Nelson Creates to Focus on What’s Important

Local entrepreneur Steve Nelson was the featured speaker at Thursday’s meeting of the Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce.  Nelson enlightened and entertained the group which nearly filled the Choo Choo Café in Atlanta to capacity. 

Nelson shared a life philosophy inspired by a program given by Steven Covey more than 30 years ago when he was working as an executive at IBM. Today, a professor at Butler University and entrepreneur, Nelson, along with his wife, Liz, are working to help revitalize the county’s northernmost community.

His motivation to move his shop and invest in Atlanta, Indiana, was that he felt it offers something that can’t be found just anywhere.  Its rural setting, rich history, hometown atmosphere, and connection to the railroad is the right mix to bring people together and boost the community.

“We are hoping to create momentum for rural tourism in our corner of the county and share what we enjoy every day through our businesses, hobbies, festivals, and by encouraging others to invest in the community as well,” he said.  “Working to bring people together, have fun, and create memories helps build a strong sense of community.”

“We are 20 minutes away from over a half a million people,” added Liz Foley, of the town of just over 700.  “We have something special here to share, enjoy, and protect.”

In other Chamber business, the third annual Midwest Railfest is set for 2 to 7 p.m. next Saturday, June 22 in Atlanta.  The event, sponsored by the Chamber, features excursions on the Nickel Place Express every hour, artisans, food, children’s activities and fun for the whole family. Mr. Muffin’s Trains will be open throughout the day and the Atlanta Music Hall, featuring their renown house band, opens at 7 p.m.  A few more volunteers are needed.  To volunteer call the Chamber at 317-984-4079. 

Photo caption:  Local entrepreneur Steve Nelson is pictured by a sign that hangs in his house that serves as a reminder of the importance of creating time for the things that are important in your life.  In a nutshell, “put down your electronics and spend time with your family.”  Nelson, who was the featured speaker at last week’s meeting of the Hamilton North Chamber of Commerce, is pictured with (l-r): Monica Bowles Kozlowski (Senator Todd Young’s Office), Catharine Heller (Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce), and Pam Van Hook (Atlanta Town Council).