Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau Blog

Employment Opportunity at Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Bridget Coughlin — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 12:41:17 -0700

Marketing Coordinator
Reports to: Director of Marketing and Communications Manager

Organization Description:
The Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau (WCCVB) is a destination marketing organization committed to economic growth by increasing overnight and year-round visitors to Warren County, Ohio. Tourism is the leading industry in Warren County with 7.8 million annual visitors, an economic impact of $993 million and 10,657 tourism-related jobs.

Summary:
The Marketing Coordinator will be responsible for supporting the Marketing, Public Relations and E-Marketing departments and the WCCVB as a whole. Manages the databases for all fulfillment requests and for the e-newsletters, is responsible for the execution of the daily communication in all social media platforms, and performs other projects as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Fulfillment Duties:
• Oversees the management of the WCCVB's fulfillment functions to include answering phones, responding to requests and routing all incoming telephone calls.
• Oversees the selection and management of fulfillment center staff and volunteers, develops and assigns tasks and schedules for all bulk mailings, labels and other marketing mailings.
• Oversees all postage and mailing requirements, this includes distribution of incoming and outgoing office mail, bulk mail and special mailings (partner mailings, etc.).
• Oversees the management of the office voice mail system and the night service phone message system, routinely updates with current and new tourism-related information.
• Manages the CRM database program for servicing and tracking fulfillment requests of all email, reader response, phone and online inquiries. Produces monthly reports as required by the marketing director.

Marketing Duties:
• Posts and updates community calendars with events information.
• Manages all WCCVB databases (partners, political, newsletter mailing lists, etc.) to ensure accuracy.
• Assists in the coordination and servicing of partner, stakeholder, and marketing programs.
• Maintains a well-informed, working knowledge of the attractions and services available to the potential visitor.
• Assists all other departments with projects as needed.

Social Media Duties:
• Implements the daily conversation in all social media platforms (Facebook posts, Twitter, Pinterest).
• Tracks and builds weekly social media reports.
• Writes and edits website and blog content.
• Takes photos at various locations around the county to be posted to Facebook and blogs.
• Implements social media contests.

Requirements:
• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience, preferably in Communications or Marketing
• Expert knowledge of social media tactics and platforms
• Knowledge and proficiency working with website CMS & CRM (knowledge of HTML a plus)
• Ability to problem-solve independently
• Strong judgment, integrity and moral character
• Excellent interpersonal, writing and communications skills
• Experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously
• 2-3 years of experience preferred

To Apply:
Please send a cover letter and resume to Carol Monnin, Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 5412 Courseview Drive, Ste 220, Mason, Ohio, 45040 or to Cmonnin@wccvb.org. Questions call 513-204-1900.

How Small Business Impacts the Community of Springboro

David Ostendarp — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 08:50:38 -0700

Springboro is a thriving community on the north end of Warren County. Springboro's business community is continuing to grow, with increased development of the Austin Pike interchange. The business community of Springboro is made up of hundreds of small businesses, from locally owned retail stores, to small manufacturing plants, from health care providers to service industry providers, and from family owned and operated cafes and restaurants to independent insurance providers. The Springboro Chamber of Commerce has almost 500 business members, 50% of whom have 5 of fewer employees. Only about 25-30 Chamber members have more than 25 employees.

Enter to Win a Springboro Prize

Small businesses are what keep the Springboro area alive from a commerce perspective. It is one of the fastest growing communities in Warren County, with a growing economic base, great schools, and beautiful neighborhoods and city parks. The population of the City has grown more than 41% in the last ten years. Small businesses see this picture when they consider relocation or a start-up.

Location is also one factor that cannot be ignored. Perfectly situated just a couple of miles from two exits off Interstate 75, and just 14 miles from Dayton and 37 miles from Cincinnati, the heart of Springboro provides small business owners with easy access to everything they need to be successful, affordable housing, reasonable taxes, great family values and schools, plus a high quality of life. Maybe this is why for the past two years Springboro has ranked around 40th place on the CNN Money list of desirable small cities to live.

Our vision for Springboro is a community of excellence, a desirable place to work and live. Our schools are rated Excellent with distinction by the State of Ohio, our city and township officials provide our residents and small business owners with much needed resources and support, and our calendar of events provides our residents with ample local entertainment and enriching activities all year long.

Interesting facts about Springboro: As of 2011, Springboro's population was 12,380, up 41% since 2000. Median home price is $171,300 and median household income is $72,316. Springboro has access to top quality entertainment, prime shopping malls, professional and semi-pro sports teams, means residents, their guests and travelling visitors have plenty to choose from. We have several unique and interesting tourist attractions in Springboro which include: "La Comedia" Dinner Theater, Friesinger's Chocolate Factory, The Wright Brothers Museum, and our own famous Self Guided Walking Tour of the Underground Railroad Sites in town. From our rich history, to our promising future, Springboro has become the ideal place to work, live and play in Southwest Ohio.

Forget Black Friday. This Year, It?s All About Small Business Saturday in Lebanon, OH!

David Ostendarp — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 12:44:47 -0700

*Special thanks to Sara Arseneau from the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce for writing this guest blog.

It's nearly Black Friday, the day we emerge from our turkey coma and race to local malls and national chain stores to score major deals on merchandise. But in Lebanon we invite you to join us for a much more fun option: Small Business Saturday! November 24, 2012, is a day to support Lebanon's small business owners, help fuel the economy and invigorate our community.

Get your Shopping Guide

It's in this spirit that we celebrate "small" in a big way with this fun guide to our favorite local spots that make Lebanon what it is! So, put this pamphlet in your back pocket, and hop around to some of these wonderful restaurants, bars and shops on Small Business Saturday, for a truly magical shopping experience! Whether you're reveling in your super-discounted new sweater, munching on a cookie or sipping some warm cider, make sure you tip your hat to these independent entrepreneurs who make Lebanon so special.

Learn more about Small
Businesses in Warren County

And don't forget to come back downtown as we shine throughout the year with Festivals, Fairs, and December 1 for the worlds' largest Holiday Horse Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival!

Lebanon Area Chamber, 212 N Broadway; 513-932-1100

Small Business Impact in Waynesville, Ohio

David Ostendarp — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 14:51:40 -0700

*Special thanks to Dawn Schroeder from the Waynesville Chamber of Commerce for guest blogging!

Waynesville is located in Southwestern part of Ohio, where small businesses are key to its vitality. When people think of Waynesville, they think of the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival, but we're so much more than that. We are a Village of over 2800 people, who invest deep into their community, by shopping, dining and caring about the people and the businesses that invest and set roots into Waynesville. We have very little industry, so as a result most of Waynesville, are small business or, "Mom and Pop" businesses.

The greatest feature the average person receives from a small business is more one on one customer service. They know customers names, how many children they have, details about their lives and what they like to shop for and in some cases they already know what you want for lunch and have it ready for you.

Learn More About Small Businesses in Warren County

At a time when many small cities are struggling to keep and attract businesses, this quaint little town is holding its own, with more than 70 shopping and dining establishments open and more on the way. These days, in addition to antiques, you'll also find home decor, gifts and fine arts. "We are recycling America's historic past" says Lauran Lepley of Waynesville Antique Mall. You'll find everything from rustic and primitive to classic American furniture and collectibles in Waynesville, in addition to the quaint boutiques that dot the downtown area with a wide variety of items such as jewelry, prints, seasonal items, dip mixes and doggie treats.

When you are ready for lunch we have a variety of restaurants to choose from such as Bentino's Pizza and Waynesville Pizza, in which both are operated and maintained by family members. Don't forget the Hammel House, owned by Pam Bowman, who has been a staple in Waynesville, and creates salads, sandwiches and soups (best onion soup around). We have everything from gourmet at the Cobblestone Cafe to our newest restaurant Stone House Tavern. Every business in Waynesville is a "small business" which makes us distinctive from everyone else. We don't have a lot of chain stores, we are a group of individual businesses trying to make a name for them and we have done a great job of sustaining through the economic times this country has faced. So the next time you think of purchasing something for your home or to purchase a gift, to go out to eat, buy a special cake or pastry, support a small business. They support the local economy by supporting local ball teams; donate to causes, raffles and so much more.

For more information on Waynesville, please visit us at www.waynesvilleohio.com.

An Annual Holiday Tradition in Lebanon, Ohio

David Ostendarp — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 10:01:44 -0700

Come out and kick off the Christmas season with family and friends at the 24th Annual Lebanon Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 1st and create lasting memories this holiday season. Anyone will tell you that this rich tradition can be a unique and a memorable holiday experience for your family that combines everything we love about the holiday season - horse-drawn carriages, delicious food and of course Mr. & Mrs. Claus.

Festivities will kick off Saturday, December 1st at 10 am and will take place on Mulberry Street and Broadway in Lebanon. There will be free carriage rides available from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

Learn More at the Parade

Come out and enjoy our various street vendors and live entertainment, or stop by the LM&M Railroad for a ride on the North Pole Express. To find our ride times and prices be sure to visit the LM&M Railroad website.

The parade times are at 1pm and 7pm and will start at the corner of Oakwood and Broadway. Once you visit once the Lebanon Carriage Parade & Festival will keep your family coming back year after year. Do you have a story about the festival? Tell us in the comments below.

For more information about the Lebanon Christmas Parade please visit The Lebanon Chamber of Commerce.

Add a Little Sweetness to your Thanksgiving Dinner

David Ostendarp — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 15:18:17 -0700

Since 1803 The Golden Lamb has provided a great environment for dining and special occasions and would make a perfect addition to your holiday traditions. The restaurant and inn, also the oldest operating business in Ohio has hosted 12 presidents and are confident they will surpass your Thanksgiving meal planning.

Thanksgiving is a time for you to relax and share with family and friends. There is no better way to relax during the holidays than allowing the staff at The Golden Lamb to take care of your special meals with all the fixin's. If you can't make it in for dinner then I suggest you to take a piece of The Golden Lamb home with you and make your holiday feast complete with a Sister Lizie's Shaker Sugar Pie with house-made caramel sauce.

The Shaker Sugar Pie is bursting with flavor, and will compliment your thanksgiving spread while saving you time without the extra hassle of making desserts yourself. The Golden Lamb uses the freshest and ripest fruits and ingredients from local farmers like Iron's Fruit Farm.

There is a bit of mystery as to where the Shaker Sugar Pie originated. It is said that in antique kitchen hutch acquired at auction is where Mrs. Jones found the recipe titled "Sister Lizie's Pie" left behind in an old drawer. Mrs. Jones then began serving it at The Golden Lamb around holiday season of 1927.

No matter what the origination, this is a holiday tradition that has warmed the hearts of many over the years. The Golden Lamb invites you to come out today make the Shaker Sugar Pie or one of their many other delicious pies a part of your family's tradition

The Golden Lamb invites you to come out today to try the Shaker Sugar Pie or one of their other wholesome pies! The historical Golden Lamb in Lebanon would like to make your thanksgiving meal preparation easier for yourself and your family. We hope to become a part of you family's thanksgiving dinner.

ScareDown Offers More Than Just Screams

David Ostendarp — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 08:27:12 -0700

There are so many things to love about fall. The colors of the leaves, cooler weather, and the kids return to school (parents rejoice!). But perhaps the most enjoyable aspects of the season are the fall festivities such as hayrides, pumpkin patches and Halloween. This year, Warren County has a fun new fall attraction, ScareDown, that combines everything we love about season -with something for everyone.

Plan Your Visit Today!

Located in Waynesville, Ohio, ScareDown is the brain-child of independent filmmaker Josh Hasty who took his love of fall and production to create a seasonal event he says will keep families coming back year after year. ScareDown features hayrides, corn mazes and haunted attractions -including a real-live haunted house. However, ScareDown is not like other so-called haunted attractions. Hasty said, "Growing up I always felt like I would get super excited, wait in line two hours, and then be pushed out the door looking for something else to do for the rest of the night." In response, Hasty and his team worked to create an atmosphere he describes as a real "Halloween Town" where you can enjoy the thrills of haunted attractions while enjoying more relaxing fall activities like sitting around the fire sipping cider.

Test Your Bravery with Some Haunted Attractions

ScareDown aims to be more than just a typical Halloween Haunt. Rather, Hasty and his team have transformed a real barn into a fear-induced attraction that will certainly live up to the name "ScareDown". The barn uses state-of-the-art sound, lighting and effects to create a theatrical, in-your-face experience designed to give you goose bumps and raise the hairs on the back of your neck.

ScareDown also has a real-life haunted house on the property that was reportedly home to gruesome murders in the late 1800's. Hasty and his colleague personally camped out in the house with a ouji board to see for themselves if it was really haunted. Hasty and his colleague said they communicated with a spirit named "Elizabeth" who promptly told the two, "leave!"

"Some people roll their eyes when I tell them about it," Hasty said. "So I invite them on a solo tour of the house at night. No takers yet."

Enjoy Family time During the Day

"We love families," Hasty said. "ScareDown is all about fun and the love of the season." Starting at 11 am Thursday thru Sunday, ScareDown opens their pumpkin patch, daytime corn maze, hay ride along with their vending and gift shops. Beginning in October, Thursdays will be designated for daytime events running from 11 am to 7 pm that are sure to provide family fun. There will be contests and events during the day along with select movie nights for the whole family.

If you go:

ScareDown opens Friday, September 28 and runs through November 4.
Group discounts are available.
For ticket information, please contact pr@scaredown.com
or visit www.ScareDown.com.

Great Fun and Food at the 43rd Annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival

David Ostendarp — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 08:01:25 -0700

Are you looking for a fun, fall festival filled with hand-made crafts, unique food recipes and entertainment? If so, you need to head to Waynesville Ohio, October 13-14 for the 43rd annual Sauerkraut Festival. Located in the "Antique Capital of Midwest" the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival attracts more than 350,000 visitors annually with more than 450 craft booths featuring artisans from all over the country, including Hawaii. Sample traditional and unique sauerkraut recipes to stimulate your taste buds as food vendors open your mind to culinary creations you didn't even think possible. The 43rd annual Sauerkraut Festival in Waynesville promises to entertain, and keep you coming back for years to come.

Plan Your Visit Today!

If you're an arts & crafts lover, the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is a perfect weekend activity. With artisans from 29 different states, all craft booths are hand-selected by a jury to ensure only hand-made, high-quality-crafts are featured. Therefore, you'll only purchase individually crafted items by an artisan who takes pride in their work. You'll find crafts including:

      • Jewelry
      • Holiday crafts
      • Candles
      • Toys
      • Floral, Wreaths, Baskets
      • Photography
      • Pet Items
      • Stitch/Needle/Emrboidery/Knitting
      • And much more!

Taste Traditional and Unique Sauerkraut Recipes

The first Ohio Sauerkraut Festival began in 1970 serving nearly 530 pounds of sauerkraut. Today, The Ohio Sauerkraut Festival serves 7 tons of sauerkraut for approximately 350,000 visitors! That's a lot of kraut. If you're a sauerkraut lover, you'll find delicious classics like cabbage rolls, reuben sandwiches and bratwursts guaranteed to satisfy. But if you enjoy testing your taste buds, perhaps you'll sample more unique recipes such as sauerkraut pizza, brownies, and cookies or one of the most popular dishes: the sauerkraut doughnut!

Even if you're not a sauerkraut fan, the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival will be serving non-sauerkraut items as well. This year will introduce a new food booth with all dishes made from pumpkin. Embrace the fall season with goodies such as pumpkin ice cream and pumpkin baked goods

Go Mobile At the Sauerkraut Festival

This year, the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is going mobile, with new QR codes that link your smart phone to a map of all craft and food vendors. Now you'll be able to find exactly what you're looking for among a large crowd of craft and sauerkraut enthusiasts.

Bring the whole family to Waynesville October 13-14 to enjoy wonderful weekend of food and crafts at the 43rd annual Ohio Sauerkraut festival. Visit the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival online for more information.

If you go:

Saturday October 13: 9a-8p
Sunday October 14: 9a-6p

Pets & Alcohol are prohibited

Check out the Sauerkraut Festival website for more info.

Spend a Day on the Battlefield

David Ostendarp — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:54:20 -0700

September is upon us, meaning summer is coming to an end and the children are back in school. While the days of fun in the sun are behind us, there are still plenty of opportunities for you and your family to have fun in Ohio this fall. From September 28-30, Caesar's Creek Pioneer Village in Warren County is home to an entire weekend of Civil War themed events that are both fun and educational. Whether you're looking for a great field trip idea for a history class or a unique weekend event for the family, "Remembering the Civil War" at Caesar's Creek Pioneer Village is something you won't want to miss.

Plan Your Visit Today!

While the Civil War ended nearly 150 years ago, its impact and social significance has had a tremendous effect on our country to this day. The school day sends students back in time with a real-life, hands on learning experience about Civil War. Karen Ball of Caesar's Creek Pioneer Village describes the event as "A backward glance of a distant day." Students will visit soldier camps, tour log cabins, practice marching, mock battle and learn about everyday life in the days of the Civil War. For more information, contact Caesars Creek Pioneer Village by calling 513 897 1120.

Caesar's Creek Pioneer Village opens at 10 am Saturday September 29 with soldiers preparing for the day's activities. Dads and sons will participate in enlistment drills; learning to march and prepare for battle. Mothers and daughters can attend "Ladies Tea" where they learn "fan language" (The use of folded fans to communicate feelings such as happy, angry or flirty). Special speakers will address the profound impact of women on and off the battle field during the Civil War. The day ends with a battle between North and South- allowing you and your family to witness our nation's most brutal conflict first hand. Re-enactors will then hold a dinner and candlelit ball Saturday evening.

End the Weekend with a Church Service and 1860's Baseball

Sunday's activities begin with a soldier's church service where all members of the public are invited. The day's festivities include a fashion show and a speech on Civil War-era fashion. Fathers and sons can enjoy a period-style baseball game as they participate in the "early-days" version of America's favorite pastime and learn about its humble beginnings. Sunday's afternoon activities will also conclude with a dramatic reenactment of a battle between North and South.

Get your Tickets Now:

Adults: $7.00
Under 18: $3.00
Under 3: Free
Annual family Pass for most events: $35

Check out the Caesar Creek Pioneer Village website for a $2.00 discount ticket.

We encourage you and your family to attend this unique, historical event that is guaranteed to entertain and educate. Your family will truly enjoy the beautiful scenery of Caesar's Creek with of Civil War era imagery. It's guaranteed to take you back in time, right in your backyard.

Contact Pioneer Village today for event and ticket information.

Walking Tours in Warren County

David Ostendarp — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 12:21:01 -0700

Are you someone who enjoys taking walks in the summer time? Then you're in luck as Warren County is home to some of Ohio's best walking tours suitable for the whole family. There are walking tours that highlight the beauty of nature, art, historical monuments, and stories of the paranormal. The walking tours of Warren County are a unique way to spend some time with the family while getting outdoors. If you're not sure what walking tour would best suit your family, let us tell you about them:

Waynesville Ghostly Walking Tours

The Museum at the Friends Home in Waynesville, Ohio has guided tours that recount stories that defy explanation. Tour guides will lead you and your family to various destinations in downtown Waynesville where people have experienced paranormal activity. You and your family will learn about some of Waynesville's past residents whose spirits remain in limbo. Tours are offered Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays through October.

Visit the Museum at the Friends Home for more information.

Springboro Underground Railroad Walking Tours

These self-guided walking tours take you through the historical Springboro district, detailing the network of 27 safe houses and tunnels in the area. While walking through the historical district of Springboro, you'll learn how residents aided runaway slaves as they escaped to Canada. The self-guided tours are accompanied with a brochure, or you request a tour-guide for a small fee.

Visit The Springboro Chamber of Commerce website for more information.

Franklin Murals

Coined, "City of Murals" Franklin is home to breath-taking works of art. Painted by Franklin resident Eric Henn, these award-winning murals allow you to take a look back into the city's history. Franklin Murals make for a great day trip for you and the family.

Contact the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce for more information.

Ghost Ghost Tours

October 19 & 26 from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm

Hear and see what happens when history and the paranormal unfold. Your guided tour will visit all the hots spots inside Harmon Hall, recounting recent encounters with the paranormal. Guests may bring one small hand held device such as a camera, voice recorder for "ghost meter". Cost is $20 per person in advance.

Call 513 932 1817 for more information or visit the Warren County History Center website .

Shopper's Paradise!

David Ostendarp — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 15:34:07 -0700

In Warren County, shopping is always in season, whether its back-to-school, the holidays or a summertime girlfriend getaway there's something for everyone. Warren County is home to some of the best shopping destinations not only in Greater Cincinnati, but in the Midwest. From trendy designer stores t family-owned boutiques and the quant antique storefronts in many small towns around the county Warren County offers shoppers variety they won't find elsewhere. And with several cozy bed and breakfasts', restaurants and cafes nearby, it the perfect spot for you and your girlfriends to find a relaxing getaway not far away.

Cincinnati Premium Outlets
This upscale shopping center in Monroe, Ohio features a vast array of designer and name brand outlet stores. With more than 100 stores to choose from including Banana Republic, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nike, Gap, New York & Company and many more, Cincinnati Premium Outlets gives you have the opportunity to find savings of 25 - 65% on some of your favorite designers and brands.

Deerfield Towne Center
Located in Mason, Ohio, Deerfield Towne Center is a premier entertainment destination with top-name retailers, salons and spas, dining options and a multi-plex Regal Cinema. There is no shortage of things to do at Deerfield Towne Center, making it an ideal shopping destination for back to school shopping.

Historic Downtown Lebanon
Named one the "Top 100 Cities to Visit" by Midwest Living, Lebanon, Ohio is home to some very unique and vintage-style shops and restaurants. You and your girlfriends will find shops for Home Décor, antique jewelry and other fine art items that make Historic Downtown Lebanon a truly unique place to shop. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the fantastic dining options including The Breakfast Club, Village Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant and The Golden Lamb - Ohio's Oldest Inn and Restaurant.

Lebanon also features many bed & breakfast options for your stay including:

Hardy's Bed & Breakfast Suites
Silver High Manor B&B
The Hatfield Inn

Shops of Waynesville
If you like antique shopping, then you must come to Waynesville, Ohio, also known as the "Antiques Capital of the Midwest". With shops catering to colonial-made furniture to brass antiques, you'll find Waynesville to be both a charming and unique shopping experience.

Waynesville also has bed and breakfast options nearby including:

Cranberry Cottage
Hammel House Inn
River Walker B&B

Flea Markets
Warren County also has options for those looking for a bargain. With three flea markets including Caesar Creek Flea Market, Traders World and Treasure Aisles, you'll find a variety of unique items that can't be found in retail stores. So put on your walking shoes and explore the grounds at some of the most expansive flea markets in all of Ohio!

For some tips and tricks check out this blog post: Warren County Flea Market Tips and Tricks

For more information about each location please visit:

Caesar Creek Flea Market
Traders World
Treasure Aisles

As you can see, Warren County is great for a back to school shopping and offers many opportunities for shopping getaways for you and your girlfriends. Be sure to book your rooms at some of our cozy B&B's -you will need a place to drop after you shop!

Buckets of Fun! The Can't-Miss Countdown to Back to School

David Ostendarp — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 12:46:53 -0700

The countdown to back to school is on, and the Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau is giving away three buckets of prizes full of can't-miss summer fun the whole family can enjoy.

Go to Facebook and Enter Now!

The Buckets
1st Place Bucket: (1) night stay at Great Wolf Lodge and (4) tickets to Kings Island

2nd Place Bucket: (4) passes to Ozone Zipline Adventures, (1) $100 back to school shopping spree at Cincinnati Premium Outlets and (1) night stay at the Hyatt Place Cincinnati Northeast.

3rd Place Bucket: (2) passes for two to Morgan's Outdoor Adventures (includes 2 canoes, fits 4 individuals), Dinner for 4 at Valley Vineyards and (1) night stay at Kings Island Resort and Conference Center.

How to Win:

Go to the Warren County - Ohio's Largest Playground Facebook contest tab.
Upload your family's summer fun and vacation photos by midnight on August 15th.
Get your freinds and family to vote for your photo by midnight on Aug 20th and if your photo is one of the top three vote-getters you'll be getting away to Warren County with the prize package that aligns with your place (i.e. 1st, 2nd or 3rd).
Winners will be contacted via email and then announced on Facebook by August 22.

ENTER HERE!

The staff at Warren County - Ohio's Largest Playground also compiled a list of can't miss summer adventures that you'll want to check-off your summer bucket list before heading back to school.

Beat the heat by splashing the day (and night) away at Great Wolf Lodge. Then hit the new Ten Paw Bowling Alley with the family.
Conquer soaring heights and exhilarating speeds on world-famous coasters and then hit the water slides during a day with the family at Kings Island and all new Soak City Waterpark.
Canoe down the Little Miami with Morgan's Outdoor Adventures.
Zipline through the trees and over the river on the newly added ziplines, one as long as 1500 feet, at Ozone Zipline Adventures.
Catch a train ride the whole family can enjoy aboard the Lebanon, Mason and Monroe Railroad.
Start some family-friendly laser tag competition at Lazer Kraze.
Perfect your putt while playing the course at Southwest Golf Ranch.
Enjoy a night out with dinner at Valley Vineyards, enjoying a glass of the vineyard's award-winning wine and cooking your dinner choices on the grill outside. Not into wine? Valley Vineyards recently started brewing beer, too!
What's the best part about back to school? Shopping sprees, of course! Save big on style at Premium Outlets in Monroe, then head to Waynesville's historic downtown to grab a few unique items from the many antique and specialty shops.

Lift off on an Aerial Adventure this Summer!

David Ostendarp — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 10:19:50 -0700

Summer is a great time to try something new and unique. While swimming is a great way to beat the heat, perhaps you're looking for a more adventurous way to pass the time. Perhaps you've always wanted to skydive, go zip lining or take a hot air balloon ride. Did you know that Warren County has different options to feed your craving for an airborne adventure? For those of you looking to take to the skies this summer, let us tell you about some of the great destinations near by in Warren County.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Bella Balloons provides scenic flights above the Greater Cincinnati area. With launch sites in Cincinnati, Dayton and Northern Kentucky, you can enjoy this truly unique experience that takes your above the landscapes of the Ohio Valley region. Passengers can take off from designated areas with rides lasting approximately 40-60 minutes.

Visit Bella Balloons to reserve your hot-air balloon ride today.

Gentle Breeze also provides hot air balloon rides in the Greater Cincinnati area. Based out of Lebanon in Warren County, Gentle Breeze provides affordable balloon rides to Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky. With more than 30 years of ballooning experience, you can enjoy safe balloon ride with a trusted pilot.

Visit Gentle Breeze for reservation and pricing information.

Many balloonists recommend scheduling your flight at sunrise or sunset to truly take in the beauty of the Ohio Valley scenery.

Skydiving

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Perhaps skydiving is something you need to try. With locations at Skydive Warren County and Start Skydiving Cincinnati in Middletown, your skydiving adventure is not far from home. Both locations offer tandem skydiving with a certified instructor or solo jumping for a true thrill seeker. Each location also offers video services to capture your skydiving memory for years to come.

Check out Skydive Warren County for pricing.

Check out StartSkydiving.com for pricing.

Airplane Rides

Air travel can be expensive, but not if you learn how to fly yourself! At Red Stewart Airfield in Waynesville you can take in-flight training from one of the best pilots around. A Red Stewart Airfield their pilots are dedicated to preserving the more basic "stick and rudder" skills that students can then into any subsequent training. If you're already a licensed pilot you can rent aircraft from the airfield and take to the skies to get some great aerial views of Warren County and the Greater Cincinnati area.

Contact Red Stewart Airfield for flight training schedules and prices.

Helicopter Rides

Vertical Advantage is Cincinnati's premier helicopter service providers. Whether you're seeking a helicopter tour, taking aerial photographs, air charter or flight training, the experienced pilots at Vertical Advantage can take you up and around wherever you need to go.

Visit Vertical Advantage for service details and pricing.

Zip Lining

Not all aerial adventures take place in the sky, but Ozone Zipline Adventures canopy tours get you as close as you can get to flying. The canopy tours at YMCA Camp Kern offer a scenic zipline adventure over the Little Miami River Valley. These breathtaking tours offer group rates to one of the best ziplining adventures in the midwest. Whether you're looking for fun, or an outdoor educational outing, Ozone Zipline Adventures at YMCA Camp Kern has what you're looking for.

Contact Ozone Zipline Adventures for group rates and reservations today!

W&S Open and Cincinnati Reds Offer Double Header Deal!

David Ostendarp — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:49:12 -0700

Experience two world-class sporting events and SAVE $43!

The W&S Open and Cincinnati Reds have teamed up this year to offer fans the Double Header Deal! Don't miss your chance to see some of the biggest stars in tennis at the Lindner Family Tennis Center, then cheer on the red hot Cincinnati Reds as they take on National League rival, the Chicago Cubs. That's two great events and some extras (see below) for $81!

What you get:

A Terrace Level Reserved Seat to the August 17 afternoon session of the Western & Southern Open
A Western & Southern Open hat (Valued at $15)
A ticket to your choice of one of the following Reds v. Cubs games
- August 17 - 7:10p
- August 18 - 1:10p
- August 18 - 7:10p
- August 19 - 1:10p
AND a Cincinnati Reds Hat (Valued at $15).

Grab your Double Header Deal tickets today or book a world-class hotel located close to the Lindner Family Tennis Center!

OR if you're feeling lucky you could try to WIN 4 Tickets to Session 3 of the Western & Southern Open on August 12 by making your Champions predictions. Just click here to learn more.

The World's Top Tennis Players are Tourists Too!

David Ostendarp — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 12:57:46 -0700

This blog was written by President & CEO of the Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Phil Smith, who prior to joining the CVB had spent 22 years in senior management with the Western & Southern Open. During his time with the tournament, the event experienced the greatest period of growth in its history, and his areas of responsibility included international television, advertising, communications and hotel operations. On August 11, 2012, he will be enshrined in the Cincinnati Tennis Hall of Fame for his efforts that helped to make the tournament what it is today.

It was a pleasure to work for more than 20 years with the Western & Southern Open - one of the world's biggest pro tennis events which is held every August in Warren County. In addition to helping to produce a huge global event for hundreds of thousands of passionate tennis fans, my time with the tournament also allowed me to travel to some exciting tennis destinations and to meet some fascinating people, including the players.

The tournament week always is a special time as the fans can get so close to their world-famous tennis heroes. But the players don't just go back-and-forth from their hotel rooms to the Lindner Family Tennis Center while they are in Warren County. Like most of our visitors, they take in the sights, which means you may be surprised who you see browsing in one of our bookstores or sitting at a table in one of our restaurants.

One popular spot is Deerfield Towne Center. Turns out the players are just like all of us: they love to shop. And the restaurants there, especially those which are known to serve pasta dishes, are a particular favorite of the players.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the players have also been known to visit Kings Island quite frequently. In addition to simply enjoying the thrills of Diamondback or The Beast, several players have admitted to using a few of the more thrilling rides at the largest amusement and waterpark in the Midwest as motivation, making promises to coaches or themselves to take on certain rides based on their results in the tournament, such as reaching the semifinals or finals or even winning the title.

This year's tournament, just as every year, promises to be one filled with stellar performances and world-class match-ups. Who do you think will win the 2012 W&S Open? Tell us in the comments below and you could be randomly chosen to win tickets to see all the world's greatest tennis stars all on one stage!

Comment below with your prediction for the 2012 W&S Open winner and we will randomly choose one lucky winner on July 30th to receive 4 tickets to session 3 - Men's First Round action on the night of Sunday, August 12. Contest Rules.