Cambridge/Guernsey Co. Visitors & Convention Bureau Blog

Sherlock Holmes Solves the Mystery of the Unraveling Strand in Cambridge, Ohio!

2012-01-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

Sherlock Holmes Mystery Weekend was held in Cambridge, Ohio January 6-8, 2012. Many sleuths participated from Ohio and Pennsylvania. We want to hear from you.

Post about your experience during Sherlock Holmes Mystery Weekend:

How did you hear about the mystery weekend?

What did you enjoy about the mystery?

What was the most intriguing aspect of the “search for clues?”

Other than the mystery, what else did you enjoy about your experience in Cambridge?

Glass Pass members meet at Millersburg Glass Museum

2010-08-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Members of the Glass Pass consortium spent the day in Amish County recently for their annual meeting and to tour the Millersburg Glass Museum. The Glass Pass recognizes and celebrates the glass history and industry in the tri-state area. To learn more, log onto http://www.GlassPass.org

Team Tourism Members Learn About Plans for Civil War 150

2010-04-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

Team Tourism members were treated to a great presentation about Ohio's plans for the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Ohio Historical Society staff members were on hand to explain how everyone can get involved. Pictured here are (l) Kristina Kuehling from OHS, Dawn Beasley from the VCB and Mark Holbrook of OHS. Events and programs that have already planned for 2011 can be found on http://www.ohiocivilwar150.org/. Present at today's meeting were representatives from the Southeastern Ohio Civil War Roundtable and the mayor and a council member from Old Washington, the site of Morgan's Raid. In 2013, Morgan's Raid Trail will recognize its anniversary.

Team Tourism is sponsored by the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau and meets quarterly.

Travel & Tourism Director Meets with State Senator

2010-03-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

Each year, members of the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus meet in Columbus to participate in a State Lobby Day that offers them the opportunity to meet one-on-one with their state legislatures to discuss travel & tourism issues and challenges. This year, OACVB held Lobby Day on March 17th. Pictured here with 20th District State Senator Jimmy Stewart are (l) Wendy Wharff, executive director of the Marietta-Washington County CVB and Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau. To learn more about OACVB, log on to http://www.oacvb.org/.

Tourism Partners Participate in Heartland Travel Showcase

2010-02-24T07:24:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, seven Guernsey County Tourism partners, representing four tourist attractions, traveled to Columbus, Ohio for the 25th Annual Heartland Travel Showcase, the largest regional motor coach market place in the United States. One hundred and thirty six tour operators from around the country met with over 460 exhibitors during the three-day show. Between them, the four Guernsey County attractions had appointments with over 100 tour operators! In costume and getting ready for a full day are (l) Steve Stolarik, representing the Byesville Scenic Railway; Sharon Miller and Cindy Arent, representing the National Museum of Cambridge Glass; Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau; (seated) Kitrina Mazaher, representing the Living Word Outdoor Drama; Jonett Haberfield, representing Dickens Victorian Village and Shauna Hearing, communications and information manager for the VCB. Each tour operator received information on group tour opportunities in Guernsey County and sample itineraries.

To learn more about group tour opportunities and to see sample itineraries, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ and click on Bringing a Group.

150th Anniversary of Civil War Recognized in 2011

2010-02-05T08:31:00.000-08:00

Staff members of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau recently attended Ohio's Appalachian Country's quarterly meeting in Coshocton. Guest speakers were Mark Holbrook and Kristina Kuehling from the Ohio Historical Society who spoke about Civil War 150, the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The Ohio Historical Society is working on new approaches for telling Ohio's story of its participation in the Civil War through regional partnerships, statewide networking, and leveraging resources. Look for traveling exhibits in the future featuring Democracy, Transformation and Memory.

Pictured here are Debbie Robinson, executive director of the VCB and Mark Holbrook.

To learn more about Civil War 150, log onto http://www.ohiocivilwar150.org/.

Team Tourism Members Learn How to Prepare Their Businesses for Disaster

2010-01-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

On Monday, January 25, Guernsey County Tourism Industry members met for their quarterly meeting. Presenting a program on emergency preparedness, Ron Clawson, a 25 year veteran in the insurance and property management industry explained to the group how to prevent disasters and the steps to take in the event one takes place. Pictured here with Ron are the owners of Rainbow International, specialists in restoration and cleaning, (l) Scott Hart and John Hart.

Team Tourism meets in at Theo's in downtown Cambridge quarterly to network with one another, share valuable information, and learn about travel trends that may effect their businesses.

To learn more about Cambridge/Guernsey County Tourism, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

VCB Director Participates in OACVB Conference

2009-09-18T13:26:00.000-07:00

Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau Executive Director Debbie Robinson attended the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (OACVB) Annual Educational Conference in Mt. Vernon, OH recently. The first evening's activities included dinner at the Historic Russell-Cooper House with a rousing game of Knox Squares at the Place @Woodward afterward. Mt. Vernon is home of Paul Lynd of Hollywood Squares fame.

The following day, Robinson joined other VCB executive directors from around the state for a day full of educational seminars at the Dan Emmett Conference Center.

To read more about Knox Squares, check out the Mount Vernon News at http://www.mountvernonnews.com/local/09/09/17/kccvb/ .

Managing Editor of Long Weekends in Area for Long Weekend

2009-08-31T11:27:00.000-07:00

Editor of Ohio Magazine's Long Weekends, Marie Catanese, spent an end-of-the-summer weekend in Cambridge recently. Among the many attractions she visited were the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, the Byesville Scenic Railway, the Living Word Outdoor Drama and the Dickens Welcome Center and Ye Ole Curiosity Shop. Marie is seen here on the Byesville Scenic Railway with coal miner Steve who presented her with an Appalachian bouquet of flowers.

She also had her photo taken with Mr. Charles Dickens in the Imagination Station in the Dickens Welcome Center along with artist Martha Jamail and Dickens co-chair Jonett Haberfield.

Marie enjoyed an overnight in the Colonel Taylor Inn and B&B and is seen here with proprietors Jim and Patricia Irvin.

To learn more about Long Weekends, log onto http://www.long-weekends.com/. To learn more about Cambridge/Guernsey County attractions and events, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Word of Mouse

2009-08-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

During a recent quarterly Team Tourism meeting, Guernsey County tourism partners learned from an interesting and interactive Frank Satullo all about the power of the Word of Mouse. In a world in which technological advances boggle the mind, we are just now beginning to get a grip on Web 2.0 when Web 3.0 is already impacting the way we do business. Internet marketing is ever changing, rapidly. Frank helped us understand where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going and how to get our message to our target audience effectively and inexpensively.

Frank is pictured here with the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau's office manager, Dawn Beasley.

To learn more about Cambridge/Guernsey County's tourism products, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB Staff Tours Nomad Ridge

2009-08-05T07:59:00.001-07:00

The staff of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau recently toured the brand new
luxury tented-camp experience at the Wilds. Debbie Robinson, Shauna Hearing, Julie Petrasko, and Dawn Beasly spent an afternoon at Nomad Ridge, an exclusive, adult-only destination that allows visitors to stay overnight at the Wilds. To learn more about Nomad Ridge and other unique opportunities at the Wilds, log onto www.thewilds.org.

Cambridge/Guernsey County Featured on New Television Program

2009-07-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

In June of this year, ONN launched Ohio & Company, a brand new weekly magazine show that showcases companies, products, services and events from across the Buckeye State. Next week, Cambridge/Guernsey County will be highlighted during the one half hour episode. The dates and times are as follows:

Tues, July 14th at 6:30pm
Wed, July 15th at 10am
Thurs, July 16th at 11:30am
Fri, July 17th at 11am and 7:30pm

The segment can also be seen on the ONN website http://www.onntv.com/.

The show’s host, Eve Mueller, interviewed Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB who explained all of the attractions and events the county has to offer and showcased two new and unique packages visitors can enjoy, Think Pink: Getaways with a Purpose and Sherlock Holmes Weekend. Jonett Haberfield, spoke about the Think Pink Weekends with Eve, and Janine Bock explained Sherlock Homes Weekend.

To learn more about these packages and the attractions and events Cambridge/Guernsey County has to offer, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ or call the VCB at 740-432-2022 or toll free 800-933-5480.

In the photo, L) Eve Mueller, host of ONN’s Ohio & Company interviews Janine Bock (standing) Debbie Robinson and Jonett Haberfield for the upcoming episode

Meet the Editor

2009-06-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

On June 17, four regional tourism industry members traveled to Columbus to attend Meet the Editor, a program presented by the Ohio Travel Association. Attendees heard information on "How to tell your story: what makes a good story and why is the story important and How to sell your story: what do editors look for and how much lead time do they need" from panelists Richard Osborne, Publisher and Editor of Ohio Magazine; Carol Smith, Editor of Group Tour Magazine, and Andrea Vecchio, Host of "Good Company" on WKYC-TV-Cleveland. The keynote speaker was Lara Kretler, Associate Vice President of Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations who shared information on "Social Media Marketing for Tourism and Hospitality Pros."

Enjoying the presentation are (l) Kari Thompson, Stonewall; Patricia Irvin, Colonel Taylor Inn B&B; Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, and Wendy Wharff, recently named executive director of the Marietta-Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

To read media stories about Guernsey County, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ and click on media kit.

Visitors from the City of Lorain go Behind the Scenes

2009-05-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

Recently, four visitors from the City of Lorain (population 65,000) traveled to Cambridge to learn more about how Dickens Victorian Village was organized, funded and run by volunteers. They met with Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau and Jonett Haberfield, co-chair of Dickens Victorian Village.

They are seen here with Charles Dickens himself in the Dickens Welcome Center and Ye Olde Curiosity Shop. (l) Goldie Saegert, retired motor coach operator; Joe Skodny, Legacy Marketing Group; Bessie Eva Nelson, Natl. Ministries Assoc. of the Lorain Negro Business & Professional Women's Club and Pat Morrison, owner/operator of Footprint Tours.

Hoppy comes to Town!

2009-05-15T08:21:00.001-07:00

The 19th Annual Hopalong Cassidy Reunion was a big success this year. Many cowboy look-alikes and Little Buckaroos participated. Hopalong Cassidy Reunion originator, Laura Bates (center), is surrounded by honored guests and movie stars during the Cowpoke Dinner.

To learn more about all of the events taking place in Guernsey County, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

National Tourism Week Celebrated Locally

2009-05-15T08:05:00.001-07:00

Each year, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau Board of Directors and staff celebrates National Tourism Week in May. We take this opportunity before the busy tourism season begins to recognize and thank our tourism industry members for the terrific job they do throughout the year,” VCB Executive Director Debbie Robinson said. “Our county is blessed with talented and dedicated individuals and organizations who realize the great economic impact tourism has in our area and who spend countless hours to make their tourism product an enjoyable and meaningful experience for visitors and residents alike. For these reasons, we award the Tourism Volunteer of the Year and Tourism Development of the Year to remind our community of the services these individuals and organizations provide.”

The Tourism Development Award honors the individual, organization, or business that has done the most to develop tourism in Guernsey County within the past calendar year. The winner of the 2009 Tourism Development of the Year Award is the National Museum of Cambridge Glass. In 2008 the museum developed programs that involved visitors in active learning and participation in activities. The museum increased attendance and formed creative partnerships with several other organizations and attractions.

The Tourism Volunteer Award honors an individual or organization that has done the most to further the growth of tourism in Guernsey County within the last calendar year on a volunteer basis. The winner of the 2009 Tourism Volunteer of the Year is Cecil Carlson for his tireless work on the Byesville Scenic Railway in Byesville. His nominator said, “He (Cecil) contributes countless hours to the Byesville Scenic Railway as the Station Master and the Vice President of the organization. Cecil is the person that keeps the train staffed and running on time. He may be selling the tickets, flagging the train or running the engine, but he will always be there.”

For more information on the National Museum of Cambridge Glass and the Byesville Scenic Railway, log onto www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Travel Writer goes Behind the Scenes

2009-05-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

Travel writer, Jan Myers (l), was in town recently for a "Behind the Scenes" Dickens Victorian Village tour. She is seen here in Ye Old Curiosity Shoppe and Dickens Welcome Center with artist Martha Jamail who explains to her how the Dickens heads are created. Jan's story will be featured in the November/December issue of "Over the Back Fence," a Southern Ohio travel magazine.

To learn more about the 2009 -2010 Dickens events including the brand new Sherlock Holmes Weekend, log onto www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Accessiblity In the Tourism Industry

2009-04-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

During their quarterly networking meeting, Team Tourism members learned from L- Mary Davis, Occupational Therapy Assistant and Tracy Martin, Clinical Coordinator for Southeastern Med's Occupational Therapy Services how the tourism industry is impacted by travelers with disabilities, how to attract and keep customers with disabilities, and how to positively interact with these important consumers. Mary and Tracy also shared ADA

(Americans with Disabilities Act) information along with how Team Tourism members can make their businesses more accessible.

To learn more about accessibility in the tourism industry, contact Tracy tmart@seormc.org or 740-439-8977.

Tourist Information Center is Ready for Company!

2009-04-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau staff recently spent the day cleaning the Tourist Information Center in downtown Cambridge. May through October marks one of the busiest tourism seasons for Guernsey County. With a brand new website and the newly launched Guernsey County Visitors Savings Cards, the VCB staff is anticipating a very successful summer and fall. In 2008, the Tourist Information Center greeted 3,500 visitors. Getting ready for this year’s “company” are L- Julie Petrasko, tourism counselor; Shauna Hearing, communications/information manager and Dawn Beasley, office manager. To learn more about attractions, events and new happenings in Guernsey County, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ or call 432-2022 locally or toll-free 800-933-5480.

Glass Pass Participants Come to Town

2009-04-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Members of the Glass Pass consortium were in Cambridge recently for a quarterly luncheon meeting at Theo's Restaurant followed by a tour of Mosser Glass.

The Glass Pass is a partnership of glass museums and companies in Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania whose goal is to enlighten and encourage individuals to further explore the rich heritage and artistry of glassmaking and collecting.

For more information on the Glass Pass, visit www.GlassPass.org.

First Annual Easter Tea & Train Ride Hopped into Byesville

2009-04-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

The Easter bunny made his way to Byesville during the first annual Easter Tea and Train ride sponsored by the Dickens Victorian Village committee and the Byesville Scenic Railway. Over 60 participants dressed in their Easter finest and enjoyed high tea served by My Sweetie Pie Tea Room. While on board, coal miners shared the rich Easter traditions of the turn-of-the-century coal community that helped to build this region. The event was a fundraiser for Dickens Victorian Village. For information on upcoming spring and summer events, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Stopping to pose on the train with the Easter bunny are Jen Eubanks with her daughters Molly (7) and Bella (4).

VCB Recognized with Safety Award

2009-03-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

During the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce 12th Annual Guernsey - Noble Safety Awards Luncheon, the Cambridge/ Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau was presented with an 100% Award for working an entire year without any injury or illness resulting in a day away from work.

Accepting the award from Sue Davis (R), Bureau of Worker's Comp Division of Safety & Hygiene is VCB office manager, Dawn Beasley.

Ohio National Road Association Takes FAM Tour

2009-03-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

Board members of the Ohio National Road Association spent a day traveling the eastern portion of the All-American, National Scenic Byway recently. Led by the co-author of the "Traveler's Guide to the Historic National Road in Ohio", Doug Smith, Licking County Commissioner, who regaled the attendees in interesting stories along the byway.

Doug Smith seen here is explaining the history of the Mile Markers at one of Ohio's three S- Bridges, two of which are located in Guernsey County.

One of the first stops during the day was at Blaine Bridge, Ohio's oldest bridge and the official bicentennial bridge. It is the longest and last remaining structure of its kind on the entire 6-state Historic National Road system. The restored site was dedicated in 2005.

Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, pauses during the walk on the bridge for a picture with Sue Douglass, Executive Director of the Belmont County Department of Development, who lovingly and tirelessly led the way for the restoration of the bridge. Learn more about the bridge at www.BlaineBridge.org.

Another stop along the way was the S-bridge in Middlebourne in Guernsey County. The ONRA board took a breather for a photo. To learn more about the Ohio section of the National Road, visit http://www.ohionationalroad.org/.

To learn more about the Guernsey County section of the Ohio National Road, log on to htt p://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ and request a free driving brochure.

Tourism Generates Revenue!

2009-03-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

On March 18, 2009, Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, joined other state tourism professionals in Columbus for the Annual Legislative Day. Robinson participated in numerous activities during the day including appointments with Representative Jennifer Garrison and Senator Jimmy Stewart to share the message that tourism is an economic development tool for not only Guernsey County but also for the entire state. In 2008, the state's return on investment with their new advertising campaign, "Too Much Fun for Just One Day," generated an estimated $473 million in visitor spending, and $31 million in new tax revenues is estimated to have come to Ohio as a result of this campaign.

To share in the good news with Robinson is L- Phil Craig, Executive Director of the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus and Lou Gentile, Assistant Director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia.

To learn more about activities and events in Guernsey County, log onto www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Tourism Director Goes to D.C.

2009-03-16T12:05:00.001-07:00

Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau along with other Ohio VCB directors L- Pat Crow, Knox County, Dee Grossman, Tuscarawas County, Amy Rutledge, Carroll County recently traveled to Washington D.C. to speak with their federal legislatures about the importance of tourism as an economic development tool during these challenging times. In addition to Congressman Zack Space seen here, Robinson also spent time with Byesville native Dan Neff at the Appalachian Regional Commission. Robinson will also travel to Columbus for meetings with state representatives.

Guernsey County Well Represented at Group Tour Travel Show

2009-03-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

Representatives from The Living Word Outdoor Drama, Byesville Scenic Railway, Dickens Victorian Village, and the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau recently attended the annual Heartland Travel Showcase in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They joined over 600 hospitality and tourism professionals at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center February 20-22.

Jonett Haberfield explains the "Dickens Experience" to a tour operator.

Heartland Travel Showcase, produced by Ohio Travel Association, builds relationships between hospitality industry professionals to promote the "heartland's" unique destinations. Collectively, the Guernsey tourism professionals met with over 75 tour operators during the show, sharing with them the unique travel opportunities and itineraries their groups can enjoy in our area.

Steve Stolarik shares how the train ride explains the history of coal mining in Guernsey County.

For more information on the group tour market in Guernsey County, go to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/. To learn more about Heartland Travel Showcase, see http://www.ohiotravel.org/.

Kitrina and Mitch Mazaher enthralls a tour operator with the "Greatest Story Ever Told."

2009-01-22T06:32:00.000-08:00

Jodi Schott Elected to Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau Board of Directors

Woody Biggs, president of the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB board of directors, announced today that Jodi Schott, interim manager of the Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, has been elected to serve a three-year term on the VCB board of directors.

“We are pleased to have a representative from PLCC on our board,” said Biggs. “Jodi brings over nine years of experience as an event manager and technical director with her. She has valuable knowledge of the meeting, event, and group markets and will serve the VCB board of directors well. We are also pleased to have a strong partnership with the area’s finest civic center.”
Schott joins 11 other VCB Board of Directors who meet monthly: Steve Allen, Guernsey County Commissioner; Norm Blanchard, CIC Director; Fran Taylor, Cambridge Main Street Director; Mike Kachilla, Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce President; Margy Bucci, Hampton Inn General Manager and President of the Guernsey County Lodging Association; Woody Biggs, Byesville Scenic Railway Representative; Ralph Ray, Mr. Lee’s Restaurant Marketing Director; Kevin Coveney, Owner of Denny’s Restaurant; Steve Gierhart Economic, & Community Development Director; Toni Kellar, the Wilds Communications Manager; and Keith Cook, Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center Manager.

The VCB promotes tourism in the area, educates the local public as to the value and importance of tourism to the area, and promotes the development of tourism-related businesses.

Julie Petrasko Joins VCB Staff

2009-01-22T06:24:00.000-08:00

Julie Petrasko Joins Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau Staff

Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau announced today that Julie Petrasko has been named tourism counselor for the VCB.

“Julie’s duties will focus on greeting our visitors to the Tourist Information Center in Historic Downtown Cambridge and sharing with them valuable information about our area attractions, giving directions, and answering their questions,” said Robinson.

Among her other duties as a tourism counselor, Petrasko will respond to phone and e-mail inquiries, update tourism websites and databases.

Petrasko is a 2005 graduate of Hocking College with an Associates Degree in Office Management. While enrolled at Hocking College, she worked as an office assistant in the president’s office. She was a member of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and Kappa Beta Delta Business Honor Society and made both the President’s and Dean’s List.

Petrasko joins other staff members Dawn Beasley, office manager, and Shauna Hearing, Information Manager at the VCB. Robinson encourages area residents to stop by and say hello to Julie on Wednesdays, Saturdays and holidays.

To learn more about Cambridge/Guernsey County area events and activities, visit the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB office at 627 Wheeling Avenue, Suite 200 in downtown Cambridge, call 740-432-2022, email info@visitguernseycounty.com, or visit http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/

VCB Staff Attends 2008 Ohio Conference on Tourism

2008-10-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau staff: L - Shauna Hearing, information manager; Dawn Beasley, office manager, and Debbie Robinson, executive director joined other tourism industry leaders in attending the Ohio Travel Association's (OTA) 2008 Conference on Tourism, October 22-24 in Canton, Ohio at the McKinley Grand Hotel.

The Ohio Conference on Tourism , the state's annual conference for the travel and tourism industry, provides educational programming and networking to industry professionals leaders in the tourism industry are recognized for their work.

Delegates of this year's conference attended educational programs highlighted by a keynote adress from Peter Greenberg, NBC Today Show, and Ohio's State Tourism Director, Amir Eylon.

Tourism spending brought in $38 billion to Ohio in 2007 and $2.5 billion in state and local tax revenue.

The Ohio Travel Association is the largest travel and tourism industry association in Ohio with more than 600 members and provides its members with legistaltive representation and educational and sales opportunities. For more information on OTA, visit www.OhioTravel.org.

AAA Pittsburgh FAM Tour in Byesville

2008-09-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

Recently, 40 group tour leaders from AAA Pittsburgh enjoyed a FAM Tour hosted by Ohio Travel Treasures entitled "Hobos, Miners & Winos" to the Southeast region of Ohio. The itinerary included a tour of Warther's Carvings in New Philadelphia, breakfast at the Whistle Stop Deli and a ride on the Byesville Scenic Railway in Byesville, and a visit to Breitenbach's Winery in Holmes County.

Pictured here are the group leaders enjoying their breakfast at the Whistle Stop Deli.

For more group tour information on Guernsey County, check out www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Ohio Tourism Division Staff in Cambridge

2008-09-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau hosted the staff of the Ohio Tourism Division for a Town Hall Meeting where they presented the 2009 Ohio Tourism Partnership Opportunities program. Over 40 tourism industry leaders from the region attended the program. Pictured here with VCB staff - front row, Dawn Beasley, office manager and Shauna Hearing, information manager, are L- Alicia Reece, Assistant State Director; Tammy Brown, PR Manager; Amir Eylon, State Director; Eric Herzog, Tourism Information Manager, and Joe Vargo, Marketing Coordinator.

To learn more about partnership opportunities with the Ohio Tourism Division, log onto www.DiscoverOhio.com/industry.

Tourism Leader Participates in Group Sales Blitz

2008-08-26T11:35:00.001-07:00

Shauna Hearing, tourism manager for the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau recently participated in a Group Tour Sales Blitz to Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Indiana. Traveling with her were CVB staff members from Tuscarawas and Marietta/Washington Counties. They met with 11 tour companies over their three-day trip to educate tour operators on our area as a group tour destination and to sell packaged itineraries to them for the upcoming holiday season.

Shown here is Hearing at Claudia Sanders, a well-known restaurant named for Colonel Sander's wife.

For more information on holiday travel ideas for groups and individuals, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Team Tourism Learns How to Effectively Use Internet Marketing

2008-08-26T11:20:00.000-07:00

Glenda Lehman Ervin, vice president of marketing for Lehman’s in Kidron, OH and the daughter of company founder Jay Lehman, captivated Team Tourism members recently with her presentation on “Site Fright: Don’t be afraid of the Internet. It’s here to help you!” Thirty Guernsey County area industry members attended the quarterly meeting. Formed by the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau in 1999, Team Tourism’s mission is to realize the growth potential of Guernsey County area’s tourism industry through education, information, and networking opportunities.

Using the three secrets to Internet success: testing, tracking, and inventory management, Ervin enlightened the attendees on Internet marketing for an hour during a luncheon meeting at Theo’s Restaurant in downtown Cambridge. Driving home the point that customers have choices, she reminded the attendees to brand their product and keep it consistent when using multi-channel marketing. Often using humor and Lehman’s as an example of good Internet marketing, Ervin ended her presentation with “Ten things not to do on a website.”

To learn more about Team Tourism and how you can get involved, contact Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey Co. VCB at 740-432-2022 or log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Pictured here with Ervin (second from right) is the VCB staff. L- Dawn Beasley, office manager, Debbie Robinson, executive director, and Shauna Hearing, information manager.

Tourism Leaders Travel PA to Promote Tourism in Guernsey County

2008-08-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

Jonett Haberfield, Dickens Victorian Village co-chair and Debbie Robinson, executive director of Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, recently spent the day in Wexford, Pennsylvania at the Chadwick with 120 group tour leaders from Lenzner Tour & Travel.

Pictured is Haberfield sharing information about Dickens Victorian Village activities and events that cater to group tours.

Groups are now booking tours for the holiday season, so the timing of the travel show was perfect for Dickens Victorian Village and Guernsey County.

To learn more about events planned around Dickens Victorian Village for both groups and individuals, log on to http://www.dickensvictorianvillage.com/.

Virginia Tour Operators Visit Guernsey County

2008-08-12T13:32:00.000-07:00

Ernie Dale, president of Roanoke Tours, Inc. (seated) and one of his group leaders, Arvil from Greensboro N.C., recently participated in a familiarization tour of several Ohio counties to experience first-hand the attractions and events the area has to offer their groups. Shown with Ernie and Arvil is Debbie Robinson, executive director of Cambridge/ Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau at Warther's Carvings in Dover.

Ernie and Arvil spent some time in Guernsey County as well, touring the National Museum of Cambridge Glass and riding the Byesville Scenic Railway. Lori Bates, owner of Whistle Stop Deli, treated them to a delicious home cooked meal before they boarded the train.

To learn more about all of the attractions and events Cambridge/Guernsey County has to offer, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

VCB Staff Attends Ohio's Appalachian Country Meeting

2008-08-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau pictured right and Shauna Hearing, Information Manager for the VCB recently traveled to The Inn at Cedar Falls in the Hocking Hills to attend the quarterly meeting of Ohio's Appalachian County, a consortium of the 29 Ohio Appalachian counties. OAC's purpose is to promote the Appalachian Counties as a tourism destination. To learn more, go to http://www.appalachianohio.com/.

Glass Consortium Meets in West Virginia

2008-07-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

Members of the Glass Pass, a tri-state glass museum and company partnership, recently held their quarterly meeting at the West Virginia Museum of American Glass in Weston, West Virginia. The glass partnership exists to enlighten and encourage individuals to further explore the rich heritage and artistry of glassmaking and collection throughout Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

To learn more about the Glass Pass, log on to http://www.glasspass.org/

Byesville Scenic Railway to be featured on ONN

2008-06-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

All aboard! Ohio News Network (ONN) film crew member, Jeff Barr, was in Byesville recently filming the Byesville Scenic Railway for an upcoming program on their award winning, Discover Ohio, a one-half hour travel series that features travel destinations around Ohio. The train segment will air some time in late summer or early fall. Shown here with Jeff are L- train volunteer, Jake Davis and BSRW president, Tim Brown.

To learn more about the Byesville Scenic Railway and their train run schedule, visit www.bsrw.org.

Tourism Industry Members Participate in Regional Seminar

2008-06-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

Adena Mansion & Gardens in Chillicothe was the site for the recent Southeast Focus on Tourism Luncheon sponsored by the Ohio Travel Association. Thirty-five tourism industry members were present to participate in the program entitled "We've been there. I've done that." - Turning Guests into Repeat Customers. Panelists included Tom Hampton, Owner of Creative Coach Company; Toni Kellar, Marketing and Communications Officer for the Wilds; Ray McKinnis, Farm Manager for Bob Evans Farms; Diane Sphar, Owner of Ohio Travel Treasures and Marion Waggoner, producer/Artistic Director of Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama.

Participants learned valuable information from each of the panelists on how to encourage visitors to return year after year to their attraction, business or event. Keeping websites current and complete was a recurring theme among all of the panelists. The panelists also concurred that visitors no longer just want to see something, they want to experience it by feeling, smelling, tasting and living it. The experiences also need to have sparkle and sizzle by adding a new twist.

After the presentation, participants toured Thomas Worthington's home and gardens and later that evening enjoyed Tecumseh!

Pictured here at the Adena Education Center is L- panelist Toni Kellar and moderator Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

To learn more about the educational programs offered by the Ohio Travel Association, log on to http://www.ohiotravel.org/

Ohio Tourism Celebration

2008-05-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau joined more than 70 state-wide tourism partners on the Statehouse lawn in Columbus on May 13 to observe the Ohio Tourism Celebration.

Pictured here are "coal miners" L- Dave Adair and Jake Davis from the Byesville Scenic Railway greeting visitors to the Cambridge/Guernsey County booth.

The day was planned to help launch spring and summer vacation travel in Ohio. Governor Ted Strickland and Lt. Lee Fisher were on hand and proclaimed May as Ohio Tourism Month.

Attendees were treated to entertainment, Ohio-made food products, and many interactive and informative displays about Ohio vacation destinations.

To learn more about what Cambridge/Guernsey County has to offer, log on to www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

AAA FAM Tour in Guernsey County

2008-04-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center recently hosted 30 Ohio AAA agents overnight as part of a three-day FAM (familarization) tour to three state park lodges operated by Xanterra. While at the lodge, the agents had the opportunity to learn about Guernsey County tourism attractions and participate in fun activities at the lodge.

Pictured with Keith Cook, general manager of the lodge, (left) are two travel agents discussing travel packages AAA members can purchase for Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center.

AAA agents enjoy one of the many hands-on activities at the lodge offered during the FAM Tour. Here they are painting bird houses.

Melanie White, Salt Fork Conference Center sales department (right) enjoys a delicious dinner with several of the AAA agents.

To learn more about Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center, log on to www.SaltForkResort.com.

Senator Joy Padgett Receives Award

2008-04-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

Senator Joy Padgett was recognized for her service at the 9th Annual Ohio's Appalachian Country Spotlight on Tourism Travel Show at Ft. Steuben Mall. As the former director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia, Senator Padgett was instrumental in forming and finding the necessary funding for OAC, the 29 Appalachian County consortium that focuses on tourism.

Pictured here with the senator is Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

For more information on OAC, visit http://www.appalachianohio.com/

Appalachian Driving Tour Map Unveiled

2008-04-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

Governor's Office of Appalachia Director Fred Deel and Ohio's First Lady Frances Strickland unveiled the Appalachian Driving Tour Map that features the National Road at the 9th Annual Spotlight on Tourism Travel Show at Ft. Steuben Mall recently. The maps are available at the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, 627 Wheeling Avenue in Downtown Cambridge.

For a Guernsey County driving tour brochure of the National Road, contact the VCB at 800-933-5480 or http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/

Community Meeting Creates Excitement Among Attendees

2008-03-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Approximately 25 area volunteers for Guernsey County attractions and organizations held a meeting at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass recently. The meeting was facilitated by Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention executive director, Debbie Robinson.

The group, representing Dickens Victorian Village, Byesville Scenic Railroad, Cambridge Main Street, Guernsey Co. Genealogical Society, Guernsey Co. Historical Museum, the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, Old Cambridge Conservation Assc., the Living Word Outdoor Drama and Cambridge Performing Arts, discussed their common threads, their similar challenges and how they can help each other.

Collectively, the group decided to initially promote each other weekly at an event in Downtown Cambridge and by displaying each other's brochures at their respective attractions.

The next meeting will take place on April 22 at 7pm at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass. Other non-profit organizations or attractions who promote history, utilize volunteers and serve to culturally enrich area residents and visitors are encouraged to attend.

In the meantime, the group has issued a challenge to come up with a catchy name for the group. All ideas are welcome!

For more information, contact Robinson at the VCB 740-432-2022. To learn about more about Guernsey County's attractions, log on to www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Tourism Expo 2008

2008-02-28T05:43:00.000-08:00

On February 25, 2008, the Second Annual Tourism Expo was held at the University Center at Kent State University Stark Campus. The expo combined an educational format with a small trade show environment. Sixteen educational sessions were offered to tourism industry participants from Tuscarawas, Wayne, Carroll, Coshocton, Summit, Stark, Portage, Medina and Holmes Counties.

Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, Marty Starkey, executive director of the Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Glenda Lehman Ervin, vice president of marketing at Lehman's presented a panel discussion to the participants on cooperative marketing. Using examples in their communities of good marketing practices, the panelists explored a vast array of opportunities for cooperative marketing and cutting edge trends for cross promotional ideas that work.

Pictured here are L-Starkey, Ervin and Robinson.

To learn more, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/, http://www.waynecountycvb.org/.org and http://www.lehmans.com/.

Marketing & Hospitality Teachers in Cambridge

2008-02-22T13:50:00.000-08:00

On Friday, February 22nd, Dee Sturgill, Marketing Education Consultant for the Ohio Department of Education (ODE), led a pre-conference field trip to Cambridge for marketing & hospitality high school teachers. Planned by Toni Keller, marketing and communications manager at the Wilds, the day was spent exploring marketing trends, real world applications and the economic impact of tourism.

Speakers included Toni Kellar, Buddy Butler, account director for Stonewall Marketing, Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, and Jonett Haberfield, owner of A Taste of Ohio who presented a program on the history of Dickens Victorian Village.

Picture here are L-Kellar, Haberfield, Sturgill, Robinson, and Butler. To learn more about ODE, visit http://www.ode.state.oh.us/.

Glass Pass Consortium Meets at Fenton

2008-02-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

Members of the Glass Pass consortium comprised of 11 glass museums and factories in Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania held their quarterly meeting recently at Fenton Glass Factory and Gift Shop in Williamstown, West Virginia. The consortium is planning to launch a Glass Pass website in 2008.

Pictured here are L - Dawn Beasley, Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, Dean Six, The West Virginia Museum of American Glass, Ltd. in Weston, WV and site of the July 2008 Glass Pass meeting, and Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB.

To learn more about Fenton Glass, visit http://www.fentonartglass.com/.

Experiential Tourism Discussed at OAC Meeting

2008-02-15T07:44:00.000-08:00

Ohio's Appalachian Country (OAC) recently gathered at the Ohio Historical Society for their quarterly meeting. Comprised of the 29 Appalachian Counties in Ohio, OAC exists to promote tourism and to market the region to visitors.

During the meeting, Amy Tatman, Tourism Sales Manager for Experience Columbus, shared with OAC members information on experiential tourism, what exactly it is, and tips on how to create packages and then market them. She also shared examples of group tour experiential packages that she and her tourism partners created for Columbus.

Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism's director, Amir Eylon and the Governor's Office of Appalachia's director, Fred Deel, were also on hand during the meeting.

Taking part in the meeting were L - Toni Kellar, the Wilds, Mark Holbrook - Ohio Historical Society and host for the meeting, Amy Tatman, Shauna Hearing and Debbie Robinson - Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

For information on Ohio's Appalachian Country, visit http://www.appalachianohio.com/tourism. To learn more about Experience Columbus and their experiential group tour packages, go to http://www.experiencecolumbus.com/.

Heini's Gourmet Market Holds Grand Opening

2008-01-18T12:23:00.000-08:00

Located in Sugar Creek, Heini's Gourmet Market featuring local artisan food, recently held its grand opening that included a ribbon cutting. The 4,000-square-foot market owned by the Dauwalder family celebrates all-Ohio gourmet food including well-know Heini's Cheese.

Adding to the exciting atmosphere is a test kitchen for cooking demonstrations and live music on select afternoons from 1pm-3pm featuring local musicians.

Cambridge native and owner of "A Taste of Ohio" Jonett Haberfield, partnered with the Troyers to bring Ohio foods into the market that range from coffee, jellies, sauces, spices and pastas, just to name a few. Samples are available daily helping to create a culinary experience for visitors.

Jonett is pictured here with Amir Eylon, State Tourism Director for the Division of Travel & Tourism who took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony.

To learn more about Heini's Gourmet Market, visit http://www.heinisgourmetmarket.com/.

Also on hand for the occasion are area Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Directors L- Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County; John Kiste, Canton/Stark County; Amir Eylon; Amy Rutledge, Carroll County; Shasta Mast, Holmes County and Dee Grossman-Tasker, Tuscarawas.

Director of Local History Office Addresses Historical Society

2008-01-14T12:09:00.000-08:00

J.D. Britton, Director of the Local History Office of the Ohio Historical Society, was in Cambridge recently to address members of the Guernsey County Historical Society during their January trustee meeting. Other organizations were invited to attend as well. Members of the Guernsey Genealogical Society and the National Museum of Cambridge Glass were also on hand to hear Britton's presentation on how to capture volunteers and engage visitors.

After a lively and informative discussion, two issues came to the forefront: the historical society needs to develop a strategic plan and there is a common thread among the historical organizations and museums in Guernsey County. All present agreed that the organizations should meet to discuss their commonalities, shared goals and resources.

As a result, a community organizational meeting was set for Tuesday, March 25 at 7pm at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass 136 South 9th Street in Cambridge. Organizations such as the OCCA, CPAC, Cambridge Main Street and Dickens Victorian Village are encouraged to attend. For more information, call Diane Krall 432-7843 or Paula Murphy 432-7554.

J.D. Britton, seated, is pictured with trustees of the Guernsey County Historical Society L: Madelyn Joseph, Mary Jane Downerd, and Paula Murphy.

John & Annie Glenn Say Thank You

2007-12-17T08:58:00.000-08:00

On December 6, the John & Annie Glenn Historic Site hosted a Thank You Luncheon for benefactors of and volunteers for the attraction at the Cambridge Country Club. Two Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau staff members were in attendance.

The highlight of the luncheon was a personal thank you from John and Annie Glenn. Seen here are the Senator and Mrs. Glenn with the 2007 volunteers.

To learn more about the historic site, log onto www.johnglennhome.org.

ONN Comes to Town

2007-12-17T08:47:00.001-08:00

On December 12, Stephanie Mennecke, reporter for the Ohio News Network and an ONN videographer, spent some time in downtown Cambridge reporting on the Dickens Victorian Village. Here they are seen interviewing a tourist who is enjoying the self-guided Dickens Walking Tour that includes descriptions of all 60 displays.

To see the entire interview, log on to www.ohionewsnow.com.

Middleburg Heights AARP Enjoys Dickens Victorian Village

2007-12-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

On December 5, 47 members of the Middleburg Heights AARP spent a day in Guernsey County enjoying the Dickens Victorian Village displays in downtown Cambridge. They also took the "Spirit of Christmas" Train ride on the Byesville Scenic Railway, ate lunch at Theo's Restaurant, and participated in a Tea and Tour at Colonel Taylor Inn.

Here they are enjoying Sundae provided by A Taste of Ohio at the Tourist Information Center in downtown Cambridge.

Cambridge Main Street Attends 11th Annual Heritage Ohio Announcement Ceremony

2007-12-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, December 13, Fran Taylor, executive director of Cambridge Main Street; Larry Miller, board president and Debbie Robinson, board member traveled to the Ohio Statehouse for Heritage Ohio's Announcement Ceremony. Director Joyce Barrett presented four new Main Street Communities: Defiance, Medina, Perrysburg, Ripley and Warren. Karen Fabiano of the Ohio Department of Development awarded 6 CDBG Grants to Byran, Defiance, Ironton, Leipsic, Orrville and Van Wert. Other Main Street Communities were recognized for their five-year commitment to the Main Street Program. In 2008, Cambridge Main Street will be recognized for their Main Street designation.

To learn more about Cambridge Main Street, log on to http://www.downtowncambridge.com/

Robinson Attends Ohio Travel Association's Board of Directors Retreat

2007-12-07T11:34:00.001-08:00

Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau recently took part in a board of directors retreat at Cherry Valley Lodge for the Ohio Travel Association. Robinson was recently elected secretary of the travel and tourism association and in 2010 will serve as their president.

Facilitating the retreat was Bonnie Brannigan of Spark Strategy Group from Dublin, Ohio. Pictured here is OTA's executive director, Marc McQuaid, who exhibits his good nature while participating in an excercise during the retreat.

To learn more about the Ohio Travel Association and the services it provides, visit http://www.ohiotravel.org/.

FAM Tour in Cambridge for Dickens Experience

2007-12-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

Tour operators from Ohio and Kentucky spent two days and one night it Cambridge and Guernsey County as part of the Victorian Holidays in Ohio's Appalachian Country Familiarization Tour in December. The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau partnered with both Tuscarawas County and Marietta CVB's to bring the thirteen tour operators to our area.

After spending the first day and night in Marietta, the operators first toured the Colonel Taylor Inn where they enjoyed tea and cookies upon their arrival in Cambridge. Next they had a delicious barbecue lunch at the Dancing Donkey Restaurant in Buffalo. Afterwards, they took the Byseville Scenic Railway train ride and learned how coal miners and their families celebrated the holiday season at the turn of the century.

They were able to spend several hours in downtown Cambridge viewing the Dickens scenes , shopping, and enjoying hot coffee at De'Brooke Aroma. Here several of them make a holiday wreath pin at the Eastern Ohio Art Guild.

In the evening, they ate dinner at the Holiday Inn Parkway Restaurant and were thrilled meet actors from the Living Word Outdoor Drama who performed several scenes from the only Passion Play in the state of Ohio.

They ended the evening by watching the Cambridge Performing Art Center's presentation of "A Christmas Carol."

Before leaving Cambridge the next morning to go to Tuscarawas County, they toured the National Museum of Cambridge Glass.

To learn more about Dickens Victorian Village, go to www.DickensVictorianVillage.com.

Tri-County FAM Tour

2007-11-30T12:13:00.000-08:00

On November 29 - December 3, three area destinations hosted a FAM (Familiarization) Tour for 13 tour operators from Ohio and Kentucky. Entitled "Victorian Holidays in Ohio's Appalachian Country," the tour highlighted holiday activities in Marietta/Washington County, Cambridge/Guernsey County and Tuscarawas County for group tours.

The tour began at the Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg on Thursday evening. After touring the Marietta/Washington County area, the group will spend a day and one night in Cambridge/Guernsey County visiting several attractions. The tour will conclude in Tuscarawas County on Monday.

Pictured here is staff from each of the three destinations. Front Row - L - Tiffany Gerber, Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau ; Debbie Robinson and Dawn Beasley, Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau. Back Row - L - Kelly Blazosky and Christina Thrasher, Marietta/Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau; Shauna Hearing, Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB and Donna McKnight, Marietta Washington County CVB.

To learn more about each of these destinations, log onto Marietta/Washington County - http://www.mariettaohio.org/; Tuscarawas County - http://www.ohiotimelesadventures.com/; or Cambridge/Guernsey County - http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Glass Pass Consortium Meets During Dickens Victoran Village

2007-11-20T06:16:00.000-08:00

Members of the Glass Pass consortium met in Cambridge recently for their quarterly meeting.

The Glass Pass is a partnership of glass museums and companies whose goal is to enlighten and encourage individuals to further explore the rich heritage and artistry of glassmaking and collecting throughout Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

After their lunch and meeting, which took place at Theo's Restaurant, members walked to the National Museum of Cambridge Glass while observing the Dickens Victorian Village scenes along the way. Once at the museum, NCC members shared with them "Partnerships that Work," including information on "A Dash through the Past" and NCC's involvement with the Dickens project.

In this photo, museum docent Sandy Rohrbough, in her Victorian costume, talks with Glass Pass partners Ron and Norma Hufford from the Fostoria Glass Museum in Moundsville, WV. To learn more about the Glass Pass, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ and request a Glass Pass brochure.

Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB Attends OACVB Event

2007-11-20T06:13:00.001-08:00

The Ohio Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (OACVB) held its 6th Annual President's Luncheon recently at the Buckeye Hall of Fame Cafe in Columbus. Debbie Robinson, executive director of the VCB and Toni Kellar, president of the VCB Board of Directors attended the luncheon.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the coveted Don Patterson Award which was given to Dee Grossman-Tasker, executive director of the Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Shown here are L- Robinson and Grossman-Tasker, who has been a mentor to and a friend of Robinson's since 1999 when Robinson first began her career in travel & tourism in Guernsey County. The OACVB's mission serves to advance the value and influence of and investment in, Ohio's convention and visitor bureaus.

VCB Staff Attends OAC Quarterly Meeting

2007-11-20T06:09:00.000-08:00

Debbie Robinson, executive director of Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau along with Shauna Hearing, information manager for the VCB, traveled to Greenfield, Ohio in Highland County for Ohio's Appalachian Country quarterly meeting on November 8. Of note, as of this most recent meeting, OAC has now held their quarterly meeting in all 29 Appalachian Counties.

Members of the Greenfield Historical Society hosted the event. After the business luncheon, Participants learned about the Highland Sanctuary and took part in a panel discussion on Cultural & Heritage tourism: Challenges & Responsibilities.

Pictured here is Shauna Hearing in front of the beautiful Greenfield Historical Museum.
To learn more about Ohio's Appalachian Country, log on to www.AppalachianOhio.com/tourism.

Great Expectations Chocolate Walk a Great Success

2007-11-20T06:07:00.000-08:00

Approximately 200 people participated in the Dickens Victorian Village inaugural event on Wednesday, November 7 to officially kick off the second year of Dickens Victorian Village! Twenty-eight downtown businesses took part in what was affectionately dubbed as "trick or treating for adults.

The chocolate fountain provided at Peoples Bank was a real crowd-pleaser.
For more information on Dickens events, go to http://www.dickensvictorianvillage.com/.

New Dickens Event Promoted During PLCC's Broadway Show

2007-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

During the most recent Broadway Show at Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, members of the Dickens Victorian Village committee had an opportunity to meet and talk with attendees before and after "Stay Tuned" about the newest Dickens event, Dickens Evensong Service & Feast.

Shown here are L- Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau executive director, Fran Taylor, Cambridge Main Street executive director and Jonett Haberfield, co-chair of the Dickens committee with their booth.

The Dickens Evensong Service & Feast will be held on Saturday, December 8. Beginning at 5:30pm at St. John's Episcopal Church, the Evensong Service will take place followed by a processional and dinner at Unity Presbyterian Church. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased at the Attic Trunk and the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce, both located in Downtown Cambridge.

For more detailed information on this event and all Dickens events, log on to http://www.dickensvictorianvillage.com/

State Tourism Director in Cambridge

2007-10-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

The newly appointed director of the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism, Amir Eylon, spoke to 30 Team Tourism members during their quarterly meeting at Theo's Restaurant on October 29. Director Eylon shared the latest in Division updates on the status of programs, the direction of the direction of the Division and their current short-term plans. He also emphasized the importance partnerships within the tourism industry and making use of the free resources the Division has to offer.

Shown here with Director Eylon are L - Debbie Robinson, Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor & Convention Bureau executive director; Shauna Hearing, VCB information manager, and Dawn Beasley, VCB office manager.

For more information on the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism, log onto www.DiscoverOhio.com.

Chocolate and Shopping

2007-10-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

Dickens Victorian Village's newest event had a presence at "A Taste of the Seasons" held at Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center recently. 550 people attended this very popular cooking show sponsored by the Daily Jeffersonian and Riesbeck's Grocery Store.

Great Expectations Chocolate Walk will take place in Historic Downtown Cambridge on Wednesday, November 7 from 6pm - 8pm. Only 200 tickets will be sold at $10 each. They are available for purchase at Country Bits & Pieces and Peoples Bank - Main Office.

Exchange your ticket on the evening of the event at Peoples Bank - Main Office for a Dickens Victorian Village bag and walking tour brochure that will direct you to participating merchants, where you will receive one chocolate experience at each location - perhaps it will be a serving of hot chocolate, or a brownie, or a chocolate cordial. Enjoy some on the walk, or place some in your souvenir bag to enjoy later.

Pictured here are L - Pam McCauley, Dickens Committee Treasurer and Jonett Haberfield, Dickens Committee Co-Chair as they prepare to hand out chocolate samples and fliers on the Chocolate Walk event from their booth. (Image to be added at a later date)

To find out more about all of the events taking place during Dickens Victorian Village November 5, 2007 - January 21, 2008, log on to http://www.dickensvictorianvillage.com/.

Visitors & Convention Burea at Paul Bunyan Show

2007-10-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

The staff and volunteers of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau had a great weekend at the Official Paul Bunyan Show at the Guernsey County Fairgrounds October 5-7. This year the tourist information booth was located in Exhibit Hall #3 along with A Taste of Ohio.

The staff would like to thank the volunteers who worked the booth by greeting visitors and handing out information on Guernsey County including event calendars and area maps. They are Margy Bucci and Bobbi Williams- Hampton Inn; Brook Clemens - Pine Lakes Lodge; Laurel Adams - Cracker Barrel; Lynn Abrams- Spilker - SEO Financial Services; Susan Jividen - Deerassic Park; Teri Clapper and Barb McClintock - Rocky Fork Recreation Center; Dione Bell and Lowell Coon - Buffalo Hills Campground; Mary Ellen Weingartner and Peggy Orecchio - National Road/Zane Grey Museum; Tim Brown - Byesville Scenic Railway; Richard and Sharon Carpenter - Lore City Festival; Robin and Luke Kapolka - All Ways 2 Travel, and Laura Schumann - Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra.

Pictured here are VCB staff members L- Dawn Beasley and Shauna Hearing with the John Deere "American Farmland Basket" that visitors to the booth had an opportunity to sign up to win. Jerry Lee Williams from Troy, Ohio was the lucky winner of the basket.

VCB Wins Prestegious Award

2007-09-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

During the annual Ohio Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus' Fall Conference in Oberlin, Ohio, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau won OACVB's Middy Award for their 2007 Official Vacation Guide. The prestigious award recognizes VCB's from the state of Ohio for their excellence in tourism marketing.

Present for the award luncheon was L- Debbie Robinson, executive director of the VCB and Buddy Butler of Stonewall Marketing Firm who created the Official Vacation Guide.

To receive a copy of the guide, log on to www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Guernsey County Lodging Association Meets

2007-09-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

During their quarterly meeting, the Guernsey County Lodging Association gathered at the Colonel Taylor Inn B&B. The association meets to discuss issues relevant to the lodging industry, receive updates from the Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau and to have an opportunity to network with one another. The association members enjoy meeting at area attractions. If you are a Guernsey County attraction and would like to host the next quarterly meeting in January 2008, please contact Debbie Robinson at the VCB director@visitguernseycounty.com or 740-432-2022.

Pictured around the table at the Colonel Taylor Inn B& B are L- Ralph Ray, manager of Cambridge Holiday Inn and Lodging Assoc. President; Donna Rush, sales director of Cambridge Holiday Inn; Joan Reed, owner of Bagpipe Farms; Patricia Irvin, proprietor of Col. Taylor B&B, Bobbi Williams, sales director of Hampton Inn, Margy Bucci, manager of Hampton Inn, and Dawn Beasley, office manager for VCB.

For a listing of all of the hotels, B&B's and cabins in Guernsey County, log on to www.VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

New Guernsey County Billboard Goes Up

2007-09-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau is pleased to announce that a new billboard has been placed on the side of Dancing Donkey's Antique Store to capture the attention of visitors traveling to Seneca Lake on State Route 313 East. Using the Guernsey County logo, shown here, the billboard encourages travelers along the route to check out the VCB's website.

Debbie Robinson, VCB executive director, says, "We appreciate Mick Webster, manager of the Dancing Donkey and John Puskar, owner, for allowing us to place this billboard on one of their buildings. We feel strongly that the impact of this strategic location will be a positive one. Dancing Donkey is a good tourism partner, and we thank them for their willingness to work with us on this project."

To learn more about Guernsey County tourism, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Fred Deel speaks to Ohio's Appalachian Country

2007-08-10T05:15:00.000-07:00

New director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia, Fred Deel, was the keynote speaker at Ohio's Appalachian Country's recent quarterly meeting in Salem. Timberlanes Inn and Restaurant along with Columbiana County Tourism partners hosted the event. Tiffany Gerber, president of OAC, welcomed representatives from the 29 Ohio Appalachian counties who were in attendance.

OAC was recently named a recipient of funds from the GOA to be used for marketing the 29 county consortium which serves to promote the rich heritage and culture of the Appalachian counties as a destination for Travel and Tourism.

To learn more about OAC, log onto their website http://www.appalachianohio.com/. To find more information on the Governor's Office of Appalachia, go to http://www.odod.ohio.gov/.

Pictured here with Director Deel is L- Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau and Shauna Hearing, information manager for the VCB.

"Meet the Meeting Planners"

2007-08-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

Recently seven Guernsey County tourism industry professionals attended the Ohio Travel Association's Southeast Focus on Tourism luncheon series at the Longaberger Homestead. Through a panel discussion, attendees had an opportunity to learn what meeting planners needs are, what makes a difference when selecting sites, and what would make them com back. Marshall Perry, manager of Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center served as a panelist.

To learn more about meeting spaces in Guernsey County, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ and click on Meeting Planners. To generate more business for your meeting site, visit http://www.ohiomeetingspace.com/.

Attending the luncheon are L- Dawn Beasley, office manager - Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB; Debbie Robinson, executive director - VCB; Margy Bucci, manager - Cambridge Hampton Inn, Marshall perry, panelist; Shauna Hearing, information manager - VCB and Donna Rush, director of sales - Cambridge Holiday Inn. Not pictured is Bobbi Williams - Cambridge Hampton Inn.

Glass Pass Consortium Travels to Tiffin, Ohio

2007-07-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

On Monday, July 17th, several Guernsey County members of the Glass Pass Consortium traveled to Tiffin, Ohio for their quarterly Glass Pass meeting. Cindy Arent and Lorraine Weinman of the National Museum of Cambridge Glass along with Dawn Beasley from the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB are pictured above with the entire Glass Pass group who attended the meeting at Tiffin Glass Museum & Glass Shop.

The Glass Pass is a partnership of glass museums and companies in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania whose goal is to enlighten and encourage individuals to further explore the rich heritage and artistry of glassmaking and collecting.

The consortium travels quarterly to tour each partner's museum or attraction. On Monday, the group got a double treat. Not only did they tour the Tiffin Glass Museum, but they also visited nearby Crystal Traditions where they watched a glassmaking demonstration.

For your copy of the Glass Pass, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/ or call 740-432-2022 or 800-933-5480.

Dawn Beasley looks on as curator Ruth Hemminger, shares information about Tiffin Glass.

The Cheetahs are Here!

2007-07-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

The Wilds, one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, announced the opening of its new Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center today. "It is the only facility of its kind in the country, maybe in the world," said Executive Director Dr. Evan Blumer.

The Carnivore Center features elevated walkways and a second-story observation area for excellent viewing of the animals in large enclosures. Additional boardwalks, viewing platforms and viewable animal management research areas are completed or near completion.

"One of the exciting things we have planned is a cheetah run- a mechanical device with a cloth lure used to exercise the cheetahs," said Dan Beetem, (pictured here) director of Animal Management.

A press conference and media day was held in the morning for area, regional and state media. Also getting a first-hand view was the staff of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

Pictured here is one of the female cheetahs posing for the camera.

For more information on the Wilds and future plans for the carnivore conservation center, log on to http://www.thewilds.org/.

Guernsey County Featured on ONN's Discover Ohio

2007-07-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

ONN has partnered with the Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (OACVB) to present “Discover Ohio,” a travel series designed to highlight Ohio’s destinations and attractions. “Discover Ohio,” now in its second season, provides Ohioans with travel and tourism information and ideas― from state parks to exhibits, and everything in between. “Discover Ohio” airs Wednesdays, from 7:30pm-8:00pm and repeat Sundays at 10:00pm and Tuesdays at 3:30pm. The program is hosted by Veteran Reporter Mykkia Cameron.“Discover Ohio” airs every week, with new shows joining the lineup through October, 2007.

Guernsey County will actually have twice as much exposure on ONN. The entire months of May and June, ONN aired a 30 second commercial featuring the Living Word Outdoor Drama, Seneca Lake, the Wilds and the Byesville Scenic Railway. The OACVB Co-op commercial highlighting the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, Salt Fork State Park and Lodge will begin airing on airing July 19th.

For more information on all of the events, activities and attractions in Guernsey County, contact the VCB at 432-2022 or log on to VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Pictured here are Keith Cook, Manager of Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center and Jeff Barr, Videographer for ONN.

Local Attractions attend "Meet the Editor"

2007-06-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, June 26th at Holiday Inn Fort Rapids in Columbus, area attractions were given the opportunity to meet with top editors from several publications to find out what it takes to get their attention. Top editors from Midwest Living, Ohio Magazine, Long Weekends, AAA’s Home & Away, the Ohio News Network and Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com attended the event. The day, which was presented by the Ohio Travel Association began with a panel discussion followed by a question and answer session. Few were given the chance to "pitch" their attractions. Those attending from our area included, Patricia Irvin owner and operator of the Colonel Taylor Inn B&B, Toni Kellar of the Wilds, and Shauna Hearing of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

To learn more about the Cambridge/Guernsey County area go to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/

For more information on the Ohio Travel Association go to http://www.ohiotravel.org/

Pictured here is the moderator for the day Ann Marie Whyte of Cedar Point.

Try a New Experience at Living Word Outdoor Drama

2007-06-18T05:29:00.000-07:00

The Living Word Outdoor Drama began its 33rd season on Friday, June 15 under a beautiful Southeastern Ohio sky. Adding to the excitement of the new season was several new scenes, lovely musical selections and the majestic horses making several appearances.

So you say you've been to Living Word before. It is worth going back this year to see the changes. Have you ever served as an extra in the 2 1/2 hour passion play? No? Then you have to try it. You will experience the drama in an entirely different light.

What do you need to do to be an extra? Simple. Come back stage at 7pm (6pm in September). The nice folks in the Living Word office will direct you. Once behind the stage, you will be directed to a dressing room, and the kind people there will help you choose your costume. During the play, more kind people will give you instructions on when to go out before the audience and what to do when you get there.

Don't want to go by yourself. Take your 4-H group, church group, service club or just a group of friends. Shown here are members of First Christian Church in Cambridge who traditionally serve as extras the first and last evenings of the season.

For more information on the Living Word and for a complete schedule, visit http://www.livingworddramma.org/ or call 740-439-2761.

Maestra Laura Schumann Performs at Miss Ohio

2007-06-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

Well-known conductor and violinist, Dr. Laura Schumann, will perform during the Miss Ohio Pageant which will be televised live on ONN Saturday, June 16th at 8pm.

Laura will play Celine Dion's "To Love Your More" and a selection from the Celtic Women during the evening gown competition and just before the swimwear competition, she will perform “Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

Renowned artist and Muskingum College professor Yan Sun painted flames on her white violin for her performance of the “Devil Went Down To Georgia.”

To learn more about the Miss Ohio Pageant and to view tonight's Miss Ohio Program online, visit www.MissOhioLive.com.

New Discount Ticket Program Available

2007-06-14T05:53:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau announces an exciting new discount program for the residents of Guernsey County. The Guernsey County Discount Ticket program offers residents the opportunity to attend five attractions this summer and receive a savings of up to $10 per person.

The participants are as follows:
Byesville Scenic Railway - $1 discount on train rides
All-aboard for a trip back in history as passengers are transported in time to the days when coal mining was king in Guernsey County. Listen to the stories of the local miners, sing along to "I Owe My Soul to the Company Store," and be sure to sit back and relax on this 1 1/2 hour trip. Admission is $10 Adults and $7 Children. (Does not include Steam weekends.) For more information and a schedule of the rides, check out http://www.bsrw.org/ or call 740-432-2022.

Drafty Acres Stable - $1 discount on their guided horse trail rides
Located in beautiful Southeastern Ohio's Salt Fork State Park region, just 3 miles from the main entrance of the park, Drafty Acres offers guided horseback rides to the public on 157 acres of private owned property. Enjoy absolutely breath taking views of the county on well-seasoned safe horses. Children always welcome regardless of age. One hour guided trail ride $16.00 per horse. For more information, log on to http://www.blogger.com/www.draftyacresstable.net or call 740-489-5070.
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Living Word Outdoor Drama - $5 discount for adults and $2.50 for children
Witness the Life and Ministry of Christ on a spectacular 400 panoramic set and America's most authentic recreation of Old Jerusalem! Witness: The Sermon on the Mount - Palm Sunday Entrance - The Last Supper - The Crucifixion - The Resurrection - The Ascension. Admission is $15 Adults and $5 Children (ages 4-12). For more information and this season’s schedule, check out http://www.livingworddrama.org/ or call 740-439-2761.

National Museum of Cambridge Glass - $1 discount
In addition to the 6,000 piece glass display area, mannequins are used to demonstrate how glass was gathered from the furnace, formed into its final shape, and then etched, gold decorated or engraved. Highlighting the self-guided tour are three feature display rooms that change yearly. Admission is $3 per person. For more information visit http://www.cambridgeglass.org/ or call 740-432-4245.

the Wilds - $2 discount on Safari Transport tours The Wilds is one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world. Located on nearly 10,000 acres near Cumberland, Ohio, it is home to rare and endangered wildlife from Africa, Asia and North America in open-range habitat. Open select days May through October. $18.00 Adults and $13.00 Children 4-12. For more information and a schedule, visit http://www.thewilds.org/ or call 740-638-5030.

Here is how it works, take a tour of the Wilds, save your ticket and take it to the National Museum of Cambridge Glass to receive your discount. Take your museum ticket to Drafty Acres, receive your discount, take their ticket to the Living Word Drama, receive your discount, etc. Attractions may be visited in any order and all participants will offer discounts with any tickets purchases in 2007.
Each individual must show an admission ticket from the previous location to receive a discount.

VCB Executive Director Debbie Robinson encourages residents to, “Take the opportunity to check out what is in your own back yard this summer, and remember to take your visiting friends and relatives with you.”

For more information on the discount ticket program, call the VCB at 740-432-2022 or log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Donk's Pit Stop Bar is a Happening Place!

2007-06-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

There's a new hang out in Buffalo! Donk's Pit Stop Bar held its grand opening on Friday, June 8th with delicious hors d'oeuvres and lots of fun libations. Entertainment and door prize drawings took place throughout the evening. Proprietor John Puskar invites everyone to visit his establishment located at 11966 Clay Pike Road beside Dancing Donkey Restaurant. Log onto http://www.dancingdonk.com/ to learn more.

Enjoying the open house are VCB friends L - Bryant Ficken, Tina Adams and Jodie Dolan.

Winner of "Explore Guernsey County" Gift Basket

2007-05-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

During National Tourism Week, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau participated with a drawing for residents who visited the Tourist Information Center during the week and registered for an “Explore Guernsey County Gift Basket." The basket included a $35 gift certificate from Theo’s Restaurant, an overnight at the Cambridge Holiday Inn, a family pool pass at AmeriHost Inn & Suites (soon to be Baymont Inn), four tickets for a train ride on the Byesville Scenic Railway, four tickets to the Living Word Outdoor Drama, a family pass to the Wilds, four tickets to the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, a mug and cookbook from Colonel Taylor Inn B&B and Gift Shop, $30 in gift certificates from the Guernsey County Farmer’s Market, and four tickets to the John & Annie Glenn Historic Site. Everyone who signed up during the week-long event also received a welcome bag filled with information on the area, and the first 27 entrants received a "Celebrate Community t-shirt to commemorate the 27 years the VCB has been serving the Guernsey County tourism industry.

Pictured here is L - VCB information manager,

Shauna Hearing presenting the gift basket to the winner Holly Krise of Byesville.

For more information on Guernsey County's tourism attractions, log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Seneca Lake Cabins Host Final Open House

2007-05-21T05:54:00.000-07:00

On Friday, May 18th, Dirk Rickard, owner of Seneca Lake Cabins, hosted the final National Tourism Week Open House. Georgetown Vineyards was the highlighted attraction. Dirk has two cabins available for rent and will soon offer another two new cabins, one being handicap accessible. Pictured here is L - Dawn Beasley, VCB office manager and Shauna Hearing, information manager on the porch of one of the cabins that overlooks Seneca Lake.

VCB president, Toni Kellar and Dirk Rickard enjoy sipping on Georgetown Vineyard's Apple Wine. For more information on lodging in Guernsey County, go to www.visitguernseycounty.com.

AmeriHost Inn "Put on the Dog"

2007-05-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

AmeriHost Inn & Suites (soon to be Baymont Inn) pulled out all the stops last night during National Tourism Week's fourth in a series of week-long open houses. Dressed in 50's gear, serving grilled hot dogs and root beer floats, the staff outdid themselves with decorations creating an era of time gone by. The Millennium Street Rodders were on hand with some old favorites along with great 50's music. Pictured here is open house organizer , Linda Fitzgerald with one of the cars featured at last night's celebration.

Pam Scarberry- left , dressed in her best 50's outfit serves up delicious hot dogs while Mary Sills- below left, hands Dawn Beasley, VCB office manager a root beer float.

Tonight concludes Guernsey County's National Tourism Week celebration. Join the VCB staff and board members at Seneca Lake Cabins featuring Georgetown Vineyards. For more information, log onto www.visitguernseycounty.com.

Dickens Victorian Village Highlighted at State Conference

2007-05-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, May 17, 2007, Jonett Haberfield, co-chair of Dickens Victorian Village and Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau were featured speakers at the Heritage Ohio Conference in Cincinnati. Heritage Ohio is the state association for the Main Street communities in Ohio. Guy Googins, executive director of Cambridge Main Street also attended the three-day conference.

Haberfield's and Robinson's presentation entitled "It Takes a Village" focused on how tourism revitalizes a downtown, impacts the local economy and brings a community together. Using Dickens Victorian Village as their example, they shared with attendees the history of the program and how it serves as a catalyst for renewed volunteerism, pride and excitement by area residents and attracts tourists to downtown, creating Cambridge as a travel destination during the holiday season.

Pictured here before their presentation are L- Haberfield and Robinson

To learn more about Heritage Ohio and the Main Street program, log onto www.heritageohio.org. To find out the latest information on the Dickens Victorian Village, check out www.DickensVictorianVillage.com.

Colonel Taylor Inn Hosts Open House

2007-05-17T06:07:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening, May 16, the Colonel Taylor Inn B& B and Gift Shop was the site for the third National Tourism Week Open House during the week-long celebration. Proprietors Jim and Patricia Irvin offered attendees a lovely array of hors d'oeuvres and a door prize filled with tickets for the Living Word Outdoor Drama, the Colonel Taylor Cookbook, and several items from their gift shop. The Living Word Outdoor Drama whose season begins June 15th was the featured attraction. Pictured here is L - Jim and Patricia Irvin, Samantha Servais, director of the Passion Play, Andre Servias in Living Word costume and Dawn Beasley, office manager for the VCB.

For more information on the Colonel Taylor Inn and the Living Word Outdoor Drama, log onto www.visitguernseycounty.com.

First Annual Tourism Awards Presented at Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center

2007-05-16T06:35:00.000-07:00

The First Annual Tourism Awards were presented during the Open House held at Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center during National Tourism Week. The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau board president Toni Kellar presented an award for the Tourism Volunteer of the Year and Tourism Development of the Year. Pictured here is Volunteer of the Year award winner Jonett Haberfield for her work with the Dickens Victorian Village along with the founder of Dickens Victorian Village Bob Ley.

Several representatives of the Byesville Scenic Railway were present to accept the award for Tourism Development of the Year. Pictured here is Tim Brown holding the award along with many dedicated volunteers.

For more information on local attractions including Dickens Victorian Village and the Byesville Scenic Railway log onto http://www.visitguernseycounty.com

Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center Hosts Second Open House

2007-05-16T05:39:00.000-07:00

The second open house held during National Tourism Week was hosted by Salt Fork Resort & Conference Center. Pictured here with her display is the Activities Director Cindy Bradshaw.

Park Officer Donnie Rose and Dave Thompson from Salt Fork Campground are pictured here with a display of maps and other information on Salt Fork State Park.

For a schedule of all of the National Tourism Week open houses in Guernsey County, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com

First National Tourism Week Open House Held

2007-05-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

To celebrate National Tourism Week, the Cambridge Holiday Inn held the first in a week-long series of open houses on Monday, May 14th. Pictured here is Holiday Inn marketing director Donna Rush, VCB information manager, Shauna Hearing, and Holiday Inn General Manager, Ralph Ray.

The Deerassic Park Educational Center was the highlighted Guernsey County attraction during the open house. Standing by their display is VCB office manager, Dawn Beasley and Deerassic information manager, Susan Jividen.

For a schedule of all of the National Tourism Week open houses in Guernsey County, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/.

Win an "Explore Guernsey County Basket"

2007-05-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau will celebrate National Tourism Week, May 14-18, 2007 by offering a free "Celebrate Community" t-shirt to the first 27 people who sign up for a great family get away basket at the Tourist Information Center in downtown Cambridge.

The basket is filled with local items including a $35 gift certificate from Theo’s Restaurant, an overnight at the Cambridge Holiday Inn, a family pool pass at AmeriHost Inn & Suites (soon to be Baymont Inn), four tickets for a train ride on the Byesville Scenic Railway, four tickets to the Living Word Outdoor Drama, a family pass to the Wilds, four tickets to the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, a mug and cookbook from Colonel Taylor Inn B&B and Gift Shop, $30 in gift certificates from the Guernsey County Farmer’s Market, and four tickets to the John & Annie Glenn Historic Site. Everyone who signs up will receive a welcome bag filled with information on the area. The winner will be announced on Monday, May 21st.

Pictured here with the t-shirt and basket are L- Shauna Hearing, information manager and Dawn Beasley, office manager.

Travel Writer from the U.K. is Guest at Colonel Taylor Inn B&B

2007-05-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau welcomed a visitor from “across the pond” this week. United Kingdom travel writer Teresa Machan visited with VCB Director Debbie Robinson Wednesday, May 2, during a whirlwind tour of Ohio and the state’s Underground Railroad heritage sites.

Joe Vargo, Public Relations Coordinator for the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism organized and accompanied Machan on her tour. He specifically requested that Machan overnight at the B&B for its tie to the Civil War and rich history with Joseph D. Taylor who served as a Colonel during the war. Local historian Dave Adair also met with Machan to share with her Guernsey County’s role in the Underground Railroad.

Cambridge Listed as one of the 100 Top Towns

2007-04-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

In its June issue, Midwest Living states that Cambridge is known for its "glass factories, shops and museums as well as Salt Fork State Park, Ohio's largest." For those reasons and more, Cambridge is listed as one of the 100 top towns to visit in the Midwest.

For more information for all of the activities and attractions in Guernsey County, check out www.visitguernseycounty.com.

Tourism Reps Attend Marketing Conference

2007-04-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

Debbie Robinson, Executive Director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau and Toni Kellar, Marketing & Communications Officer for the Wilds are seen here at the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism's Annual Marketing Conference in Columbus.

The attendees were entertained with a rendition of John Prine's "Dear Abby" with a tourism twist performed by Lt. Governor Lee Fisher and First Lady Frances Strickland during Lt. Fisher's Welcome Address.

During the first day of the two-day conference, attendees learned about Diversity Marketing and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati and their initiative entitled "Passage to Freedom," an ambitious undertaking to catalog all Ohio underground railroads. Attendees also chose from Advertising One-on One, Website Assessment, and Creating a PR Driven Campaign workshops.

The second day, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a seminar on either Agricultural Tourism or Culinary Tourism.

For more information on the presentations at the conference or to learn more about the resources the Ohio Division of Travel & Tourism offers to the tourism industry, log on to http://www.discoverohio.com/industry.

Team Tourism Updated on MC Passport

2007-04-23T11:37:00.000-07:00

During the recent Team Tourism Quarterly Meeting, attendees learned about the Muskingum County Passport Program, a joint venture between the Muskingum County Tourism Industry partners, the Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce and the Muskingum County Library System. The program encourages students and their families to discover the rich historical and cultural sites the county has to offer.

Presenting the program were L- Joanna Duncan and R- Debbie Allender of the John and Annie Glenn Historic Site. Shauna Hearing, information manager for the VCB, is pictured with them.

Team Tourism partners who are interested in forming a program like the Muskingum County Passport in Guernsey County are encouraged to attend a follow-up meeting on Wednesday, May 23rd at 2:00pm at the Guernsey County Administration Building in the multi-purpose room.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Debbie Robinson at the VCB 740-432-2022 or director@visitguernseycounty.com.

Ohio Historical Society Region 10 Meets in Cambridge

2007-04-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the National Museum of Cambridge Glass hosted the OHS Region 10 meeting in their museum in downtown Cambridge. Over 40 participants attended the meeting coming from Caldwell, Warsaw, Zanesville, Belpre, Marietta, and as far away as Lebanon, Ohio.

The theme of the annual event was partnerships and collaboration with an emphasis on education. Speakers included Pauli Cornish from the Stone House Museum, Dr. Lorle Porter and Joanna Duncan from John & Annie Glenn Historic Site, Cindy Arent from the National Museum of Cambridge Glass and seen here, Debbie Robinson from the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau. The afternoon was topped off with a living history presentation by coal miners Steve Stolarik and Dave Adair from the Byesville Scenic Railway.

To learn more about these area attractions, log on to www.visitguernseycounty.com.

Discover Downtown Cambridge

2007-04-23T05:56:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with AVC Communication's special TV Show and web cast to promote local attractions and events to its residents and visitors alike, the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau participated in the welcome and closing remarks for the production as well as a description about the services that are offered in the Tourist Information Center located in downtown Cambridge. Taking part in the interview is L- Shauna Hearing, information manager for the VCB , Dave Wilson, AVC on-air personality and Debbie Robinson, executive director of the VCB. Behind the camera is Joel Losego, cameraman extraordinaire.

To learn more about Cambridge/Guernsey County Tourism, check out www.visitguernseycounty.com.

State-wide Smoking Ban to be enforced May 3

2007-04-18T12:55:00.000-07:00

Today during the Guernsey County Lodging Association's quarterly meeting, hosted by the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, members were updated on the smoking ban from Amir Eylon, Executive Vice President and Kelly Jones, Director of Membership Development for the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association.

OH&LA is a state organization that offers training, networking opportunities, resources and updates on legislative issues that affect the lodging industry. Lodging Association members learned that the state-wide smoking ban will be enforced beginning May 3. To learn more about OH&LA, log onto http://www.ohiolodging.com/.

Pictured here are L - seated - Kelly Jones and Amir Eylon of OH&LA. L-standing - Debbie Robinson and Shauna Hearing of the VCB, and Ralph Ray, president of the Guernsey Co. Lodging Association.

Excuse Our Muss and Dust

2007-04-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau staff recently took time out from their busy schedules to spend an entire work day cleaning the Tourist Information Center located in Historic Downtown Cambridge. In preparation for National Tourism Week and the upcoming travel season, L- Shauna Hearing, information manager and Dawn Beasley, office manager are seen here cleaning the glass display case filled with local glass from Degenhart, Mosser, Boyd and Cambridge Glass.

The staff encourages the Guernsey County Tourism industry to "get ready for company" as well. For more information on Guernsey County's National Tourism Week celebration, check out www.visitguernseycounty.com.

Glass Pass members travel to Lancaster

2007-04-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

Today, 6 Guernsey County members of the Glass Pass consortium traveled to the new Ohio Glass Museum in Lancaster to attend the quarterly Glass Pass meeting.

The Glass Pass is a partnership of 11 glass museums and companies whose goal is to enlighten and encourage individuals to further explore the rich heritage and artistry of glassmaking and collecting throughout Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Glass Pass brochures can be obtained at any of the participating museums and companies or by logging onto www.visitguernseycounty.com.

Enjoying a tour of the Ohio Glass Museum are members of the National Museum of Cambridge Glass and staff members from the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau: L - Cindy Arent, Betty Sivard, Dawn Beasley, Debbie Robinson, Sandy Rohrbaugh and Lorraine Weinman.

"Ask Me How"

2007-04-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, March 27th, 167 travel and tourism partners converged in Columbus for Legislative Day. These partners represented Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association, Ohio Restaurant Association, Ohio Travel Association and Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus all speaking in one voice. The message.....a simple one, by giving the Ohio Division of Travel

& Tourism 25 million dollars in their annual budget, 177 million will be generated in direct and indirect traveler spending.

I had the opportunity to meet with several of our legislators and say hello to former Guernsey County Commissioner, now president and legislative director of the State Controlling Board, Joe Secrest. While I was there, I also visited our friends at the Governor's Office of Appalachia.

It is so important to remind our legislators that tourism is used as an economic development tool for our state and our counties. Guernsey County is a perfect example of how money can be generated for our county. Take a look at Dickens Victorian Village. We saw an increase of 20 motor coaches representing 665 tourists who visited our area in November and December '06. Each of those tourists ate in at least one of our restaurants, spent the night in our county, purchased an item or two in our retail stores and bought a ticket to ride the Byesville Scenic Railroad, to see "A Christmas Carol," to hear the Cambridge Singers or the Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra, and to visit countless other attractions.

In May, we will celebrate our own tourism industry with a week-long celebration during National Tourism Week. To learn more, log on to http://www.visitguernseycounty.com/. And when you see me that week, be sure to "Ask Me How" tourism in our community generates money for our county!

"The Place Where Bluegrass Happens"

2007-03-26T06:37:00.000-07:00

Enjoying an evening of bluegrass music with VCB executive director, Debbie Robinson at the Pennyroyal Opera House in Fairview are the Siegfried kids: L-Bradee, Kirklend, Melanie and Alexis.

Kids of all ages will love these energetic, fun performances from nationally known bluegrass bands who travel to the pike town along the National Road for Friday night performances. Delicious food is available before each concert.

Make an evening of it at the Pennyroyal Opera House! To get a complete schedule, visit http://www.pennyroyaloperahouse.com/.

VCB Attends Thirtieth Annual Living Word Banquet & Auction

2007-03-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Dawn Beasley, office manager for the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB attended the annual fundraising event at Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center on March 23rd.

Pictured with Dawn who is holding the "Tea Time" gift basket the VCB donated for the auction is Andrea Servais in costume as a centurion.

The Living Word Outdoor Drama will begin its 32nd season on June 15th. For more information and for the complete schedule, visit http://www.livingworddrama.org/.

Shauna Hearing Attends Travel Show

2007-03-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

Shauna Hearing, information manager of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau, participated in the 2007 Spotlight on Appalachia Ohio: Arts, Music & Travel Show in Chillicothe March 16 - 17. Organized and sponsored by Ohio’s Appalachian Country, this annual travel show highlights the 29 counties of Appalachian Ohio and the many people, places, events and attractions located in the region and offering unique experiences for both leisure and group travelers. Hearing is pictured here with Francis Strickland who stopped by the Guernsey County booth during the show.

To learn more about Ohio's Appalachian Country, log onto www.AppalachiaOhio.com.