The SHORE Line

S2, E49 

As we count down the final days of December, The SHORE Line keeps the celebration going with an inside look at one of downtown Sandusky’s biggest New Year’s Eve traditions—First Night Sandusky, presented by Great Lakes Audio Visual. Host Jill Bauer welcomes back friend of the pod and event co-creator Zach Cummins to share how this community celebration has grown, what goes into producing a night of fireworks, live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly fun, and everything that makes this event so special. From the Family Fun Zone at Jackson Street Pier to the high-energy Main Stage countdown, Zach walks us through the experiences, surprises, and new additions planned for ringing in 2026. Whether you're a local gearing up for the festivities or a visitor planning a winter getaway, this episode delivers another fun way to celebrate New Year’s Eve Shores & Islands style. Make your NYE plans at FirstNightSandusky.com! December episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Sandusky Christmas Market - where community, creativity, and holiday spirit come alive! SanduskyChristmasMarket.com

S2, E48 

Ring in the New Year Shores & Islands–style with one of Ohio’s most beloved and uniquely quirky traditions — the Port Clinton Walleye Drop! In this festive episode of The SHORE Line, we sit down with Lisa Kuzma of the Wylie Walleye Foundation to explore how this small-town celebration has grown into a nationally recognized event over the last 30 years. Lisa shares the heart behind the nonprofit, the exciting changes coming to this year’s celebration, the return of the VIP party, the always-popular Bar Swim, and why the midnight descent of Wylie the Walleye remains such a magical moment for thousands of attendees. You’ll also hear how the Foundation is expanding its community impact with new events throughout the year. Whether you’re a longtime Wylie fan or planning your first New Year’s Eve visit, this episode delivers all the details that make this celebration unforgettable. Join the fun at WylieWalleyeFoundation.com. December episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Sandusky Christmas Market - where community, creativity, and holiday spirit come alive! SanduskyChristmasMarket.com

S2, E47 

In this inspiring and community-centered episode of The SHORE Line, Jill sits down with William Rutger, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Sandusky Library—and a familiar face returning home. A Castalia native with more than 25 years of library leadership experience, William shares what led him back to this beloved institution where he once held his first job. Together, they explore his vision for the library as a vibrant community destination, the rich history of the library’s iconic building, and the connection between the library and the Follett House Museum as it approaches its 50th anniversary. William also highlights new and upcoming programs for families, visitors, and locals, while reflecting on what makes living and working in Shores & Islands Ohio so special. Whether you’re a library lover, a history buff, or planning a seasonal visit, this episode shines a light on the essential role Sandusky Library plays in our region’s story. Check it out at SanduskyLib.org. December episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Sandusky Christmas Market - where community, creativity, and holiday spirit come alive! SanduskyChristmasMarket.com

S2, E46 

We’re kicking off the holiday season with a spotlight on Small Business Saturday and the local makers who bring downtown Sandusky to life. Jill sits down with Mike Hicks, co-owner of Henry’s Shoppes and Wild Thistle, to explore how these two distinct boutiques grew from a spark of inspiration into must-visit destinations in the Downtown Marketplace. Mike shares stories behind the products, the importance of community, and how his shops celebrate Lake Erie Love through curated goods and local partnerships. Whether you’re gearing up for holiday gifting or simply love supporting small businesses, this festive episode will inspire you to shop local this season. Find @henrysshoppes on Facebook and Instagram. November’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S2, E45 

This festive episode of The SHORE Line dives into the magic, mission, and momentum behind the Sandusky Christmas Market. Host Jill Bauer talks with founder Chris Corso to explore the inspiration behind the event, how it has grown since its debut, and why establishing the Jimm Corso Family Foundation was essential to its community-focused future. Chris shares details on this year’s dates, hours, atmosphere, new additions, and sponsors, while highlighting how the market uplifts small businesses, celebrates local artisans, and strengthens community spirit. Get a joyful look behind-the-scenes of one of Sandusky’s newest holiday traditions and what’s ahead for its bright future. Your holiday shopping plans begin at SanduskyChristmasMarket.com. November’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S2, E44 

In this episode, host Jill Bauer sits down with Sarah Beavers, Executive Director of the Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce, to shine a light on this warm, welcoming Lake Erie community. From the charm of the upcoming Olde Fashioned Christmas and the hometown pride of the annual Oak Harbor Apple Festival to exciting plans for America’s 250th birthday celebration, Sarah shares how the Chamber supports local businesses, strengthens community connections, and builds momentum for a bright future. Discover why Oak Harbor is the kind of place where small-town values meet big celebrations — and why you should visit! Get to know this welcoming town at OakHarborOhio.net. November’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S2, E43 

Raise a glass to Ohio’s wine-making heritage! In this episode of The SHORE Line, host Jill Bauer sits down with Tobi Guseman, Assistant Director of Hospitality, Events, and Marketing at Firelands Winery, to uncork the story behind one of the state’s oldest and most celebrated wineries. From the history and craftsmanship of Firelands’ locally made wines to its commitment to the community and evolving guest experience, this conversation celebrates 145 years of flavor, tradition, and local pride. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just love discovering local gems, this episode will leave you ready to plan your next tasting in Sandusky. November’s episodes of The SHORE Line are brought to you by Firelands Winery…history and heritage in every sip. FirelandsWinery.com

S2, E42 

On this episode of The SHORE Line, we’re celebrating community spirit in Port Clinton, Ohio! Host Jill Bauer is first joined by Shores & Islands Ohio’s own Meaghan Reynolds to recap her first year discovering and promoting new things in the region and updating us on all the local social media fun. Then, Jill and Meaghan welcome special guest Nicole Kockensparger, CEO of the Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and Program Manager for Main Street Port Clinton. Together, they talk about what makes this lakeside town such a special place to live, work, and visit — from long-standing events like the Walleye Festival to new initiatives shaping the city’s future. Hear how the Chamber’s 50-year legacy continues to drive connection, collaboration, and “Lake Erie Love” all year long.

S2, E41

Step inside one of the region’s most fascinating cultural treasures — the Milan Museum — where history, art, and education come together in the heart of Thomas Edison’s hometown. First, host Jill Bauer is joined by S&IO Visitor Experience Manager Angie George to chat about the Sandusky Welcome Center and upcoming public events, such as the Downtown Sandusky Ghost Walks and a family-friendly paint and sip with hot cocoa. Angie is also active in historical reenacting and on several museum boards. In this episode, we learn about the Milan Museum with Executive Director Ann Basilone-Jones who has led the museum for nearly two decades. She shares how the museum connects Milan’s rich past to a vibrant present through community programs, hands-on learning, and creative events like Pumpkin Palooza and Gingerbread Workshops. From the Ohio 250 Trails & Tales initiative to custom pieces in the museum shop, discover how this hidden gem continues to inspire curiosity, creativity, and local pride. Learn more at MilanHistory.org.

S2, E40 

On this episode of The SHORE Line, we’re heading outdoors with Jannah Wilson, Executive Director of the Park District of Ottawa County. Discover how this growing park system is connecting communities through trails, conservation, and recreation — from expanding the North Coast Inland Trail to launching the Fall Outdoor Hiking Challenge, which encourages locals and visitors alike to explore the region’s natural beauty. Jannah shares how parks impact wellness, accessibility, and quality of life, and why preserving green space is at the heart of everything they do. Learn about the parks district and the fall challenge at OttawaCountyParksOH.org.