Kitschy Gumee: Why we love the Koprashes!

Sault Ste. Marie's 2014 Community Development Award was presented Monday night to George and Susan Koprash of the delightfully kitschy Wild West-themed Chippewa Trading Post and Frontier Village at 1332 Great Northern Road.

The award, which recognizes achievements in community development that represent a significantly higher standard than the community norm, was presented by Mayor Christian Provenzano.

Here's SooToday's transcript of the mayor's remarks at Monday's City Council meeting.

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Since George and Susan Koprash purchased the property in 2010, their mission has been to grow the business into a vibrant tourist destination and community gathering place, by placing an emphasis on its frontier characteristics.

Under their ownership, the Koprashes have undertaken several significant building revitalizations and landscaping improvements.

Frontier Village's 19th Century theme and vibrant colours draw both local residents and tourists to experience a variety of offerings within the development.

During peak season operations, the Trading Post is joined by nine other businesses that operate on the property.

It is estimated that approximately 40 percent of customers to the site are from out of town, including a significant number of visitors from the United States.

The renewal of the Trading Post and Frontier Village is an exemplary effort in creating a high standard for distinct, high-quality architecture theming, building community, generating tourist opportunities and facilitating success for small enterprises.

So once again, congratulations to George and Susan Koprash of Chippewa Trading Post and Frontier Village, worthy recipients of the City of Sault Ste. Marie's 2014 Community Development Award.

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