Ludington Bay Brewing was the winner of the Business of the Year Award
LUDINGTON — Ludington Bay Brewing Company was named the 2025 Business of the Year by the Chamber Alliance of Mason County during its annual awards dinner Wednesday night at The Lake House.
Cartier Mansion was honored as Small Business of the Year, and the community service award went to Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.).
Ludington Bay Brewing owner, Ted Gedra accepted the Business of the Year award from Chamber Alliance President/CEO Brandy Miller.
“We take great pride in our efforts,” Gedra said. “One of my favorite quotes is Teddy Roosevelt’s ‘Do what you can, where you are, with what you have.’ And I think Ludington really resonates that spirit. Ludington is my second home … and doing this after retirement is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done, mostly because of where we did it.”
Ludington Bay Brewing Company has been a strong and consistent supporter of Lakeshore Food Club, playing a key role in addressing food insecurity in Mason County. Through fundraisers like its anniversary event, Gears + Beers ride, and more, the business has raised crucial funds and inspired community support. Ludington Bay’s deep partnership with the food club reflects a genuine commitment to local food access, while a broader involvement in community initiatives highlights their dedication to making a positive impact beyond brewing great beer.
“Ludington Bay Brewery has been a true lifeline for Lakeshore Food Club and for the families we serve,” said O’Nealya Gronstal, LFC executive director. “Their generosity shows up in so many ways—their annual pledge of 1% of all taproom sales, the countless fundraisers they host for us such as a gumbo cookoff, their anniversary weekend celebration, and the Labor Day Gears + Beers bike ride, and even opening The Landing whenever we need space, sometimes with little notice.
“But what makes their support truly special is the heart behind it. Owner Ted Gedra hasn’t just stood behind the bar cheering us on—he has stood with us at the board table for years, giving his time, wisdom, and personal commitment to making sure every family in Mason County has dignified access to healthy food. Ludington Bay Brewery doesn’t just brew beer—they brew community, and their impact is felt far beyond their walls.”
This past year, as in previous years, Ludington Bay Brewing Company has stood out for its strong community partnerships and support of local events, like blood drives, Octoberfest, and Blessing of the Boats.
- The 2025 Blessing of the Boats event garnered $10,177 for the Mason County Historical Society’s Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
- This month’s Gears + Beers bicycle ride raised $3,300 for Lakeshore Food Club.
- Its Celebrity Bartender series raised over $26,000, bringing a three-year total to more than $135,000 donated to over a dozen organizations.
“By combining hospitality, philanthropy, and community spirit, Ludington Bay Brewing Company exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner, enriching lives both inside and outside its taproom,” Miller said.
Other finalists recognized in the Business of the Year category were Indian Summer and UACJ Whitehall.
Brandy Miller, left, with Jenna and Chris Simpler of Cartier Mansion.
Small Business of the Year Award
Cartier Mansion was awarded 2025 Small Business of the Year, and owners Chris and Jenna Simpler were on hand Wednesday to accept the award.
The iconic Cartier Mansion on Ludington Avenue,, built in 1905, has been a popular destination for travelers coming to the Ludington area for many years. The former lumber baron’s home was named the No. 1 Historic Bed & Breakfast in America by Newsweek readers in 2024. This year, the mansion came in at No. 2 in the contest.
Since taking ownership of the property, the Simplers have transformed it into what it is today. They had a vision to turn the former carriage house into four unique rooms, each with luxurious private bathrooms and other contemporary amenities.
“Beyond their success as innkeepers, Chris and Jenna actively give back to the community, volunteering for local causes and fundraising for nonprofits,” Miller said. “Their dedication, both to their guests and to the Ludington area, has made Cartier Mansion a source of pride for Mason County.”
Other nominees recognized in the small business category were Hitch Hiker Coffee, Lakeshore Keepers, and ProMaster Cleaning & Restoration.
COVE interim director Amanda Nasor, left, with Brandy Miller.
Community Service Award
Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.) was recognized with the 2025 Community Service Award. This vital organization serves Mason, Lake, Oceana, and Manistee counties, providing shelter, protection, and advocacy to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
This year, COVE added a focus on prevention and early intervention. It increased service provision for children by 55% and provided “healthy vs. unhealthy” relationship training to local fourth- and fifth-graders.
COVE also began building a Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Response Team (DVSART) this year with local law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim advocates. COVE provides sexual assault physical exams free of charge for all victims in Mason County, and it has provided sexual assault kits to be taken to Ukraine with Dr. Cynthia Knapp.
“COVE’s work exemplifies a comprehensive approach, addressing immediate needs while investing in long-term prevention and community awareness,” Miller said. “Their dedication uplifts survivors and strengthens our community as a whole.”
Other finalists in the community service category were Blue Hat Ministries, Fish on for Freedom, and the Mason County Victim Services Unit.
Future Five recipients.
Future Five
Five local business professionals were named to the 2025 Class of Future Five and received honors for excellence in their respective business fields. The honorees are Kate Kirby, Veronica Mendez, Tyler Morin, Grace Patzer, and Luke Shereda.
These individuals, aged 21-40, are currently influencing the growth, prosperity, and quality of life in Mason County and demonstrate the ability to positively impact the area in the future through professional accomplishments and community involvement.
“Our 2025 Future Five honorees inspire us all to continue learning, growing, and driving positive change in our community,” Miller said. “We’re truly grateful for everything they do to help make Mason County a wonderful place to live.”
All of the 2025 award nominees recognized Wednesday night were congratulated by the Chamber Alliance.
“Your hard work, creativity, and commitment set the standard for excellence in our community, and we are proud to honor you tonight. Nights like this remind us of what’s possible when we support one another and work together,” said Miller.
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