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Off the Wagon opens third Ohio shop in Medina; mayor, council and local groups attend ribbon cutting
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Summary
Off the Wagon celebrated the opening of its downtown Medina store — the retailer's third Ohio location — at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Jim Shields, city council members, Main Street Medina and the Medina Chamber of Commerce.
Off the Wagon celebrated the opening of its new downtown Medina store at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city officials, local business groups and a representative from Congressman Max Miller’s office.
Event host Kimberly introduced Michelle Saar, the owner of Off the Wagon, and her daughter Meg Saar, identified in remarks as the regional manager. Michelle Saar thanked Medina for being welcoming and said the new store — the company’s third Ohio location — occupies the whole building, including upstairs space. “You guys have been the easiest city to work with,” Saar said, citing the city’s clear communication and cooperation as factors in choosing the downtown location.
Mayor Jim Shields, who took office about a month ago, welcomed the business and introduced Councilmember Denny Simpson (Ward 2), Councilmember Natalie DeSalvo and Councilmember Chet Simmons (Ward 1). Shields said the city would support the new tenant: “We’re gonna do everything we can to make you know that this was the best decision ever to come to Medina. I promise you that,” he said.
The ribbon-cutting was organized in cooperation with the Medina Chamber of Commerce; Jacqueline Reesmeyer, the Chamber’s executive director, was on hand to assist. George, an executive director for Main Street Medina, spoke for the Economic Vitality Committee to welcome Off the Wagon as a downtown business and member.
Mayor Shields presented a proclamation on behalf of the board of county commissioners welcoming the business to the county, and he said Senator Romichuk (Ohio Senate) sent a congratulatory document that could not be delivered in person. Ray Paletta, representing Congressman Max Miller’s office, congratulated the owners and encouraged the store’s engagement with the downtown community.
Property owner Megan Harbath was also recognized; Michelle Saar thanked Harbath for renovating and restoring the building. The ceremony closed with a short countdown and photo opportunity before attendees dispersed. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken at the event.
Photos and a recorded video of the ceremony were noted as being produced by Medina TV staff on site.
