Tourism leaders highlighted for hospitality

HURON TWP. — Shores & Islands Ohio, the destination marketing organization for Erie and Ottawa counties, hosted its annual meeting on Wednesday at Sawmill Creek Resort in the Huron area. A legacy celebrated Nearly 300 in attendance enjoyed a reflective presentation featuring multiple guest speakers, followed by a reception. It also marked the 20th anniversary of the bureau coming together as a regional organization to promote tourism in both Erie and Ottawa counties. The presentations opened with a welcome from Larry Fletcher, the tourism bureau's president, who recognized elected officials, board and committee members along with staff. He also acknowledged a legacy team of those board, committee and staff members who were part of establishing the Shores & Islands Ohio brand and partnership in existence today. Fletcher then provided a brief history of how the regional marketing efforts progressed during the past two decades and the resulting growth in the destination's tourism economy. A strong foundation Members of the Shores & Islands Ohio staff team then highlighted the organization's main accomplishments in 2025 via a multimedia presentation. This portion of the program featured a nod to this year's America 250 celebration as well as a look at the past, present and future of the region as viewed by a group of individuals who have been part of it going back to before the Shores & Islands Ohio organization was developed: • Dawn Weinhardt of Shores & Islands Ohio • George Ruta of Ruta Hotels • Lee Alexakos of Greater Sandusky Partnership and formerly of Cedar Point • Steve Schuster of Sandusky Bay Pancake House • Nicole DeFreitas of Keller Williams Citywide • John Tibbels of Tibbels Marina and Fishing Charters The program also underscored a discussion between Fletcher and Greater Sandusky Partnership CEO Eric Wobser about how a formal alignment between the two organizations is being developed to build on the strength that has come from two decades of regional collaboration. It was noted that the partnership's experience consolidating and scaling organizations, along with the inherent connection between tourism and economic development, makes this a logical next step in the evolution of the region's destination marketing organization. Recognizing local tourism leaders The annual meeting also placed a spotlight on the organization's annual hospitality award presentations, recognizing individuals and businesses for their exceptional effort, collaboration and customer service to visitors. Each winner received a locally made map of the Shores & Islands Ohio region that commemorates their awards and proclamations from Gov. Mike DeWine's and U.S. Sen. Jon Husted's offices. A proclamation from DeWine also recognized Shores & Islands Ohio's 20th anniversary of this two-county partnership. Here's an excerpt about the awards' context and winners, as explained by the bureau. SHORE Award • What: "The SHORE Award — standing for the Superior Hospitality Recognition Award — allows bureau partners to nominate an individual in the tourism industry who demonstrates the true spirit of hospitality, customer satisfaction and commitment to service to the people of the local community and its visitors. This individual goes beyond the standard job description to enhance the guest experience, contributing to the overall destination's success." • First Winner: Janie Ahner • Why: "Janie Ahner is the proprietor of Sandusky Book Bar. Her nomination stated that Janie continually transforms the visitor experience in our region through dedication, creativity and a genuine passion for the community. She has created more than just a business, providing positive visitor experiences, supporting local businesses, representing the region and building community connections. She partners with local artists, content creators, florists, bakers and more. Visitors and locals alike are drawn to Sandusky Book Bar to enjoy a wide range of activities, including pop-up shops, line dancing, crafting, skill classes and trivia nights." • Second winner: Mimi Chicotel • Why: "Mimi Chicotel, co-owner and operator of The Emporium at West Market Street. (Her) nomination noted her dedication to the Shores & Islands Ohio region is evident in everything she does. She invests more than money into this community. She invests her time, energy and spirit to help make 'Lake Erie Love' something that guests can truly feel. As a small business owner, Mimi has integrated herself into the community by service, participating in several events and organizational boards, donating to various charities and causes, and advocating for those who need a voice." Extraordinary Destination Enhancement Award • What: "It is awarded to a local tourism business or organization that makes an outstanding contribution, through partnership and collaboration, to develop, build and enhance the Shores & Islands Ohio region. It is presented to a partner that truly embraces Shores & Islands Ohio as a destination and brand." • Winner: The Emporium at West Market Street • Why: "Owners Mimi and Alan Chicotel have transformed the historic building, which once solely housed the Sandusky Register, along with two earlier local newspapers, into a vibrant center of activity that helps anchor the west side of downtown. At the same time, they have ensured the Register's staff continue working in the place that has long delivered the community's news. The Emporium, the performance stage, the grab-and-go market, Cathedral Collective and the Ballroom all showcase the couple's vision and creativity."