Celebrating Local Excellence: Madison Village Honors Three Outstanding Businesses
In a heartwarming ceremony held on September 26, three businesses in Madison Village were recognized for their significant contributions to the local economy. The Madison Means Business awards, sponsored by the Madison Village government, celebrated the hard work and dedication of these establishments, which have become integral parts of the community. The honored businesses—Video Game Nirvana, The Red Berry Candy Store, and Madison Brewing Co.—each exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship and community engagement that drives Madison forward.
A Tradition of Recognition
The Madison Means Business program was initiated in 2016, with the aim of acknowledging the efforts of established businesses that often go unnoticed despite their vital roles in the local economy. Village Administrator Dwayne Bailey emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, “There’s so much effort put into economic development and trying to bring new business into the community that oftentimes, the folks who are doing business here day in and day out and are really the backbone of our local economy are overlooked.” The awards are presented biannually, in March and September, allowing the village to consistently honor those who contribute to its economic vitality.
Video Game Nirvana: A Gamer’s Paradise
Located at 66 W. Main St., Video Game Nirvana has quickly become a beloved destination for gamers and collectors alike. As the store approaches its fifth anniversary, it boasts an impressive selection of video games, consoles, and accessories. During the awards ceremony, Bailey praised the store as “an awesome addition to our little downtown,” highlighting its role in attracting visitors from across the region.
Owner R.J. Lukacs expressed his gratitude for the community’s support, noting the strategic location of his store near the Interstate 90 and Route 528 interchange. “From Cleveland to Erie, everybody comes here,” he remarked, underscoring the store’s appeal and its contribution to local foot traffic.
The Red Berry Candy Store: Sweetening the Community
As The Red Berry Candy Store prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary this December, it continues to delight customers with over 2,000 varieties of candy and sweet treats. Located at 3098 Hubbard Road, the store is a haven for candy lovers, offering everything from chocolate to saltwater taffy and Jelly Belly jelly beans.
Bailey commended the store for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional customer service, stating, “The staff is always super helpful and super friendly down there. It’s just a great business to have in town.” Owner Candy Nichols is committed to creating enjoyable experiences for her customers and emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community through donations and sponsorships.
Madison Brewing Co.: A New Flavor in Town
Madison Brewing Co., situated at 70 W. Main St., is the newest addition to the village’s vibrant business landscape. Having opened in late May after acquiring Cornerstone Brewing Co., the establishment aims to provide a family-friendly brewery atmosphere along with high-quality beer and food. Co-owner Mathias Hauck expressed excitement about being part of the Madison community, stating, “This is our fifth location, and one of my favorites. We really have a great staff here.”
Bailey acknowledged the brewery’s trust in the community as a prime location for their new venture, highlighting the importance of local businesses in fostering economic growth.
A Symbol of Success
Each of the award-winning businesses received a commemorative plaque to display in their establishments, along with the opportunity to sign a Madison Means Business poster that will be showcased at Village Hall. This recognition not only honors their achievements but also serves as a reminder of the vital role they play in the community.
As the ceremony concluded, Bailey extended his best wishes to all the winning businesses, encouraging them to continue their success in the future. The Madison Means Business awards not only celebrate the accomplishments of these local enterprises but also inspire other businesses to strive for excellence and contribute to the community’s economic development.
In a world where small businesses often face numerous challenges, the recognition of Video Game Nirvana, The Red Berry Candy Store, and Madison Brewing Co. serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of local entrepreneurs. Their stories remind us of the importance of supporting local businesses and the positive impact they have on our communities.