Top Reasons To Go Local

Why buy local? By choosing local and independent businesses, you not only enjoy a more personal experience, you help:

BUILD COMMUNITY

The casual encounters you enjoy at neighborhood–scale businesses and the public spaces around them build relationships and community cohesiveness. They’re the ultimate social networking sites!

STRENGTHEN YOUR LOCAL ECONOMY

Each dollar you spend at independent businesses returns 3 times more money to your local economy than one spent at a chain (almost 50 times more than buying from an online mega-retailer) — a benefit we all can bank on.

SHAPE OUR CHARACTER

Independent businesses help give your community its distinct personality.

YOU CAN BUY IT WHERE YOU TRY IT

Local stores enable you to try on and try out items before you buy — and get real expertise — saving your time and money.

CREATE A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT

Independent, community-serving businesses are people-sized. They typically consume less land, carry more locally-made products, locate closer to residents and create less traffic and air pollution.

LOWER TAXES

More efficient land use and more central locations mean local businesses put less demand on our roads, sewers, and safety services. They also generate more tax revenue per sales dollar. The bottom line: a greater percentage of local independent businesses keeps your taxes lower.

GET REAL VALUE FOR YOURSELF

Reader surveys by the Consumers Union repeatedly show independent businesses beating their chain competitors in overall customer satisfaction (and they often save you money).

ENHANCE CHOICES

A wide variety of independent businesses, each serving their customers’ tastes, creates greater overall choice for all of us.

INCREASE WEALTH OF RESIDENTS

The multiplier effect created by spending locally generates lasting impact on the prosperity of local organizations and residents.

CREATE JOBS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Not only do independent businesses employ more people directly per dollar of revenue, they also are the customers of local printers, accountants, wholesalers, farms, attorneys, etc., expanding opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY

Small businesses donate more than twice as much per sales dollar to local non-profits, events, and teams compared to big businesses.

ENHANCE LOCAL DEMOCRACY

Local ownership of business means residents with roots in the community are involved in key development decisions that shape our lives and local environment.

ENHANCE HEALTH OF RESIDENTS

Research shows a strong correlation between the percentage of small locally-owned firms and various indicators of personal and community health and vitality.

The History Of Memorial Day

Memorial Day takes place on the last Monday in May to honor all those who died in American wars. The origins of the May holiday go back some 150 years.

In 1868, Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the grand Army of the Republic issued what was called General Order Number 11, designating May 30 as a memorial day. He declared it to be "for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land."

The first national celebration of Memorial Day (originally Decoration Day) took place May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery. The national observance of Memorial Day still takes place there today, with the placing of a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the decoration of each grave with a small American flag. The holiday has changed a bit since it first began, which some argue was even earlier than Logan's dedication.

Southern women decorated the graves of soldiers even before the end of the Civil War. After the war, a women's memorial association in Columbus, Mississippi, put flowers on the graves of both Confederate and Union soldiers in 1866, an act of generosity that inspired the poem by Francis Miles Finch, "The Blue and the Grey," published in the Atlantic Monthly.

In 1971, federal law changed the observance of the holiday to the last Monday in May and extended it to honor all those who died in American wars. People pay tribute not only with flowers but also with speeches and parades.

Boating Season Begins

Vermilion, Ohio's boating season has arrived. ODNR strongly encourages Vermilion boaters to take a refresher boating education course this boating season.

According to U.S. Coast Guard’s statistics, in one year alone there were 4,291 recreational boating accidents that involved 658 deaths, 2,629 injuries and approximately 46 million dollars of property damage. Over 80% of these deaths occurred on boats where the operator did not receive boating safety instruction.

“Taking a boating education course is the first thing everyone should do before they go boating. These courses teach you about navigation rules, laws that must be followed in your state and provide safety checklists that will go a long way in helping you and your loved ones have a fun and enjoyable boating season,” says Mark Brown, President of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). “Whether you are a first-time boater or have years of experience, there is always more to learn when taking to the water. Taking a boating education course is one of the best things you can do to prevent accidents on the water.”

Boater education is mandatory in Ohio for all boat operators born on or after January 1, 1982, who operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower. There are many options to fulfill the law, including online and home study courses. Ohio offers a wide variety of boating courses, making sure that there’s an appropriate course for every boater.

Check Off Your List

Vermilion, Ohio boaters are breaking their boats out of storage. Check out this general check list to begin your preparation for boating.

Review your boating registration: Boating registrations are required for every recreational boat in Ohio, including powerboats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and inflatable boats. Check your registration to make sure it isn’t expired. Boat registrations are good for three years and expire on March 1st.

Restock safety equipment onboard: The safety equipment required for your boat depends on the type of propulsion and length of your boat. A few general items needed across all vessels are a personal flotation device, visual distress signals, sound signaling devices, and lights. Check to make sure the required items are on board, functioning properly, and ready to use. Life jackets should be checked for wear and tear.

Schedule a vessel safety check: What better way to make sure you’re practicing safe boating techniques then an in-person safety check with a natural resource officer? Take an online virtual vessel safety check with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, then schedule your safety check.

Plan your summer of boating adventures: Vermilion and the Buckeye State await your next boating adventure! Take this time before boating season begins to explore and plan your next trip.

Boat Ramp & Docks

South Street Municipal Public Boat Ramp

Phone: (440) 204-2474  

Location: The boat ramp is located on the west side of the Vermilion River, and is adjacent to the Water Pollution Control Center. Directions from Rt. 6: On the west side of the bridge over the Vermilion River, by Vermilion Deli & Grocery, turn south onto West River Road. Then in about ¼ mile at the stop sign, turn left (east) onto the Boat Ramp access road. Watch for oncoming traffic on West River Road from the south which does not stop and has the right of way. Directions from Rt. 60: From the traffic light where State Rt. 60 intersects South Street, turn right (east) onto South Street and go east about ½ mile. Where South Street dead-ends at West River Road, there is a stop sign. At this intersection, watch for traffic coming from the right (south) which does not stop and has the right of way. Cross the street by making a jog to the left (north) onto West River Road, then immediately turn right onto the access road leading downhill to the river and Boat Ramp.

Facilities

•     2 launching ramps
•     2 holding docks
•     ADA kayak and canoe roller launch facility
•     trailer and car parking
•     disabled & handicap accessible facility
•     open 24 hours year round
•     bait and fishing supplies available from local suppliers
•     minutes north to Lake Erie no dockage available

Water Works Public Guest Docks

Dockmaster: (440) 204-2474

We invite you to visit our Vermilion Public Guest Docks. You are in the center of Vermilion's historical district and within easy walking distance of many quaint specialty shops, groceries, ice, restaurants, fast food, historical homes, overnight accommodations, professional services and the beach.

Location: Just inside the Vermilion River harbor on the starboard side (West) you will find The Vermilion Municipal Water Plant. The docks are adjacent to the water plant. 

Dockage

•     Reservations suggested (contact Dockmaster (440) 204-2474)
•     20 guest berths accommodating both power and sail up to 45 ft.
•     Facilities: water and electricity available, restrooms, showers, pump out
•     Season: mid-May to mid-October
  

Nearby Facilities

There are additional public docks at McGarvey's Landing (further up the Vermilion River, on the east side, just north of the bridge, at McGarvey's Landing next to the Quaker Steak & Lube Restaurant).  Along the river, you will find marinas that provide fuel and services, as well as restaurants that cater to boaters' needs.

Harbor Info

•     Harbor Master: (440) 967-6116 
•     Harbor Patrol: (440) 967-6116, Emergency 911
•     U.S. Coast Guard: (440) 288-1206
•     Local Police Monitor Marine Channel 16: CB 9
•     Hospital: 20 minutes to Mercy Hospital (440-960-4000)

McGarvey's Landing

McGarvey's Landing features breathtaking views from the Vermilion River boardwalk in historic Harbour Town. Trees, beautiful planters, benches, picnic tables and more provide a wonderful park-like setting to watch boats sail along the river.  Public boat docks are available along McGarvey's landing by the Vermilion Port Authority. All Port Authority guest docks are painted white with the top two feet painted a dark, royal navy blue. Many festivities take place at the boardwalk including rubber ducky races, lighted boat parades and crazy craft regatta.

Harbor Ordinances

•     No wake
•     84 Decibel Noise Level Limit 24 Hours a day

The History Of McGarvey's

Many people do not know, or remember that the restaurant known as McGarvey's was originally built, owned and operated by Charles Helfrich. That was in 1929, shortly after the new bridge was built across the river. The old bridge crossed a little south of the present location.

Mr. Helfrich operated a small boat and canoe rental business on the east side of the river. The proposed new bridge nearly touched his building and also diverted traffic away from it. So he purchased the land just north of the new bridge and built a restaurant and boat rental business there. Home cooked dinners, fish, chicken, sandwiches and homemade pies were the first attractions. Also served were the almost unheard of hot fish sandwiches, on Schwensen's bread. The business prospered and Helfrich's became a busy place. The canoe and boat business were also thriving. Canoeing on the river was a popular pastime in those days, especially on Sunday afternoons.

In 1934 Mr. Helfrich died and two years later Mrs. Helfrich sold the enterprises to Charlie McGarvey's. After his death, Mrs. McGarvey sold her husband's business to Eddie Solomon, son of Charles Solomon. The restaurant was one of the most well known eating places along the lake shore, popular with both "landlubbers" and boaters. In the year 2000, the Vermilion Port Authority purchased the McGarvey's property and razed the building. The property became a transient marina and restaurant named Red Clay on the River, now Quaker Steak & Lube.

Boat Safely

Every year, millions of Americans take time to enjoy our Nation’s waterways — one of our great natural treasures. As warmer weather draws families to our Nation’s lakes, rivers, and beaches, this week serves as a critical reminder of the importance of staying safe on the water. Each year during National Safe Boating Week, the Coast Guard and an array of Federal, State, and local partners help save lives and guard against accidents by highlighting safe boating practices.

U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in four out of every five recreational boating fatalities in one year, and that 86 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

“Don’t just have your life jacket close by, wear it,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “If an accident occurs and you suddenly end up overboard, a life jacket will help keep your head above water and could save your life.”

New life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters know. There are innovative options, such as inflatable life jackets, allowing mobility and flexibility for activities like boating, fishing, paddling or hunting, and are much cooler in the warmer weather.

The Wear It Ohio campaign encourages Vermilion boaters and water enthusiasts alike to always wear a life jacket when in or around water!

“We are excited to join forces with partners around the world to encourage everyone to wear a life jacket when on the water and always boat responsibly because the best boating experience is a safe boating experience,” said Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council.

The Safe Boating Campaign reminds Vermilion boaters to follow these safety tips:

• Take a boating safety course.
• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.
• Watch the weather.
• No distracted boating.
• Travel at safe speeds.
• Never boat under the influence.
• Have more than one communication device that works when wet.

Walking Tour Of Captains' Homes

Vermilion was once known as the "Village of Lake Captains," and no other place has so many captains' homes in its historic district.

Vermilion was initially settled in the early 19th century and formed as a village in 1837. In 1840, the US Corps of Engineers finished building the tow piers at the mouth of the Vermilion which provided the depth builders needed to take boats into the lake. Thus began the "Golden Age of Ship Building" on the river, in tune with great demand for the shipping on the lakes. In a period of 36 years, 48 large lake schooners were built. Lumber, fish, sandstone, iron, and lime were major commodities at the time. The Captains of these vessels made Vermilion their choice as a homeport. As research continues, more Captains' homes are waiting to be discovered.

Captain Homes Tour

Please keep in mind that most of the captains' homes are private residences and not open to the public.

1. Captain Henry C. Leidheiser House, 566 Main Street, built 1890. Vernacular style.

2. Captain Fred S. Lawless House, 5604 Ferry Street, built 1902. Vernacular style.

3. Captain Charles A. Mattison House, 538 Main Street, built 1920. Craftsman style.

4. Captain Miles Thompson House, 485 Main Street, built 1830. Remodeled Greek Revival style.

5. Captain J.C. Gilchrist House, also known as Lakeside Inn, presently a Bed & Breakfast, 5662 Huron Street, built 1885. Italianate style.

6. Captain James F. Nolan House, 472 Washington Street, built 1911. Vernacular style.

7. Captain Alva Bradley House, Captain Alva Bradley House, 5679 Huron Street, built 1848. The captain was a good friend of Thomas Alva Edison. Greek Revival style.

8. Captain Charles Horton House, 5664 Ferry Street, built 1874. Gothic Revival style.

9. Captain George A. Bell Second House, 5790 Huron Street, built circa 1900. Vernacular style.

10. Captain Frank B. Parsons House, 5831 Huron Street, built circa 1915. Remodeled Vernacular style.

11. Captain Clifford H. Parsons House, 608 Decatur Street, built 1929. Vernacular style.

12. Captain Edwin R. Pelton House, 631 Decatur Street, built 1901. Queen Anne Style.

13. Captain Lewis Stone House, 5803 Liberty Avenue, built 1896. Vernacular style.

14. Captain Frederick Rae House, 690 Decatur Street, built circa 1870. Italianate style.

15. Captain Frederick Bailey House, 5775 Liberty Avenue, built 1911. Vernacular style.

16. Captain George A. Bell House, 5760 Liberty Avenue, built 1876, presently a Bed & Breakfast. Italianate style.

17. Captain William Young House, 5815 Ohio Street, built 1848, presently a Bed & Breakfast. Transitional Greek Revival style.

18. Captain Alva Bradley Second House, 751 Decatur Street, built circa 1870. Remodeled Stick style.

19. Captain Albert Meyer House, 756 Perry Street, built circa 1853. Captain Meyer was the master of the ill-fated “Western Reserve” which sank taking the lives of many Vermilion families. Italianate style.

20. Captain Leeds Weeks House, 5676 Ohio Street, built circa 1880. Queen Anne style.

21. Captain Peter G. Minch, 743 Grand Street, built 1857. Captain Minch was the owner of the ill- fated ship “Western Reserve”. Late Greek Revival with Italianate influence style.

22. Captain W.H. Gilchrist Sr. House, 5583 Ohio Street, built 1875. One of Vermilion’s few older brick buildings. Italianate style.

23. Captain William H. Moody, 792 Exchange Street, built 1903. Vernacular with Queen Anne influence style.

24. Captain Henry Walper House, 5475 South Street, built 1899. Queen Anne style.

25. Captain Charles Gegenheimer House, 910 Exchange Street, built circa 1898. Vernacular style.

26. Captain Frederick Hasenflue House, 5332 South Street, built 1907. Vernacular style.

27. Captain Peter Full House, 5118 South Street, built 1903. Remodeled Vernacular style.

28. Captain Cornelius Young House, 5231 South Street, built circa 1880. Vernacular style.

Prepared by the Vermilion Historic Register Committee of Main Street Vermilion.

Vermilion Attractions & Events

Vermilion is recognized for its festivals and community events. The Woollybear Festival is a one-day gathering that draws over 150,000 visitors to our city and includes the longest parade in Ohio. The Festival of the Fish, held each June, is a three-day event drawing visitors to take part in our celebration of the sea.

Third Thursdays provide an array of live music for your listening enjoyment in several different locations throughout town. The Vermilion Market offers locally grown produce and products, local cottage industry products, art, and local crafted items. Watch as the roads and walks along Vermilion's Main Street fill up with bright chalk drawings created by local artistic talent at Chalk it Up!

Civil War Days offers food, an open fire, crafts, demonstrations, music entertainment, and touring the historic Benjamin Bacon Homestead of 1845. The Annual Vermilion Ice-A-Fair is a day-long winter event for the entire family filled with glistening sculptures, ice carving demos and more! Art shows are planned throughout the year. Additional events include summer concerts, the Annual Chocolate Festival, the Annual Gardeners Fair, the Annual Duck Dash 500, the Vermilion River Watershed Open House, and much, much more.

Trails, Routes & Tours

Vermilion is located on the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail, the Wing Watch & Wine Trail, the Back Roads & Beaches Bike Route, the Lake Erie Circle Tour and the Shipwrecks & Maritime Tales of Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail. The area's largest vineyard and winery is located on Vermilion's South Side.

The Reservation

Spanning two adjacent areas separated by the Vermilion River—Mill Hollow on one side and Bacon Woods on the other—Vermilion River Reservation is a favorite of picnickers, naturalists and anyone who just wants to enjoy its natural beauty. Just next to the Bacon House Museum, the Carriage Barn offers visitors information about the park and hosts nature programs.  Vermilion River Reservation is located at 51211 North Ridge Road,  just 4 miles south of downtown Vermilion, by the intersection of North Ridge and Vermilion Roads.

Arts & Culture

The Arts Guild features rotating exhibits of a new Artist of the Month, as well as special art shows and events. A wealth of art galleries abound in the Harbour Town district. The Vermilion Community Music Association, which features the Community Band, Community Chorus, and the Wind Jammer Dance Band, provides professional music services to numerous events throughout the year. The Vermilion Opera House, built in 1883 in the Vermilion Town Hall, is being restored to house a premier performing arts center featuring high quality touring performers, local theater, music and community events. Ritter Public Library, which is the jewel of our community, provides cultural events, plays, speakers, book clubs, and educational programs to all levels of our community. Meeting and housing space is provided for the many non-profit activities and events in town.

Historic Harbour Town

Harbour Town 1837 (historic downtown Vermilion) is home to dozens of retail shops, restaurants, professional businesses, marinas, accommodations and tourist activities.  Visit Harbour Town by car or boat. Downtown public docks are within walking distance of a museum, dozens of boutiques, art galleries and fine dining.  Harbour Town is also home to a beach and several parks. Enjoy the sandy beach, recreational boating of every kind, jet skis, canoeing, sailing and more where ship building was once the major industry. On summer nights, residents and visitors congregate on the large deck at Main Street Beach to watch boats sail back and forth in front of the beautiful Lake Erie sunset and enjoy the Mystic Belle, a small paddle wheeler, offering rides on the Vermilion River.

Harbour Town features events and entertainment throughout the year including sidewalk entertainment, artists, grand parades, festivals and bazaars. Summer months feature outside music and movies and weekly events. Winter offers an array of holiday activities and fabulous shopping bargains.

Railfan Destination

It doesn't get any better for rail buffs than Vermilion's historic downtown, with at least 5 trains racing through town every hour. The railroad action in Vermilion is virtually non-stop, and no other railroad town offers a more beautiful location in a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Erie.

Roadside Stands

There is something special about preparing home-cooked meals with fresh fruits and vegetables picked up at a farm market within hours of harvest. Discover farm fresh foods at Vermilion's farm markets.  Vermilion markets and roadside stands offer the freshest produce and seasonal favorites.  From homegrown apples, lettuce, corn, beans, cucumbers, brocholi, radishes, cider, gourds, and fall squash - to a vast array of tropical fruits - you'll find everything you need for your cooking needs at Vermilion's own farmers markets and roadside stands. Visit area farms during one of the Pick Your Own seasons.  Families and children gain the learning experience of where food comes from by Picking Your Own.  Relax in the rural setting and soak in the fresh air and sunshine.

Historic Ballroom

In 1919 a group of investors from the Cleveland area purchased a wooded property with 600 feet of Lake Erie frontage in tiny “Vermilion-on-the-Lake”, Ohio. They cleared the land, and using the very logs they felled, built an approximately 10,000 square foot private community center known as the Vermilion-on-the-Lake Clubhouse. The big bands of that era were soon accompanied by couples dancing on polished hardwood floors beneath a glittering globe. Those original hardwood floors, framed by the original log walls, are still there today. The VOL (Vermilion-on-the-Lake) Historic Community Center remains today one of the only wedding venue's still situated on Lake Erie's shore.  The 'VOL CLubhouse', as it has been called, demands only modest rental fees which assist the effort to save and renovate this historic building.

Vermilion Museums

The History Of Vermilion Lagoons

Louis Wells, a Cleveland contractor, began the Vermilion Lagoons project as a means of keeping his men busy during the Great Depression of the 1930s. By 1931 the first house and the beach house had been built and the lagoons were dredged and most of the wooden piling secured.

The first house was located just to the south and west of the beach house on the Erie Lagoon and belonged to a Mr. Comstock, a real estate salesman and employee of Wells Realty Company. A "building boom" took place in the mid 1930s and by 1940 all of the houses on Anchorage Way, at least one house on Willow Lane, and most of the houses on the portion of Portage Drive located on the north side of the Erie Lagoon had been constructed. The first year-round residents, the Lester Kishman family, moved into their new home in April of 1937.

The Lagoons was not mostly permanent residents until the 1950s. Another "building boom" began during this period and it was at this time that Park Drive, the last road to be developed, experienced growth. To the townspeople of Vermilion, the people of the Lagoons were often known as "swamp dwellers" or "swamp rats." They were also thought to be slightly crazy for wanting to live so close to the water. At times, this has indeed meant being in the water rather than by the water.

Along with the residential development came the recreational in the form of the Vermilion Yacht Club. Mr. Wells deeded the land on the tip and south side of Anchorage Way to the Yacht Club with one stipulation - no alcoholic beverages could be served or sold on the premises of the club itself. The originators of the Vermilion Yacht Club were all former members of the Cleveland Yacht Club seeking a more secluded anchorage.

Besides the obviously great boat dockage and the beach on the Lake, the uniqueness of the Lagoons is in the uniformity of the architecture of all buildings found there. The charm of Cape Cod homes, all white with dark roofs and shutters, amid trees (mostly all willows in the beginning) and fronting on lagoons is undeniable and gives to the Vermilion Lagoons its own inimitable flavor.

Vermilion Postcard Project

The Postcard Project features 15 big and beautiful, mural-sized recreations of vintage postcards that record local history and the nostalgic scenes that depict Vermilion as a long-time vacation destination. Enjoy a day downtown and all around Vermilion and see the award-winning Postcard Project for yourself.

Stop in at Main Street Vermilion first for your keepsake Tour Guide (a $5 suggested donation).

Postcards 1 through 10 are walkable throughout the historic downtown district.

Postcards 11-14 are located along the eastern corridor of town and can be viewed on foot or by car.

Postcard 15 is located 4.8 miles west of downtown at Beulah Beach, where the grounds are open to the public and the view of the lake is a wonderful way to end your day in Vermilion.

Main Street Vermilion is located at 685 Main Street in downtown Vermilion, Ohio. Call (440) 963-0772 or visit www.mainstreetvermilion.org for more information.

History Of Crystal Beach

Just east of downtown Vermilion on Rt. 6 on the north side of the road are an easily overlooked apartment complex, a gas station and a bank. On this acreage, as early as 1870 stood a picnic grove called Shadduck Lake Park. This pleasant grove became popular because the tree shaded area was accessible to horse-drawn buggies.

In 1906 George Blanchat purchased the park and named it Crystal Beach Park after his wife, Josephine's, description of the "crystal-like" sand on the beach. With rides and concessions added, Crystal Beach opened on Decoration Day, 1907. Along with the transition of ownership and name came other changes; even the square dancing gave way to the two-step. Some of the original buildings for the premier season were a pavilion for dancing and serving refreshments, a beer garden, a shooting gallery and a merry-go-round. Later bowling alleys, a toboggan slide into Lake Erie and a large restaurant were added.

Historical markers commemorate Crystal Beach Park at the north end of Nantucket Drive in Vermilion, Ohio. The markers are a collaborative effort of Crystal Shores Apartments and members of the family who used to operated the park.

Volunteer At Second Harvest

Second Harvest is the regional nonprofit committed to fighting hunger. Working together with a vast network to acquire, gather, and distribute nutritious food, Second Harvest helps feed tens of thousands of people throughout Lorain, Erie, Huron and Crawford counties. For every $1 donated Second Harvest can provide 5 meals to those at risk for hunger.

Volunteers play an essential role in the operations of Second Harvest and they could not do what they do without the help of thousands of volunteers each year. Last year alone, volunteers donated over 14,800 hours of service and repacked more than 1 million pounds of food and grocery products, and packed thousands of backpacks, mobile food pantry boxes and senior food boxes.

Volunteer opportunities are available for groups up to 45 people and individuals in the Volunteer Work Center. Hours are available to fit every schedule from 10 am until 7:30 pm, Monday thru Thursday and the first Saturday of each month.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

• Repack: Sorting, inspecting, relabeling or repacking food in the Repack Room.
• BackPack, Senior & Mobile Food Pantry Boxes: Packing bags and boxes for distribution to families and children in the Clean Room.
• Office: Assist with filing, data entry, mailings and other administrative activities.
• Special Events / Projects: Support staff during events, activities, campaigns, mobile produce pantries, and food drives.

Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio is located at the new Nordson Food Distribution Center, 5510 Baumhart Road. Call (440) 960-2265 or visit https://www.secondharvestfoodbank.org/ for more information.

Wear Your Life Jacket

Most boaters in Vermilion know they’re required to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket on board for every person on their boat. But boating safety advocates recommend that all boaters and passengers not only have a life jacket, but wear it at all times while boating. Accidents on the water can happen much too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket.

Drowning is the reported cause of death in 76 percent of all boating fatalities – and 84.5 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. The good news is that today’s life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters know. Life jackets that use inflatable technologies are cool and comfortable. They may resemble a pair of suspenders or a belt pack. Many inflate automatically when immersed in water. There are life jacket styles available for almost any boating activity.

Cruising in an open motorboat: Comfort is key – choose a life jacket you’ll want to wear. For ages 16 and older, inflatable life jackets are a great option.

Personal watercraft and water sports: Inherently buoyant, lighter-weight life jackets are rugged, with multiple buckles and clasps to keep them secure after impact with the water.

Cold weather: Full coats and suits are available for those who boat when air and water temperatures are cool.

Paddling: Special life jackets are designed with large openings for arms to allow ease of movement.

Children: Virtually all styles available are sized especially for children – some with cartoon characters or other high-visibility themes, and many include additional safety features such as straps for pulling

children from the water.

Companion Animals: Life jackets are even available for our four-legged friends. It’s helpful to purchase one with a handle on top to easily pull your animal out of the water, if needed.

Paddle Safe

For the past few years, the number of people involved in paddle sports in Vermilion, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up-paddle boarding (SUP), has been increasing. While this change is certainly positive, unfortunately law enforcement reports in Ohio have also indicated an increase in paddle sport accidents. To avoid accidents, it is important that paddlers review tips for safe paddling.

First and foremost, paddlers should always wear a life jacket. Ohio law requires life jackets to be worn while waterskiing or being towed on a similar device, while riding a personal watercraft, and for children less than 10 years of age on any vessel less than 18 feet in length. Paddlers should use the following checklist as a guide for evaluating life jackets:

• Don't wear a life jacket that has torn or broken buckles.
• Don't wear a life jacket that has rips, unattached webbing, or missing straps.
• Don't keep life jackets with rotting material or parts showing excessive wear.
• Check the inflatable lanyard to see that it hangs freely from the inflatable life jacket.
• Make sure all inflatable life jackets have a properly armed inflatable mechanism.

It is also important to be aware of the hidden dangers that come with paddling on a river. For example, downed trees that fall into rivers (commonly referred to as “strainers”) should be avoided. River currents can quickly capsize your boat or pin your boat against hazards, leaving you trapped. Avoid flooded rivers or streams and water that is moving too fast for your skill level.

Vermilion paddlers should also avoid congested powerboat areas, and if possible, paddle in a group or at least inform others of your whereabouts.

Recreation On The Lake

Swimmers of all ages enjoy our sandy beaches located in Historic Downtown Vermilion and either side of the city. Recreational boating of every kind, jet skis, canoeing, and sail boats adorn the Vermilion harbor, where ship building was once the major industry.

On summer nights, residents and visitors congregate at Main Street Beach to watch boats sail back and forth in front of the beautiful Lake Erie sunset and enjoy the Mystic Belle, a small paddle wheeler, offering rides on the Vermilion River.

Musicians entertain in numerous outdoor locations in the downtown area. Art galleries offer continuously changing exhibits. Children attend Sail Camp where they learn water safety and sailing supervised by members of our world-renowned women’s sailing crew. Vermilion is home to two golf courses, history museums, a lighthouse, scenic parks, and vineyards.

Lake Erie Shores & Islands is the Midwest's hottest, most exciting vacation destination. Located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, the area offers all the calm and relaxation of a coastal vacation as well as many exciting and diverse amusements to please the whole family.  Located halfway between Toledo & Cleveland, on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Lake Erie Shores & Islands offers so many attractions for the whole family! From amusement parks, to museums, to watersports, to natural areas and more - everyone will find a great reason to...Explore the Shore Next Door!

Farm Markets & Stands

There is something special about preparing home-cooked meals with fresh fruits and vegetables picked up at a farm market within hours of harvest. Discover farm fresh foods at Vermilion's farm markets.

Vermilion markets and roadside stands offer the freshest produce and seasonal favorites. From homegrown apples, lettuce, corn, beans, cucumbers, brocholi, radishes, cider, gourds, and fall squash - to a vast array of tropical fruits - you'll find everything you need for your cooking needs at Vermilion's own farmers markets and roadside stands.

Visit area farms during one of the Pick Your Own seasons. Families and children gain the learning experience of where food comes from by Picking Your Own. Relax in the rural setting and soak in the fresh air and sunshine.

Preserving Vermilion's Lighthouse

Nothing is more iconic to the local landscape than the Vermilion Lighthouse, which looks out over Lake Erie at the foot of Main Street. There's a rich, deep history to this marvelous structure. A dedicated, ongoing effort seeks to preserve it for generations to come.

Main Street Vermilion's Lighthouse Preservation Committee is dedicated to the conservation and upkeep of this important landmark. Formed in 2014, they serve as the local guardians to the lighthouse and work to educate the public about the historical significance of lighthouses.

Within two years, the committee raised funds to have a 5th order Barbier and Fenestre Fresnel lens fabricated. Installed in September 2016, the structure now stands as an active navigational aid. A lighthouse keeper was appointed the same year to carry on the tradition of keeping the structure in good order and the light shining.

Visitors are welcome at the lighthouse any time of day. Nearby is a favorite photo spot for locals and tourists. The familiar 5-ton propeller from the Tug Pennsylvania, and the popular anchor salvaged from a Great Lakes cargo vessel, are both owned and maintained by Main Street Vermilion.

For groups of 10 or more, Main Street Vermilion's Lighthouse Preservation Committee offers guided tours of the structure that includes the history, restoration and a closer look at our most popular landmark. Outside tours, or during colder weather a Power Point presentation, is available and conducted by reservation at Ritter Public Library. Donations for tours or programs are gladly accepted and will be used toward ongoing maintenance and restoration of the lighthouse.

Main Street Vermilion is one of 450 locations across the country where you can buy passports and get it stamped with the Vermilion Lighthouse insignia. Stop in at Shore Thing, close to the Lighthouse and on the beach, or the Main Street Building to add to your collection.

Learn more about the Vermilion's Lighthouse Preservation Committee at www.mainstreetvermilion.org.

The History Of Mother's Day

President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed May 9, 1914, the first Mother's Day. He asked Americans on that day to give a public "thank you" to their mothers and all mothers.

Mother's Day began when Anna Jarvis, of Philadelphia, wanted to remember her own mother along with all mothers. Anna's mother had been very active in working to improve the health of people in her community. Jarvis's mother also organized a Mother's Friendship event in her community to bring confederate and union soldiers together for a peaceful celebration. Many other women such as Julia Ward Howe, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Elizabeth Smith also fought for peace and encouraged mothers to speak out. Anna Jarvis convinced her mother's church to celebrate Mother's Day on the anniversary of her mother's death, and campaigned for a national day honoring mothers. Jarvis started the tradition of wearing a carnation on Mother's Day – colored if your mother was living, and white if she was not.

On May 11, 1913 the Members of the House of Representatives wore white carnations to honor American mothers in the Capitol's first observance of Mother’s Day. Representative James Heflin of Alabama introduced House Resolution 103 on May 10th requesting President Woodrow Wilson, members of his Cabinet, the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and other federal officials to don white carnations, "or some other white flower," to honor mothers for being "the greatest source of our country’s strength and inspiration." The tradition of wearing white carnations (and later red carnations) spread across the nation. The Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., adorned its lobby with vases of white carnations, as did many restaurants in the capital city.

With the positive response to the 1913 resolution, Heflin introduced formal legislation in 1914, designating the second Sunday in May Mother’s Day. Heflin’s 1914 resolution made no mention of carnations, but requested that the U.S. flag be displayed at government offices, homes, and businesses across the country, "as a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country." After quickly passing the House and being directed through the Senate by former Representative Morris Sheppard of Texas, the bill went to the President’s desk on May 8th, and became law that same day.

Mother's Day spread around the world, celebrated with gifts, visits, and flowers. But Anna Jarvis was not happy that Mother's Day became so commercialized.

"This is not what I intended. I wanted a day of sentiment, not profit," said Jarvis.

The mother of Mother's Day died in 1948, at the age of 84, regretting that she had ever started Mother's Day.

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Historic Harbour Town 1837