Business

Grand opening got a little too hot at Blazin’ Burgers

A ribbon cutting, hungry and excited customers and just a small grill fire that brought the restaurant’s first day of operation to a halt

Berner Trucking honors employees at annual banquet

Eighteen employees and owner-operators received longevity awards for service milestones ranging from one to 30 years

Downtown delicious: Ten Weeks of Tasty highlights local flavor

Annual event showcases local dining and new eateries from Feb. 19 to April 24.

Reasons small business owners should separate their finances

Taking the time to establish and maintain separate financial accounts can help protect you

Mattern Tire marks 30 years in Cadiz

Nip and Tammy Mattern have been busy with the business ever since

Century Farms blends historic charm with modern wedding amenities

The centerpiece of the venue is the restored barn, originally built in the 1930s

Deli on the Square offers catering and charcuterie options

The deli caters a wide range of events, including weddings

Sérénité Restaurant reopens with new leadership

Medina's culinary institute relaunches under Audrey Pollizi, focusing on recovery and fine dining.

Love of baking leads to opening of Main Street Bakery in Scio

Main Street Bakery now offers a full slate of popular baked goods and a deli

Dick’s Sporting Goods grant aids SL athletics

Athletic Director Bob Shansky allocated the funding among the district’s sports programs for equipment and other needs

Iron Resistance Foundation eyes former school property in Bolivar

The village agreed to appoint a committee to review the request

Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce launches Community Connection Initiative

New initiative connects residents with local opportunities and resources through enhanced access and career readiness programs.

Air Works Auction returns to Mt. Hope

Annual event features over 30,000 items and nearly 300 vendors from Feb. 19-21.

Ivory Room founder wins Wooster entrepreneur award

Carrolyn Salazar honored for business impact at Main Street Wooster's annual ceremony.

Jarrett’s Aaron Nussbaum named 2026 Rock Stars of the Supply Chain Award winner

Jarrett's VP recognized for expanding warehousing operations, including new site in Wooster.

Echoing Hills appoints new IT director

Kyle Webb begins role to enhance technology across Ohio regions.

Audrianna’s Floral Designs blooms in Scio

The Harrison County Regional Chamber of Commerce assisted in welcoming the new floral design business

Save & Serve Benefit Day raises $5,928 for Toward the Goal Ministries

Benefit Day supports Toward the Goal Ministries' mission in Holmes County.

Tuscarawas barber opens shop in longtime barbershop space

A young barber has reached a goal with the opening of a new barbershop in Tuscarawas

JB Tire and Auto celebrates grand opening in Minerva

Nick Codispoti and Jordan Bollinger officially opened their new automotive and tire shop

DoverPhila Federal Credit Union returns $2.6 million to members

The credit union said the bonus marks the 31st consecutive year it has returned significant earnings to members

Urban Barnwood Furniture rebrands as Arista Wood

The rebranding reflects a broader range of hardwood furniture offerings.

Nonprofit founded by Wayne County women supports girls in Liberia

Michal Bowers and Torrey Fike's nonprofit, For Every Girl, supports victims of sexual violence in Liberia.

United Way offers mental health grants

Wayne and Holmes nonprofits can apply for up to $7,500 by March 6.

Echoes Art & Antiques to open in Orrville with Feb. 7 grand opening

Grand opening set for Feb. 7 at 1430 W. High St., featuring local art and unique finds.

Local Roots, The Food Sphere raise funds for new Wooster home

Local food cooperative and entrepreneurial center launch capital campaign to expand into former grocery building

String It Up Fencing offers agricultural fencing services

The family-run business specializes in agricultural fencing installation and repair

Repair business grows in Minerva with focus on trucks and aftertreatment work

Honesty have been the foundation of a business built on fixing problems the right way

Kevin O’Leary of ABC’s 'Shark Tank' to headline Jarrett Supply Chain Summit

Entrepreneur and investor to deliver keynote at Aug. 6 conference in Cleveland

Carrollton Chop House meals find new home at Ulman’s Bakery

There are 12 Chop House menu items packaged and ready to go in a cooler

Home Loan Financial reports $2.1 million in quarterly income

Parent company of The Home Loan Savings Bank posts higher earnings for fourth quarter of 2025

Salvation Army dedicates renovated Learning Lighthouse

Community celebrates reopening of Corps Community Center

People over profit: Michelle Holcomb serves more than meals

Wooster restaurant owner blends business and philanthropy to support community causes

Acme to host pet supply drive benefiting Medina County SPCA

Shoppers can donate needed items Jan. 24-25 as Medina store also launches year-round Wishing Well program

Scio family turns dairy farm landscape into Castile in the Eden

With daughters Andria and Tiffany also onboard, the project became a true family affair

Galentine’s Shop Hop returns to Hartville for third year

Two-day Feb. 6-7 event invites shoppers to explore 20 local businesses, dining spots and live entertainment across town

DJ Chelsea brings the party wherever she goes

From a high school sound system to a full-scale event business

ProVia set to create $27 million expansion in Walnut Creek

The project includes a new three-story innovation and customer experience center and is expected to create 50 new jobs while retaining more than 600 existing positions.

Denim and Diamonds Casino Fundraiser to benefit YMCA scholarships

The Feb. 6 event in Wooster will raise funds to help Wayne County children and families access summer camp, child care and youth programs through the YMCA.

TAP to host PAL-entines Day fundraiser at local brewhouse

PAL-entines Day is planned as a casual social evening featuring music, conversation and support for the arts

Wildflower Yoga brings movement, peace and community to Sherrodsville

As part of the studio’s weekly routine, Wildflower Yoga offers Rise and Shine Yoga

Lake Township Chamber outlines new projects, growth plans for 2026

Chamber leaders highlight business support, tourism initiatives and community development efforts during first meeting of the year

GIVE 365 Wayne County grant cycle focuses on healthy foundations

The Wayne County Community Foundation initiative is accepting grant applications through March 1 with a focus on housing, hunger and health care.

Saylor earns Cambridge 2026 Leaders Club recognition

Arthur J. Saylor of Saylor Wealth Strategies was recognized for exemplifying Cambridge Investment Research’s core values and commitment to client-focused service.

Closing with purpose: Smucker’s farewell brings new hope to region

As the longtime store and café prepares to close, a major donation to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank turns the page toward expanded hunger relief across Northeast Ohio.

Knox County Chamber to host two January ribbon cuttings

Ceremonies will celebrate The Salvation Army Learning Lighthouse and the expansion of Absolutely Loved Learning Center in Mount Vernon.

Wayne County Women’s Network announces 2026 event series

Monthly luncheons at The Connection will feature local and regional speakers, networking opportunities and professional development throughout the year.

CES Credit Union appoints Mike Copley as president/CEO

Longtime CES leader steps into top role following the planned retirement of Sandy Coffing, bringing more than a decade of experience and a focus on continued growth and member service.

Genesis receives Healthy Business Council of Ohio Award

Health system earns 2025 Gold Award for employee wellness and healthy workplace initiatives

Daystar Auto Group carries mission of service into new year

Daystar Auto Group was founded in 2018 with a clear and intentional mission rooted in faith and service

Medina City Schools Foundation raffle awards GMC Acadia

Susan White wins the grand prize vehicle in the foundation’s 2025 Jingle Bell Raffle supporting local education programs

E.P. Gerber & Sons Company acquires Solid Dimensions

Promotional products manufacturer joins forces with 125-year-old wood products company, expanding resources while maintaining Made-in-the-USA focus

How to spot an out-of-stock scam before losing money

BBB warns shoppers about fake online sellers who cancel orders without issuing promised refunds

Douce brothers establish scholarship to support career and technical education in Wayne County

Pair-A-Douce Scholarship aims to strengthen skilled trades workforce and expand access to hands-on education for local students and adults

Thompson and Norris receive Ohio Realtors honors

Howard Hanna Realtors Carly Thompson and Karla Norris earn President’s Sales Club awards for outstanding sales performance

Skilled trades face labor shortages as retirements outpace new workers

Skilled trades are essential to the strength and sustainability of the local workforce

Save & Serve raises $4,675 for Special Hearts Workshop

Benefit Day proceeds support vocational and childcare programs for individuals with special needs in the Amish community

Kinder Sprouts daycare now open in Cadiz

Kinder Sprouts is located in the former West Gate Schoolhouse on Peppard Avenue

Loudon Motors Ford makes year-end donations to Minerva organizations

Loudon Motors Ford, a family-owned dealership since 1926, has served customers in Minerva and surrounding communities for nearly 100 years

Main Street Wooster announces two new annual awards

New honors recognize downtown business collaboration and emerging entrepreneurs, with prizes valued at more than $10,000

Survey scam gets a holiday twist

Fake texts posing as customer surveys promise deals or gift cards while attempting to steal personal information

Minerva-based company launches fentanyl detection wipe for first responders

The handheld field tool is designed to help first responders quickly identify the presence of fentanyl

Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce to honor businesses, leaders at annual awards celebration

Eleet Cryogenics of Bolivar will receive the Large Business of the Year award

Is that holiday app safe? Better check it twice

Parents urged to review privacy policies, permissions and data collection before letting kids download seasonal apps

Gregg Orthodontics raises $7,836 for Whit’s End Community Place

PINK OUT 2025 campaign supports free cancer services for individuals and families in the Wooster area

Puskarich libraries celebrate busy November, community award

Across the three-branch system, the library provides a wide range of services and programs for children and adults

Women’s Fund awards more than $50,000 in 2025 grants to support women and girls in Wayne County

Funding backs health services, mentorship, relationship education and youth programs through five local organizations

Children’s Resource Fund awards $33,000 in 2025 grants to support Wayne County youth

Nine organizations receive funding for health care, mentoring, arts education, bullying prevention, adaptive sports and basic needs for local children

Harrison County Regional Chamber celebrates businesses at annual awards banquet

The event marked the 54th annual awards ceremony

EOG Resources hosts Carroll County Toys for Tots distribution

Malvern event serves 209 families and 452 children, powered by $75,000 in donated toys and dozens of volunteers from partnering oil and gas companies.

OneEighty and Buehler’s team up to provide holiday meals and grocery bundles

Community donations supply essentials and Christmas dinners for local treatment centers, shelter and transitional housing programs

Central Christian hosts first Business and Entrepreneurship Symposium

Students meet local leaders, explore faith-driven business practices and learn how their talents can shape service-minded careers

Wayne County Community Foundation awards $673,844 in fall 2025 community grants

Twenty-six organizations receive funding for food access, health care, youth programs, capital projects, emergency services and more across Wayne County

Rae’s Jewelry marks 50 years of innovation and family craftsmanship

From cutting-edge technology to custom design, the longtime jeweler prepares for its next chapter under new ownership.

Projects take shape along Route 250 between Cadiz and New Philadelphia

Plans are underway to expand store with a lodge-style dining area, bar and outdoor patio

Carrollton Downtown Alley draws visitors with antiques and oddities

Carrollton Downtown Alley’s hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Structure Personnel opens new Wadsworth office, ushers in next generation of leadership

Staffing firm celebrates expansion as founder Barbara Truman transfers ownership to nephew Brock Kertoy during community ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Toys for Tots drive continues through Dec. 12 in Hartville

Hartville Lions Club and Edward Jones office gather new, unwrapped toys to brighten Christmas for local children

Beware of this package delivery scam

Unordered deliveries may signal compromised personal information and fake online reviews.

Local companies earn top honors at annual GAP Con business awards

Creative Quo, Tekton Engineering and ProVia recognized for growth, innovation and community impact.

BellStores opens expanded 24-hour travel stop in Cadiz

New state Route 22 location features full kitchen, truck-friendly layout and consolidated staff as company upgrades local service options.

Don't fall for the Secret Sister gift exchange

Holiday “gift swap” posts on social media are illegal pyramid schemes that risk fines, fraud and identity theft

Orrville shops join national Pink Friday to spotlight and support small local retailers

Boutiques like The Bouquet Shop and Salt and Honey help kick off the holiday season with a focus on shopping small

Cadiz Business Association presents annual business awards

Awards presented during the evening included New Business of the Year, Organization of the Year, Cadiz Citizen of the Year, Sweetest Peach and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Christmas in the Country Craft Show returns Dec. 7 at M Event Centre

Handmade gifts, local vendors and holiday treats highlight annual Coshocton tradition

Wooster shops roll out cozy deals for Small Business Saturday

Main Street Wooster invites shoppers to don festive pajamas for discounts, freebies and local treats as downtown businesses celebrate the Nov. 29 Shop Small event.

Vendors to fill Lake Park Pavilion for Nov. 28 holiday bazaar

More than 40 makers will feature handmade crafts, décor, baked goods and gifts at longtime seasonal event

Our Town Coshocton gears up for 2026 with preservation projects, Shop Hop and volunteer opportunities

Executive director thanks community for warm welcome, invites residents to support historic district through shopping, donations and service

Minerva to celebrate Small Business Saturday

A variety of Minerva businesses will offer discounts, giveaways, door prizes, activities and more

Ribbon cut at new downtown ice skating rink on Court Square

Community, county and city leaders celebrate opening of seasonal attraction offering rentals, weekend hours and holiday fun for all ages

Therapy programs at Arbors at Minerva focus on long-term recovery

Facility’s physical, occupational and speech therapy teams tailor one-on-one care to support safe, confident transitions home

Looking for this season’s hot toy? Beware of scams

From sold-out AI story bears to elusive interactive plush toys, scammers are exploiting demand for this year’s must-have gifts. Here’s how to avoid fake websites, counterfeit toys and vanished orders.

Jewett Craft Show celebrates 55 years of tradition and community

Annual post-Thanksgiving event features 86 vendor tables, new garage space and long-running support for the volunteer fire department

Pop-up Amaryllis sale to honor Paula Perticarini and support memorial scholarship

Family hosts Nov. 29 flower event at OV Harvest to raise funds in memory of beloved sister lost to pancreatic cancer

Dancing Bee Market & Studio hosts free holiday gift-making workshops

Mount Vernon shop invites families to create handmade gifts, enjoy festive activities and support local makers this season

Shrivers Hospice revives remembrance tree tradition in Court Square

Community invited to honor loved ones with handmade heart ornaments as annual display returns Nov. 21

Save & Serve Benefit Day raises $7,012 for Holmes Center for the Arts

Thrift shop’s donation will support student scholarships and expand access to arts education programs in Holmes County.

Jarrett’s growing pickleball tradition boosts teamwork and employee engagement

The Orrville-based logistics company’s second annual tournament drew 34 teams, strengthening cross-department connections through friendly competition.

Pink Friday encourages shoppers to support small businesses ahead of Black Friday

Orrville’s Salt & Honey joins nationwide celebration Nov. 21 with specials, giveaways and community-focused events.

Uplifted Boutique to open in Dover Dec. 6

The store hopes to become a destination site with its eclectic assortment of products

It Is Balance opens new fitness studio focused on strength, mindset and community in Millersburg

Founder Bri Newsome says the space aims to help members build lasting mental and physical strength through discipline, mobility work and supportive coaching.

GoodyGram brings customizable fresh-baked cookie gifting to Medina

Made-to-order cookie boxes let shoppers add gift cards and personalized video messages for a more meaningful holiday surprise.

Charming Wagyu delivers 100% pure Japanese beef experience from Holmes and Coshocton farms

Local Amish-raised cattle offer rich marbling, tender flavor and farm-to-table quality through family-run Charming Wagyu

Winter Wonderland returns to downtown Wooster with Santa, tree lighting and Fire and Ice show

Main Street Wooster’s Nov. 21 celebration features reindeer, carriage rides, caroling and the fifth annual Great Elf Scavenger Hunt

NECIC Staffing expands to Wooster, connecting residents with jobs and support services

Agency’s nontraditional model helps employees overcome barriers while partnering with local businesses for long-term success

Orrville Chamber hires Kayla Myers as new marketing and engagement director

Former Lehman’s social media specialist brings storytelling, branding and community focus to chamber team

Kids of the Kingdom Dance/Tumbling expands with new Coshocton location

Owner Bella Miller adds classes and upgraded equipment to support growing gymnastics program while keeping West Lafayette site open

Donors beware of charities that are not what they seem

BBB cautions against fraudulent groups posing as nonprofits ahead of Veterans Day

Dean's Jewelry celebrates 60 years of sparkles

Local jewelers mark milestone anniversary with exclusive sales event

Carroll County Chamber launches Shop Small trail for local businesses

Nov. 24–30 event encourages shoppers to visit participating stores and complete passports for prize drawings

Kroger opens new state liquor store in Mount Vernon location

Ribbon-cutting celebrates expanded selection of spirits at Coshocton Avenue store

Restored sign rekindles New Philadelphia landmark’s glow

After six decades dark, Stevenson Memorials’ iconic East High Avenue sign shines again — a tribute to the city’s heritage and the Steckman family’s commitment to preservation.

MAVIN marks 50 years of family craftsmanship and innovation

Ohio-based company celebrates half a century of growth from small logging roots to a leader in sustainable wood products and furniture design

BBB warns of rising debt collection scams targeting Ohio residents

Fraudulent “collectors” are threatening lawsuits and arrests to pressure victims into paying fake debts — here’s how to recognize and avoid the scam.

Cross Caffé to host third annual Holiday Kickoff Pop-Up Nov. 15

The Strasburg café’s festive event will feature 16 local vendors, raffles, gift card specials and food and drink deals to start the holiday season.

Dean's Jewelry celebrating 60 years of business

Consumers National Bank names David Benavides senior vice president and loan officer

Veteran lender with 25 years’ experience to oversee agricultural, mortgage and consumer lending from Minerva headquarters

Knox County Chamber celebrates new downtown office with ribbon cutting

Move to Mulberry Street marks a new era of growth, accessibility, and collaboration for the 108-year-old business organization.

Breweries earn medals in Ohio Craft Brewers Cup

The Ohio Craft Brewers Cup is an annual competition showcasing the best beers in the state

Wooster-based PRC-Saltillo acquires Avaz to expand global reach in communication technology

Acquisition adds multilingual AAC app to PRC-Saltillo’s portfolio, strengthening access to communication tools in India and Southeast Asia

Golden Bloom Massage Therapy brings healing touch to Orrville

Owner and licensed therapist Cassandra McCloud offers personalized, intentional care inside Concepts Hair Design — and a 50% discount for new clients.

World Crafts in Kidron marks 35 years of fair trade and global artisan partnerships

Anniversary open house Nov. 6 celebrates handmade goods from 30+ countries and the store’s mission to support ethical, sustainable livelihoods worldwide

Former Wooster scrap yard transformed into new hub for local business growth

Partnership between 5 Star Lawn Care & Landscaping and Compak owners revitalizes site into company headquarters and future materials center

‘Synthetic’ identity theft blends real and fake data to fool lenders

Experts warn of rising scam that targets Social Security numbers — often from minors — creating phantom identities that can rack up debt undetected

A labor of love: Cooper’s Hall opens in Bolivar honoring family legacy

Justin and Lyss Wallace transform a historic downtown building into an elegant new event center and coffeehouse inspired by Lyss’s grandfather, Paul Cooper

The Village Network breaks ground on short-term residential cottage in Wooster

New facility to open June 2026 will provide 10 beds and intensive family support for at-risk youth across Wayne and surrounding counties

For 70 years, Myers Tin Shop has kept Carrollton’s metalwork tradition alive

Under owner Jeff Hochadel and manager Kris Ledford, the historic metal shop continues its legacy of skilled repair and fabrication, blending traditional methods with modern technology to serve the community.

Coshocton Ice Skating Rink grand opening set for Nov. 14 on Court Square

Ribbon cutting to celebrate new downtown attraction made possible by Coshocton Foundation grant; community invited to skate and share feedback on first-year experience

Tranquil Landscapes adds decorative concrete curbing service in Apple Creek

New offering helps homeowners and businesses enhance outdoor spaces with durable, low-maintenance landscape edging

Certified Angus Beef celebrates 47 years with more than 1.2 billion pounds sold

Despite tighter supply and rising prices, Wooster-based brand sees record months, strong global demand for premium beef

Downtown Wooster businesses celebrate growth, connection and community spirit

Entrepreneurs cite rising foot traffic, loyal customers and city support as Main Street Wooster continues to thrive through collaboration and shared investment in a vibrant downtown.

Ariel Corp. honors life and legacy of Chairman Karen Buchwald Wright

The former CEO and Mount Vernon philanthropist is remembered for her leadership, patriotism, and transformative community impact

Belden Brick celebrates 140 years with employee reunion in Sugarcreek

Fifth-generation leaders honor past and present workers during milestone celebration at Plant 8, highlighting the company’s legacy and deep roots in the community.