How Hot Sticky Buns Are Critical to Economic Development

Defiance County recently played host to a potential new business scouting our area for their next facility. But instead of coming in with a clipboard or flashy presentations, their head of HR took a refreshingly unique approach. He decided to go undercover. From visiting local coffee shops and restaurants to even applying for jobs at various businesses, his goal was simple—to blend in and experience first-hand how he, an “outsider,” would be treated by our community.

Truthfully, I was a bit apprehensive about hearing what he had uncovered. How would he perceive us? Had he encountered kindness or coldness? When he began sharing his experience, my uncertainty quickly turned into an overwhelming sense of pride.

His first stop? Rumor Mill Café on East Second Street in Defiance, where Alyssa welcomed him with a warm smile and served a hot sticky bun he couldn’t stop raving about. But it wasn’t just the food that stood out. Alyssa went above and beyond by chatting with him about Defiance County, casually highlighting great places to work and suggesting local realtors to help him settle down here.

Rumor Mill Cafe in Defiance, Ohio Photo from Rumor Mill's Facebook Page

And if that wasn’t enough, other customers joined in the conversation, enthusiastically recommending ways to make Defiance County his permanent home.

This warmth and openness were repeated everywhere he went during his visit. Restaurants, cafes, even other businesses—all left him impressed with their genuine hospitality and eagerness to share why Defiance County is such a special place.

What this HR professional encountered wasn’t rehearsed or scripted. It was simply our community at its best. What struck me the most was that, consciously or not, these interactions resembled what we sometimes call an “elevator speech.”

An elevator speech is a concise, passionate statement that highlights the benefits and strengths of something—in this case, our community—in less than 30-60 seconds. And wow, Defiance County, you nailed it without even trying!

This story showcases more than just good manners. It speaks volumes about the pride we collectively have for our county and the instinctive way we present it to newcomers. Whether we realize it or not, we are all ambassadors of this place we call home. And that ambassadorial spirit can make a life-changing impact, not just for one visiting professional, but for entire businesses considering calling Defiance County their new home.

Photo from Rumor Mill Facebook Page

To all of you who continue to share that warmth and pride—keep it up. It’s people like you who make Defiance County a place worth noticing, whether through a simple conversation or a life-changing welcome.

And to the team at Rumor Mill Café and all the other places that went above and beyond, thank you for showing yet again why Defiance County is more than just a location—it’s a community.

Together, we’re building a brighter and more prosperous future, one handshake, one smile, and maybe even one hot sticky bun at a time.

(By Erika Willitzer – Defiance County Economic Development)