Munising, MI – Bill Ramsey, the face behind Ramsey Companies, expressed his gratitude to the community in a heartfelt acceptance speech after receiving the prestigious Excellence in Hospitality Award at the annual Alger County Celebration. The event, held on Monday, May 13th, at East Channel Brewing’s The Connection, marked a joyous occasion where Chamber members and local businesses gathered to celebrate.
Under the sunny skies and amidst a gentle breeze, a record-breaking crowd of over 200 attendees filled the venue, doubling last year’s turnout. The event, once known as the Chamber Dinner, embraced a more casual ambiance this year, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.
Attendees were treated to a delightful spread catered by Driftwood Deli and drinks courtesy of East Channel Brewing. Laughter and conversation filled the air as guests networked and mingled, eagerly anticipating the evening’s highlights.
The festivities commenced with Katherine Reynolds, CEO of the Greater Munising Bay Partnership/Alger County Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the Munising Downtown Development Authority, taking the stage alongside Pat Sanderson to extend warm welcomes and acknowledgements. Julie Bosanic from Michigan Works then had the honor of presenting the Excellence in Hospitality Award, bestowed upon Ramsey Companies for their outstanding contributions to the community. Bill Ramsey Jr., representing Ramsey Companies, graciously accepted the award, taking the audience on a poignant journey through the company’s rich history. From its humble beginnings in 1966 with The Dogpatch restaurant, founded by Bill’s parents, Karen and Bill Sr., Ramsey Companies has blossomed into a multifaceted enterprise encompassing seven motels, a campground, gift shops, vacation rentals, The Dogpatch, Munising Snowmobile Rentals and more. With 144 employees as of August 2023, the company stands as a cornerstone of the Munising area’s economy.
In a touching moment, nearly every hand in the room rose when asked how many had been part of the Ramsey Companies family at some point in their lives, underscoring the profound impact the company has had on the community.
Bill Ramsey Jr.’s acceptance speech, a condensed encapsulation of 60 years of Ramsey Companies’ journey, resonated with sincerity and gratitude. He expressed profound thanks to the community for their unwavering support, crediting them with the opportunity to thrive and grow.
For those who missed the memorable moment, the full video of Bill Ramsey’s acceptance speech is available on the Munising Beacon’s website, inviting all to share in the celebration of excellence and community spirit. The full video can be viewed at www.munisingbeacon.com/category/ community
