OCIC recognizes business leaders

Lakelynn Design, owned by Abbie Fox, was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the annual business and industry awards ceremony of the Ottawa County Improvement Corp.
When the pandemic hit and small businesses were informed they had to shut down, Fox had to come up with a different way to reach her customers.
"Since my customers can’t come to me, I’ll come to them,” she reasoned and drove throughout the county and dropped off boxes filled with handpicked quality boutique items.
Thus, Lakelynn Design's Sail Box was created. Lakelynn Design is located in downtown Port Clinton and features gifts, jewelry, and accessories made by other small businesses.
Three Ottawa County healthcare partners were awarded the Economic Development Partner Award: The Ottawa County Emergency Management Agency, Ottawa County Health Department, and Magruder Hospital teamed up to keep the business community, as well as the public, informed during the coronavirus pandemic.
Throughout the vaccine distribution process, Ottawa County consistently leads the State of Ohio with the highest population percentage vaccinated.
Jim Stouffer, OCIC board secretary, presented the award to Mike Drusbacky, of the EMA, Jerry Bingham, of the health department, and Nick Marsico, of Magruder Hospital.
Bayside Comfort was named Business of the Year.
The company reallocated marketing funds to put together a shop local campaign to help the businesses that had been affected by the coronavirus. For every gift card purchased from a local restaurant, nail salon, hair stylist or gym, Bayside matched it.
Craig Trick, OCIC past-president, presented the award to owner Andy Schlotterer.
The Bill Mack Business Leader Award was posthumously presented to Joy Roth, founder of the Ottawa County Community Foundation.
Her passion for the mission of Ottawa County Community Foundation has helped it grow and today it has $10 million in assets and more than 90 established funds.
Ken Williams, OCIC board president, presented the award to Joy's husband Jeff, and children Alison and Walker.