This year commemorates 15 years since I graduated high school. Sometimes I think there’s no way a decade and a half have flown by since high school, but then usually my cracking knees or achy back confirm that is true. (Insert an affirmative “mmhmm!” here.) As I prepare for a 15-year reunion gathering with some former classmates, I have found myself reflecting on my years of youth. I am naturally wired to be a relator, so most of my memories revolve around people. Specifically, there are a few teachers and leaders I remember looking to, and still find myself reflecting on–a teacher who made sure I was taken care of on a bad day, a coach sitting me down to ask how I was after a hard week of losses, and another teacher calling me out for my strengths when I served as her teacher’s assistant. It was the people who spoke into me and walked alongside me in a formative way that built me into who I am today. When I reflect on those years in junior high and high school, I remember a few core, revealing moments: In high school, I was enrolled in a government class. Truthfully, I only sat in that class because I had to in order to earn my diploma. The class ended up being one of the most memorable classes because it was one that (ironically enough, considering where I am today) just clicked. I found an appreciation for learning the history of our country’s government, and how it operated. My teacher saw this intrigue in me before I even recognized it myself, and called out my strength in the curriculum. In junior high, our class took a field trip to Fort Wayne to experience JA Biz Town–a simulated society in which we were assigned roles and responsibilities, and tasked with managing our made-up lives in that scene. I took a leap to run for mayor and won, much to my surprise. My mom was on the field trip with me, and recounted some of the things I did well in that role after we got home. Never did I ever imagine being the leader of my class in that space, but it came to be, and I thrived in it. In high school, I was a part of several student groups, facilitated and overseen by volunteer teachers. Many of these groups were philanthropic by nature, committed to doing good for the school and the community. I rose into leadership roles in these groups, and found personal fulfillment by leading and serving along other likeminded students. The full circle moment in my story is that these small, assumedly minor instances in my education years were just mere stepping stones into my life now. One little conversation or one minor assignment were opportunities for me to be trained into a future leader and socially responsible citizen. Why do I share these memories? Because in the education system–both then and now–it isn’t just about curriculum and lessons (though those components are arguably very important). The people in the room with the students are–in my experience–perhaps the most valuable piece of the education system. Edward Albert said, “The simple act of caring is heroic.” This statement is a natural vision statement for community-driven education. When individuals care, and when people get involved, the entire system of students and families is emboldened to be their best selves. When a person takes the day off to volunteer at school, transformational moments happen. When an individual joins the local Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), the school is strengthened. When businesses commit to speaking with and teaching students through their own experiences and expertise, a community is built. So, as the first school bell of the year rings, consider how you might commit to local heroism. How can you engage with the future of our communities in a way that will inspire, support, and transform the future of our county? Our businesses need workers. Our workers are sourced from our communities. And our communities are taught and inspired by our schools. It will take all of us to drive our local economy and develop our next generation of leaders, teachers, laborers, and dreamers. Our county is counting on it. Consider these opportunities this school year: Join your school’s PTO and support the teachers and events that support your students. Serve as a Read United volunteer with Crossroads United Way (read to an elementary class in order to inspire literacy and reading abilities) - visit crossroadsuw.org to learn more. Connect with your local high school’s Work-Based Learning teachers to speak to a class about your career and/or business (it’s not hard - it’s just telling your story!) Westview High School (Karl Grau): 260-76-4146 Lakeland High School (Donna Poe): 260-499-2470 Prairie Heights High School (Lori Shaffer): 260-351-3214 Stay involved, and educate yourself on the happenings of your local school. Attend board meetings where appropriate, understand how state policy molds our public school system, or attend a Chamber event like “Coffee with the County” or the Career Expo to learn more! Sara Patrick is the Executive Director of the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce. For the most up-to-date information on all things related to the Chamber, or to learn more about how to grow the success of your business or organization, visit their website at www.lagrangechamber.org, or phone the office at (260) 463-2443. Sara can be reached by email at sara@lagrangechamber.org.

There is a trend happening in LaGrange County. I’ve had the distinct honor of knowing some of those who are experiencing the trend. They’ve shared their stories, and their why. And as a trend goes, as one takes part, so another follows. The snowball continues to grow. So what is the trend? Our people are coming back home. As the leader of our Chamber of Commerce, I am privileged to hear first-hand the many business stories filled with leaps of faith, perseverance, and hard work. But some of my favorite stories are those who left and came back. A shift happened in their journey, and they looked back to their homeland for security, safety, and roots. Our Chamber Chat podcast guests were no different, and in this week’s edition of the Coffee with the County column, I’ll share a snippet of my conversation with Andy and Jessica Linder, owners of Trading Post Outfitters in Mongo. Here’s their coming-back-home story. Chamber: One of the things we love to do on our podcast is asking you to tell your story, so let’s start there. Tell us that whole story. Andy Linder: Honestly, when I was younger, we didn’t really explore Mongo. Then looking back, I’m like, why didn’t we? When I got to my late teens, early twenties, there was a group of us that canoed every year, and it became a tradition. In my late twenties, I met Jess and we started dating. She got invited along on our annual canoe trip. I had noticed that there had been an ownership change. I thought, maybe we should have a conversation with these guys to find out what’s going on. Jessica Linder: Andy and I had a little while where we were canoeing alone together on the river and we had this moment where we were talking about how awesome this place was and how awesome it would be to have a business like this—to work hard, and give people this opportunity, and then have your children also be able to grow up here and have that work ethic as well. Anyway, we got done with our trip, and the owner at the time—John Senecal—was our driver. Him and his wife Jesslyn owned it at the time. We chatted with him and shared about how great a time we had and we were connecting about how awesome this place is, and we ended up giving him Andy’s business card. Eight years later, he called. I was actually not on board at first. AL: Not even close. JL: ( laughs ) We were in our forever home in Indianapolis, we could walk the girls to school, it was great. Our girls were 4 and 2 years old. AL: We had a beautiful three story house. We both had good jobs, good income. We had that 2.2 kids, white picket fence kind of life. But, we were leaving early in the morning, dropping kids off at daycare, going to school, coming home, going to bed, and doing it all over again. I was already looking for something new. So, when he called, I was already 100% yes without even knowing the details. C: Were you looking at coming back home in any capacity? AL: No. When I left LaGrange after high school, I was never coming back. Never. C: Jess, what was that wrestling with the decision like for you? JL: I also grew up in a rural small town, so I loved Indy for all that it had to offer. For schooling and culture for our children. And then the food scene was also amazing. We are also super into music, and there’s several concert venues there, and we could go see music whenever we wanted. I hadn’t had my fill of that yet, and I wasn’t ready to change our life. C: So what did that process look like from there? JL: He convinced me to come for a visit with John and Jesslyn. We came up thinking it would be a few hours max, and we were here for eight. We spent the day with them. They gave us the tour, we talked, it was so comfortable. They’re just such amazing people. And when we got in the car to leave, I just started bawling and I was like, we have to do this. This is what we were meant to do. And that was it. We busted our butts and made the transition up here in 2018. We would put the kids to bed and then sit by the fire and work on this—paperwork, business plan, all the things. C: Andy, what is it like coming back to your hometown, especially having left with the mentality that you were never coming back. What does that look like owning a successful business in your home county? AL: I left when I was 18, and really only knew the county as a child and young adult. So when I came back as a business owner and we immediately engaged in the chamber, I was blown away by the things I didn’t know LaGrange County had to offer. I just couldn’t believe all the people that wanted to be involved and get things done. This county is way more special than I ever knew or that anybody could ever tell me. We’ve really come to love having our family here and being here and being connected. C: As you’ve taken ownership of the Trading Post and grown the business, what did that transition look like from a community perspective, both from Mongo and the county? How has that evolved over seven years? JL: Thankfully, Andy’s from the area. I was fully expecting skepticism about outsiders coming in. It was the total opposite. It was welcoming arms at every gathering, at every meeting. They would tell us, “We’re so happy you’re here.” It was just amazing. AL: It was overwhelming. I can still remember that first year of feeling like a celebrity. ( Laughs ) C: I remember when I was introduced to the Chamber in 2019, you (Andy) were on the board, but you were both still fairly new to the business community. And there was this narrative floating around out there about this new couple who bought a business, and he used to go to school here and now has come back. And what is cool now that I’m in the position I am in is, that’s a duplicated narrative. Your brother came back, and there are some other business owners who have done the same. They’re coming back, and they’re excited to be back. It’s cool to hear you share your story, and to know that you were sort of a frontrunner with a lot of the people that Andy grew up with, and are now also successful business owners. JL: Starting a trend! ( Laughs ) AL: We’ve been in full recruit mode ever since, and we still are. ——— To listen to the full podcast episode, visit Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or our website at www.lagrangechamber.org. We are thankful for the Linders, and the time they took to share about their business and their journey thus far. The trend continues to grow, because there’s always more to explore and love here in LaGrange County. Tell your own LaGrange County story to your circle of friends, and plant your roots here, just like the Linders. Sara Patrick is the Executive Director of the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce. For the most up-to-date information on all things related to the Chamber, or to learn more about how to grow the success of your business or organization, visit their website at www.lagrangechamber.org, or phone the office at (260) 463-2443. Sara can be reached by email at sara@lagrangechamber.org.

My family loves to camp. Growing up, we tent camped and experienced all of the misery…I mean memories…that came with it – torrential rain, tornadoes (yikes), spiders, skunks, broken vehicles and structures, dilapidated pools, you name it. As my dad used to remind us, even in the tensest moments of family vacation, we were “making memories.” Now, as a parent to two kids, my husband and I love to take our family on our own kind of adventures. We especially enjoy taking our camper to state parks. There are lakes to swim in, trails to hike, and nature center activities to experience. We’ve seen wildlife, my kids have followed a tortoise around a yard, and we’ve made raccoon masks after learning about the curious animal from the naturalist. These moments are opportunities for us to unplug and invest great core memories into our kids’ childhood. We want them to get to adulthood and be able to look back and remember that it wasn’t what they were given but it was what they experienced that molded their young lives. I hope that’s true in 10 or 15 years. I’ve come to find though, that once we reach adulthood, we get thrown in and are expected to keep up. We run our households with meals, laundry, mowing the lawn, doing chores, feeding animals, tending to the fields, you name it. We ensure that kids are in bed on time and up for school the next morning. We head to our jobs day-in and day-out. We visit our “usuals” – the bank, the grocery store, the hardware, a restaurant, or the gas station. We live our lives. Right? Sometimes, I wonder if that’s a little backwards from how it’s supposed to be. Are we created to live a monotonous, robotic life? Where, when we look back at the end, we only remember the day-in and day-out? My hypothesis is a bit different. I believe we’re created to enjoy what is around us. Nature. People. Experiences. Community. And in LaGrange County, we have it. We have opportunities to enjoy, without traveling far. In May, you might have read an edition or two from my column that talked about tourism in LaGrange County, and our partnership with the LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Bureau. We launched several initiatives to commemorate National Tourism Week, including guided bus tours of LaGrange County countryside and businesses, a special Chamber tourism luncheon, and an online digital pass. The digital pass, called “Love Local: LaGrange County Passport” is a simple-to-use online check-in platform which gives you a pathway to experience our communities. By creating an account, you gain access to win fantastic local prizes, from tickets to events and concerts to gift cards and gift baskets (full list of prizes listed below). Here’s how you gain access to the Love Local digital pass: Head to www.visitshipshewana.org . In the search bar, type “Love Local” and hit “search.” The first result listed is Site Content, Love Local: LaGrange County Passport. Select this option. Once on the Love Local page, scroll down and click the blue “Explore Now” button. You’ll be prompted to checkout online (it’s free – there’s no cost to you!). Click the checkout button and fill out your information. (Don’t worry, you won’t be spammed by signing up. It’s all hosted locally.) Once you have access to your account and your pass, you’ll be able view (click the blue “view” button) the entire list of Places to Go. From buggy rides to garlic buns at Destination 814; from watching the train come in on our only active county rail to visiting the historic Kingsbury in Howe; from enjoying pie in Topeka to taking a trip down the Pigeon River…you can do it all in LaGrange County! The greatest part about the Love Local pass is…it’s free! And, you can win some sweet prizes. Why do I write about this pass this week? Because it’s our invitation to you to explore your hometown and community. I have learned SO MUCH (I wish I could emphasize that more) about my own hometown since I’ve taken on this role at the Chamber. I thought I knew most of what LaGrange County had to offer, but I was incredibly mistaken. There’s more to explore here in our small, rural county. So…grab your kids, your spouse, your neighbors, and your friends, and get out and explore. LaGrange County has so much to offer. We just have to get out and make the memories along the way. Prizes Available for you to Win!: Six Horse Hitch Finals tickets at the MEC Trip for 2 down the Pigeon River with Trading Post Outfitters An overnight stay at Farmstead Inn & Conference Center 2 theater tickets at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center A lavender-themed gift basket from Bloomfield Lavender Apothecary Gift cards from Yoder Meat & Cheese, Coffee & Cream of South Milford, Corn Crib Cafe, Fawn River Coffee Co., Linder’s Tavern on Main (and a t-shirt!), and Shawna Rae’s Note: The Love Local Passport closes after July 31, so check in to as many places as possible between now and then to win prizes! Sara Patrick is the Executive Director of the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce. For the most up-to-date information on all things related to the Chamber, or to learn more about how to grow the success of your business or organization, visit their website at www.lagrangechamber.org, or phone the office at (260) 463-2443. Sara can be reached by email at sara@lagrangechamber.org.

In 2019, I entered into a role with the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce in which I worked under Executive Director Beth Sherman. During the time in which we worked together, we hosted a workshop for Chamber members with a special presentation on multi-generational workplaces. The event posed the question: “How do we work together with ages and generations that are different from us?” My favorite memory of that workshop was Beth and I sitting in the back of the room, chuckling as we looked at each other, nodded, and let out quiet “mmhhmm” affirmations about the other, fully understanding that the presentation points were valid in our 2-woman team. My undergraduate studies can cause me to “nerd out” about different things, but generally, they tend to revolve around the psychology behind the ways of life. Why do people behave the way they do? How do our communication patterns source themselves from our worldview and general perspective of society? They’re interconnected (perhaps, sometimes, more than we even acknowledge!), and it is no different when we consider multi-generational spaces. Over the last decade, we’ve all been a part of and have witnessed the shiftings of the workplace: Gen Zers have entered into professional roles for the first time ever, while Baby Boomers are retiring and exiting. Gen X and Millennials are pivoting and evolving. The workplace looks far different now than it did 20 years ago. To understand generational differences, we must first examine the make-up–and dare I say stereotypes–of generational groupings. The Silent Generation: Born between the mid-1920s and early 1940s, this generation witnessed great trials and transformation. They endured the Great Depression and the turmoil of World War II. Peter Boolkah notes, “While they may not be as tech-savvy as younger generations, they bring a unique perspective and a time-tested problem-solving approach.” Baby Boomers: Born between 1946 and 1964, these individuals grew up in a post-war era in which stability in the workplace and long-term career paths were widely accepted. They are characterized by a work-centric attitude, are generally team-oriented, possess deep experience, and enjoy mentoring the up-and-coming. Generation X: Born between 1965 and 1980, this generation was generally marked with a period of birth decline following the “baby boomer” generation. They are identified as the gap-bridging generation, in which they both understand traditional approaches, as well as technological advances because of their witness to the evolution of technology in the workplace. They can be characterized as being independent, appreciating diversity, and highly adaptive. Millennials: Born between 1981 and 1996, Millennials were birthed right alongside technology. Often referred to as the “Net Generation” (referencing the launch of the Internet), this group can be characterized as technologically innovative, flexible, and weighing meaningful work over job security. Work-life balance is a sought after value in this generation. Generation Z: Born between 1997 and 2015, this generation is very simply characterized as digitally fluent, having grown up in a technologically-dominated world. Gen Z values authenticity, diversity, and social impact. Entrepreneurial spirit drives advancement within this generational group. According to Peter Boolkah, they’re “skilled communicators, adept at multitasking, and they bring a unique perspective to the table.” In my family life, the running joke is that, when technology breaks down, my parents call me. Generally speaking, I can figure out what isn’t working–the internet is disconnected, the phone isn’t set up correctly, the remote isn’t working–and can then be on my way. Then, as I walk out the door, I (jokingly, of course) tell them they’ll receive their bill soon from “Patrick Technology Services.” This, in a very elementary sense, is the definition of multi-generational life. The idea here is that different ages or generations do not have to compete against each other. No, one generation is not better than the other. In actuality, generations complement each other, creating a harmonious space for productivity, efficiency, and community. When one has a hurdle to overcome, another can provide insight, experience, or understanding to solve the problem, together. When you consider your workplace (or perhaps even your home or community hub), evaluate your own personal support and elevation of multi-generational efficiencies: How diverse are the perspectives in your circle? Are you missing a generation that could bring invaluable ideas and insight to the table? How willing are you to share knowledge and experience with other generations (not necessarily just those younger than you)? How could you offer your understanding and wisdom with grace and tact? Consider how you communicate, and why you communicate the way you do. For example, are you a straight-to-the-point kind of person? If so, why do you see that as a valuable method of communication? Then, consider the communication styles of those generations around you. Is it possible that their communication method isn’t wrong, just different than yours? With this understanding, how could you increase transparency and trust within your circle? Consider when something new was presented to you. It could have been a new idea that changes how it’s always been, or it could have been a new system, software, or process for your business. What was your honest reaction? Consider: how could this change positively impact the other generations within your organization or group, and how could you learn to adjust in order to increase overall positive productivity? The point is, multi-generational workplaces and spaces are meant to complement, not divide. When we intentionally commit to bridging gaps from one generation to another, we are earnestly saying that we are Legacy Makers–we’re committing to the long-game, in which we will make our businesses, our communities, and our county something great for generations to come. So this week, commit to educating yourself on generational differences, and lean in to bridging the gap. Your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are depending on it. Source: Peter Boolkah, boolkah.com/multigenerational-workforce

My family and I recently returned from a week away in the Great Smoky Mountains. It was glorious in more ways than one. It allowed me a real chance to unplug from emails, meetings, strategic planning, social media, and phone calls. I turned off notifications, and shut down the email on my phone. I was off the grid! Vacation is about the only time I get an opportunity to read for pleasure. A new book had just been referred to me at a recent work conference, and once we settled in, I put my nose in those pages. The concept was about how entirely disconnected our world is today because of the insane amount of technology growth over the last two decades. (Ironic, isn’t it? We’re the most digitally-connected generation, yet the most isolated and disconnected generation ever.) As I made my way through the text, while also taking in the majesty of the mountainscapes all around me in Tennessee, a churning of reflection started within me. The book talked about the lost art of “beholding” - pausing to take it in, reflect, and embrace what is in front of us. I couldn’t help but do that as we drove the windy roads to our destinations all week. I was captivated by what I saw. As we drove a mountainous trek one day, I took time to behold the trees. They grew so strong and erect on either side of the road. It felt like a forest around us, thick with brush, trunks, and leaves. But when I took the time to look, I noticed that, not only were they strong and straight out of the ground, but they seemed to lean in together, touching each other’s branches over top of us. It was almost as if the trees reached up and over vacationers to hold hands, providing this majestic covering and tunnel. If I had only been mindful of the road and the destination we were headed to, I would’ve missed it. As we drove through downtown Pigeon Forge (with LOADS of traffic, mind you), I found my eyes often drifting up to the mountainscape in the distance. They were beautiful. One particular day, we made our way to Clingmans Dome (now named Kuwohi)--the highest point in the Smokys. We got to the top and it was quite literally breathtaking. It was like the longer you looked, the more detail you saw within the mountains. We were literally above the clouds and the treetops, and could see into at least two states. It was stunning. But from the top, my eyes went to Pigeon Forge, which we could see from that vantage point. They were hustling and bustling, looking like small ants moving to and fro. I couldn’t help but think of a cashier we met in one of the Pigeon Forge shops there. She worked away, with her back to the window which framed these beautiful scenes. I saw it in her–she has grown calloused to the beauty. She saw it every day, and was just doing her job, but because she was in her day-to-day, she couldn't behold the beauty of her hometown anymore. Enter our arrival into hometown LaGrange County. We drove into town, and I was still reflecting on that moment of realization. Those people live there for a reason–they love the mountains, the people, the scenes. Yet, they don’t walk around beholding the sights and moments within their reach. There I was, driving into my hometown, when it hit me: how often do I behold the things I love here? Not as often as I think I should, dare I admit. I looked to my left and watched the hot sun reflecting off of the leaves of the corn that was much taller now than it was when we left a week before. I watched the line of woods move back and forth from a warm summer breeze. I admired the tidy rows of soybeans whizzing by as we drove down state road 9. I watched the clip-clop of a buggy as we drove around it, something I hadn’t gotten to do in a week since I’d been gone. I connected with friends and family, and watched with intent as my kids played with friends and explored the outdoors. I saw joy in the eyes of people I see weekly, just because I took time to look them in the eye for longer than my normal 10-second “how are you?” conversation. I took time to behold. And boy, what moments of reflection came with it. I’m not here trying to make something sappy come out of my words, and I’m not going to attempt to preach. But what would happen if we took time to behold more of the beauty around us? We are blessed with our own sort of rolling hills, and with people and experiences unlike anywhere else in the country. Did you know that, as an example, visitors come to visit Shipshewana and LaGrange County from all over the world just to experience our pace of life? They come from metropolis U.S.A. because here, they feel welcomed, they feel known, and they can slow down and unwind while they’re here. We have that here. But, I wondered after our time away if we’re not like the cashier in Pigeon Forge. We turn our backs to the beauty because we’re in our day-to-day, making things happen, because it’s what we have to do. LaGrange County is something to behold. Every day there are moments we miss because we’re too busy, too engaged with our notifications, or we’re going too fast because we have places to go and things to do. This week, I implore you: behold LaGrange County. It’ll be worth it, I promise.

One of my favorite traditions since childhood is waking up on the morning of the 4th of July. There is a summertime energy that emerges when you finally hit this all-American holiday. It’s the day for popsicles, cookouts, festivals, and usually, a lot of summer heat! Ever since I can remember, my family would awake after enjoying an alarm-clock-ban deemed appropriate by the turn of the holiday. My parents would pack up a cooler of drinks and snacks, and I’d head out to the shop to help my dad finish loading and strapping down garden pulling tractors. We’d load up in the truck and van, and we’d make the drive from LaGrange to Topeka for one of my favorite festivals of the year: Topeka’s 4th of July Celebration. The tradition still remains, even a couple of decades later. My husband and I load up our kids after sleeping the morning in, we pack a cooler, and we head to Topeka. Though, now, I am more of a spectator than a participant in the annual garden tractor pull. (More on that another time.) Just as I loved walking down to the town park for play time, face painting, and yo-yo water balloons, I still enjoy doing, hand-in-hand, with my 8- and 2-year old children. It’s a moment for “core memories” to be built and stored away. 2025 is no different. In LaGrange County, there are many an opportunity to enjoy our communities while also celebrating the American holiday. Topeka Together, the newly-formed non-profit organization aimed at continuing on the legacy of the town’s 4th of July festival, amongst many other events and programs, is taking on its annual celebration with a bang. The day will start at 8:00 AM with a pancake and sausage breakfast, a 5K road race and fun walk, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and a softball tournament. The day will also include kid’s games, the infamous garden tractor pull (according to my family, anyway), a watermelon eating contest, a Little Mr. and Miss Topeka pageant, a parade, buggy races, and a FREE concert at 7:00 PM with NBC’s The Voice star Jake Hoot. Of course, you wouldn’t be celebrating the 4th around here without some good ‘ole fireworks, and you can do that in Topeka at 10:15 PM! You can also enjoy the beauty and fun around the county: Head to Shipshewana to enjoy a variety of opportunities. Catch the 1:00 PM matinee showing of Blue Gate’s newest musical, “The Rise and Fall of Miss Fannie’s Biscuits.” Shipshewana will equally be wide open for shopping and exploration! Visits stores for toys, clothes, shoes, antiques, eats, and more. Looking for something outdoors? Head to one of the parks in LaGrange to catch a glimpse of local nature: from Pine Knob and Delt Church Park county parks to town parks and splash pads, there is more to explore around here! You might also consider a dip in the lake at one of the county’s public beaches, or a journey down the Pigeon River in a Trading Post Outfitters’ canoe. Whatever your choice, choose to get out and enjoy the beauty of LaGrange County this 4th of July. Our local pristine landscape can be seen in our nature scene, our people, and in our local commerce. By taking the time enjoying our communities, we embrace the freedom we have to do business and enjoy life, right here in LaGrange County. Happy birthday, America!

I will always remember the moment when she came into the call center. It was spring 2020, and I was one of the few left standing after major layoffs sent workers home during the COVID-19 pandemic. The VP of Operations walked in solemnly, closed the door behind her, and sat down. (And if you know her, you know this isn’t her normal approach. She’s the bustlin’, high-speed, get-things-done kind of gal.) The three of us in the call center took off our head phone attachment and turned, nervously glancing at each other. Without any formal introduction, she said, “We’re shutting down the hotel.” This was Blue Gate Hospitality. I was the Group Sales Manager, metamorphosized into a call taking, concert rescheduling assistant who was in an all-hands-on-deck scenario. The VP finished her comments and left us with an eerily quiet room. All I remember thinking was, “Is the Blue Gate going to make it? What will happen in Shipshewana if big businesses like this one fall during this pandemic?” Resilience, wisdom, hard decisions, and a lot of prayer fed into the Riegsecker and Heyerly leadership during those long months and years. And we’re thrilled to see that the Blue Gate has recovered with flying colors! In this month’s podcast episode, we were honored to chat with Blue Gate President and CEO Ryan Riegsecker, and this week, we share a little bit of our conversation here. Chamber: Can you tell us the story of how the Blue Gate came to be? Ryan Riegsecker: My dad was a serial entrepreneur. He was in the RV industry and learned the ropes, and I think that sort of spurred him into business. He had a hobby when he was a young man and he made these miniature horse-drawn vehicles. He did that out of our garage for a number of years, and just like anything else he did, he continued to push forward. We went to horse shows all over the country selling these, and he actually landed a connection into the Sears category (among others) in the 80s. That launched into another realm of business. Production increased and he built a little shop behind our house in Middlebury. I’d come home from school and our family would work in there together. We continued to grow and started looking in Shipshewana. He found an old building, which is now The Craft Barn, and we bought it in 1983. We moved our shop there and he started his production there. As time went on, he built a window for people to watch him make these things, and then my mom put a gift shop in the front end of it. He made ice cream furniture out of that, which sort of launched our Shipshewana Furniture Company and we manufactured furniture for a long time north of town here. As tourism picked up, we kept moving forward. We had a lot of different things - we had a gas station, grocery store, a meat locker. My dad started a lot of different things, and as people came to Shipshewana, these became things for them to do. I grew up and went to college locally and came back after graduation. At that point we had a small restaurant and had started doing just a little bit of theater. My dad was looking at how we kept people here a little bit longer after 5:00 when everything else shut down, so we started doing music on a very small level–local acts, southern gospel, etc. It worked and just kept growing. We had an old building across the street called The Meeting House and started running shows there. In 2000 or so, we tore down the old restaurant and built this larger facility. We went from 100 seats to 850-900 seats. We went through 9/11 and thought, “This was it,” but people still came and we kept going and it turned out okay. As time went on, we shed businesses that didn’t make sense along the way, and started building our hospitality core business. We opened a 350-seat theater upstairs here at the restaurant and tried different genres of music and shows. Eventually, we tried Amish romance drama-type musicals, and through some connections in Nashville, we launched our Blue Gate Musicals company with our first musical, The Confession. That’s taken its own path and has continued to grow with professional actors and professional music produced in Nashville. This grew into rented space at the old Shipshewana Auto Museum facility, around 2008-2009. We brought chairs in and rented everything and brought in all the equipment. It was a lot of work but we did it, and continued to make that better. Every year we probably doubled or tripled the times we rented it. The last year there was in 2019 and I think we did over 100 shows. During that time, we purchased the building from the Town of Shipshewana and remodeled the museum-side of the building. It was a big deal to do–about a $5 million project at the time. It was just so much nicer than what we had and we were so excited. We had a huge line-up for 2020–Martina McBride and other artists we could never get before because we didn’t have the right environment. We were working like crazy to get this thing up and running, and then boom–COVID hit. And this is where I thought, “This is where it all ends.” We had literally thousands and thousands of tickets sold, and everyone wanted refunds. It was a trying time because we just didn’t see it coming. Eventually we were able to re-open with distanced shows as a third or half capacity. When we were able to finally open, it was like a floodgate and people just showed up. Along the way there, we bought the hotel next door, which very much goes with our property and entire business. The theater has turned into our marketing arm, and it gives people a specific reason to come to Shipshewana, while also extending their stay. It’s become our driving force of traffic. Other than COVID, it’s been a lot of fun. C: You talked about 9/11 and COVID, and about this moment of “Well, this is it,” where you didn’t know what the future of your business would look like. Can you talk a little bit about what that was like for your family and as a business owner? How did you overcome those times? RR: Those were terrible times, but we also really pulled together as a family and as a community. When COVID happened we had 330 employees and we went down to 22 employees. That was just gut-wrenching. Every week, we’d listen to the governor and the update on what we could do and couldn’t do. We began doing take-out meals and had tremendous support from the community and people who didn’t want to see us go away. Our whole family worked from early morning to late night to make it happen. It was tough during the time, but looking back, it was really cool how we all pulled together. We had several local businesses that supported us too with standing weekly orders. It felt good to know that we were supported. C: It’s not a coincidence to hear you talk about how tourism has grown in Shipshewana and how the Blue Gate grew just the same, hand in hand with that growth. Looking back, over all the years, what has been your biggest takeaway? RR: I think it’s probably recognizing opportunity. Sometimes an opportunity looks like a lot of work, and it brings a “Oh man, why would I want to do that?" kind of mentality. But I think our growth has been from recognizing opportunity and taking that. Half of the opportunity is taking it and doing it. It’s about looking out ahead and not just being happy with where you’re at today. My dad always said, “You’re either growing or you’re dying.” It’s one way or the other, you don’t sit still. We’re always moving forward. I think the other thing is never underestimating the power of networking with people. You never know where that one connection will launch you into something new that you would’ve never dreamt of doing. There’s a lot of people that have helped us, and we want to do the same. I think it’s awesome that people are willing to help other people, and that’s what it’s all about.

Are you a believer in the statement around here that goes, “Knee high by the Fourth of July”? Ever since I was a kid, I found this statement to be a rigged lie. I mean, really, the truth is that either our knee-height-standard is much taller than my own kneecaps, or our LaGrange County crops are over-achievers. Our local corn crops are often knee-high by June! (Insert a chuckle here.)  No matter what you believe about knees and corn, I would bet that you’re watching the changing of seasons happen before our eyes. The crops are beginning to look lush and green, shade trees are boasting of protection from the sun, and more people are freely out and about, enjoying the warmer weather. It’s summer! (As of June 20, to be exact!) The changing of seasons brings many things: growth, innovation, hard work, and transitions, to name a few. It is no different within our local economy and business scene. As the weather changes, different people visit for leisure and work alike. Our local recreational landscape is bustling, with campgrounds, rivers, and parks hosting more and more people every week. Shipshewana–the tourism industry anchor of LaGrange County–is beginning its annual hospitality high, welcoming over 2 million people (yes, 2 million people!) to its small-town community. The tourism industry boasts of shoppers, antiquers, eaters, and entertainment-seekers. Our agricultural stakeholders are busy planting, watering, and maintaining, with their sights set on a robust harvest come fall. When we consider the changing of seasons, it is fairly easy to see a simple correlation between the changing of local economical focuses. Summertime and the holidays bring shoppers. Warmer weather and springtime bring planting and laboring for crops, handmade goods, and artisan treats to sell at farmers markets, collective storefronts, and brick-and-mortar small businesses. Wintertime–though frigid cold at times–is growing with entertainment options inside 300- , 1,500- , and 5,000-seat venues (yes, all here in LaGrange County). The seasons of commerce in LaGrange County are vibrant, and there is always something to do, something to purchase, something to eat, and something to see here in our small-town communities. When we “shop small” by supporting our local small businesses, we are dreaming big. We’re investing our dollars into the local neighbors here who see a vision for a bigger and better LaGrange County tomorrow. Consider the local farmers who are turning their crops into highly-sought-after products. Consider the local restaurateurs who are transforming the experience of a dine-in meal in the downtown strip. Consider the service centers fixing a nail-ruined tire or a check-engine light, all welcoming you on a first-name basis. Consider the relentless recreational stakeholders who are building out businesses that host thousands of people who seek to envelop themselves in the great outdoors, found here in LaGrange County. These small business owners are doing it–day in and day out–dreaming big, while laying one brick at a time in the grand scheme of LaGrange County prosperity. When you purchase a product or service locally, you’re investing in the same dream. You’re choosing to say, “Yes, I want to make sure that my kids, grandkids, and more will see a sustainable future in LaGrange County–one that is home, that offers amenities, treasures, experiences, and more. I want to invest in their tomorrow. And it’s worth shopping local.” Here we are in June. We’re not in the holiday season. We’re not celebrating any specific commemoration. But, we are still built upon the hardworking backs of those building up LaGrange County. This week, my charge is this: head to your favorite local establishments (from restaurants to theaters, kayak rentals to gas stations, auto mechanics to retail shops) and purchase a gift or a gift card. Invest in tomorrow by shopping small today. And, when you look at the next knee-high cornfield this summer (whether it’s your knee’s height, or your belly button!), consider its changing seasons just as our economical seasons change in our communities. With every change of season comes the opportunity to invest in tomorrow. Not sure where to start? Visit the Chamber’s online directory (or pick up a hard copy at many local establishments!) to see a full list of our Chamber members across the county. Head to www.lagrangechamber.org/directory to learn more.

I remember the feeling of getting up early, with a bit of nervousness married with eager anticipation in the pit of my stomach. Oddly enough, it was the morning of the first election I ever voted in. I remember the requirement of early arisal in order to “beat the line” with my dad before school and work. I was a fresh 18-year-old looking forward to embracing the freedom I had in casting my vote. Excited as I was already, I was walking into a presidential election ballot no less. If I may be honest for a moment, I dare confess that I knew only enough to be dangerous. I doubt I remembered much of what the poll worker told me in the regular instructions before I headed to my private booth. I was eager to push the buttons and select my choice. Truthfully, once I arrived at my ballot machine, I wasn’t entirely clear on what all of the titles meant. I confused “representative” with “senator,” and all I knew about the different legislative chambers was what I learned in my high school government class. Here I am, nearly two decades later, and I am proud to say that I’ve learned a thing or two since that election. I’m privileged to be exposed to all levels of government in my role at the Chamber, from local town meetings to congressional officials working on behalf of our communities. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to add a refresher in there, just to remember “who’s who.” In Indiana, counties contain townships–subdivisions of a county. In LaGrange County, we are home to eleven different townships, which are overseen by elected township trustees, each with their own powers and responsibilities. Township trustees handle things like poverty relief payments for those who find themselves in a time of need, cemetery management, and buggy plate oversight. In our communities, the elected trustees are: Bloomfield Township: William Pipher (trustee@bloomfieldtownship.org, 260-463-3411) Clay: Deb Muntz (trustee4ClayTwp@gmail.com, 260-463-2151) Clearspring: Melissa Eichelberger (meclearspringtrustee@gmail.com, 260-350-5839) Eden: Staci Smith (edentownship@yahoo.com, 260-593-2939) Greenfield: Peggy Whitlock (greenfieldtownshiptrustee@yahoo.com, 260-463-6511) Johnson: Amy McKowen (amymckowentrustee@gmail.com, 260-854-4634) Lima: Terry Iannarelli (tjiannarelli@embarqmail.com, 260-562-2042) Milford: Bruce Bowman (bownmanbk46795@yahoo.com, 260-351-9103) Newbury: Brandie Fitch (newburytownshiptrustee@gmail.com, 260-768-7330) Springfield: Sherri Johnston (sprtwplagco@gmail.com, 260-367-2362) VanBuren: Bruce Miller (homedad5@hotmail.com, 260-768-9181) In our county, we have four towns that are “incorporated.” This means that they have received a charter from the state granting them legal identification, which permits these communities the right to govern themselves in services like water, sanitation, and law enforcement. Within these communities, three of the four incorporated towns have town managers. They are: LaGrange, managed by Mark Eagleson (meagleson@townoflagrange.in.gov, 260-463-3241) Topeka, managed by Stewart Bender (townmanager@topeka-in.gov, 260-593-2300) Shipshewana, managed by Terry Martin (tmartin@shipshewana.org, 260-768-4743) Wolcottville is the fourth incorporated town in LaGrange County. All four towns have a town board or council. In LaGrange, town board meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of each month at 6:00 PM; in Topeka, on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 4:00 PM; in Shipshewana on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at 6:00 PM; and in Wolcottville on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. In the state of Indiana, each county is governed by a Board of Commissioners. These elected officials represent different districts but work the county as a whole. They serve as the executive body of the county government, and are responsible for overseeing county buildings and land; receiving bids and authorizing contracts; overseeing construction and maintenance of roads and bridges; among other legislative powers and duties. LaGrange County’s Commissioners specifically seek to “establish and nurture a local government that is open and accessible” in a way that encourages citizen involvement, pursues fiscal responsibility, and plans for growth and sustainability of our communities. The current LaGrange County Commissioners are: Terry Martin, North District (tmartin@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-499-1814) Peter Cook, South District (pcook@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-585-0007) Kevin Myers, Middle District (kevinmyers@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-336-4524) Standing alongside the county Commissioners is the County Council. This legislative body is responsible for overseeing the county’s financial affairs as well as making decisions about local laws. The County Council manages the county budget while also creating, amending, and repealing local ordinances. They set priorities for how county funds are allocated, and they fix tax rates accordingly. Our current County Council includes: Jeff Campos, District 1 (jcampos@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-367-1230) Ryan Riegsecker, District 2 (rriegsecker@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-499-0602) Harold Gingerich, District 3 (hgingerich@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-499-0126) Jim Young, District 4 (jyoung@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-350-0486) Jeff Brill, At Large (jbrill@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-336-1010) Karen Eagleson, At Large (keagleson@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-499-1700) Mike Strawser, At Large (mstrawser@lagrangecounty.in.gov, 260-336-2204) So why is a local leadership refresher a big deal? Because when you need something, you need to know who to call. These elected local officials are serving in a capacity because they are passionate about making our communities economically sound, sustainable, and strong. My bet would be that, if you’d ask any of these folks, they’d tell you they do it because they love their hometown, and they want to make a difference. So this week, tear this column out of your paper and tack it up on the wall or on your fridge. Keep this list for later, when you may need to partner with your local leader for assistance, a project, or an inquiry. They’re there to ensure LaGrange County is a great place to live, work, and enjoy for generations to come.