Ottawa County tourism businesses awarded $100,000 in grants
Ottawa County tourism businesses awarded $100,000 in grants
SANDUSKY – Shores and Islands Ohio, the tourism marketing organization for Erie and Ottawa counties, announced the second year of awards in the organization’s Destination Development Grant Program, launched in 2022.
The grant program is a major component of Shores and Islands Ohio’s strategic plan, which focuses not only on promoting the region as a visitor destination, but also on supporting efforts to enhance it for visitors and, therefore, residents alike.This round’s total award investment for 23 Ottawa County-based recipients is $100,000. The Ottawa County recipients represent a variety of projects in Elmore, Genoa, Graytown, Marblehead, Port Clinton, and Put-in-Bay.
Receiving Ottawa County grants are: 101 Things to Do at Put-in-Bay, Brown’s Dairy Dock, Put-in-Bay Parks District, Flourish Flat, Frosty Bar, The Gristmill, Hot Dogs to Go, Island House Condo Association, Kelli and Company, Lakeside Chautauqua Foundation, Main Street Marblehead, Marblehead Soap Co., Parks District of Ottawa County, PIB Cabins, PIB Watercraft, Pickle and Chips Field Trip, Red’s Summerhouse, Spa Catawba, The Forge, The Mockingbird on Mill Road, Tri-Motor Heritage Foundation, Village of Genoa, and Whimsy and Blue.
Grant recipients are planning a variety of projects with the awarded funds — aesthetic improvements; improvements in accessibility; creation of new tourism products, exhibits, and businesses; creation of signage; historical restoration and renovations; painting murals and other public art; and more.
A committee evaluated all applications and determined recipients and award amounts based on a project’s ability to attract and engage visitors, serve regional tourism partners, and foster additional economic growth for their communities and the region.
Bellevue Society for the Arts to perform version of ‘Hello, Dolly!’
BELLEVUE – This musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play “The Matchmaker” — “Hello, Dolly!” will be performed by the Bellevue Society for the Arts, 205 Maple St. The musical bursts with humor, romance, energetic dance, and some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history. The romantic and comic exploits of Dolly Gallagher-Levi, turn-of-the-century matchmaker and “woman who arranges things,” are sure to thrill and entertain audiences repeatedly.
Auditions for all ages will occur Sunday and Monday, July 16 and 17 at 6 p.m. at 205 Maple St. If needed, callback auditions will be July 18. There are many parts and an ensemble. Dancing may be required for some parts.
Auditions will also consist of readings from the script. Performances are on Sept. 22, 23, 24, 29 and 30. Visit bellevuearts.net for more information.
New member joins Board of Park Commissioners
PORT CLINTON – Trish McCartney, of Port Clinton, has been sworn into the Board of Park Commissioners overseeing the Park District of Ottawa County. The board approves policy, financial and strategic planning decisions, working directly with Executive Director Jannah Wilson of the Park District of Ottawa County. McCartney is serving an unexpired term through Dec. 31, 2023.
A resident of Port Clinton for 25 years and a local State Farm Insurance Agency owner, McCartney replaces retiring Park Commissioner Gary Kohli of Oak Harbor, who served on the board since 2018. The Board of Park Commissioners is comprised of Mike Shadoan of Oak Harbor, Judy Indorf of Danbury Township, Jack Madison of Catawba Island Township, and Betsy Slotnick of Genoa.
McCartney was sworn in June 8 by the Ottawa County Common Pleas Court Judge Frederick C. Hany II. Park Commissioners meet bimonthly at designated locations throughout the county. For a complete public meeting schedule, visit ottawacountyparksoh.org.
Two critically endangered antelope born at African Safari Wildlife Park
PORT CLINTON – Two mountain bongo calves have arrived at African Safari Wildlife Park. One youngster was born to mother Aurora on June 18, and the other was born to mother Maleficent on June 23.
Calvin is the father of both calves. Park guests have the opportunity to view the animals daily in the Park’s Drive-Thru Safari.
The park is hosting a “Baby Bongo Bash” at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 16. The names and sexes of the calves will be revealed at this event, and animals throughout the park will be given baby-themed treats and toys. Park staff have created an Amazon wish list with items the calves and parents will enjoy; the list can be accessed at amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/32JFDSKCEUMUX.
Trinity UMC to hold ‘Party in the Park’
FREMONT – Trinity United Methodist Church will host a “Party in the Park” from 2 to 6 p.m. July 23 at Conner Park, 2300 Morrison Road, in the Rusch Shelter House.
The public is welcome to join in various activities for the enjoyment of kids and adults. Balloon artist Sillie Tillie will be present and games will take place for children with prizes and a Dive into God’s Word booklet to take home.
Music will be provided by Johnny Jukebox. There will be grilled hot dogs and a dunk tank. All are encouraged to come. For more information call the church office at 419-332-5032.
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