GENERATIONS WORKING TOGETHER F A M I L I E S
I N
B U S I N E S S
DOWNING FRUIT FARM 180 YEARS IN BUSINESS 1838-2018
Photo by Jugal Jain, Assistant Photo Editor, The Miami Student
SPECIAL EDITION OF The
EarlyNewspaper Bird Bluebag Media
PAGE 2 - FAMILIES IN BUSINESS-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-JANUARY 28, 2018
Eikenberry’s IGA 1120 Sweitzer St., Greenville
The Bootery in Downtown Since 1916
(937) 548-9214
Eikenberry’s IGA is currently in its fourth generation as a family-owned business. In 1929, Myron Eikenberry founded the hometown grocery store. Eventually his sons, Nils and Ron worked at the store until their respective retirements. Gretchen and Mark Davis are currently holding the reins to the store. Both have worked at the store throughout high school and college. Mark became a manager in 1989 and Gretchen earned the title in 1987. Ellie Light and Micah Light are currently the fourth generation to work at the store as cashier and carryout. In addition to all of the grocery items available at the store, Eikenberry’s is known for their fantastic baked goods, wonderful fried chicken, “Pick 4” meat deal and, of course, all of the smiles. “We have such a loyal and dedicated staff,” said Mark. “Several have been with us over 40 years, many more for over 30 years and quite a few for over 20 years.” He continued, “The same can be said of our customers. Every day we have someone mention they shopped with us on Sater Street.” The history and importance of the store is not lost on Mark, “It is quite humbling to realize you are in charge of something started in 1929 and charged with keeping the train rolling.
Downing Fruit Farm
The Bootery opened it’s doors on April 16, 1916 by Herman Brown. Claude Marshall, (present owners grandfather) purchased the business from Mr. Brown in 1954 and continued operations in traditional fashion of fit, comfort, and full customer service. Howard Marshall, (David’s father) worked with his father Claude for many years, taking over ownership after his fathers’ death in 1973. After high school graduation 1976 David (Current owner, and 3rd generation Marshall) began working with his father Howard. In 1985 David continued his education by attending Ball State University’s Master’s Orthopedic Shoe Technician training and went on to Northwestern University The Medical School Prosthetic-Orthotic Center in Chicago Illinois, becoming a certified Pedorthist in 1986. His son Jason, (4th generation Marshall) began his apprenticeship in 2009 helping his father with boot and shoe repairs, and expanding the inventory of work boot and safety toe, western boots, wallets, belts and hats. The Bootery carry’s full lines of quality brands for men, women and children. They are open Monday-Saturday. SINCE 1838
2468 Harrison Rd. New Madison
937-997-3361
forming, Scott and his family go the extra While many people may have to dig mile to ensure they remain the customer’s around to learn more about their ancestry, first choice. However, in order to protect for Scott Downing it was almost as easy their hives, the farm is very careful not spray as reaching up and picking an apple off of when the bees are pollinating. a tree. That’s because a lot of those apples While Downing Fruit Farm has developed are unique to his farm and are varieties several different varieties over the years, developed by his family throughout several their most popular apple, the Downingland, generations. Scott is the seventh generation was developed by Scott’s great uncle. The to run Downing Fruit Farm, which began in apple is a cross between a Golden Delicious 1838 when John Downing and his family and a Rome Beauty. left South Carolina and arrived between They’ve also developed apples specifically New Madison and Hollansburg. for their cider. Scott said during their busiest To be able to stay in business for 180 years, the Downings must be doing Scott Downing is shown with wife Rachelle (right) and season they will go through 1,000 gallons of daughter Maddie (center). cider each week, which includes at least seven something right and Scott knows exactly what it is. He takes great pride in offering his customers the best apple varieties and as many as 30. No two batches are the same. Although customers can still make their way to the farm and walk fruit and cider. The farm is very proactive when it comes to making sure the through the more than 2,500 fruit trees when they want to make their orchard remains disease and fungus free. From spraying trees with purchase, which, in addition to apples and cider, also includes sweet organic materials before problems arise, even if it means dodging corn, melons, pears, peaches, plums, grapes, cherries, blackberries rain drops or spraying in the early morning hours, to the way trees and a lot more, Downing Fruit Farm can also be found at local are planted to allow them to dry out quickly to prevent a fungus from Farmers’ Markets and in some grocery stores.
JANUARY 28, 2018-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-FAMILIES IN BUSINESS - PAGE 3
2167 Ross Road Greenville 547-0710 Jerry Hunt, Owner
Hunt Butcher Shop and Meat Market opened in June 1997 as a custom butcher shop and has evolved into a fully ODA state meat packing facility with a retail meat shop. The business features locally raised livestock (mostly pork and beef) they purchase and re-sell. Jerry Hunt owns the business and is joined by his wife Cindy Hunt and father Tim Hunt. Tim brings 57 years of experience in the meat business to Hunt Butcher Shop having worked at Buchy’s Packing and Suter’s Meat Market. In addition to offering their own market, Hunt Butcher Shop provides products to other meat retail shops and grocery stores. They also operate Hunt’s Food Concessions at local events, including the Darke County Fair. Their number one priority is to take care of their customers’ needs. “It’s great to have a family business,� said Jerry. “At times it is a lot more work than you realize, but it’s well worth it.� One of the positives of a family-owned business is being able to spend time with people you enjoy being with. “I wouldn’t change a thing,� he said.
Leis Realty continues tradition of service
GREENVILLE – For more than 43 years, the team at Leis Realty has grown to include four generations of the Leis family and 38 agents. What started as a family business remains the same today, except now there are decades of experience and generations of knowledge to share with clients. Founded in 1975, Leis Realty Co., 535 E. Main St., Greenville, today has several family members associated with the company, including owners/brokers Don Leis, Dustin Leis, Ashley Leis, Kim Leis-Anderson, Darren Leis, Everett Hocker, and Dean Butts. In 1975, Don Leis and his uncle John envisioned a family-owned real estate agency fully dedicated to serving the community in which they lived. Today, the company offers a variety of real estate services, including residential and commercial, investment properties, farms, development, and building lots, along with property management services and rentals. The agency serves all aspects of buying, selling, renting, and managing real estate properties, full-service, no- hassle management of multi-unit properties. From the initial search for the perfect residential property to managing grounds and tenant requests, Leis is positioned to serve every real estate need as the area’s premiere real estate resource.
Troutwine Auto Sales, Inc. Now in its fourth generation as a family business, Troutwine Auto Sales began on Nov. 3, 1927 with Web, Ira and Oscar Troutwine. Today, Jim Troutwine serves as president, Scott Troutwine is vice-president and Todd Troutwine is secretary-treasurer. The Troutwine family purchased the former Arcanum Motor Company and although they are basically in the same location, the family has expanded the business and remodeled several times over the years. The business originally sold Oakland and Pontiac cars. In 1932 they discontinued selling the Oaklands. The ďŹ rst Chevrolet sold was the 1933 Model year. The Buick line was added in 1934. The small gas station has been part of the business since 1927. Troutwine Auto Sales didn’t always rely solely on the automotive industry to provide an income for its employees. The business also handled radios during the early years and by the 1930s they were also handling Frigidaire refrigerators, Zenith electric and farm radios and Motorola car radios. In 1936 they were a dealer of Allis Chalmers tractors. Just as they did in 1933, Troutwine Auto Sales continues to offer its customers the Chevrolet line-up of cars and trucks. They feature new and used vehicle sales, as well as a full service body shop, mechanics shop, parts and fuel sales. To serve the community for over 90 years takes more than luck. It takes a dependable product backed by excellent employees and service and that is exactly what the Troutwines offer. From the very beginning,
Shown are Scott Troutwine, Jim Troutwine and Todd Troutwine
Troutwine’s has taken a no pressure approach to selling cars and trucks. They give the customer the time and space they need to make a choice they will be pleased with. The approach works as is evident by the number of repeat customers as well as the many generations of families that have purchased cars from the Chevrolet dealership. “All of us at Troutwine’s depend on our thousands of loyal customers. We plan to be here for many more years to assist our growing number of friends,� said Jim Troutwine. “Above all, without you there is no us.�
PAGE 4 - FAMILIES IN BUSINESS-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-JANUARY 28, 2018
Bud’s Electric Inc. owned by father-daughter team
Robert Winner Sons / Winner’s Meats
ARCANUM–This year, Bud’s Electric Inc. is celebrating its 45th year providing electric for the Darke County Fair. The Arcanum-based company, located at 3548 State Route 49, is owned and operated by father-daughter team Darlene Morris, president and Bud Bruchey, vice president. Bud’s Electric was started in Pitsburg in March 1968, by Bruchey, who worked with his late wife Vivian for 23 years. In 1972, the business moved to Hollansburg-Sampson Road in Arcanum. By 1991, Bud’s Electric was incorporated, with a main building being completed on State Route 49. In 1998, a second building was added. Morris began working with her dad’s company as an electrician while still in high school. Following her graduation from college, she started working in the company’s office. In October 2015, Bruchey became semi-retired. Bud’s Electric provides services for residential, commercial and industrial applications. One specialty is the repair of electric ceiling cable heat, which most electric contractors do not provide. Bud’s Electric also can install and service generators. Bud’s Electric provides after hours emergency services to its customers, which lie in a 50-mile radius. For more information, call 937-692-8096.
Shown are the third and fourth generations of the Winner family.
Greenville Hardware
1241 E. RUSS ROAD - GREENVILLE 548-7284
Even with a change in ownership in 1998, Greenville ACE Hardware has a remained a family-owned business. Ted and Colleen Loxley began the business in 1988 when they opened a Coast to Coast Hardware store on Wagner Avenue in Greenville. The business was sold to Doug and Sherry Hesson and Duane and Deb Ward and they joined the ACE Hardware team. A couple years after purchasing the business, they moved to a new building on Russ Road. In 2015, the Hessons become the sole owners of the hardware store. Greenville ACE Hardware carries a lot of different products, including paint, power tools, hand tools, outdoor power equipment, plumbing and more. They also carry great brands like STIHL, Milwaukee, Holland, Traeger, Weber Grills and Yeti. Family is important to the Hessons and both agree they enjoy working with their spouse, “most of the time.” They treat their employees like family and three of them are. The Hessons have four children, Dylan, Danielle, Deanna and Dalton. Greenville ACE Hardware is asking for customers to have patience over the next six weeks as they work on a store re-set. “Trust us when we tell you our new look will not disappoint you. Thank you in advance for your patience.”
Home Office
8544 State Route 705 Yorkshire, OH 45388 419-582-4321 Brian Winner
Osgood Grocery
45 W. Main St. Osgood, OH 45351 419-582-2441 Travis Winner
Greenville Farm
2259 OH-502 Yorkshire, OH 45331 937-548-7513 Rob Winner
GREENVILLE - Robert Winner Sons Inc./Winner’s Meats is celebrating its 90th anniversary. Established in 1928, Robert Winner began processing beef and pork in his barn for neighbors and friends. Currently the business is operated by the third and fourth generations of the Winner family. Winner’s operates two processing plants – the original plant in Osgood and at their Greenville facility – as well as a livestock hauling division, transporting locally produced hogs and cattle to national packing plants. Osgood is home to Winner’s small grocery with meat and freezer cases where their products can be purchased. The Greenville farm location also maintains a thriving butcher shop where many people from both near and far come to get Winner’s famous Marinated Pork Chops. In addition to their pork chops, the family-operated business considers a number of its products as specialties, including farm fresh beef and pork, blood pudding, meat grits, smoked bacon and sausages. When asked about the longevity of his company’s success, President Brian Winner said: “You have to work long, hard and have dedication to the family business; that’s what it takes to succeed. We work right beside our employees, whether it is cutting meat or scraping the floor, if that’s what needs to be done.” Connect with Winner’s on social media to participate in year-long anniversary specials. Join the mailing list at www. winnersmeats.com or on Facebook at Winner’s Meats.
JANUARY 28, 2018-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-FAMILIES IN BUSINESS - PAGE 5
SHARP’S
TAVERN
PALESTINE, OHIO
548-7454
Sharp’s Tavern continues family-friendly atmosphere PALESTINE – Sharp’s Tavern, 101 S. Main St., Palestine, is a “continuing tradition – still serving the pizza we grew up on,” says owners Justin and Robin Sharp, who purchased the business formerly known as Red and Ruth’s in January 2014. The Sharps, along with son Wyatt, is the fifth family to run the small village business. Along with Red’s Famous Pizza, Sharp’s Tavern offers a breaded tenderloin, which is cut and breaded in-house, homemade soups, and the “house sandwiches and wraps are a hit,” says Robin. “Working together as a family ensures that we all help with the day-to-day operations. We also have a full staff that helps to keep things running smoothly,” Robin explains. Sharp’s Tavern continues to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere and serves daily lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kitchen hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The tavern is closed on Sundays. Check out the business on Facebook at Sharp’s Tavern.
State Route 118 • South of Coldwater 419-678-4979 • www.newvisionsmedical.com
It’s challenging to make sure you or your loved one has whatever is needed to ensure quality of life. For more than two decades, Ed & Carolyn Homan have depended on home services to help their daughter Katie, born with cerebral palsy, achieve the best quality of life possible. As consumers of home health equipment, the couple found their daughter’s needs weren’t being met, and there were few options available. So their family established New Visions Medical Equipment in 1998 to meet their daughter’s needs and help her live life to the fullest. The couple said, “It’s been exciting and rewarding in the past 20 years to help others live well at all stages of life, too.” New Visions is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2018. New Visions specializes in mobility equipment, custom wheelchairs and making your home accessible with things such as walk-in showers, stair lifts, ramps and more. They take pride in being able to help others live as independently as possible in their own homes. For Ed & Carolyn, working with family is one of the best parts about New Visions. “A family helping other families is what it’s all about. We truly understand the importance of customer service and the products we provide because we are customers, too.”
Hurd’s Service, Inc. You’ve seen their tow trucks throughout Darke County; always with a Hurd’s employee offering a smile and a helpful attitude to ease the frustration of a stranded motorist. However, towing isn’t the only service Hurd’s Service offers. The business got its start in October 1989 and for 28 years they have been providing outstanding automotive service. Hurd’s Service started with a gas station and an auto repair shop and two years later expanded to add towing. The company is now a three-generation business with Ralph Hurd, Jr. serving as president. Ralph Hurd, Sr. is vice president and managers include Jarrett Hurd and William Smith, sons. Family has always been important to the Hurd family. “It’s nice to work with people you can count on and depend on,” said Ralph Hurd, Jr. He continued, “It means a lot to have family members interested in taking the business over some day.”
1363 Sater St., Greenville (937) 548-0733
Hurd Service offers good quality, honest work at low prices on both repair and towing. From tune-ups to engine replacement, customers can expect the Hurd family to give professional service day-in and day-out. They offer both car and truck repair. They are equipped to offer auto diagnostics and will work under the hood or under the car as they also offer exhaust and muffler systems, tires, wheels and front-end alignments. The business also offers a 24-hour towing service and accepts AAA. Darke County’s roadways are not the only place you will find one of Hurd’s Service trucks. They also have three generations of Hurds pushing race cars at Eldora Speedway. Ralph Sr. and Ralph Jr. are joined by daughter Leslie Hurd at the famed speedway.
PAGE 6 - FAMILIES IN BUSINESS-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-JANUARY 28, 2018
BARGA Heating, A/C & Refrig., Inc. 937-548-3645
5419 St. Rt. 49 S., Greenville, OH 45331 www.bargageo.com Barga Heating, A/C and Refrigeration, Inc. celebrated 30 years in business in 2017. Founded by Scott Barga and assisted by his wife, Linda, the business continues to offer sales and service of commercials and residential heating and cooling equipment. They are authorized a dealer for Trane and a Geo Pro Master dealer for WaterFurnace International. The Bargas are joined in the business by their son, Shane. They were also fortunate to work with their son Samuel for a short time before his untimely death. Jeff Barga, Scott’s brother, is also an integral part of the business. When a Barga truck arrives at your home or business you can expect to see a professional, courteous and qualified technician ring your doorbell. In addition to the family members listed, employees include Mason Barga, Jason Barga, Bill Frey, Amy Reis, Keith Hall, Bob Jackson, Anthony Hall, Lori Gibson, Dakota Edger and Dustin Holmes. “Our dedicated employees make our success possible and can’t be thanked enough,” said Scott. Barga Heating, A/C & Refrigeration pledges to continue giving this and surrounding communities the best service possible.
6572 St Rt 47 • Versailles 45380 937-526-3232 Hours of Operation: Mon-Weday 10am-6pm, Thurs 10am-8pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9pm
www.wineryatversailles.com
You’ve most likely seen their wine in most homes around Darke County and on many of the shelves of major grocery stores in the area, but The Winery at Versailles has its roots firmly planted on the East Coast as well. It all started in 1994 when owners and winemakers Mike and Carol Williams opened The Winery at Wilcox in Wilcox, PA in 1994. Then in 2002 they expanded their reach to the Darke County are and opened the Winery at Versailles, handing the responsibilities of the facility to daughter Lisa. Their most recent business venture was opening a third winery called The Winery at Hunters Valley, located in Liverpool, PA in 2015. Their son, Jamie Williams is the VP of Operations and oversees all 3 locations. Mike and Carols philosophy is “Do well, do good, and have fun”. They have always allowed their family members to experiment with different ideas, wines, events, etc. Having the freedom to be creative and try new things is one of the several reasons the business is successful. Mike likes to tell them “if we don’t fail at in least one idea, we aren’t trying enough new ones.” Their philosophy is definitely paying off with many awards and national recognitions for their wines. They were voted 3 years in a row Best Winery in Ohio by Ohio Magazine and don’t show any signs of slowing down. One of their top selling wines in the state is the famous “Rodeo Red”. The Rodeo Red may be their top seller, but they are also known for many other unique wines that will cater to just about any taste. The warm and welcoming staff is always willing to help the customer out whether it be questions about a particular wine, setting up bulk wine orders, custom wine making, and also wine consulting. They also offer a wide array of wine related events and dinners, which they say is a great way to experience every flavor of wine so you can leave the winery confidently knowing you have a wine that you will enjoy. The one thing they want to express is how much the family appreciates their customers, and that they would not be where they are now if it wasn’t for the constant support of the community and the super employees. They are always looking for ways to grow, learn, and continue to cultivate new and exciting ideas. Visit their website www.wineryatversailles.com for more information on all of the varieties of wine they offer as well as upcoming special events.
JANUARY 28, 2018-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-FAMILIES IN BUSINESS - PAGE 7
2018 will be a year of celebration at The Early Bird and Bluebag Media. The only county-wide locally and family-owned and operated hometown newspaper is celebrating its 50th year of providing news, features and being the first choice for businesses wanting to grow their customer base. Join with us throughout the year as we look back at our history and look forward to new and exciting opportunities.
Blue Spruce Realty was created by Jim and Evelyn Shuttleworth in May 1987 and has since been serving Darke County and surrounding areas with their knowledge and expertise. They expanded their business when Rich Edwards, Auctioneer/Realtor joined them in 2003. Blue Spruce Realty has reached state-wide status with sons, Joe Shuttleworth and Greg Shuttleworth. Joe joined the family business in 1999 as a licensed Realtor and later obtained his Broker license in 2009. Be sure to check our website www.bluesprucerealtyinc.com; like us on Facebook and at Realtor.com
BLUE SPRUCE REALTY
FAMILIES IN BUSINESS
Honor Roll Tribute Funeral Home
Wieland Jewelers
Kreitzer Funeral Home
1894-2018
1907-2018
1917-2018
Kellers
RJ Warner Insurance
Hansbarger Home Solutions
Greenville Campus • New Madison Campus
1933-2018
1935-2018
1937-2018
Zechar Bailey Funeral Home
Boyd Cleaners
Sink Jewelers Inc
1941-2018
1942-2018
1951-2018
Vints Family Restaurant
The Early Bird Bluebag Media
G&G Floor Fashions
1967-2018
1968-2018
1974-2018
Creative Carpet & Supply Inc.
Auto Charge & Start
Helen’s Flowers & Gifts
1979-2018
1983-2018
Sadie Grace Boutique
Bread of Life Christian Bookstore
1978-2018
Erisman Aire Heating & Cooling 1998-2018
2012-2018
2013-2018
JANUARY 28, 2018-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-FAMILIES IN BUSINESS - PAGE 9
’
SRS Engine Parts
Family Owned Since 1963 Keith & Susan Bousman, Owners
Restaurant & Catering
OHIO CRANKSHAFT 5453 State Route 49
GREENVILLE
Hwy 32 in Union City, IN 765-964-6259 In 1963, Ayleen Bousman and Mildred Deboy brought a “foreign food” to the Union City community. That food was pizza and the little restaurant called A&M was located on Chestnut Street. It was the start of a restaurant that would stand the test of time. The name and locations has changed, but as other family-owned restaurants have come and gone, Bouser’s Barn continued to serve the community for over 50 years. In 1974, Keith and Susan Bousman joined Keith’s mother in the business. The menu grew to add chicken, sandwiches, salads and more and took on Keith’s nickname, Bouser. Susan was eight months pregnant with she and Keith joined the restaurant, “She had no idea she was marrying into a restaurant,” he said. Over the past 50-plus years, Bouser’s Barn has had hundreds of employees and many have worked with them for a decade or more. The couple’s three children have also worked at the restaurant and now the grandchildren are helping. “Our employees have helped make this family-owned-and-operated restaurant a success,” said Keith.
937-548-7113 SRS Engine Parts has a long history of catering to the racing world. Although now located in Greenville, the business began its history in New Madison in 1970. Today, the business is barely recognizable to what it once was. The family business began as a gas station and garage. In 1978 they moved to a location near Hillgrove before coming to their current location in 1988. The name itself represents family – Stan Ray and Sons (SRS). Stan and his wife Mary are still the owners and he is joined by others in the family business, including his son Scott Ray (manager), and daughter Mindy Dickey, Tim Dickey and Ryan Dickey. SRS Engine Parts specializes in providing race engine parts as well as building race engines. They ship parts across the United States and abroad. They offer crankshaft grinding, block boring, aluminum welding, flywheel grinding, connecting rod service, pressure testing, cylinder head service and more. They’ve been selected by Jobber New Magazine as the Best Jobber Machine Shop in the U.S. In addition to SRS Engine Parts, the family-business also operates Ohio Crankshaft. Ohio Crankshaft is known throughout the NHRA drag racing world as a leader in the industry.
Troutwine Agency, Inc. Troutwine Agency, Inc. has been meeting the insurance needs of local residents since 1973 when Keith Troutwine purchased the agency from an Arcanum resident retiring as a Motorists Insurance agent. Quality products and service has kept the familyowned business growing and expanding. In 1988, a second generation of the Troutwine family joined the firm. Kurt Troutwine purchased the agency from his father in 1993 and the office moved to its current location on West George in 1998. Troutwine Agency handles all types of insurance, including personal lines like home and auto. The agency specializes in farm and commercial lines of insurance as well utilizing several life insurance companies and some health insurance. Customer service is their main focus. “We make it our goal to make sure you understand what you are buying and why you need to buy any type of insurance,” said Kurt. The staff at Troutwine Agency makes sure they answer every question their customer has. “We offer a local phone and a local office to speak face-to-face to get
your questions answered. Personal service is our commitment to you,” he said. Family is important to the Troutwine Agency. “My father started me out in the agency by showing me the old fashion way of looking at a risk and servicing the customer by face-to-face meetings. I owe a huge credit to my dad for all of his training and trust that he put in me to allow me to continue the agency under the Troutwine name.” Kurt continued, “I miss my dad; he passed in 2003, but I still think of him and remember him always stopping by the office to check on me many years ago.” In addition to Kurt, the agency has one full-time and one part-time agent. Troutwine Agency offers evening and weekend appointments in the office or at your home or business. They are an Independent Agency so the represent several insurance companies, which allows them to pick a company that will give you the right coverage for the best price. “Saving you money is what it is all about; give us a call and see if we can help you,” said Kurt.
21 West George St., Arcanum (937) 692-8310
Kurt Troutwine
PAGE 10 - FAMILIES IN BUSINESS-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-JANUARY 28, 2018
500 Wagner Ave. Greenville, Ohio 547-3000 • 1-877-717-3673 www.daveknappford.com Hours: M-Th 9-8; Fri. 9-6; Sat. 9-5; Sat. Service
Where the people are friendly, and so are the prices! As Dave Knapp approaches a quarter century in business there for over 20 years. Customers also play a big role in the family has always been one constant – family. When he opened the doors atmosphere created at the dealership. The parents that bought cars to Dave Knapp Ford Lincoln on Wagner Avenue in Greenville in from the Knapp family a decade or two ago are now bringing in 1994 his family stood by his side. Nothing has changed. their children to purchase vehicles. The history of the dealership may have been completely different Helping you find your next car is only the beginning of the Dave had it not been for the first-lady of the business. Karen Knapp has Knapp Ford Lincoln experience. Their team of experts, from sales consistently stood by her husband to give him her full support along consultants to financing, will help you drive home that car you’ve the way. The foundation she laid as the matriarch of the family has been eyeing on your terms. Dave Knapp Ford Lincoln won’t forget allowed the dealership to offer an expansive choice of Ford and you after the sale. They have a state-of-the-art auto repair center with Lincoln new vehicles and an incredible variety of makes and models highly trained technicians and equipped with the latest Ford parts. As Dave and his of used cars. family have stood by the Dave’s daughter, the Greenville and Darke late Kristina KnappCounty communities, Bradley, who passed away the communities have unexpectedly in 2017, continued to stand by was also a major part of him. In 2015, Dave the business. At the time was named Citizen of of her death she was the Year by the Darke serving as the marketing County Chamber of and promotions director. Commerce. Although Kristina was the face and Dave humbly accepted voice of the business; the honor, it is not often heard and seen hard to see why he on radio and television was chosen. Year after commercials. year and week after Bryan and Brad week the dealership Knapp, sons, have also makes headlines played an integral part with its generosity. in making the dealership Dave Knapp Ford renowned throughout Lincoln has offered its the Darke County as well support to numerous as across the northern youth organizations, Miami Valley. Both of including 4-H, schools, the boys started with and scholarship the company right programs as well as away washing cars. Darke County Youth Today, Bryan serves as for Christ, Pink general manager of the Ribbon Girls, March of dealership and Brad is a Dimes and Operation sales consultant. Christmas Cheer. In Even more than an interview last year, Knapp’s immediate Knapp-Bradley stated, family, all of the “If you expect the dealership’s employees community to stand are considered to be part behind you, you have to of the family. Some have stand behind them.” been with the business Dave Knapp is shown with his sons Bryan and Brad.
JANUARY 28, 2018-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-FAMILIES IN BUSINESS - PAGE 11
350 W. Deerfield Road, Union City, Ind. (765) 964-7905 www.ghyslain.com Although many have considered turning their passion into a business, very few have been able accomplish that feat; even fewer have been successful in gathering an international customer base. Master Chef Ghyslain Maurais and his wife, Susan, have been able to do just that with Ghyslain Chocolatier. The business is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2018. Chef Ghyslain has created a unique footprint in the chocolate world with his use of beautiful, bright colors, hand-painted finish and the overall uniqueness of his products. He is the creative mind behind the beautiful designs and unmatched flavor of Ghyslain Chocolatier’s line of gourmet chocolate, European pastries, French Macaron and artisan bread. Born in Québec, Canada, Ghyslain found his culinary passion while working in the field to fund his architectural education. Soon after, he changed career paths and entered the Institue du Tourisme et d’Hotelerie du Québec. Certified in French pastry, chocolate décor, candy making, blown/pulled sugar and bread making, Ghyslain has served as the head chef for the Quèbec Delegations in New York and London. His career includes experience as both a pastry and executive chef in first class restaurants and hotels. While working at the Inn of Versailles in Ohio, Chef Ghyslain met his wife, Susan. Together they relocated to her hometown in Union City, Ind. to establish Ghyslain Chocolatier. Since 1998, connoisseurs of gourmet chocolate and fine French pastries have enjoyed Chef Ghyslain’s beautiful and decadent creations. From artistic concept to creation, marketing and distribution, Chef Ghyslain and Susan have invested 20 years of passion into perfecting their unique brand. Chef Ghyslain enjoys teaching novices and experienced alike, and can often be found teaching classes at the Kitchen Aid Experience and training his talented production team at Ghyslain Chocolatier.
PAGE 12 - FAMILIES IN BUSINESS-SUPPLEMENT TO THE EARLY BIRD-JANUARY 28, 2018
Whistle Stop Bar & Grill has long been one of Darke County’s Even though the business has been around for over a century, most valuable hidden gems. That hidden gem was uncovered in the Whistle continues to evolve under Andrew’s leadership and 2017 when the business topped headlines and newscasts with its vision. Yes, they still offer their infamous pizza, but shortly after incredible run with the Queen of Hearts game that saw one person taking over the savvy owner began negotiations to purchase another win over half a million dollars. Although the game may have brought community favorite – the Chicken Kitchen recipe for chicken. With people to one of Darke County’s oldest family-owned businesses, the Chicken Kitchen II announcing its closing, Andrew went to work it was the friendly service and exceptional food that keeps them to secure the rights and to learn all he needed to know to replicate coming back. the recipe. The acquisition has been a positive experience for the In late 2015, The Whistle Stop announced a change in ownership Whistle Stop and its staff. when Ansonia area native Andrew Riffle decided to purchase the The effort to evolve doesn’t end there. The Whistle Stop offers an business. “I had worked at the restaurant for many years when I incredible breakfast menu as well as daily lunch specials, Monday got the opportunity to purchase it,” Andrew stated. “This place has through Friday. The staff works hard to get customers in and out been a staple of the community for many years. I feel more like I am quickly at lunch time. just the manager or bar keeper than I do the owner and I love that. The Whistle also offers a Beer of the Week promotion as well as That is why with every change we make around here we ask for a offering draft beer, a service that wasn’t available prior to Andrew lot of feedback from the customers and see what their thoughts are purchasing the bar and grill. For craft beer fans, at least one of the to ensure we are making changes that will make their visit better four taps is always a craft beer. but not alter the character The Whistle Stop has of the establishment.” completed a total makeover Although the Whistle has of their kitchen as well as been around since the late new freezers, pizza ovens 1800’s, it was Andrew and and deep fryers to help his family that infused new with increased sales. They life into the bar and grill. In have also added Keno, addition to Andrew, he is installed a new surround joined by his sister-in-law sound system, developed Jessica Riffle who serves their website www. as bar manager and father whistlebarandgrill.com, Daryl Riffle who work dayimplemented a point of sale in and day-out to make the system, added free Wi-Fi Whistle Darke County’s and installed a patio. They first choice for dining and will continue to improve entertainment. However, and in the next 60 days the family support doesn’t look for their new online end there. Andrew’s fiancée ordering system through the Kalie Sanders, brother website and app as they try Adam Riffle, mother Mary to stay on top of technology. Riffle and a host of cousins The Whistle also continues have all played a part in the to improve their kitchen success of the family-owned and dining area “to keep it business. When asked how polished” while they retain running a restaurant while the historic feel of the working a full time job building. works out, Riffle replied The Whistle also plans to “Without my supportive re-start the Queen of Hearts girlfriend Kalie Sanders, game again in the spring, but bar manager, great staff will revise it so it will not be and supportive family this as stressful on the Ansonia business would not be what community. Weekly live it is today. There are a ton Family is the backbone of the Whistle Stop Bar & Grill. Andrew Riffle, owner, is joined by his family entertainment is expected of people making this place fiancée Kalie Sanders, parents Daryl and Mary Riffle, brother and sister-in-law Adam and Jessica to resume once a week when Riffle and the family’s children. what it is today.” the weather improves.