By Izzy Lucas
Indiana Wesleyan University and Taylor University spring terms are coming to an end, and many students are heading back to their homes outside of Grant County.
At Obi’s Barbeque, house manager Malia said things may shift with students gone but they remain busy.
“Yeah you feel it when IWU comes back but with people being out of school some of them do stay here and their parents will come to visit them. School’s out for kids, everybody’s able to get out and do more,” Malia said.
She said that summer brings Obi’s busy catering season.
“A lot of people tend to get married in the summertime, so we also do a lot of catering,” Malia said.
Obi’s plans to expand this coming summer with hopes to open a new location in Hartford City by mid-June.
Ashley’s Ice Cream is preparing for its first full summer under new ownership. Tyler Hewitt bought the business in November and said he is looking forward to what the season brings.
“I haven’t got to experience summer yet but I have seen the couple of warm days we’ve had, we’ve been slammed and lined up out the door,” Hewitt said.
Hewitt said that with many students gone there might be a shift, but recognizes the presence of Marion’s local community.
“I’m sure there’ll be an effect with IWU and Taylor going home, but at the same time, I think Marion’s a big enough community where we’re still going to have a lot of people coming in,” Hewitt said.
Hewitt said Ashley’s is planning a series of summer events, including a movie night, concert and outdoor games.
“I think, like, sky’s the limit for the courtyard, so I’m just trying to get more ideas of stuff to have out there,” Hewitt said.
Elevate Nutrition is preparing to celebrate its one-year anniversary. Owner Kayla Taylor said she is looking forward to the shop’s celebration in May.
“May 16 we’re gonna have a big party treated like a customer appreciation day, where there’ll be special shakes, giveaways,and lots of decor for everybody to celebrate the one year,” Taylor said.
Thomas Harding