tourism & recreation committee

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The Develop Iosco Tourism & Recreation Committee has a VISION of promoting economic growth through recreation and tourism in Iosco County and northeast Michigan.  

There are two goals and associated objectives the committee is looking to accomplish:

Goal 1: Increasing the opportunity and access of recreational and wellness experiences.

1. Objective 1: Developing recreational opportunities for families, children, and seniors.
2. Objective 2: Capitalize on our region’s best assets and best practices.
3. Objective 3: Increase recreation and wellness opportunities during the off-season.

Goal 2: Educating, informing, and influencing stakeholders on recreational opportunities within Iosco County.

1. Objective 1: Partner with regional and state tourism organizations, chambers of commerce, etc. to promote Iosco County's recreational and wellness offerings.
2. Objective 2: Provide resources to assist in launching targeted advertising campaigns on digital platforms.
3. Objective 3: Create content Partnerships and Sponsorships.

NEXT COMMITTEE MEETING (Virtual):  October 20, 2025 @ 10:00 a.m.

DI Board Lead/Committee Chair:  Sean Ahearne, DI Board Member & Tawas Wellness

Other Committee Members:   Belinda Kusibab  (Oscoda Chamber of Commerce), Vickie Seltz Barnes ( Friends of Tawas Point Lighthouse and State Park),  Sean Ahearne (DI Board member & Tawas Wellness) & Jenn Brown (Tawas Wellness),  Tom Wdowik (Oscoda Area CVB),   Gary Blaser (Iosco County Parks & Recreation),  Paul Vainer (Bogey’s Indoor Golf), Jill Halpin (mymichiganbeach.org), Sharon Whitford (Lake Life Cottages, Pam O'Laughlin (Michigan Works), Brent Barringer, (East Tawas), Suzan Nemeth (Tawas Chamber of Commerce Director), Gina Kulevar (Whittemore Chamber of Commerce), Micah Jordan (MDNR, Tawas Point State Park), Denise Cline (US-23 Heritage Route, NEMCOG), Fred Lewis (Iosco Exploration Trail, Plainfield Township)