Geneva, OH - For the first time in Ashtabula County's history, an event will take place that allows participants to experience the entire county in one location. A Journey Through Ashtabula County will be held Sept. 22nd and 23rd, at the Lodge and Conference Center at Geneva-on-the-Lake.

During a conversation which took place following a radio discussion filled with negative comments about the Lodge in particular and county in general, Tom Cassidy, a New Lyme Township resident, accepted a challenge to do something about all the "griping."

That challenge came from Donniella Winchell, executive director of the Ohio Wine Producers Association, one of the Journey organizers.

"After I was challenged, I contacted Joe Mayernick and proposed this idea," Cassidy said. "He said the idea sounded good and it has grown from there. Ashtabula County has lots of good things going on. We need to get together and tell each other about what we have."

"During my conversation with Mr. Cassidy, we both expressed our disappointment with all the negativity floating around the county," Joe Mayernick, executive director of Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County said. " We discussed some ideas for something to do, some way of showcasing both the lodge and the entire county. Because the county is so spread out, it's tough for residents to know what is going on in all areas. This event will allow people to learn about all the vital components involved in making the county click."

As planning for A Journey Through Ashtabula County progressed, numerous organizations became involved helping recruit representation from the entire county. Organizers are confident that participants will come from various areas of the county, making the goal of creating awareness and pride through the county more attainable.

Teaching residents what is offered at their fingertips and work to improve the image that is instilled in minds; is a common goal that is shared by each of the event organizers. Ashtabula County is a great community and it is time for everyone to know!

During the two-day event, several activities have been planned. There is no doubt that there will be plenty of things to see and do while you take the "Journey Through Ashtabula County". Cassidy is arranging a Farmer's Market.

Cassidy, who moved to Ashtabula County from the Cleveland suburbs about 30 years ago, believes that the Journey will accomplish several goals.

" I hope this event can build civic pride and project a positive image for our county, instead of the grumbling we constantly hear," he said. "We need to promote a positive image, we need to promote pride in what we have and the potential we have for growth."

In addition, to the farmer's market, an open house at Springer Dairy Farm will be held on Saturday from 1-4 p.m. Shuttle services from the Lodge and Conference Center to Springer Dairy farm are being finalized. This is "an excellent opportunity for agriculture to be a part of an event showcasing the important elements of the county," states John Parker, information coordinator for the Ashtabula County Farm Bureau who has arranged for this open house to coincide with Journey Through Ashtabula County.

Jeannette Petrolia, general manager of the lodge, hopes the Journey will provide viewers with a true awareness of what the county and lodge can to offer.

"First-time visitors quickly realize what a beautiful facility the lodge is. A recent guest from the county wrote a letter that most of Northeast Ohio residents have no idea how attractive this facility is," stated Petrolia.

Petrolia often refers to the lodge as "one of the best kept secrets in the area. One of our goals is to spread the word about the lodge to as many people as possible. Starting close to home seems like a perfect starting point, thus we are excited about the Journey."

Mayernick sees the Journey as "a great tool for residents to use in their daily lives. We will be providing information on healthcare, education, businesses, industry, agriculture and tourism. Information retained can be used to further build pride and awareness."

Mark Winchell, executive director of the Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau, sees that the Journey can play a major role in the continued growth of local tourism business.

"Showcasing what this county has to offer to local residents in instrumental in keeping the tourism business moving forward," he said. "Visitors to our county know what we have is outstanding. Therefore, it is important to let everyone know we have so much to offer in our own backyard," stated Winchell.

The Lodge and Conference Center will be offering a one -stop shop, to create awareness and pride throughout Ashtabula County. Stay tuned for a full list on the Journey Through Ashtabula County website. (www.journeyashtabula.com) For further information please contact. Samantha L. Brown, Marketing Coordinator at Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County; Samantha@ashtabulagrowth.com or 440-576-9126.

Take the Journey Through Ashtabula County!

Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County has been promoting countywide economic development since 1990. The mission of the organization is to coordinate and direct public and private efforts to achieve economic prosperity and improve the quality of life for all of Ashtabula County.