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The Life and Times of Marty V – Holiday Adventures!

November 16, 2018
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Marty V, the pup who inspired The Cuyahoga Group’s All-American favorite, The Marty V Hotdog Line, has been hard at work these past several months, and he graciously took the time to talk out of his busy schedule to talk with us again.

 

Let’s begin with a recent inspiring quote from Marty V, proudly displayed on the breakroom wall in our North Ridgeville Culinary Center:

 

“I’m happy to share my wisdom to help The Cuyahoga Group discover the best in food and beverage options in Vending, Micro-Markets, Mobile Dining, Catering and Office Coffee, but I can’t take all the credit, it’s in my DNA. I come from a long line of fiercely adorable, curly-haired pack dogs. Do you think we wanted to roam for miles to catch or gather great tasting meals, snacks and beverages? Of course not! Over many generations, we finally figured out that we wanted our culinary favorites stocked and ready to grab-n-go, in the comfort of our workplace! May the wisdom of the ages inspire us all.” –Marty V.

 

Thank you for the inspiration, Marty, and now, let’s get to the interview:

CuyGroup:  The Marty V hot dog line is doing very well, and we know you’ve been working around the clock, so now that the holidays are almost here, are you going to slow down and relax a little?

 

Marty: Here’s the thing, slowing down is not who I am. Before my ancestors invented fresh food vending, they roamed for days just to capture the best wild lettuce and clover for a nice salad. So, to answer your question, no, I will not just hang around all day guzzling martini’s and chasing stuffed animals, that would dishonor their legacy, get it?

 

CuyGroup: Well yes, Marty, we get it, but we also heard that you took a little time to celebrate Halloween, and we have a picture to prove it.


Marty: What are you, the National Enquirer? The Cleveland paparazzi? If I wanted my own reality TV show, believe me, I’d get it. “The Real House Dogs of Cleveland” have already contacted me, but I turned them down. Ok fine, I do enjoy a good holiday as much as the next pup. And yes, I did partake in Halloween, reluctantly. Jack-O-Lanterns freak me out, I won’t look directly at them. My parents didn’t carve a pumpkin this year, but they did make me wear the costume. I could’ve torn it up in less than thirty seconds, but I decided to be a good son and just deal with it. They take really good care of me, so the least I could do was ignore my pride and suffer several hours of humiliation to bring some delight to their day. I hope they’re happy.

 

CuyGroup: Wow, strong feelings about Halloween. So, did you go Trick-or-Treating on Halloween night?


Marty:  After the picture-taking and the ‘Oh he looks so cute’ comments, I mentioned that I’d like to at least score some candy to balance out the humiliation, so off we went. As soon as we got to the end of the driveway, I spotted Sofia walking toward us—she’s a calico cat. I asked her out on a date once, and she just turned her furry head and walked away. She obviously doesn’t know a good thing when she sees it (like all cats). Anyway, Sofia was sporting a lioness costume—what a joke. I gave her an eyeroll and she hissed, and that was it for me. I was like, “mom, dad, I’m done, I’m going home.” Lucky for me, I got back inside the house just in time to watch Jeopardy.

 

CuyGroup: Will you be seeing Santa Claus this year?


Marty: Duh, yes, I see Santa every year, and I’m talking real Santa, not fake, mall Santa. I happen to know the real Santa personally, in fact, we talk often. Santa is meeting me this year at a not-to-be-named location, somewhere along East 9th, near the lake. I’m going to modify the way Santa delivers presents.  He is finally understanding, after hundreds of years, that dogs are better than reindeer to lead his sleigh. You’ve heard of dog sled races, haven’t you? Have you heard of reindeer sled races? No, you haven’t, and for good reason.


CuyGroup: Good point, but Santa Claus has special reindeer that can fly.


Marty: Good point, NOT! Certain dog breeds can fly, and you’re looking at one. Google it if you don’t believe me. Some reindeer can fly, but not as safely or swiftly as dogs. Do the darn math, geez.

 

CuyGroup: You truly are a pup of many talents. So, to switch topics, we hear that you’re attending night school.  What are you studying?


Marty: Thank you, I don’t like to brag, but yes, talent seems to follow me around. Night school, well, that’s an interesting question. I’ll explain it this way: our clever ways cause stress to our human family, so they send us to night school to ‘train’ us, bless their hearts.  At my night school, though, I am learning great skills on how to train my humans.

 

CuyGroup: How is that working for you?


Marty: It’s working great, I’ve already trained my parents to stop talking. It’s the stare-down technique, and it usually works like a charm. I have a great instructor, her name is Diane and she’s old school, no-nonsense. The commands she teaches are rooted in human psychology, it’s legit. Like, when I want a treat, I’ll do a little trick, like roll over, and if that doesn’t work, I’ll bark my head off until they can’t take it anymore—and either way I get the treat.

 

CuyGroup: So back to the holidays, do you have your holiday gift list complete? What are you asking for this year?


Marty: As far as what I want, just normal stuff, like peace on Earth, and a little peace and quiet at home, and maybe a little less cuddling. My parents are great, but all the cuddling ruins my curls.  I’d also like any item that tastes or looks like bacon; also, hotdogs and chicken salad wedges, and an occasional can of Mountain Dew. Oh, forgot to mention, I’m going to volunteer my time to hang with my friends (yes, even the cats) at the Animal Protective League. There but for the grace of dog go I.

CuyGroup: Well said, Marty. Thank you for the candid interview, we’ll catch up with you in the New Year.


Marty: You’re quite welcome.

 


The Cuyahoga Groups brings the Best in Vending and Micro-Markets
To your Employees!

 

We bring delicious, nutritious and convenient workplace choices to your breakroom through our Vending, Micro-Market, Office Coffee, Mobile Dining, and Catering , from Fresh Salads, Homemade Chicken Salad Wedges, Quick & Healthy Snacks, Savory Hotdogs, Subs, Wraps, Homemade Meals, Hydrating Waters, Beverages and Artisan Coffee—The Cuyahoga Group has all the options to keep your employees well-fed, happy and energized throughout the workday and for every season!

 

Check out The Cuyahoga Group for the best in Vending, Micro-Markets, Mobile Dining, Catering and Coffee Service for your workplace! We are a family and veteran-owned and operated company.

 

CLICK HERE to contact us today!

Land of the free: Thank a Veteran

November 8, 2018
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Veterans Day is designated as November 11th, and this year the designated federal holiday is observed on Monday, November 12th.  The Cuyahoga Group is a veteran-owned and operated family company, and we would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation to all United States veterans, active military members, and their families.

To the following U.S. veterans who are part of The Cuyahoga Group team, we thank you for service and sacrifice:

 

Jim Variglotti, founder and CEO of The Cuyahoga Group,
U.S. Navy veteran who served honorably during the Vietnam War.

 

Vince Variglotti, President of The Cuyahoga Group,
served honorably for seven years as lieutenant in the U.S Navy during Enduring Freedom.

 

Gerald Ritch, Specialist Fifth Class,
served honorably for two years in U.S. Army, from July 1966 to June 1968.

 

Colton (Colt) Costello, served honorably for six years as Sergeant in the U.S. Army.

 

Tracey Boyer served honorably for eight years as Private First Class in the U.S. Army Reserve.

 

  
Jim Variglotti                                                           Vince Variglotti

 

On Veterans Day and every day, let us renew our commitment to showing our support and appreciation to our veterans and their families—they are all American heroes.

 

“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”—Arthur Ashe

 

Tennis legend Arthur Ashe served as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. In 1993, he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and is named for the ESPY Arthur Ashe Courage Award.

 

No person, and no veteran, should be homeless in our nation

Homelessness in our nation is a tragic reality, and many of those living on the streets are United States veterans. One of the reasons for the high number of homeless veterans is  linked to PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)—directly connected to their service to our nation.  For information on how to help, and to review top-rated charities whose mission is to offer treatment, housing and supportive services to homeless veterans, click here.

 

To learn more about top-rated nonprofit organizations for veterans and their families, click here.

The Cuyahoga Group is Thankful for YOU!

November 1, 2018
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November marks the start of the holiday season, and Thanksgiving is just a couple of weeks away. So in the spirit of thankfulness, The Cuyahoga Group would like to express our gratitude to each of our team members, and to the partnerships we’ve grown with all of our customers.

Thankful Thursdays have arrived at The Cuyahoga Group to show our appreciation for all that our employees do. To say thank you, prizes will be raffled every Thursday, and Friday in the month of November.

November discounts at our Micro-Markets and Vending!

To show our appreciation to our customers, we are offering a new healthy, hearty, on-the-go soup: Campbells Well Yes!  Grab one at a discount starting November 12th at most of our Micro-Markets.

 

And the discounts don’t stop there! From November 5  through November 16, visit a Micro-Market and purchase Skittles for only 75 cents—or visit one of our Vending machines to purchase Skittles for a chance to win a gift card!

 

Late autumn also brings the flavors and spices we love, and our premier brand of Pumpkin Spice Coffee infuses a bold and beautiful spark to any workday—and just one of the many delightful flavor options that our Office Coffee Service delivers, right to your break room!

 

Honor and Express Gratitude to Veterans—by casting your VOTE!

 

Veterans Day is designated this year on Sunday, November 11 and is observed on Monday, November 12. The Cuyahoga Group, founded, owned and operated by veterans, expresses our deepest gratitude for the service and sacrifice of all U.S. veterans, active military members, and their families. One of the greatest ways to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and active military members is to exercise our right to vote! On November 6, make your voice heard!

 

For quality food, snack and beverage options in your workplace—call us!

 

During November, the holidays, or any time of year, The Cuyahoga Group provides the very best in Vending, Micro-Markets, Mobile Dining, Office Coffee and Catering Services. We deliver all the meal, snack and beverage choices that your employees need to refuel and recharge through the workday, without the expense or hassle of leaving the premises.

To contact us, click here or call us at 800-901-8363.

 

 

 

The Cuyahoga Group Employee Spotlight: Chef Andy Yanak

October 26, 2018
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Executive Chef Andy Yanak is celebrating twenty years at The Cuyahoga Group. He is the Director and Co-Owner of Catering Experience, a division of The Cuyahoga Group. Andy brings decades of restaurant, private and corporate culinary experience that transforms workplaces into memorable, celebratory occasions.

 

Whether it’s holiday catering for third shift employees at a family-owned machine shop, an outdoor bar-b-que for thousands held under tents and lights in the parking lot of a global corporation—or weddings, showers, or any occasion in between, Andy’s attention to detail, delicious culinary creations and superior service, framed in customized themed settings—elevates any atmosphere to a place that brings people together for amazing food, friendship and unforgettable memories.

 

 

 

Let’s find out a little more about Chef Andy Yanak:

 

What is your role with The Cuyahoga Group?
Andy: I’ve had many roles with the company, from Dining Unit Manager to one of eight District Managers overseeing ten cafés. After the Compass merger, I opened Catering Experience, which is the catering division of The Cuyahoga Group.  Along the way I’ve been a part of many Task Groups, Sales Presentations, New Openings and Unit Transitions.  I’ve also helped develop our new Mobile Dining Program.  Currently, my role is the Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Catering Experience, and I continue to help out wherever needed.

 

How long have you worked for The Cuyahoga Group?
Andy: As of October 14, 2018, I have been with The Cuyahoga Group for twenty years.

 

What do you like most about your job, and why?
Andy: The trust and respect from the Executive Team to run with an idea—and they challenge us to do our best to improve the programs.

 

Tell us a fun fact (or facts) about yourself:
Andy: I have been married to my best friend, Lisa, for 32 years, and we both love sports.

 

What is your favorite food/favorite meal?
Andy: A medium rare filet with white cheddar mashed potatoes, any vegetable, and a nice glass of Appassimento wine (made from dried grapes).

 

What is your favorite type of music?
Andy: Classic 70’s & 80’s music – Fleetwood Mac, ELO, Three Dog Night.

 

 

 

Please tell us about a goal you’d like to accomplish someday:
Andy: I like to continue to travel with Lisa and continue to Live, Laugh and Love!


Thank you, Andy!

 

For the best in Workplace Celebrations, choose Catering Experience!

 

For holiday catering or special occasions, let Catering Experience provide an experience where superior food, excellent service and vibrant themes bring happiness and great memories for everyone who attends!

 

For menu and event theme ideas or to get a quick quote, check out our Catering Experience website, and let the celebrations begin!

 

Email Andy Yanak at ayanak@cuygroup.com; or
Call him at (800) 901-8363 ext. 110; or (216) 402-1292.

 

Check out The Catering Experience blog, here.

Knowing our Customers is how We Grow

October 17, 2018
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Today is National Get to Know Your Customers Day. The Cuyahoga Group is celebrating this designated day because getting to know our customers is the foundation of our company’s growth over the past 31 years.

 

In 1987 Jim Variglotti, founder and CEO of The Cuyahoga Group, transitioned from vending machine mechanic to vending machine owner, and quickly learned that understanding the culinary and beverage needs of his customers—and delivering on that knowledge, was key to building strong customer partnerships and growing the company.

 

Jim also understood that forging customer relationships begins and ends with the highest level of customer service, framed by elements of quality products, mutual trust, respect, honesty—and always going the extra mile to meet and exceed customer expectations.

 

From our route drivers, office associates and culinary team, to our management and executive staff, these values run through all Vending, Micro-Market, Office Coffee, Mobile Dining and Catering services at The Cuyahoga Group.


Grateful for our Customer
Starting with Jim’s first customer 31 years ago, The Cuyahoga Group has grown to include thousands of customers across three states.  We provide workplace culinary, beverage, mobile dining and catering services to companies large and small—from family-owned businesses to global corporations that span the spectrum of retail, healthcare, manufacturing, government, education, recreation, financial and nonprofit organizations.

Our customers are as diverse as the industries we serve, which is why we regularly take the time to learn about what food and beverage options our customers want. Understanding customer needs through surveys, including our ‘Cookie for Your Thoughts’ program, helps us to tailor workplace Vending, Micro-Market, Office Coffee and Mobile Dining services to suit the specific requests and tastes of each client—keeping them energized and hydrated, without the hassle or cost of leaving the workplace.

 

Variety in food & beverage products—it’s what our customers want!

 

At home and in the workplace, we’re more healthy-savvy than ever before, and The Cuyahoga Group strives to customize healthy workplace food and beverage options through our Healthy Line of products. Gluten-free, low-sodium, high protein, low-carb or organic—we’ve got it!

 

Our Vending, Office Coffee and Micro-Markets services support wellness programs in the workplace through a variety of options—from fresh and healthy wraps, yogurt, natural cheese, salads, hummus and homemade soups and meals delivered daily, to popular brand items like Cliff® and Nature Valley® granola bars, Planters® Fruit and Nut options, to healthy hydration with Life Water®, Pure Leaf®, and Gold Peak® products—The Cuyahoga Group has the variety, convenience and taste that our customers want!

 

Let us Get to Know Your Team: Contact us today!

 

To contact The Cuyahoga Group about providing the best in culinary choices for your workplace, click here or call us at 800-901-8363.

We celebrate National Farmers Day

October 12, 2018
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The Cuyahoga Group honors all family farms on October 12, which is designated as National Farmers Day.  Nothing tastes better, or is better for your health and well-being, than food that is locally sourced. Local farmer’s markets have made a comeback, and the nutritional benefits of farm-to-table methods has taken root across the American landscape.

 

From organic, fresh fruits and vegetables, to naturally produced chicken and beef, The Cuyahoga Group partners with Ohio family farmers whenever possible, to bring our customers the highest quality in snack and meal options.

 

Our North Ridgeville Culinary Center prepares fresh, homemade soups, sandwiches, subs and meals that are delivered daily to your workplace. We customize our Micro-Market, Vending and Coffee service options to suit the needs of your employees, offering healthier items and non-GMO, gluten-free, allergen-free and organic items.

 

 

 

Contact us for the best in workplace food, snack and beverage options!

 

During October, or any time of year, The Cuyahoga Group provides the very best in Vending, Micro-Markets, Mobile Dining, Office Coffee and Catering Services. We deliver all the meal, snack and beverage choices that your employees need to refuel and recharge through the workday, without the expense or hassle of leaving the premises.

 

To contact us, click here or call us at 800-901-8363.

On October 5th and every day, Do Something Nice!

October 5, 2018
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At The Cuyahoga Group, we think National Do Something Nice Day, designated on October 5th should be practiced every day!   

 

Although it’s an overused expression, ‘practicing kindness’ is a powerful concept.  To use another expression, you get what you give. With minimal effort, a kind word or thoughtful gesture can go a long way and may even be transformative.  In today’s world of seemingly endless strife and conflict, we believe that simple acts of kindness practiced in our small corner of the world—in our homes and in our workplaces, make a positive difference.  

 

The Cuyahoga Group values and encourages ideals of respect, integrity and gratitude, and these are the building blocks upon which our company was founded. Our handshake was, and still is, our word—and we strive to always go the extra mile to ensure the happiness of our customers and our team members. 

 

Aside from our commitment to delivering the best in workplace food and beverage options, we offer our customers Vend Coupons, Promotions and Give-A-Ways, and we’re always seeking new ways, big and small, to show our appreciation to our customers, and to our team members. 

 

Whether we’re developing new programs to encourage employment of U.S. Veterans, providing incentives and advancement opportunities for our team, or holding our Annual Supplier Appreciation Day, Annual Managers Meeting, or our internal Quarterly Team Meetings—we try to practice kindness and encourage our team, customers and partners to do the same. 

  

 

So, on October 5, and every day, do something nice and pay it forward. At The Cuyahoga Group, we know that whether at home or at work, there is strength in kindness. 

Do Something Nice for Your Employees: Contact Us! 

 

The Cuyahoga Group provides the very best in Vending, Micro-Markets, Mobile Dining, Office Coffee and Catering Services. We deliver quality snack, meal, beverage and coffee options that your employees need to keep them energized and happy throughout their workday—without the cost or hassle of leaving the building.

 

To contact us, click here or call us at 800-901-8363. 

 

Celebrate National Coffee Day… with the best in workplace coffee!

September 27, 2018
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A hot, fresh cup of coffee—it’s not just for breakfast anymore. We are passionate about coffee—and we expect the best in freshly brewed, quality coffee everywhere we go—and that includes while we’re at work!   The Cuyahoga Group celebrates National Coffee Day, because we know that quick, convenient access to a great cup of coffee is what your employees need to bring a spark of taste, energy and swing into their workday. 

 

Who isn’t happier, more alert and more productive with great coffee? No one! That’s why more of us than ever are seeking great coffee at work.  

We bring many coffee options right to your break room!  

The Cuyahoga Group’s Office Coffee Service brings supreme coffee products, services and supplies into your workplace, without the hassle of leaving work—or the cost.   

 

So, when you’re at work and it’s time for a quick lift in spirit and energy, there’s nothing like coffee to rejuvenate the day—and it all it takes is a walk to the breakroom! We make getting that perfect cup of coffee so easy, affordable and delicious! 

 

We Customize Coffee Options to suit your Employees! 

Ask ten people how they like their coffee, and you’ll probably get ten different answers. We know precisely how we like our coffee—and that’s exactly why The Cuyahoga Group provides  a wide array of coffee options guaranteed to suit the palate of even your pickiest employee! 

 

From fresh-roasted Bean-to-Cup, to old-fashioned Slow-Drip, to Fair-Trade, Sustainable Certified and Certified Organic brands and options—to our own signature brand, Frisco Bay® – we have the coffee choices that your associates need to get them successfully the through the workday.

 

Our exclusive coffee roaster, Mother Parker, has 100 years of experience in perfecting the coffee roasting experience by investing in premier technology, methods and practices, to consistently bring fresh, rich flavor of coffee beans to every cup.    

 

We also offer Pantry Services that include cups, lids, stirrers, and cream or sugar—and we’ll soon be rolling out our new Cold Brew line.   

 

Enjoy fall flavors with our Pumpkin Spice Coffee! 

 

Nothing tastes better on a crisp, cool day then a hot cup of fresh coffee infused with the fall flavor of Pumpkin Spice. Look for an array of Pumpkin Spice coffee options at our Office Coffee stations in your break room!  

To bring the beauty of coffee to your workplace—contact us! 

Help keep your employees happy and bright throughout their workday with the freshness, quality, great taste and convenience of our Office Coffee options and services. For more information, click here. 

To contact our Office Coffee Service Manager, Denise Ebenhoh, click here.

The Life and Times of Marty V: Meet the pup who inspired the brand!

September 25, 2018
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The Cuyahoga Group is happy to announce our latest in fresh, delicious meal options for your
workplace, an All-American favorite: The Marty V Hotdog line!

 

We all know that Mary V is a top dog, but he isn’t just spending his time hotdogging around with a pretty face —he’s got smarts too. In fact, Marty V has a real knack for inspiring great food for your workplace, and he sure knows his way around a kitchen (floor, just ask the crumbs). So, let’s take a few moments to get to know this king among canines. We recently sat down for an interview with Marty V, and although he was fidgety at times and barked once, he seemed (mostly) agreeable to answering all the questions that we asked him.

 

     

 

How old are you, and what’s your astrological sign?

Marty: I just turned one year old on July 30th – that’s about seven years old in human years.
My astrological sign is Leo, the majestic Lion, which describes me perfectly.

 

You are adorable and fluffy, what is your heritage?

Marty: Thank you, but fluffy, really? I’ll ignore that. I am of Australian Labradoodle descent.

 

Where do you live and with whom do you live?

Marty: I live with my humans, aka mom and dad. We live in Florida for six months then back
to Ohio for the other six. I love Florida for two reasons: I have a lot of seagull friends, and dogs
are allowed to drive cars in the sunshine state. Ohio has some catching up to do.

 

What is your biggest pet peeve? (no pun intended)

Marty: Let me put it this way, I love my family, and I appreciate that they totally adore me, but
all the constant cuddling!? I repeatedly tell them I need some personal space, but they don’t
listen.

 

Who is your favorite human? And tell us why that human is your favorite!

Marty: Mom, don’t be upset, but I have to say dad. He ‘gets’ me better than anyone.

 

Describe your personality to us: are you the quiet, thoughtful type? Or a real hotdog and life of the party? Or maybe, you’re a mix of both?

Marty: Are you kidding me? I’m the life of the party, paws down. (Or paws up, if I’m kickin’ an
awesome groove).

 

Do you have any hobbies? If so, please describe them for us!

Marty: I enjoy all types of music, from Rhianna, to Zeppelin, to Mozart. When my parents are
away, I crank it up, and I mean really loud. One time, the neighbors called the cops, and I
was like, ‘whatever, I gotta be me.’ The officer understood. I also enjoy long walks, swimming,
water sports, playing ball, chasing chipmunks and drinking martinis in the backyard after a
long day—just normal stuff.

 

What is your favorite food and favorite snack?

Marty: Sweet potatoes and hot dogs—not necessarily together. Anything mom or dad
cooks would be great, but they’re pretty strict with my diet.

 

What was your inspiration for the Marty V Hotdog Line?

Marty: Well, think about it—who doesn’t love a great hotdog? Mic drop.

 

What do you love best about working for the Cuyahoga Group?

Marty: I love the flexible hours, and The Cuyahoga Group has so many great associates,
except for those three or four ‘cat’ people—but I won’t name names.

 

Thank you allow us to have a glimpse into your life, Marty V! Stay healthy, happy, wise and fluffy!

The Cuyahoga Group Employee Spotlight: Denise Ebenhoh

September 23, 2018
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Denise Ebenhoh has been with The Cuyahoga Group since 2012. Throughout her tenure, Denise has learned many aspects of our company, and continues to be one of our most enthusiastic and dedicated employees. Her recent promotion to the role of Office Coffee Division Manager perfectly complements her effective interpersonal skills, analytical abilities, attention to detail, and her willingness to go the extra mile for our customers. In a short time, Denise has made strides in growing our Office Coffee Division by revitalizing customer partnerships and utilizing her creativity to help upgrade our coffee product lines, displays and branding. 

 

The Cuyahoga Group provides customized Vending, Micro-Market and Office Coffee Service options for our customers, and that includes supporting healthy initiatives in the workplace.  We’ve added Healthier Lines that include healthy food and beverage options that are convenient, high quality, and pack a healthy and nutritious punch to keep your customers energized throughout the day. We also encourage and support healthy programs within our company, and Denise was gracious enough to share her inspiring personal story of transformation with all of us.   

 

Let’s get to know Denise Ebenhoh a little better: 

 

What is your role with The Cuyahoga Group?
Denise: Office Coffee Division Manager. 

 

How long have you worked for The Cuyahoga Group?
Denise: Nearly seven years—I started in January of 2012. 

 

What do you like most about your job, and why?
Denise: The best part of my job is the people—the people I work with, and the customers I work for. Even though everyone has their own personality, we are all trying to achieve the same thing, which is to ensure that our customers are happy, and to provide service that goes beyond their expectations. I think that the creative ideas and self-drive that everyone has goes a long way in reaching that goal. I like being able to use both my creative side and my love for numbers and facts to oversee a profitable and growing division. Even some of the best ideas come from our customers—the way employers are looking to offer benefits and incentives to their employees is changing, and it’s exciting for us to be part of that. I also love caffeine.  

 

Tell us a fun fact (or facts) about yourself:
Denise: I love themes. Themed anything. I like to create décor and gifts that are out of the ordinary and customized. I refuse to get rid of my crafting supplies from years ago, because one day I’ll have time again, and I’m sure that my son, Brandon, will love creating with me! He and I are currently working on painting rocks with inspirational quotes to leave around town. We’ve found some in the past couple of years and we love passing them on! 

My other favorite hobby is volleyball. Before I had my son, I played five days a week, and was the ref for the other two days. I never actually played in school. I can’t wait to play more than one day a week again, and have my son cheer me on! 

 

 

What is your favorite food/favorite meal? 

Denise: Chipotle. Then scallops. 

 

What is your favorite type of music? 
Denise: I listen to everything—from Johnny Cash and pop, to my 2002 high school throwback burned CDs. If we are talking my favorite dance to do with Brandon, it would be the Gummy Bear Song or the Crazy Frog Dance. We find starting the day with a dance is the best way to wake up. My favorite artist currently is Avicii (of whom I am sad I will never see live in concert), but his mixes are motivating to me.  

 

Please tell us about a goal you’d like to accomplish someday:
Denise: There is a lot I want to do still in my life, and eventually, I know I will accomplish them! I want to go on a cruise or an all-inclusive vacation, either by myself or with friends. I will figure out my sewing machine bobbin one day and own the necessary hardware to make my own t-shirt designs.

 

I would also like to be able to watch a scary movie without covering my eyes. I’d like to finish a season of any TV show and learn to ski. I’d also like to be able to wrap presents that look like someone older than a ten-year old did it.

 

Most important of all, I want to raise my son to be a kind person who is never afraid to use his voice—and who is proud of who he is, now and forever.  

 

Please share a little bit about your journey in adopting a healthier lifestyle. How have these changes have impacted your life?  And, do you have any advice for others trying to adopt healthier life habits? 

 

Denise: First, I have to say – I can’t believe where I am, how far I have come, and how much further I still have!

It started with water. I drank mostly diet pop and no water, day after day. Jill (Jill van Horne, Accountant for The Cuyahoga Group) helped me quit the diet pop and got the transition going toward water with Crystal Light. From there, I eventually kicked the Crystal Light habit and was drinking only straight water. I still barley drink pop (maybe sugar-free Red Bull on a rare occasion) but have kept water an important part of my daily life.  

 

Then, I interviewed Matt Ruth (Machine Shop Mechanic at The Cuyahoga Group) and his story of healthy transformation helped me go further. I started like he did, with a walk around the block and it turned into miles. And eventually, I was running (kid in stroller!) those same blocks and miles. On the days that I did want to go out for out a run, I remembered what Matt told himself—just go do it. And I never turned back. I mostly walk now instead of running, as I had a foot injury, but it’s all about baby steps.

 

One small positive change turns into another, then another, and before you know it, you have created healthy lifestyle habits. It impacted my life in every way possible. I felt better and healthier. Which in turn, I was able to be a better mom, friend, employee, and best of all happy with myself. Some days are harder than others, but overall the most rewarding part of the entire journey is having the energy and the happiness I deserve to have in my life!

 

My advice to anyone would be the same advice that was given to me. Just start. Just do it. And keep moving forward no matter how many times you find yourself with a couple steps back—setbacks happen. Keep going forward again and you will get there!! 

 

Denise, thank you for sharing your inspirational journey with all of us—and congratulations on your personal and professional achievements!  

 

Contact us today to bring Quality Coffee Service to your Workplace! 

 

To brighten and fuel the workday of your employees with the very best in coffee services and quality coffee products, Email Denise Ebenhoh, or call Denise at (216) 663-1457 x109.