Honorees

 

Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions is a national leader in payroll and human resource solutions. The company exemplifies family business excellence, with over 50 years of innovation, integrity and multi-generational leadership.

Founded in 1967, Ahola remains headquartered in Brecksville and is now operated by second-generation siblings Jeff Ahola (CEO) and Scott Ahola (CIO), with third-generation leader Sonya Ahola James recently promoted to Executive Vice President. This generational transfer and active family engagement help ensure the business honors its legacy while continuing to innovate for the future.
Ahola has earned distinction as the world’s longest continuously operating family-focused payroll service provider, recognized with an Ohio Historical Marker and the BBB Torch Award for Ethics. In 2025, Ahola expanded its presence in both Columbus and Dayton, reinforcing its commitment to clients and communities throughout the state. With a Net Promoter Score of 72, Ahola blends family values with world-class service. Non-family leaders thrive within a clear succession plan, as demonstrated by CFO Michael Paull’s promotion to President. Ahola is a family business that continues to grow by doing what is right — for its people, clients and Ohio’s business community. ●

 

Arslanian Brothers Carpet, Rug & Upholstery Cleaning was founded in 1959 by brothers Ted, Henry and Armen Arslanian who sought to bring superior carpet and rug cleaning services to the greater Cleveland area. Over the past half-century, Arslanian has grown from a modest carpet-cleaning operation into a regional industry leader known for excellence, innovation and customer care. Led by

President Ted Arslanian, the company’s success can be attributed to a blend of strong family values, strategic succession planning, innovation and inclusive business practices that engage family and non-family members alike.
Initially a small, hands-on operation, the company quickly built a reputation for quality workmanship and integrity. Evolving from residential services to full-service carpet and rug care, the company offers in-plant rug cleaning, wall-to-wall carpet cleaning, upholstery care and water damage restoration.
What has remained central to the Arslanian Brothers brand is its identity as a family-run enterprise. The company’s family roots have helped foster trust, loyalty and continuity within the organization and among its customer base. Clients often cite the comfort of dealing with a family business that stands behind its services, rather than an impersonal national chain. Internally, the strong family values of accountability, integrity and mutual respect have translated into a cohesive organizational culture. ●

 

CRES COR was founded in 1936 by George T. (GT) Baggott, a sheet metal fabricator. He saved and borrowed money to purchase his own machine and began taking jobs in his garage.
GT made products for local bakeries. He designed an innovative transport cabinet with corrugated side walls and a heating element. The invention caught the attention of Colonel Sanders of KFC, resulting in a business

relationship that lasted until the mid-1990s.
By the 1970s, GT’s three sons, George, Bill and Cliff, joined the business, but GT remained the driving force. After Bill’s unfortunate passing in 1984, GT contemplated succession planning — a haphazard process as his health deteriorated. Eventually, George and Cliff gained control and steadied the ship.
Vowing to avoid the growing pains of the first generation, George and Cliff collaborated with Case’s Weatherhead School of Business to develop a strategy for future generations, including adding non-family members in key leadership roles. Today, Cliff’s son, Greg Baggott, is the only family member actively involved in CRES COR. As President, Baggott has assembled a diverse executive team that supports a growth mindset. Perhaps the fourth generation of the Baggott family will join CRES COR in the future. ●

 

D&S Automotive began in 1977, born from founder Carmen Paterniti’s passion for the free spirit of the hippie van. What started as a hobby transformed into a business driven by enthusiasm for everything from custom-built interiors to bespoke paint jobs. The company’s one-stop approach quickly established D&S as a leader in the conversion van market.

By the early 1990s, the business had evolved to meet a growing demand for collision repair services. Before cars had OEM add-ons, D&S expanded its offerings to include automotive accessories, rebranding from D&S Custom Van and Autobody to D&S Automotive Collision and Accessories. The company developed strong relationships with insurance companies and began participating in Direct Repair Programs (DRPs). Today, D&S is a pre-approved partner with major insurers, including Progressive, State Farm, Nationwide and many more. The company’s commitment to providing exceptional customer experience is the cornerstone of its success.
Today, owner, CEO and president CJ Paterniti leads D&S Automotive, Collision & Restyling. The company’s ongoing success demonstrates its ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining a strong, family-owned local business. D&S stays committed to customer satisfaction, continuous improvement and community involvement, ensuring that meeting or exceeding customer expectations remains a core principle of the company. ●

 

Founded in 1999, Etactics has grown over the past 25 years into a thriving and innovative organization dedicated to improving the financial strength of health care providers nationwide. What began as a vision to provide cost-effective reimbursement solutions has evolved into a multi-generational, multi-family enterprise marked by family values, forward-thinking leadership and a commitment to both clients and employees.

Etactics is the product of two families working side by side, now in their second generation of leadership and involvement. The company’s founders have successfully transitioned operational, financial and strategic responsibilities to their children and extended family. This deep-rooted generational involvement has created a positive link between family values and business performance.
The strength of Etactics’ business model is reflected in its proactive succession planning and innovative practices. The founders intentionally mentored the next generation to ensure a seamless transition of leadership, while also promoting fresh perspectives and modern strategies.
Now led by CEO Timothy Drake, Etactics serves over 6,500 clients and processes more than 200 million transactions annually. The company exemplifies how family values, when thoughtfully integrated into business practices, can lead to lasting success and a meaningful impact for generations of family members and employees. ●

 

 

Fiorilli Construction Inc. was founded in 2001 by Carmen Fiorilli. An architect by trade and a visionary at heart, Fiorilli, today the company’s president, started the business as a small, family-driven venture that has grown into a powerhouse of commercial construction excellence.
The company is recognized for delivering outstanding services and high-quality products, with a focus on providing prompt solutions that alleviate clients’ construction anxieties. Over the years, the company has stayed true to its philosophy of “work hard, play hard,” fostering an innovative and energetic work environment.

At Fiorilli Construction, the family-oriented ethos runs deep. The company prioritizes Building Synergistic Authentic Relationships (BSAR), a philosophy that shapes its approach to both clients and employees. This commitment to go beyond the standard contractor-client relationship has cultivated a culture of trust, transparency and mutual respect. Fiorilli’s “Fio-Family” ethos extends to all stakeholders, ensuring that relationships are nurtured and valued.
While the company remains under the visionary leadership of its founder, Fiorilli Construction’s culture actively involves and empowers team members to take ownership and contribute to its success. This inclusive approach ensures that the company’s legacy is not only preserved but also enriched by the contributions of its diverse and talented team. ●

 

Fire-Dex is the fastest-growing global manufacturer of personal protective equipment (PPE). Founded in 1983, the family-owned company is headquartered in Medina, the hometown of owner and chairman Bill Burke. Despite the immense changes and growth the company has experienced over the past 40 years, Burke and his family remain committed to keeping Fire-Dex a family-owned business.

At its founding in 1983, Fire-Dex produced only one product: gloves. Today, the company is a highly respected international brand that manufactures dozens of innovative, industry-leading products and personal protection solutions for first responders. When Burke’s daughters joined Fire-Dex in 2019, it truly became a family business. In 2021, Taylor Burke Gilman became the president of Gear Wash, a Fire-Dex company that specializes in PPE care and maintenance. Her sister, Lauren DeVere, was named president of Fire-Dex that same year.
Fire-Dex recently announced that Burke DeVere will transition from her role as president to become the CEO of Fire-Dex in early 2026. She will work closely with the current CEO, Steve Allison, as he transitions toward retirement. In this new position, Burke DeVere will continue to expand Fire-Dex and deliver innovative solutions for first responders, advancing the company’s mission, “To Serve Those Who Serve.” ●

 

GV Art + Design was founded by brothers George III and Greg, along with their dad, George Jr. They turned their love for art and sports into a creative shop known for its artwork, design and apparel. George and Greg have been drawing since they were kids. Now, three generations are part of the business. George IV recently began helping in the store while starting college.

GV is renowned for bold and original work. Co-Owner George Vlosich has gained recognition as the top Etch A Sketch artist in the world, with his work featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, ESPN, Jimmy Kimmel Live and more. GV’s apparel line has expanded, showcasing unique designs that blend art, sports and city pride. The company has partnered with restaurants, schools and local organizations to create custom, vibrant designs. GV apparel is available at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Rally House, 500 Level, Meijer and other retailers. The company has also collaborated with popular athletes to help grow its brand.
GV is more than just family. The company has a strong team, with several employees who have been with the company for many years. Each team member feels like part of the GV family and contributes to a fun and hard-working environment. ●

 

 

At the heart of Halvo Kulinary Inc. are William and Dana Blumensaadt, the owners, visionaries and driving force behind one of Ohio’s most dynamic family-run hospitality enterprises. Operating as Orchard Catawba Island, their leadership over the past 11 years has transformed a modest 86-seat restaurant into a 24-acre agritourism destination.

The story began in 2014 when the couple opened Orchard Bar & Table in a long-vacant diner space. Fueled by a deep passion for food, community and place-based hospitality, they quickly cultivated a loyal following. From 2021 to 2024, Orchard experienced a remarkable expansion, including the extensive redevelopment of Orchard Bar & Table into a 400-seat, casual fine dining destination, the launch of The Farm Stand, an all-day café and retail space, and the opening of The Coop, a seasonal, high-end spirits and cocktail bar.
The next generation of the family is fully engaged in the company’s operations. Son Nikolai and daughter Mette, along with their spouses, Kenzie and Robbie, hold key leadership roles. The Blumensaadt’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, guest experience and the land itself — much of which is historically rooted in Catawba’s original apple orchards — has created a powerful brand that resonates with locals and travelers alike. ●

 

 

In 2002, Patti Conti turned personal loss into purpose. After the passing of her parents, she founded HMT Associates from her home in Broadview Heights. The agency’s name honors her parents’ initials and embodies their values, spirit and support. They taught Conti to lead with heart, to work hard and to believe in her vision.
Over two decades, HMT evolved into a full-service marketing agency with a powerful presence in brand and retail activation, promotions and hospitality services. Under Conti’s guidance, the agency thrived, delivering consistent growth and forming lasting partnerships with renowned brands like Oreo and Kraft Cheese. The greatest testament to success is hearing HMT’s clients say the team delivers on their mission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the business expanded, the heart of HMT stayed the same — a commitment to excellence, loyalty and people-first relationships. In 2019, as HMT faced industry shifts and pandemic-era uncertainty, Conti began transitioning the business to her children, Mandi Kleppel and Joe Conti. Both have proven themselves in various roles within the company and built strong reputations in the CPG industry. Under Mandi and Joe’s leadership, the agency continues to evolve while staying true to its founding principles. ●

 

 

Jetpack is a leader in private label fulfillment and custom contract nutraceutical and cosmetic manufacturing. The family-owned business was founded in 2015 by Fred Guerra, Rafat Abbas and Ashraf Abbas, who envisioned creating high-quality products with exceptional customer service. Over the years, the company has evolved from a small workshop into a large-scale operation. Key milestones include relocating the business from a garage to a historic building in Akron and expanding into two additional locations, resulting in a total of three buildings that have significantly contributed to the company’s growth and success.

Led today by Managing Partner Ashraf Abbas, Jetpack has benefited from the involvement of multiple generations. Each generation brings unique perspectives and skills, contributing to the company’s adaptability and resilience. The seamless leadership transition from one generation to the next has ensured continuity and sustained growth. By valuing the contributions of both family and non-family employees, the company has fostered an inclusive culture that has enhanced operational efficiency and knowledge-sharing.
Innovation is at the heart of Jetpack’s success. The company has implemented advanced manufacturing techniques, embraced novel technology and continually refined its processes. That commitment to innovation has enabled Jetpack to stay ahead of the competition and meet the evolving needs of customers. ●

 

 

Laketec is an information technology company headquartered in Northeast Ohio. Its team of 50 caring and capable individuals prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. Laketec’s robust portfolio of hardware, software and related services is carefully curated to include only the very best manufacturers. By combining these partners with a highly trained Design and Engineering team, Laketec delivers comprehensive IT solutions from start to finish.

President Joe Little recalls when his dad started Laketec from their home and garage in Lakewood when he was six years old. The phone rang day and night, and Little’s dad would spring into action, serving as a one-man technician for his customers. Despite the late-night calls, Little always knew he wanted to lead the family business one day, and that meant learning the company from within. Entering a business as a second-generation leader brings both opportunities and challenges, but the amazing team at Laketec helped him feel welcome and supported.
The rapid pace of the tech industry can be daunting, but Laketec continues to evolve and meet growing market needs. This year, the company is rebranding, including a new website, logo and social media strategy. As Laketec expands its reach further into the Midwest and hires in new territories, the company’s future is bright. ●

 

MISCO Refractometer is a precision instrumentation company solving complex fluid measurement challenges through state-of-the-art refractometry. As one of the only companies specializing solely in refractometers — optical instruments that analyze fluid properties — MISCO has earned a reputation as a global leader in precision testing solutions.
The company’s refractometers play critical roles across various industries, including aerospace, automotive,

industrial, metalworking, agriculture, medical, veterinary, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage sectors. Trusted by leading institutions and brands, MISCO has become synonymous with accuracy and reliability.
Founded in 1949 by World War II veteran Edward Rainer, The Mercury Iron & Steel Company (MISCO) began by brokering scrap steel. Edward’s entrepreneurial spirit and relentless work ethic transformed the company into a major steel broker, known for pioneering just-in-time delivery long before it became an industry standard. By the mid-1970s, with the domestic steel industry in decline, MISCO pivoted fully to refractometers. The company’s precision instruments quickly gained recognition for excellence.
From its beginnings, MISCO has been a proud family-owned business. Edward led the company with his mother and sister. His son, Michael Rainer, joined in the 1990s and now serves as CEO. Michael’s wife, Leanne, plays a key leadership role, and their son Gabriel represents the fourth generation interested in carrying MISCO forward. ●

 

Angelo Petitti was born into a farming family in Faeto, Italy, and immigrated to Ohio in 1963. He worked various jobs, including landscaping, while attending Kent State University. In 1966, he launched Petitti Landscape Company with his brother Domenico, using an oversized garage in Oakwood Village as their headquarters. The garage gradually drew visitors wanting to purchase plants, which led Angelo to open the first Petitti Garden Center on that same site in 1971.

From its humble beginnings, the company has been deeply rooted in family passion and partnership. Angelo was soon joined by his wife, Maria, whose administrative savvy and plant photography skills shaped the early business. Their children, A.J., Andria and Lisa, grew up helping around the garden centers.
Today, A.J. serves as President, working alongside his father in daily operations. This intergenerational collaboration has fostered a culture of empowerment, continuity and shared values. Additionally, the family’s inclusive leadership style has encouraged long-tenured employees and community loyalty.
For the 40th consecutive year, Angelo has shared education and inspiration — propagating knowledge — on his “Gardening with Angelo” Saturday morning radio show. Petitti Garden Centers celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021 and opened its 10th garden center this year. ●

 

 

For over 70 years, PRADCO has been a trusted partner to organizations seeking to unlock the full potential of their people. Founded in 1955 in Cleveland by pioneers Erwin Taylor, Edwin Nevis and Richard Barrett, PRADCO began with a bold vision: to elevate performance through insightful employee assessment and leadership development. Early partnerships with industry giants like Republic Steel, National City Bank and Chevrolet set the stage for a legacy of excellence.

As PRADCO evolved, so did its leadership. In 1975, Stanley Rubin took the helm, followed by Dr. Terry Owen in 1985. With his wife, Edda, and daughter, Dr. Kristin Tull, Terry transformed PRADCO into a boutique, high-performing consultancy known for its personalized approach and measurable results.
Currently president and majority owner, Dr. Tull joined PRADCO in 1991 while earning her Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Over the past 30 years, in addition to her account management and business development acumen, she has been an industry leader in the creation and validation of the assessment instruments that constitute the backbone of PRADCO’s evaluation strategy today.
PRADCO’s team of licensed psychologists and management consultants delivers tailored solutions that align with each client’s unique goals. From proprietary assessments to executive coaching and organizational development, the company provides actionable insights that drive performance and growth. ●

 

Christopher John was 47 years old when he and his wife Stephanie (Steffie) founded PRO DESIGN. Chris was looking for a change from the corporate world and was ready to stay closer to home with his family. Fate intervened when Chris was let go from his employer in New Jersey, and he moved the family back to Ohio. The time was finally right for Chris and Steffie to start their own business.

The couple was working with a friend handling import orders for companies in the window treatment industry when a customer asked Chris to help source a program for custom bamboo and natural shades. Chris’s network of contacts helped him find the right manufacturer, and PRO DESIGN was born.
With no viable manufacturers in the USA, the couple worked with a small family company in China that owned a bamboo forest. It took over a year to complete their first sale. However, after many visits to China, Chris and Steffie were on their way. Growth was steady and manageable.
In 2016, PRO DESIGN landed the Budget Blinds account, and the business quickly expanded. The company grew from 20 customers to over 400 in an instant and now serves more than 1,000 clients. ●

 

The Levy family’s journey with RED the Steakhouse is one rooted in passion, persistence and pride. What began as a bold idea to bring elevated steakhouse dining to Northeast Ohio has evolved into a multigenerational family endeavor, shaped by shared values and a commitment to excellence.

RED the Steakhouse was founded with a vision to offer high-end, hospitality-driven dining in an environment that balances sophistication with comfort. Over the years, the brand has expanded to meet the changing needs of its guests, all while maintaining a

commitment to quality in both service and cuisine. From refining its culinary offerings to modernizing spaces and expanding rooftop and private dining experiences, RED has consistently evolved without compromising its core identity.
The heart of the company’s success lies in the deeply rooted connection between family and business. When Gregg Levy took over RED, it quickly became more than just a restaurant; it became a family legacy. This generational bridge fosters continuity, honors the legacy they’ve built, and ensures they remain connected to both tradition and innovation. Each generation brings fresh ideas and a renewed energy, while staying anchored in the principles that RED was founded on. ●

 

Sheiban Jewelers is a luxury jeweler located in Strongsville, offering custom-designed fine jewelry and a curated selection of Swiss timepieces. The jeweler is an authorized retailer of renowned brands, including Tacori, Michael M, Breitling, Tudor, and provides expert jewelry repair and full-service watch maintenance. For 50 years, Sheiban Jewelers has built its reputation on exceptional craftsmanship and lasting customer relationships.

Founded in 1975 by master jeweler Tony Sheiban, the business has roots that stretch back over a century. Tony began working alongside his father, a skilled jeweler in Lebanon, at the age of 10. His father-in-law was a watchmaker, enriching the family’s expertise across both disciplines. In 1973, he immigrated to the United States and worked in jewelry manufacturing before saving enough to open his first store in downtown Cleveland in 1975.
Today, Tony runs the company alongside his two sons, Chris and Jason. Both began learning the trade as young boys, spending time in the store and at the workbench under their father’s guidance. Chris, today the company’s Vice President, soldered his first chain at age nine, and Jason formed his first ring at eight. They later formalized their expertise as graduates of the Gemological Institute of America and now represent the fifth generation of the family’s jewelry legacy. ●

 

Total Distribution, Inc., a Peoples Services company, combines three generations of experience with constant innovation. The company’s network of dedicated employees, transloading facilities, rail and freight terminals, warehouses and asset-based transportation provides fast, simple logistics solutions.

Total Distribution has a rich history spanning a century. In 1914, Joseph Schrader founded Peoples Cartage and Storage Company, the first commercial trucking firm in Massillon and the surrounding area. In 1946, Raymond (Ray) L. Sibila, owner of Sibila Trucking, purchased the company. Ray was the president, and his son, Don, was the vice president. Ray’s other son, Ron, joined in 1957 after graduating from Ohio University and serving three years as a navigator in the U.S. Air Force. Since then, many family members have contributed to the firm’s success.
The company entered the public warehousing sector in the late 1960s. In 2001, Ron’s son, Douglas Sibila, was elected President and Chief Operating Officer. Doug began working full-time at the company in 1990. He became CEO in 2004, with Ron remaining as Chairman of the Board.
Today, Total Distribution employs over 1,100 team members, operating 13 million square feet of public and contract warehouse space across 72 locations and managing a fleet of over 600 company-owned tractors and trailers. ●

 

Woodman Agitator Inc., established in 1947 by Mel Woodman, has become a cornerstone in the industrial packaging sector, specializing in the design and manufacture of in-drum agitators. Headquartered in Avon, the company has played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality and consistency of products stored in steel drums, particularly in sectors such as paints, coatings, adhesives and inks.

In the mid-20th century, maintaining the homogeneity of pigment-based products during storage in steel drums was a common challenge. Mel introduced the in-drum agitator — a device designed to continuously mix contents, ensuring that pigments or other components remain evenly distributed. This innovation addressed the problems of settling and separation.
Today, Woodman Agitator is led by Mary Woodman Bielozer and her husband, James Bielozer. Both Mary and James have played pivotal roles in upholding the company’s tradition of innovation, family ownership and American manufacturing. Their son, Keith Bielozer, has been with the company for 28 years and has served as president since 2021. Under his leadership, Woodman Agitator has expanded its capabilities and maintained strong relationships with drum manufacturers across North America and Europe. Keith’s extensive experience and commitment to the industry have been vital in guiding the company through evolving market demands and technological advancements. ●