Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Rodeo Competition Steps Up for 2008

2008-07-09T09:03:00.001-04:00

The Buckeye Stampede is proud to host one of the largest and toughest fields of rodeo competition in the Great Lakes Circuit in 2008.

Current Champion Bareback Bronc Rider, Josh Shackleford, McGee, MO is entered and will be mounted on 371, Delta Goose a half brother to the current holder of the High Marked ride at the Thomas and Mack of 91.50 on Delta Ship at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in December of 2007. 15 Bareback Riders also include Bo Casper who has been 3 time Champion of the Great Lakes and is now 12th in the World Standings for the PRCA, Bo is from Ft. Scott, KS

Current Great Lakes Circuit Champion, Saddle Bronc Rider, Lyle Welling of Crawford, NE is entered and has drawn 115 Kattle Train an outstanding bucking horse, this should be a great match up. Erik Wolford winner of the "Tough Man's Contest" will also be competing. Contestants from TX, FL, OK, OH, PA, MD will all be representing this great event, a total of 17 Saddle Bronc riders will be competing.

A total of 37 contestants will be trying to ride the biggest, baddest, bucking bulls going up and down the road. A homestate contestant, Danny Drown of Johnstown, OH is currently in the top 10 of the Great Lakes Circuit and also is competing for the Heartland Series held in Waco, TX. Danny is matched up with 277, Hooter's Warlock. IL, SD, AZ, OH, NC, TN are just some of the states where contestants will be coming from in the bull riding. Don't miss 54, Vertical Exit also a two time Wrangler National Finals rodeo bull that carried Wesley Silcox to an 85 point ride in Las Vegas.

Timed Events consist of Steer Wrestling where 27 contestants will be competing for the fastest time. Watch for the local cowboys from East Sparta, Bill Natalie Jr., Gary and Jess Sayre. The Tie Down Roping is always exciting and shows the skills and agility of the rodeo athlete along with his horse. This is also a timed event. Team Roping, the only event in rodeo where two people consist of a team in any event is always exciting. They can make a 5 second run before the announcer can get it all said.

The most colorful event is the barrel racing. Hometown cowgirl, Robbin Selway will be competing on one of her great horses trying to secure the fastest time. Some of her stiff competition is Kelly Carr, current Great Lakes Circuit Champion and Sarah Attea Sinatra the First Frontier Circuit Barrel Racing Champion.

Ice Cream Social at the J.E. Reeves Home

2008-07-03T09:20:00.000-04:00

The Dover Historical Society and J.E. Reeves Home will host its annual Ice Cream Social on Sunday July 13th, 2008 from 12-4 p.m. There is no admission charge and the event is open to the public.

As part of the annual festivities, the event will feature old time music by local artists Fred and Louise Deetz, games for the kids, strolling Civil War soldiers, a cake walk, basket auction, and pie contest. In addition, visitors will enjoy a display of fire equipment from the Dover Fire Department and a vintage car display. This year, all the vintage cars on display will be Studebakers. The J.E. Reeves Home will also be open to tour for the discounted rate of $5.00 with all kids under 18 free. Refreshments will be available for purchase along with three different flavors of ice cream. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Dover Historical Society which owns and operates the J.E. Reeves Home.

New this year, the Dover Historical Society will host a pie baking contest. Each pie will be judged and the winner will receive a $25.00 gift certificate and a free year’s membership to the Dover Historical and the J.E. Reeves Home. The entry fee for the contest is $5.00 per pie and contestants are welcome to enter more than one pie. Anyone interested should contact the Dover Historical Society at 330-343-7040 for additional information.

Immediately preceding the Ice Cream Social, the Historical Society will host a ribbon cutting and dedication for its new exhibit titled, “Canal Dover: Life in Nineteenth Century Tuscarawas County”. This exhibit tells the story of Dover’s development as a community on the Ohio and Erie Canal through the use of historic photos, artifacts, and interesting anecdotes from the town’s past. Make plans to join us at 11:45 on July 13th for this special celebration of Dover’s past.

Please feel free to contact the Dover Historical Society with any questions at (330)-343-7040.

Breitenbach Wins Two Awards

2008-06-25T08:13:00.000-04:00

DOVER, OH — Breitenbach Wine Cellars near Dover earned two top honors Tuesday from Gov. Ted Strickland and Ohio Agriculture Director Robert Boggs.

Breitenbach and Raven’s Glenn Winery & Restaurant near West Lafayette were among 13 Ohio wineries named in the Ohio Quality Wine Program. Breitenbach’s Solara Cream Sherry won the specialty wine class as four wines received the Director’s Choice Award.

The annual program showcases the state’s ever-growing wine industry. Thirty-five wines were spotlighted by the governor and director during the event at the Statehouse for retailers, distributors, restaurateurs and winery owners.

“Ohio’s wine industry is now the fourth-largest in the eastern United States and receives high marks nationally and internationally for excellence,” said Boggs, who also serves as chairman of the Ohio Grape Industries Committee. “But many Ohioans don’t know about the availability and quality of wines made right in their own backyards.”

The program helps promote the state’s wine and includes quick identification with an Ohio Quality Wine seal on the bottle.

“Today’s Ohio wines are better than ever,” Strickland said. “Ohio vineyards and winemakers produce a wide array of fine wines to please every consumer’s palate.” These include table wines, sparkling wines and ice wines, he added.

Breitenbach Wine Cellars and Der Marktplatz deli and gift shop are located at 5934 Old Rt. 39 NW, between Dover and Sugarcreek.

BSPR Kick-off Party, Fundraisers Announced

2008-06-24T11:00:00.001-04:00

The public is invited to attend a kick off party for the Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo on Wednesday July 9 at the Texas Roadhouse in New Philadelphia. Music, door prizes, dinner specials, and grilling on the patio are planned along with the chance to mingle with rodeo personnel. The event starts at 6 p.m.

Events at this year’s BSPR will feature a number of fundraisers to benefit the community. On Saturday morning July 12 a pancake breakfast will be held from 8 a.m. to 12 noon to benefit the Friends of the Homeless shelter in New Philadelphia. Each night of the rodeo a 50/50 drawing will be held to benefit Hospice of Tuscarawas County. Texas Hold’em tables open at 4 p.m. each day of the rodeo to benefit the Buckeye Stampede Challenged Rodeo and other events for people with disabilities which are held throughout the year.

The Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo will be held on July 11, 12, and 13 at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in Dover. For a complete listing of rodeo activities and advanced ticket sale locations visit www.buckeyestampede.com or call (330) 364-4076 for more information.

Go for the Gold This Summer at Camp Buckeye

2008-06-11T10:15:00.001-04:00

Camp Buckeye still has openings for interested youth of all ages, who would like to attend an exciting week of summer camp. Back to Basics Camps provide exciting outdoor activities, swimming in our pool, canoeing, hiking, cave exploration, Dundee Falls expedition, hayrides, animal care, crafts, sports, fishing, campfires and great food. Each cabin group is small and supervised by two qualified, experienced, and energetic counselors. A registered nurse is on duty to provide quality care for the campers.

Camp Buckeye has been offering summer camps for youth for 24 years and is located in the northeast corner of Tuscarawas County. Get out in the woods and get moving….. for a healthier and more exciting summer!!!! Join us!!!

Limited partial scholarships are available for youth needing financial assistance. Call for information.

Summer Camp Schedule:
Discovery Camp – Ages 7-10, June 29-July 1 - $95
Adventure Camp – Ages 15-18, June 29-July 4 - $175
Back to Basics I – Ages 8 – 11, July 6-11 - $165
Back to Basics II – Ages 12-14, July 13-18 - $175
Day Camp – Ages 6-12, July 21-25 - $75
Swimming Lessons – Ages 5 & up, July 28-Aug 7 - $35

Call now to hold your spot or for more information at 330-756-2380. Check us out on the web www.campbuckeye.org

Say cheese! Second annual Heini's Ohio Cheese Festival features artisan cheese and gourmet foods

2008-06-04T09:13:00.001-04:00

MILLERSBURG, Ohio. Food lovers mark your calendar for the second annual Heini's Ohio Cheese Festival, June 13-14, 2008.

At this celebration of artisan cheese, visitors can sample hundreds of artisan cheeses and gourmet fare from Heini's and the new Heini's Gourmet Market, which features all-Ohio gourmet food products. Be sure to try the popular raw-milk cheddar, Heini's trademark flavored yogurt cheeses, the nutty and smooth Lacey Baby Swiss and plenty of Ohio gourmet foods.

At the Heini's Gourmet Market cooking tent, celebrity chefs will reveal tips and tricks. Deb Geiser, owner of Pioneer Farms, a gourmet farm in Apple Creek, will demonstrate tapas. Chef Richard Alford will reveal how to make edible centerpieces. Valita Ross of Confetti Peppers shows creative ways to use peppers. Bob Bowers, from Iris Restaurant and former Food Network producer, will bring an international flare to his demonstration.

Family and kids activities include cow milking, Amish buggy rides, handmade crafts, and a free Petting Zoo. In addition, music lovers will groove to a daylong concert featuring top Jazz, Blues, Polka and Rock and Roll groups from Ohio.

Heini's Ohio Cheese Festival takes place in the heart of Ohio's Amish country June 13, 2008 from 12-8 p.m. and June 14, 2008 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on the grounds of Heini's Cheese Chalet, 1 mile N. of Berlin on U.S. Rte. 62.

For more information go to www.ohiocheesefestival.com or call 800-253-6636.

Fourth-generation, family-owned and operated Heini's Cheese is one of the oldest artisan cheese makers in the U.S. and one of the country's most successful wholesale manufacturers serving clients throughout North America. The business has been in operation since the late 1800s and in the Dauwalder family since 1935. In late 2007, a second store opened in Sugarcreek: Heini's Gourmet Market featuring more than 800 unique Ohio products such as Hungarian noodles, flavorful gourmet sauces, jams, chocolates, chutneys, mustards and mixes, and of course Heini's artisan cheeses. For more go to www.heinis.com or www.heinisgourmetmarket.com.

Times Reporter Features 25 Things to Do in the Tuscarawas Valley This Summer

2008-05-27T15:47:00.001-04:00

http://www.timesreporter.com/local_news/x1191428857/25-things-to-do-in-the-Tuscarawas-Valley-this-summer

Grand Opening Scheduled for new Dutch Valley Bakery and Cafe

2008-05-27T08:04:00.001-04:00

As the Dutch Valley Restaurant project is nearing completion, the community is invited to experience the changes and additions at the restaurant. Friday and Saturday, June 20 and 21, 2008 will be the Grand Opening Celebration for the new Dutch Valley Bakery and Café and the first Annual Dutch Valley Days. A Ribbon Cutting ceremony will take place at the entrance of the new Bakery Café on Friday, June 20 at 11:00am.

Other activities on the grounds that weekend will include: live radio broadcasts, prize drawings (including a stay at the inn, dinners at the restaurant, Cleveland Indians tickets, and a child’s bike), live music at various times, free product samples at the bakery and at Dutch Valley Market, specials in the bakery as well as at the gift shop and market, hot and fresh donut holes at various times throughout the weekend, a door prize to the holder of every 100th restaurant guest check, free samples of our special coffee of the day and balloons and face painting for children. For more information contact: Vicki VanNatta, Dutchman Hospitality, Walnut Creek, Ohio, PH: 330-893-2926 ext 426.

Cornerstone B&B Opens Doors for May 29 Celebration

2008-05-22T13:47:00.002-04:00

As a celebration of her business in Sugarcreek, innkeeper Brenda Franey of the Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast will host an open house event at the business located at 306 West Main Street in Sugarcreek on Thursday, May 29 from 4 to 6 p.m.

"This has been a long-time retirement goal for several years," Franey said. "My husband and I first started staying at bed and breakfast establishments about 25 years ago and about 15 years ago, I started keeping a list of the things I liked and didn't like about other establishments in preparation for my own some day."

This year marks the fourth year for the couple in regards to owning the establishment, but the third for operating a bed and breakfast of their very own.

"My husband was raised in Canton and his parents still reside there," Franey explained. "We wanted to find someplace that was an easy drive to Canton so we could visit them easily."

As an added bonus for the Franey's, since purchasing The Cornerstone, they have begun to host family get-togethers at Christmas and Thanksgiving. The couple has spent a great deal of time getting lost in the area as a way to learn.

"Interestingly, my husband had not been back to live in the area since high school so we have spent a lot of our time just roaming around...we've tried all the area restaurants, visited all the small communities and historical sites, checked out the Ohio to Erie Towpath, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Killbuck Wildlife Area, and all the other great activities in the region," she explained. "We've also learned a lot about the Amish and Mennonite faith and lifestyle. It has been great fun!"

The exploring has also prepared the couple to be better hosts as they have learned first hand. They are able to better guide guests to the things they would like to see in the area. One of the most memorable guests to date the Cornerstone was also one of the first guests, "He was a massage therapist from Columbus who was coming to the area to give massages at a scrapbooking conference," Franey explained. "When he made the reservation he told me he was sight-impaired. When he arrived, he was with a driver because he was essentially blind. It was very interesting to watch him become accustomed to a new place and an educational experience for both my husband and I."

Franey has a good handle on running the bed and breakfast as she has learned a lot along the way from staying in other bed and breakfasts.

"In a previous life, I was a hospital administrator and was responsible for training staff on patient and guest relations as well as conducting satisfaction surveys and such," Franey said. "I think the same principles apply to running a bed and breakfast as to all customer service organizations - the main goal is to meet your customer's needs! For me, that can mean personalizing breakfast, helping with travel plans, suggesting restaurants, or whatever is needed for your guest to have an outstanding stay."

The Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast was originally constructed as a private residence in 1910. Guests have the use of the entire first floor where beverages and snacks are plentiful supply. Each of the two guestrooms has its own private entrance and bathroom. Breakfast is served just the way you like it in the dining room or on the porch, depending upon guest preference.

For more information contact Brenda Franey at the Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast by calling 330-852-4782.

Tuscarawas County Celebrates Ohio Tourism at the Statehouse

2008-05-16T09:59:00.004-04:00

Representatives from Tuscarawas County joined over 70 tourism partners from throughout Ohio to celebrate Ohio tourism on the Statehouse lawn on May 13.

May 11-18 is National Tourism Week and the month of May has been proclaimed as Ohio Tourism Month by Governor Ted Strickland and Lt. Govenor Lee Fisher. As a special kickoff to the busy tourism season as well as to introduce the new Ohio Tourism marketing campaign,
"The State of Perfect Balance," the tourism celebration featured unique and exciting destinations proving to visitors that Ohio has so much to discover that a multi-day vacation is in order.

You can view a video of the Governor's press conference by clicking here.

Representatives from Tuscarawas County included Craig Morris from Heini's Gourmet Market at Sugarcreek, Jennifer Sigman from Steiner Cheese at Baltic, Diana Bailey from Broad Run Cheesehouse/Swiss Heritage Winery at Dover, Sally Clark from Hampton Inn New Philadelphia and Newcomerstown, and Chrissy Blackwell, Lisa Schilling, and Sherry Alexander from the Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Cast Members from "Trumpet in the Land" also performed scenes from Ohio's first and longest running outdoor drama (see video clip below.)

BSPR Hosts the 2nd Annual Fun & Learn Day at Rolling Ridge Ranch

2008-05-08T11:20:00.000-04:00

Individuals with disabilities are invited to safari on Thursday June 5, 2008 and they won’t have to go farther than Holmes County to see over 500 exciting exotic animals.

The Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo Committee, an Outdoors Without Limits Ohio chapter of the non-profit, Rolling Ridge Ranch and Texas Roadhouse will host a Fun & Learn Activity Day at the ranch.

Rolling Ridge Ranch is located at 3961 County Road 168, between Berlin and Walnut Creek.

The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Horse drawn covered wagon tours, including a wheelchair accessible wagon, will transport Fun & Learn participants over the rolling hills of the park where they will be able to meet and feed a variety of creatures.

At Rolling Ridge Ranch animals and birds representing 65 species roam on 80 acres or are available for observation at a walk through area. In residence are zebras, water buffalo, camels, spider monkeys, ostriches, llamas, emus, watusi cattle, American buffalo, ring-tailed lemur, a talking parrot and many more.

Children especially enjoy the petting zoo which features baby animals. “Kids are impressed with the baby ducks and rabbits. They like it when they have something they can hold and cuddle,” said Reuben Mast, who owns Rolling Ridge Ranch along with his brother, Orin.

“The Scottish Highland calf and donkeys are favorites,” said Mast “They are so fuzzy and hairy, everyone wants to pet them.”

The ranch also has playground and picnic areas. Lunch and other special activities will be provided for the Fun & Learn Day participants.

The Fun & Learn Day will offer those with disabilities a chance to expand their horizons and enjoy this outdoor adventure.

“People ask me what we teach people with disabilities. I always say I don’t teach them anything, they teach me,” said Mark Velthouse of the Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo Committee. “It’s about the opportunity to go out into the outdoors and share time with special people.”

To download the registration form for the Fun & Learn Day visit www.buckeyestampede.com.
For more information call (330) 364-4076.

The Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo will be held July 11-13 at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in Dover, Ohio. At 4 p.m. on Friday July 11, the largest special rodeo in Ohio for children and young adults with disabilities will be held at the Buckeye Stampede Challenged Arena.

Buckeye Stampede Royalty Sought

2008-05-08T11:19:00.000-04:00

New Philadelphia, Ohio, April, 28, 2008 – Applications are now available for the Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo (BSPR) Queen (18 to 22 years of age), Rodeo Princess (13 to 17), and Little Miss Rodeo (8 to 12) contests. Those selected will represent the BSPR at the rodeo to be held on July 11, 12, and 13, and at other area parades and events.

To qualify a contestant must be a seasoned and confident horseback rider, a legal resident of Tuscarawas, Holmes, Carroll, or Coshocton counties and never married or had a child. Contestants must list rodeo or other horse related activities they participate in or enjoy and any horse related activity awards. They must write in 50 words or less why they would like to be BSPR royalty and also have use of a horse to participate in events.

Deadline for applications is May 25, 2008. Applications are available at www.buckeyestampede.com or by contacting Rodeo Queen Coordinator Morgan Graham at 330-343-9295 or by email at mmcattleco@aol.com.

Depot Looking for Speakers for Soldiers Fest

2008-04-24T13:14:00.001-04:00

In preparation for the August 8-10, 2008 American Soldiers Homecoming Tribute, the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is seeking speakers and participants for its roundtables.

The themes for this year's Roundtable Discussions includes: The Korean War, War Brides, Gold Star Mothers, the WWII Railroad Battalion, and the Troop Train Wreck that occurred outside of West Lafayette during the Korean War.

Themes for this year's Speakers Programs include the Civil War Era, WWII and the Korean War. Anyone one interested in being a speaker is encouraged to contact Dorothy Voshall, archivist at the Museum at 740-922-6776 or depot@tusco.net.

The Speakers Programs are held throughout the Soldiers Homecoming at the Depot Annex located within walking distance of the Depot on Grant Street. The are free to anyone with a Festival Battle Pass. Those wishing to attend without a Battle Pass can do so at a cost of $2.00 per program.

For additional information on the Soldiers Homecoming, please contact the Dennison Depot.

American Soldiers Homecoming Festival and Lee Greenwood Coming to Dennison

2008-04-24T08:34:00.001-04:00

Looking for great entertainment this summer? Look for the American Soldiers
Homecoming Tribute to be held in Dennison, Ohio August 8-10, 2008.

This event is a tribute, a celebration and a reunion all wrapped around honoring
our nation’s military heros, both on the battlefield and on the home front. The event will surround the historic Dennison Depot in Dennison, Ohio - a town nicknamed Dreamsville USA for its free service to the troops trains at its WWI and WWII Canteens. One and a half million servicemen, 13% percent of all armed personnel were served free sandwiches and coffee at the Dennison Canteen. To a homesick, frightened young soldier far from home this home front effort was like a dream come true...hence Dreamsville.

The event will feature a Lee Greenwood concert on Saturday, August 9th at 7p.m. Greenwood is best known for his popular hit "God Bless the USA", and he a symbol of American patriotism. The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, sponsor of the Homecoming, together with Charlene Kehl of WTUZ, has worked diligently to try to get Greenwood to Dennison.

The Homecoming also includes Big Band Music by Recollections, impersonations of 1940s and 1950s military folks, roundtables and speakers, great food and vendors, Jitterbug contest, 1940s Look Alike Contest, WWII battles reenactments, campgrounds, and living history displays, Saturday morning ticker tape parade, Moonlight Serenade and more! It kicks-off Thursday, August 7th for the Lucille Nussdorfer - Tuscarawas County Woman of the Year Award, named after the women who started the Dennison Canteen. This year’s event will add a Korean War flavor as well.

An important aspect of the Homecoming is to honor soldiers past and present, and to provide a perfect opportunity for youth to intermingle with veterans and current military personnel. Reunions can be made between home front volunteers and the G.I.s they served. Touching opening and closing ceremonies are a must see, as well as the roundtable discussions. Roundtable highlight this year include discussion on the Korean War, War Brides, Gold Star Mothers, WWII and Civil War themes.

With a brand new water park next door in Uhrichsville, this event makes a perfect
affordable weekend for families. Overnight packages are available including the water park and Depot Museum which features a children’s interactive railroad car, rare WWII hospital Car,
model Train Display, museum gift shop and Trax Diner.

Dennison is located in Tuscarawas County, where state routes 36, 250 and 800 meet. It is
exactly halfway between Pittsburgh and Columbus, two hours from Cleveland.For additional information, schedule of events, or to purchase tickets, contact the Dennison Depot at 740-922-6776, depot@tusco.net, www.dennisondepot.org, toll free 1-877-278-8020

Hospice Benefit to be held in Sugarcreek

2008-04-24T08:31:00.001-04:00

The Sugarcreek United Methodist Church will be buzzing with activity on Friday evening, May 9 as a Sugarcreek tradition, a benefit for Hospice is held from 5 – 8 p.m.

"Things will be a bit different this year," explained Mary Beachy, coordinator of the event. "One thing that hasn't changed is that we will do all we can to generate donations for Hospice of Tuscarawas County. Don't forget about our local celebrities either, we are sure to have quite a few returning servers who will be ready to cater to guests in order to fetch the highest amount of tips and bragging rights for next year's event."

Last year, the big tip-getter was a veterinarian from Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic in Sugarcreek by the name of Travis Thompson. He brought in a whopping $1,148 by the end of his shift last year. While it is unclear if Travis will be back again this year, there are many who have served before including Bob Smith of Smith Funeral Home, Rev. Dairel Kaiser of the Sugarcreek United Methodist Church, Reuben Erb of Sugar Valley Meats and Keith Rathbun of The Budget who have already pledged their time and talent.These names represent years of experience when it comes to serving hungry event attendees. Go ahead and ask them to refill your glass a few times as long as you leave them a healthy tip at the end of the night. One of the servers who has garnered the most in cumulative tips is Bob Smith, and organizers are sure he is already calling up friends and family who will pack the church and order their favorites just to keep him hopping.

The event is unique to Sugarcreek and is just one way the community comes together to support a worthwhile cause.

"I've been a part of this event for the past 12 years," Beachy said. "Together, because of the donations and generosity of the community, we've been able to raise thousands for Hospice. We've been able to make a difference."

This year's menu will include ham and chicken as well as mashed potatoes, gravy, tossed salad, noodles, vegetable, homemade pie and dinner rolls as well as several beverage selections. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 3 – 10 and free for children 2 and under.

"I am excited about this year's event," Beachy said. "We are doing something completely different. By having a more limited menu, we will be able to take it a bit easier on our servers so they can pay a bit more time and attention to their patrons."

According to Beachy, a local catering company will be preparing the meal and a local church has stepped up to prepare the pies that will be needed for the event. Due to the different nature of the event, sponsors are being sought for various parts of the dinner including the purchase of hams and chicken as well as other foods and supplies associated with the dinner. Businesses or individuals who would like to donate are urged to contact Mary Beachy by calling 330-852-3898.

County Commissioners Re-enact History

2008-04-17T08:05:00.003-04:00

About 150 visitors in the Tuscarawas County Courthouse Wednesday caught a glimpse of the county’s 200-year past at the Bicentennial re-enactment of the first board of commissioners’ meeting.

The first meeting was held April 16, 1808, on the second floor of Leininger’s Tavern at New Philadelphia, and featured county commissioners Michael Uhrich, Philip Minnich and John Junkins.

The re-creation of that first meeting was conducted in a second-floor courtroom. It featured current County Commissioners Chris Abbuhl, Kerry Metzger and Jim Seldenright, all in period costumes, who portrayed Uhrich, Minnich and Junkins, respectively.

They arrived at the courthouse on horseback and by horse-drawn carriage.

Commissioners were assisted in the re-enactment by Treasurer Jeff Mamarella, who portrayed the county’s original treasurer, David Peter; Auditor Matt Judy, who portrayed Clerk Godfrey Haga Jr.; retired Common Pleas Court Judge Roger Lile, who served as Abraham Mosser, a magistrate (also known as justice of the peace) who administered the oaths of office; and Clerk of Courts Rockne Clarke, as Clerk of Courts James Clark.

Fred Miller, area historian, served as narrator and portrayed David Zeisberger, the famed Moravian missionary who established worked among the Indians and established missions such as Schoenbrunn Village.

Each re-creator, after being introduced by Miller, gave a brief history of the person they represented – speaking as if they were that person.

Based upon Haga’s minutes of the first meeting, commissioners – after receiving their oaths of office – were seated at a long table and got down to business by selecting Haga as their clerk. As he was present, and accepted the appointment, he (Judy) joined them at the table.

The commissioners then proceeded to “lay off and divide the county into townships – as the law provides. ...” The entire county, at that point, was divided into four townships – Oxford, Salem, Goshen and Laurence (after Fort Laurens, with the spelling later changed to Lawrence).

The large turnout at Wednesday’s event prompted the re-enactors to hold two sessions – each lasting about 35 minutes.Miller said afterward he felt as if he had stepped back 200 years.

“I think we covered the period very well and brought a little knowledge to some folks who did not understand the early history of Tuscarawas County, and I hope we made the idea that history is not boring, but is active, alive and part of each one of us,” he added.

Among the attendees was David Uhrick, 71, of Columbus, who is the great-great-great-great-grandson of Commissioner Uhrich. Uhrick, who grew up in northeast Indiana, said he came to New Philadelphia for the re-enactment because of his relationship to Uhrich and because he is interested in his family’s genealogy.

Lile described his experience of portraying Mosser as “awesome.” In studying for and practicing his presentation, “just to realize what these people did, it really touched home,” he said.“It was fun to portray our forefathers and represent them, because it was interesting to see how our way of government was formed,” said Judy, reflecting on his role as Haga.“It was great,” said Metzger, an admitted historical buff. “We really enjoyed doing the history and putting all the historical facts together. This is great.”

Elizabeth Stephenson, Common Pleas Court administrator, dressed as a bar maiden, served apple cider and bread during the meeting. She said she was surprised and pleased by the turnout of visitors.“I wanted to be here to help out with this celebration,” said Carolyn Brodzinski, who works in the treasurer’s office, as she served refreshments during the open house that followed.Brodzinski, who also was in costume, said she was quite impressed by the re-enactment.

"It’s things like this that make me so proud to be part of Tuscarawas County,” she said.

Appalachian Ohio to be Featured Again in National Geographic Publication

2008-03-26T08:49:00.003-04:00

Ohio’s First Lady, Frances Strickland, assisted by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Federal Co-Chair Alternate Rick Peltz, will unveil the Appalachian Driving Trail Map at the Spotlight on Appalachia Arts, Music and Travel Show. This special event which will be held in Steubenville Ohio at the Fort Steuben Mall on March 29, 2008 at 10:30 am, will formally announce the release of the Driving Trail Map in Ohio

The map was released as an insert in the April issue of the National Geographic Traveler magazine to subscribers and newsstands nationwide in late March 2008. The National Geographic Society which published the map has described the Appalachians as the land of legends and inspiration. It encourages the visitor to experience and explore the landscape, tour authentic attractions, and learn about local legends while driving along one of the twenty eight designated scenic driving trails.

Through a partnership of the Ohio Governor’s Office of Appalachia and the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Driving Trail Map was created to assist the visitor in experiencing all the beauty and wonder of the Appalachian Mountain Region.

An event was held at the National Geographic Society Headquarters in Washington DC on March 20, 2008 to announce the national release of the map. Tiffany Gerber, tourism manager of the Tuscarawas County Convention and Visitors Bureau and president of Ohio’s Appalachian Country, Inc. attended the event and also observed a meeting of the Appalachian Regional Commission Tourism Committee. Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Appalachia Fred Deel and other Ohio Appalachian professionals representing the trails listed on the map and tourism in the 29-county region also attended.

According to Linda Basye, Ohio appointment to the ARC Tourism committee, “There are three Ohio trails featured on this map and the accompanying web site, http://www.visitappalachia.com/. A fourth Ohio trail represented on the Map is the Ohio River Scenic Byway which touches twelve counties in Ohio along its route. This project was the product of a year long endeavor of the Tourism Council with representatives from each of the thirteen states in the Appalachian Mountain region.” The Ohio and Erie Canal Scenic Byway and Warthers Carvings of Dover were listed on a previous map also published by the magazine. While not a feature, the Ohio and Erie Canal Scenic Byway is listed on the current map as well. The map was produced as a vehicle to increase tourism and the retail sale of products in the Appalachian Regions thereby creating an economic impact for the businesses and artists in those regions. “This map will hold a direct economic benefit for eighteen counties and an indirect benefit for the other eleven counties in Ohio’s Appalachian area.” said Basye.

“Tuscarawas County sits at a cross roads of economic, social, tourism and heritage regions. From a tourism perspective, we are very fortunate to be located on the Ohio and Erie Canal, be the eastern gateway to the world’s largest Amish population and also be a northern gateway to Appalachian Ohio.” said Gerber. The event in Steubenville is open to the public. For additional information or to receive a copy of the map, call Tiffany Gerber at the Tuscarawas County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 330-602-2420 or e-mail tgerber@tusco.net.

Pictured above are Ohio representatives who attended the event at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington D.C. Tiffany Gerber of the Tuscarawas County Convention and Visitors Bureau is pictured far right.

Atwood Lake Boats In-House Boat Sale To Be Held in March and April

2008-03-18T08:46:00.002-04:00

Mineral City, OH – Atwood Lake Boats is hosting its spring in-house boat show the weekends of March 29 and 30 and April 5 and 6 at the Marina West location from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ohio’s largest pontoon dealer’s annual event will offer huge discounts on pontoons, fishing boats, deck boats and ski boats featured in its heated indoor showroom.

Visitors can enjoy free refreshments and door prizes while visiting the gift shop and Lighthouse Bistro.

“Boating is the family vacation that never ends,” said Brian Valot, owner of Atwood Lake Boats, “That’s why we make boating affordable with great on-site financing rates for our customer’s convenience.”

The marina’s lakeside location makes it possible for each customer to experience the ride before they purchase.

For more information, please call 330-364-4703. Atwood Lake Boats is located off Route 212 on Atwood Lake Road in Mineral City.

Buckeye Stampede Rodeo Turning Over the Reins

2008-03-05T12:14:00.001-05:00

New Philadelphia, Ohio, March 1, 2008 – Ron and Robbin Selway got the ball rolling four years ago bringing the Buckeye Stampede Pro Rodeo (BSPR), the 4th largest rodeo east of the Mississippi and the largest in Ohio, to Tuscarawas County. They soon found the ball rolling over them. As the event’s main organizers, they volunteered many months of their time each year to the effort while forgoing other interests.
Though they want to remain involved, the Selways are spearheading plans to make the BSPR a community organized event. They hope to pattern the local rodeo organization after most others in the United States which are made up of multiple committees and run by volunteers. “The rodeo is just too much fun to let it go,” said Robbin who added that in just three short years the non-profit event has also become an important part of Tuscarawas County and its economy.
The BSPR also sponsors three free events for individuals with disabilities, The Buckeye Stampede Challenged Rodeo, an activity day at Rolling Ridge Ranch, and the Blind Turtle Deer Hunt.
Committees are now forming for the 4th Annual BSPR which will be held rain or shine at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in Dover, Ohio on Friday July 11 through Sunday July 13. A number of volunteers have already committed to keeping pro rodeo alive in the area and many more will be needed.
Some of the many needs requiring committees include Vendors, Finance, Challenged Rodeo, Press Conference, Advertising and Publicity (Posters & Brochures), Parking, Security, Tickets and Ticket Locations, Ticket Takers, Rodeo Queen and Princess, Sweatshirts and T-shirts, and Arena.
For more information or to volunteer for the event call 330-364-4076 or visit the BSPR website at www.buckeyestampede.com.

Warther Knives Featured on Gourmet Website

2008-02-21T08:17:00.002-05:00

Tuscarawas County's famous Warther Knives have been featured on Gourmet.com, an extension of Conde Nast's Gourmet Magazine.

The article, written by Gourmet.com contributor Amy Zavatto, details the 106-year history of the Warther Cutlery, from it's humble beginnings to it's current line of 17 kitchen and steak knives.

To read the Gourmet.com article, visit http://www.gourmet.com./food/2008/02/cutabove

For more information on purchasing Warther Cutlery, or visiting Warther Carvings, visit http://www.warthers.com.

New Bob Evans Opens at Dover

2008-02-12T08:19:00.000-05:00

Customers swarmed into the new Bob Evans Restaurant at Dover during opening day Monday with an all-day “Rise & Shine” celebration.
A new building was constructed on the site where the old Bob Evans was torn down at 895 Commercial Pkwy.

The restaurant’s general manager is Dan Boyajian. The restaurant employs about 95 people, including five who worked at the former Dover restaurant, which opened Nov. 26, 1984. The five are: Debbie Jones of New Philadelphia, Jill Sweasy of New Philadelphia, Cindy Uebel of Dover, Diane Shaw of Gnadenhutten and Jeff Haney of Mineral City. Server Shaw and grill cook Haney each had their photo taken with Bob Evans.

Doors opened at 6 a.m. with the first 20 customers getting free Rise & Shine breakfasts for a year ($350 value). The company also donated 50 cents per customer to Hospice of Tuscarawas County.

One of the main features of the new facility is a carry home kitchen area, dedicated to carry out.

Baltic's Steiner Cheese in Ohio Proud Program

2008-02-06T08:32:00.000-05:00

BALTIC – Steiner Cheese Co. has become a partner in Ohio Proud, the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s signature marketing program that promotes consumer awareness and sales of agricultural products that are at least 50 percent raised, grown or processed in Ohio.
Steiner Cheese is the oldest continually operated cheese manufacturer in the nation, celebrating its 175th anniversary. An anniversary celebration will be held later this year on October 17-18.

As a licensed Ohio Proud partner, Steiner Cheese can use the trademarked Ohio Proud logo and may participate in statewide retail promotions, international exporting conferences and other marketing ventures offered through the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Steiner Cheese is located at 201 Mill Street, Baltic, Ohio 43804. Online shoppers can also view a virtual tour of the factory and purchase gift baskets at the company's website, www.steinercheese.com.

Heini's Gourmet Market Now Open in Sugarcreek

2008-01-22T09:16:00.000-05:00

Heini's Cheese, family-owned artisan cheese maker, opened their newest location this weekend in Sugarcreek, Heini's Gourmet Market.

The grand opening weekend kicked off Friday at noon with a VIP press event and ribbon cutting, featuring owners Lisa Troyer and LeeAnne Martin and Ohio State Tourism Director Amir Eylon.

The 4,000-square-foot market, located at Rts. 39 and 93 at Sugarcreek, features more than 800 gourmet specialty foods from more than 200 Ohio-based companies. A Food-Network quality kitchen serves as the market's epicenter for daily demos and tastings and a free, weekly “Thursday Evening Cooking School.”

“With the opening of Heini’s Gourmet Market, foodies across the country have a new place to call home,” said owner Lisa Troyer.

Visitors can sample a variety of gourmet Ohio food products, learn from demos and tastings, taste Ohio wines and eat gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from the market’s L&L Bistro.
Perhaps the store’s most unique feature might be “cheeseballing.” Visitors choose their favorite fresh herbs and ingredients to make customized cheeseballs.

Future plans call for expanded cooking classes and demos throughout the week from the top chefs from restaurants, inns and B&Bs from across Ohio. Heini's Gourmet Market is located at 1019 West Main Street, Sugarcreek.

The 2008 Visitors Guide Has Arrived!

2008-01-10T15:44:00.001-05:00

The Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau has released the 2008 Tuscarawas County Visitors Guide. This premier advertising piece for tourism-related businesses in the area will be distributed to travelers and tour groups coming to the area in the coming year as well as being distributed through the state of Ohio’s tourism information line, 1-800-BUCKEYE, the state’s tourism website, http://www.discoverohio.com/, tourist information centers, and various travel shows.

This year’s printing will be over 100,000 copies, and includes listings for museums, recreation, restaurants, shopping, travel and tour services, golf courses, and lodging. A separate calendar of events will also be included in distribution.

The 2008 Visitors Guide is available free of charge at the Convention & Visitors Bureau office, located in Downtown New Philadelphia at 124 East High Avenue, Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm. The guide is also available at both Tuscarawas County north and southbound I-77 rest area tourist information centers, the CVB’s website http://www.ohiotimelessadventures.com/, or by calling (330) 602-2420.

Looking for Dinner Options this Christmas Eve & Day?

2007-12-21T20:54:00.000-05:00

Head on over to our main site and visit the Christmas Dining Options on our Dining page, or click here. We list all open restaurants on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas from the staff of the Tuscarawas County Convention & Visitors Bureau!