Intro…

Tell us a little about yourself (and your downtown business, if applicable)…
While I don’t live or work in Downtown Lima, I do provide a unique perspective.  I grew up in Delphos, and visited Lima frequently – much of my immediate family works in downtown Lima.  I also recently graduated from architecture school at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.  Muncie is actually very similar to Lima.  It has a lot of old rust-belt industry and lots of retail.  Last year, I brought several architecture students from Ball State to downtown Lima to look into ideas for improving the quality of downtown Lima.  I forced them all to eat Kewpee (yes, they loved it!!!).  I also took them up to the top floor of every building downtown!  Since that experience, I’ve grown really attached to downtown Lima, mostly because so much potential exists!  I’m always hopeful my outside viewpoint can bring new and fresh ideas for Lima. 

What one major advantage do you think you have being downtown that you wouldn’t get elsewhere?
There is so much more quality and uniqueness downtown that you don’t get elsewhere.  I get really sick of all the ticky-tack strip mall development on Cable, 309, and Eastown Roads.  There is something more enjoyable about sitting down for dinner at the Bistro than at Applebee’s.  Plus, I hardly ever wait to eat downtown and can park right at the front door! 

Lima Trust Building Lobby

What is your favorite memory of downtown Lima?  Why do you remember it?
My favorite memory of downtown Lima is walking into the Lima Trust Building for the first time.  Walking into the first floor atrium really takes your breath away – in fact, it gave me goose bumps.  It’s amazing that something so spectacular has been sitting empty for so many years.  If I ever get the chance, I’d love to renovate that building into luxury offices suites.

What is your favorite song, and how does it relate to who you are?
Boy, this is a tough one!  I’d have to say Dani California by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.  Mostly because I like playing it on Rock Band.  It’s a pretty upbeat song, and I like to think I’m a pretty upbeat person.  And no, I don’t sing the song!!  I stick to the guitar part… 🙂 

If you could pick one thing to change about downtown Lima, what would you change?
The Lima Square.  Definitely.  I’d like to see the Lima Square become a real icon of Lima.  I’ve always imagined lighting up all the buildings in the square at night, a large water fountain, all coordinated to music.  It might be a little too much like Vegas, but I really think it could draw tourism and investment to Lima.  Go see 5th Street Live in Louisville sometime, you’ll understand what I’m talking about… 

If you could invite any celebrity to spend a day with you in Lima, who would you choose and where would you take them?
Tiger Woods.  No question.  He’s amazing.  Not only did he win the US Open with a torn ACL and a broken leg, he continues to smash records.  I wish I could have half of his intensity and focus.  But, if Tiger was to visit Lima for a day, I would probably take him to Shawnee Country Club (I’m guessing they would probably allow us on!) and then I would take him to the downtown Kewpee…I think he’d like it!

What is your favorite downtown hangout, and why?
The Meeting Place on Market. Period.  Great coffee, great atmosphere, and great food.  It also feels a little urban – the best spot is in the corner with the big storefront windows.  You feel a little like your in a big city, and I like that.