The Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce held its annual fall member meeting on Monday, October 20, at Frosty’s Bar & Family Pizza. The gathering brought together local business owners, board members, and community partners to review the 2025 season, reflect on progress since the Chamber’s rebrand, and look ahead to 2026.
Chamber Director Wendy Chambers and Events Coordinator Patty Sulesky opened the meeting with organizational updates and a recap of the year’s major events. Marketing Coordinator Jordan Jenkins presented the year-end marketing report, highlighting the continued success of the Chamber’s “Every Day Island Getaway” brand, introduced in 2021 under the leadership of Chamber President Brian Cultice, who began his term in 2020.
Since that rebrand, the Chamber has experienced remarkable momentum. The organization has earned 15 statewide tourism marketing awards—including multiple first-place RUBY Awards and Citations of Excellence from the Ohio Travel Association—solidifying Put-in-Bay as one of Ohio’s most recognized destinations.
The Chamber’s iHeart Media campaign has reached an estimated 6–8 million impressions across Ohio, expanding from its Cleveland base into Columbus and Cincinnati markets. Partnerships with Shores & Islands Ohio and Ohio, The Heart of It All continue to stretch marketing budgets while strengthening statewide visibility.
Digital engagement has also flourished since the rebrand. Overall social media interaction is up 160%, with Facebook reach surpassing 1.1 million annually and an Instagram following of over 12,000. The Chamber’s award-winning visitor newsletter has grown by more than 200%, now reaching nearly 10,000 subscribers — offering another vital connection point for visitors and island partners alike.
This meeting also marked a leadership milestone. After years of service and oversight through a period of exceptional growth, Brian Cultice presided over his final meeting as Chamber President. During the session, he nominated Renee Fultz to serve as the next Chamber President, with an official board vote scheduled for December.
Director Wendy Chambers presented Cultice with a gift in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the Chamber’s success. Cultice will remain active in the community as he pursues a seat as a Put-in-Bay Township Trustee.
Attendees also welcomed Officer Allred and K9 Officer Storm, who recently returned to the island. Their presence underscored the Chamber’s continued partnership with local safety initiatives and community organizations.
As the Chamber looks ahead to 2026, its focus remains on building upon the strength of the Every Day Island Getaway brand—continuing to expand reach, deepen partnerships, and celebrate the unique spirit that defines Put-in-Bay.