YOUNGSTOWN -- Julie Klacik set out to buy a sewing machine to make stadium cushions, but she ended
YOUNGSTOWN -- Julie Klacik set out to buy a sewing machine to make stadium cushions, but she ended up buying much more.
When the former nurse's aide visited the owner of an automotive trim shop about the sewing machine, she learned that the business was for sale.
In 1980, she bought the business, which then specialized in producing convertible tops. Now, the 59-year-old Cyclone Auto Seat Cover Co. is run by her, her husband, Paul, and two sons, Tim and Mark.
The shop has expanded its services, specializing in restoration and other work for new, used and antique cars' interiors.
Cyclone's 12 employees do various warranty work for about 70 percent of the area's dealers of new and used cars, as well as sunroof repairs, add-ons and other restyling, refurbishing and trim work, Tim Klacik said.
Tim and Paul Klacik also run Tim's N-Terior-N-Trim in Cortland, which helps the company be diversified.
Paul Klacik, who retired from General Motors after 30 years on the assembly line, has numerous contacts with Mahoning Valley dealerships, which has helped Cyclone's retail sales.
Community service
Contributing to the community is a top family priority, Tim Klacik said.
On Aug. 24, the Make-a-Wish Foundation presented a restored 1962 Chevrolet Bel Air station wagon to a young man suffering from cancer. Cyclone donated the interior, which cost about $10,000, Tim Klacik said.
He said he and his brother strive to create a work environment based on family values taught to them by their parents.
"We treat our employees like they're family," Tim Klacik said.
Tim Klacik, a Fitch High School graduate and 17-year wrestling coach who runs the Ohio Youth Wrestling program, was recently hired as an assistant coach for Boardman Center Middle School's wrestling program. Mark Klacik hopes to work in the public sector and is considering running for Austintown trustee, his brother said.
The Klaciks attend about four trade shows each year to seek new products. A highlight of their efforts was featured in the August 1997 edition of Auto Trim & amp; Restyling News magazine.