May 21, 2011 — Heritage Ohio awarded the "Main Street Business of the Year" to The Mermaid's Tale of Amherst, Ohio. Judy Recknegal accepted the award at Heritage Ohio's Annual Preservation and Revitalization Awards Ceremony held at the Westin Hotel in Columbus. The Awards Ceremony is held in conjunction with Heritage Ohio's Statewide Conference.

The Mermaid's Tale, an antiques and gifts store, was established in May of 1992 when there were 19 empty storefronts in downtown Amherst. Owner Judy Recknagel become involved in every organization in the downtown and at the request of the mayor, and with two other merchants, started Main Street Amherst.

The Mermaid's Tale eventually became a downtown anchor, but 8 years ago Judy realized the product mix in her store was failing. After a bit of research she discovered Pandora jewelry. Once she began to carry the product line the store got busier and busier and the Pandora merchandise outgrew its space every six months.

Judy also capitalized on three CDBG grants to renovate and update her building. In 2010 Judy sent all of her inventory of antiques to auction and repositioned the business as a fashion savvy boutique specializing in Pandora Jewelry, Vera Bradley, Lindsey Philips and other fashion accessories.

The Mermaid's Tale now has eleven employees and has won the Golden 20 award two years in a row. This is a three county award based on economic growth and increased sales volume. The Mermaid's Tale has made a tremendous impact on the community in terms of economic development and historic preservation and is a model for downtown businesses everywhere.

"All the communities, organizations and individuals receiving awards today have demonstrated a local commitment to sustaining and growing the preservation and revitalization movement. Ohioans are concerned about the future of their heritage," stated W. Kevin Pape, Board Chair of Heritage Ohio. Added Pape, "The inspiration these award winners provide to other communities will pay dividends far into the future."

More than 20 communities, organizations and individuals submitted nominations for consideration. The awards recognize the numerous preservation and revitalization accomplishments of downtowns and neighborhoods across the state. The Selection Committee reported an increased level of quality in nominations, awarding 9 categories at this year's event.

Heritage Ohio is the statewide, not-for-profit preservation organization, dedicated to encouraging and assisting people and organizations to protect, preserve and revitalize Ohio's heritage. Formed in 1989, Heritage Ohio has more than 500 members ranging from individuals and households to organizations and local governments. In 2002, Heritage Ohio was designated as the statewide partner of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Heritage Ohio encourages the development, redevelopment and improvement of downtown and neighborhood commercial districts. Heritage Ohio works as a catalyst for downtown development by bringing together downtown organizations, conducting statewide seminars and conferences and providing a network to share knowledge, common experiences and challenges concerning downtowns. Learn more at heritageohio.org.

Heritage Ohio has received support from the Ohio Department of Development's Office of Housing and Community Partnerships, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and several Ohio corporations.