CLEVELAND -- A few weeks ago, it seemed like the famous Hough Bakery cake that Clevelanders know and love could become a thing of the past.
Archie Garner worked for Hough Bakery for 25 years and acquired the recipe for the bakery's beloved cakes, which he continued baking when he opened Archie's Lakeshore Bakery in 1994.
Hough Bakery closed its doors after filing for bankruptcy in 1992, but Garner kept serving its iconic cakes to Clevelanders.
But Archie's Lakeshore Bakery recently hit a rough patch amid lease issues with the landlord and Garner's lease expired. Forced to move, Garner began looking for a new location.
But costs will be high and Garner will need new equipment, such as an industrial oven, a mixer, a delivery vehicle and supplies.
Other area business owners have joined the effort to help Garner. The owners of the Sweetie's Big Fun at Pinecrest held a fundraiser three weeks ago to benefit Garner's new bakery.
Now, Garner has created a GoFundMe page to continue his fundraising efforts. In one day, the page has raised more than $5,000, though the goal is $250,000.
Garner says he also hopes to open his business doors to non-violent offenders looking to learn the tricks of his trade. He also wants to teach entrepreneurial skills to local youth.