At the Seneca County Convention & Visitors Bureau, we often think of a visitor as someone from outside of Seneca County who visits our attractions or points of interest. However, recently the class of Leadership Seneca County got the chance to be visitors for the day.
Just like bus groups who wish to visit for a day trip, there was not nearly enough time to see all of the great attractions and points of interest in the entire county, but we gave it a good try!
Like any other group tour, I prepared an itinerary for the day, made arrangements with the attractions, coordinated lunch arrangements and even provided directions and maps for the bus driver.
Finally, tour day was here and the group was excited to get out and discover the area. The day began with a quick stop in the village of New Riegel. We visited Paul's Market and learned some of the history that makes the village unique. The classmates were amazed that a small-town, old-fashioned grocery store, complete with hardwood floors, exists right here in the area.
We also went on to visit Fostoria and enjoyed a historical bus tour and a visit to Roppe Corp. The classmates learned all of the ins and outs of producing rubber and vinyl products, and several of the classmates began planning the renovation their homes to include the beautiful flooring made right here in Seneca County.
Unfortunately, Mother Nature did not exactly cooperate by providing a beautiful sunny day for our bus ride, which was graciously provided by Seneca County Agency Transportation. So the outdoor picnic lunch planned at Meadowbrook Park was moved indoors. The classmates got a chance to enjoy a great lunch provided by Rock Run Bulk Foods and hear a little bit of the history of Meadowbrook Park.
From there, it was back to Tiffin, where we spent time visiting Webster Industries and Crystal Traditions. Here are examples of two totally different facilities, each producing its own fine product. For Crystal Traditions, the terms "glass blowing" and "glass cutting" do not begin to do the artwork justice. And Webster Industries, which celebrated its 100 year anniversary in 2007, manufactures engineered class chains.
But the day wasn't over yet. We headed to the Republic area, where the group toured a log cabin and then went on to meet with Dick Bell at Seneca Caverns.
It was a busy day and we didn't even come close to seeing everything Seneca County has to offer!
But what was amazing is that so many of the classmates were unaware of the wonderful points of interest that we visited and discussed. For many of them, this was their first visit to some of these locations, and I'm sure it won't be their last.
So take time to be a visitor in Seneca County! Be sure to shop at our many fine stores in Seneca County for the holidays. Consider giving that hard-to-buy-for relative a special day with you and visit one of our attractions in the area.
Get out and enjoy the events coming up including, to mention just a few, Holiday Happenings, Harvest of Hope, Tiffin Glass Show, Howl at the Moon, Y-Wives Extravaganza, Festival of Trees, Ralph's Joy of Living events, and events and performances at Heidelberg University, Tiffin University and The Ritz Theatre. And that's just some of what is planned for November!
Discover what you've been missing in Seneca County!
Malinda Ruble is the executive director of the Seneca County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 114 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883. Call (419) 447-5866 or e-mail visitor@senecacounty.com.
