GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Chesterton starts off summer with market magic, recognizing a renowned local business

What’s recently happened?

The streets of Chesterton continue to thrive with its annual European Market. The beloved market, starting the first weekend of May and running until the end of October, is open every Saturday. Several people across the county come out to enjoy live music, discover local vendors, and socialize within the community. Many booths consume Thomas Centennial Park, allowing bright smiles and carefree energy to radiate from civilians, enjoying all the market has to offer.

A plethora of bright logos and colorful designs reflect from every corner, businesses going all out to represent the heart of their personal booths. The European Market not only supports local vendors in their passions but also fosters connections within society.

Michelle O’Dell, the owner of “Books and Bling,” shared why she loves the European Market. O’Dell has been running her business for two years, selling books and other related trinkets to avid readers.

As a former high school English teacher, she’s made it her life’s mission to inspire the younger generation through literature.

“I thought I could do it in a way that’s cute and fun,” said O’Dell. “I look at each one as a work of art from the outside.”

She shares a unique outlook on the committed consistency she’s seen from the members of this small town who celebrate one another, even if only coming out to say hello.

“There’s dedicated people who come every single Saturday, rain or shine. It’s just a great community, it really is,” said O’Dell.

Another business owner, Damon Person, has been in the industry for 15 years. Specializing in food, Person has recently expanded into “Quench Quest,” a dirty-soda culture brand that has brought an exciting new line of flavorful soda combos to the European Market.

“The dirty soda business is booming, so that’s something that brought me in,” said Person.

With an enthralled group such as this circling the town’s beloved market, anyone is fated to find a booth that catches their eye.

What’s coming up?

Music lovers line up. When small town singers meet trendy bar life, (219) Taproom is the place to be. The rustic interior design, with countless strands of bright fairy lights, creates a welcoming hometown night out.

A must-visit in Chesterton, the Taproom offers a mix of unique drinks and tasty bar food that keeps locals coming back. The busy restaurant has some exciting singers and eventful themed nights coming up, keeping July blissful and full of fun.

The popular tavern has got an impressive lineup of singers this month: Tim Velez, Pamela Rocha, Leann Stutler, Dickey James, and Shane Lindeman are expected to perform.

The month’s lineup also includes two exclusive performances by some of the restaurant’s favorite bands. Chesterton welcomes Acoustically Speaking and Acoustic Echos to perform some summer hits.

A reoccurring small town favorite has to be open mic night. Friends and family bring their musical talents to the stage, a loud nighttime event full of laughter and excitement. Whether it’s singing or playing an instrument, the Taproom invites anyone who loves the spotlight to come out and own the stage. This buzzing bar definitely has this July lined up with some amusing entertainment.

Community Member Spotlight:

Every Chesterton native knows about the iconic Peggy Sue’s diner. What some people might not know is the heart and soul that brings the diner to life.

Peggy Sue Nowicki, a third-generation restaurant owner, started her business in early 2003, and her love for the dining scene began at 12 years old. While she began washing dishes in the kitchen of her parents’ restaurant, she dreamed endlessly of one day owning a place of her own. She hopes to pass down the restaurant-loving gene to her two children, William and Riley.

Her love of vintage cars inspires the retro ’50s theme, and has organically morphed into a “Route 66” theme. The vibrant drawings trace the inner walls of the local hotspot, a small embrace that adds to the overall welcoming atmosphere.

Nowicki’s personal favorite item on the menu is the steak burger club, since she is an avid lunch eater and isn’t the biggest fan of breakfast. On the other hand, the restaurant is best known for the pork piggy skillet, which includes all the essential breakfast ingredients: bacon, sausage, ham, gravy, eggs, cheese, and potatoes.

A welcoming environment is standard for Nowicki at Peggy Sue’s Diner. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a regular, the staff will go out of their way to make you feel like you belong. The warm welcome that greets you as you walk through the door, followed by the buttery smell of grilled goodness is sure to melt every heart that comes in.

The community is truly what makes up the incredible experience at Peggy Sue’s. Nowicki has a sweet Midwestern smile and a charming wit that makes every customer feel as if they’re part of the family. She admits that around 80% of her customers are regulars.

It’s her drive and kindness that allow people not only to fall in love with the sensible establishment, but also its beloved owner. Nowicki is always there to support her team in any way they might need it.

“I think that helps a lot, being able to be willing to do whatever needs to be done,” said Nowicki. “If a waitress calls off, I waitress. If a cook calls off, I cook.”

Nowicki does admit that her stellar business could not have blossomed without the help from her companions.

“I have worked with some amazing people who have given me amazing chances. So, if I couldn’t do something, we figured it out. I’ve had a lot of people help me along the way. I didn’t do all of this myself,” said Nowicki.

She admires loyalty and finds great success in forming relationships within the business industry. When it comes to helping one another out, she values consistency and sticking to one’s word.

“I would rather go with a small business than a big one. I like the connections,” said Nowicki. “I like to stick with the same thing, because they helped me, and I helped them. It works out.”

She’s grateful for the opportunities she’s had and the people who have helped her manage her success throughout the years. Her menu’s cover page reflects her same timeless motto, “In God we trust.”