Legacy City Drywall all about building bonds

SANDUSKY — The new company boasts a name simultaneously honoring Blake Harris' biggest life influence and inspiration. And, as a bonus, the branding pays homage to Sandusky and the current transformative trajectory his hometown finds itself on. Harris, a city commissioner doubling as an experienced tradesman, recently ventured out on his own, establishing Legacy City Drywall. Specializing in drywall contracting, he can hang, finish or install ceilings and wall panels. Harris, a 2006 Sandusky High School graduate, recently landed his company's first big job: at Water Street Lofts in downtown Sandusky. Amid the second of three phrases, the $4 million project calls for building a total of 13 multi-story townhouses. "This is a great opportunity for me," said Harris, who's completed similar work at area custom homes and spec houses. Harris credits his dad, Anthony, for establishing a foundation he's now following. "Not only did he instill in me the importance of acquiring a skillset but it was divine intervention," said Harris, who as a child, tagged along with and assisted Anthony on various jobs. "As a kid growing up, I used to tell him I'll never do this for a living. But, as I got older, I learned more about the business. I learned it was something I could do. So I took advantage of it." To this day even, Anthony — who's 72 and about to start his 50th year in the business — partners up with his son on various jobs. "It's not every day that you get to work with your teacher, a best friend and ultimately your inspiration," Harris said. "Some of us have many different heroes, but my dad has to be my No. 1 hero. Without him, there is no way I would be here without him." Harris also started the business to serve as an inspiration for future generations, which would include his daughter's, Adalynn, 7. In fact, Harris wants to work with city programs and EHOVE Career Center so area students can gain on-the-job experience through apprenticeships. "My motto is to build relationships one sheet at a time," Harris said. "There isn't a specific niche of what I do that is taught around here. My goal is to give back and teach this trade. For young guys or girls, you can really make good money doing this."