Dana Kirk

I was born and raised in Genoa, Ohio; but currently reside in the Berkey area with my husband; Rob, and three children: Chase (4) Kevin (16) and Emily (13). I love to cook, bake, work out and spend as much time as I can with my family.

After graduating from Genoa Area High School, I went on to Penta County Vocational where I studied cosmetology. Having professionally practiced that art for several years, I moved on into sales and marketing where I have traveled the country, opening marketing offices for a sports fitness and nutrition company.

Returning home tired of living out of a suitcase in 1998, I started my career in the auto industry. I recently joined the Ballas Team because I respected their mission of earning a customer by building a strong, happy customer relationship through the highest level of service - before and after the sale.

While purchasing a new vehicle should be a happy event, I understand often enough the car buying experience can be tedious and stressful. This is where I can make the difference! I will take the time to listen to you and understand your needs offer the right vehicle to fulfill your desires and structure reasonable financing without high pressure. I look forward to meeting you.

Watch Dana's presentation of the:

2011 GMC Sierra

2010 Buick Lacrosse.

Congratulations to Dana Kirk

Mark of Excellence

2010 Dealership

Performance Reward Winner

Kate Zanella

Kate is a graduate of Siena Heights University, with her degree in Business. While in school; she was bestowed a Leadership Award. Kate has two adult children Shane and Gina. She is very involved with her grandchildren who live in Toledo. She loves to try all kinds of food but her favorites are Italian, Chinese or Lebanese. She loves gourmet cooking, so if you have any recipes to swap, give her a call. Any spare time Kate has is spent helping with Heroes in Action military support group and in various volunteer roles through the women's ministry in her church.

Kate has been in retail sales her whole life. She came to join the Ballas team in 2000. She maintains her Buick and GMC Sales Professional status through satellite; web based or hands-on classes. She is also our Child Safety Seat/ Safety Technician through SAFEKIDS.ORG. She really enjoys talking with her customers and making their total experience with Ballas Buick GMC a pleasant memorable one.

Watch Kate's presentation of the 2011 GMC Sierra.

Congratulations to Kate Zanella

Mark of Excellence

2010 Dealership

Performance Reward Winner

Lou Gora

I started my automotive sales career at Ballas 17 years ago, after a long retail career at J.C. Penney Co.

Having been in the retail business for over 35 years, I have learned that unfailing integrity and a true commitment to “do what's right” are the keys to success. These are the attributes that first drew me to Ballas Buick-GMC and why I am working here now.

I was raised in Maumee and went to Maumee HS, eventually graduating from the University of Toledo in 1972 with a B. Ed. degree. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, fishing and spending time with my wife, Ruth. We have four children and eleven grandchildren between us and spend as much time as we can with them.

I enjoy working at Ballas Buick-GMC and look forward to meeting you. I promise to make your car buying experience easy and enjoyable. I also believe that my job doesn't end with the sale and to make your purchase “exceed your expectations”.

Eric Reed

I was raised in a small town in Illinois. For many years, I traveled all over the United States in the construction business making schools safe for children. After getting tired of living in hotels, I decided to settle down. My parents had relocated to Ohio, so wanting to be near my family, here I am. But the question remained, what to do about a new career? All of my friends, family, and everyone at church said, "you would be great in sales." So here it is 12 years later and I love what I do. I can't begin to tell you the feeling I get when I help a family get a new vehicle. I have truly found my calling in life. So please, call, text, e-mail me or just stop by. I promise to do everything I can to give you a friendly, caring, honest purchasing experience. See you soon!

Tony Ramirez Jr. 

First generation Mexican American, Tony Ramirez says his family came to this great country to succeed in every aspect of life. Tony was the son of immigrant parents and grew up in East Toledo and Rossford then attended the University of Toledo and played college baseball. Tony’s mother, Diana Flores, still lives in the area and is employed at the International Institute.

While attending the University of Toledo Tony was elected President of the Alpha Psi Lambda fraternity. This was the nation’s first co-ed fraternity based on the principles of family and inclusiveness. Tony was also on the executive board of the Latino Student Union, and he was awarded the Diamante Award for community service.

After college Tony continued to be active in his community serving as a Freemason. He is also a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and is on the Executive Committee to the Chamber’s local job exposition.

Tony loves cars, sports of all kinds and he loves to dance the Salsa. In fact, Tony was an instructor of Latino dancing and has participated in various Latino dance events.

When asked what he is most proud of in life, Tony quickly responds, “My beautiful children, Angelina, Makaylah and Andrew”. He adds, “I am proud of my culture and it is fun to pass along the traditions to my children. I really love the times when the family is all together and we are all speaking Spanish”.

About his job, Tony says he loves working with and meeting the people. “It is just inspirational to hear about their lives and their trials and the success stories”. “At Ballas we think Tony as a success story and we are very proud of him and his accomplishments”, says Marianne Ballas. 

Watch Tony Ramirez' presentation of the:

2011 GMC Sierra

 2010 Buick Lacrosse.

Congratulations to Tony Ramirez

Mark of Excellence

2010 Dealership

Performance Reward Winner

Sarah York

If you are calling Ballas, chances are the person answering the phone is Sarah. Sarah is also the smiling face you see when entering the new car showroom.

Sarah is the mother of a tween daughter whom she says is a very charming, smart young lady. Her face also lights up when talking about her dog. “I love my dog. I love my dog.” Sarah says she also loves running; be it outside or on her treadmill.