast meeting featuring Keynote Speaker Mr. Dennis Eckart. Also featuring a presentation of this year’s Frank Samuel Distinguished

Service award to Mr. Jay Giles, a brief business meeting, and updates on youth workforce education programs.

Join Geauga Growth Partnership for an evening of food, spirits, music and other entertainment featuring home-grown talent for an unforgettable experience. Funds raised will benefit GGP’s Youth Workforce Development programs, provided to Geauga teenagers with the

goal of Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce Today.”

4th Annual

BREAK THE MOLDREGIONAL ADVANTAGEWITH THE

At Kent State Geauga and the Regional Academic Center you have access to any career choice you could imagine with over 282 majors to select from. We offer affordable tuition, flexible schedules, small class sizes and free parking at both locations. Financial aid and scholarships are available. Visit us on the web to learn more.

Ready to gain the skills to meet the Workforce Needs?

The Workforce Development Program at Kent State University Geaugaand Regional Academic Center is your local resource for lifelonglearning, professional development, customized training, businessconsulting, assessment services, online training classes, professionalcertifications, research projects, and other special programs. Find out more by visiting us on the web at www.kent.edu/geauga.

www.kent.edu/geauga

Kent State Geauga14111 Claridon Troy Rd.

Burton, OH 44021440-834-4187

Regional Academic Center2745 Creekside Dr.

Twinsburg, OH 44087330-888-6400

GEAUGA andREGIONAL ACADEMIC CENTER


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