An Update from Trailblazer Linsey Prunty
Young Minnesota entrepreneur present at community events
Where to start?! Like my feature stated “… this story about Linsey Prunty would surprise even Linsey herself.” Truth. So much truth. This whole experience thus far is one surprise after another and, boy, am I totally embracing each of them.
Since being told I was chosen as an OTA Trailblazer, I have been trying my best to pave some paths. Just like any small town, a “new kid” speaking up isn’t too common. You always hear of the same great individuals taking the podium and showing up to events and meetings and wanting to see the town progress and thrive; which makes total sense, they’ve been around longer and have been immersed longer. But what happens when there is a fresh face? I have been experiencing it first-hand, and it is pretty invigorating.
I got to thinking: If I never quit my part-time job, if I never applied to become an OTA Trailblazer, would I have continued to just live in the comfort zone? Would I be as satisfied with my life in Pipestone as I am now? Probably not. Stepping outside the comfort zone and blazing trails is something we should all try out, you’d be surprised where it takes you.
So, where has it taken me, and what have I really been up to? Pipestone had a “Community Outreach” event about a month ago. I really had no idea about it or what the issues were. A few weeks prior, there was a community survey that went out about how we want to see our community progress and thrive, as well as how people are portrayed in our community. This event went over all these questions and mixed up different community members in groups to talk about questions and how we can progress.
The next day, I had been invited to the “Strategic Planning” event that consisted of the Pipestone Forward group, a group that has formed a nonprofit organization to plan, advocate and help implement a community strategic plan, the City of Pipestone, and an about 5 other community members. I can say I felt pretty special and maybe a little intimidated. The whole day event made me feel like we all see a common idea and that I am not the only one wanting to see things progress and how. After reading over the results from the survey, I got to see what community people value and how they feel; just from that, I feel like my OTA project is fully supported. I was invited back for the next Strategic Planning at the end of the month, and I am super excited for it.
During the Strategic Planning event, it was stated that some students aren’t really aware of what is offered in Pipestone in the realm of jobs, just what meets the eye. That hit my project right one the head and next up I scheduled to meet with the Middle/High School Principal and the new Superintendent to talk about bringing community business members into the school to inform students about their careers, why they chose Pipestone, how they got to where they are, and how to sustain it. The night before the school posted what their goals were this year, the last one stated “School and Community will search for ways to partner to enhance student learning through college and career readiness opportunities.” So going into this meeting, I felt pretty confident it would be accepted with open arms, and it was. I can whole-heartily say I am so excited for the new Superintendent at Pipestone Area Schools and the improvements and outlook he has in store for PAS.
The next day was my OTA Conversation event! So many great community members came out, even though they really had no idea what they were in for, but came and had a great evening. I got to talk to so many great individuals from the community that impacted this community in different ways — from the Performing Arts Center Facility Director to Pipestone Mayor to a small home-based hair salon owner to my college professor and to my very own farmer husband. The audience was all across the board, but everyone shared their passions and that was for their community and coming together. It was an incredible evening for me, and I even got to watch some eyes get sweaty, I knew I was in a room with amazing people who really believed and trusted me. I still get great feedback on the event and people recognize me as someone with a passion and a plan now, not just the new kid.
At the OTA Conversation event, one individual challenged me to have another event 2 weeks from then with different people. Little did he know, it was in the works.
Last week, I held an event in my very own backyard, the “Backyard Business Barbecue.” I wanted to bring together small businesses, large businesses, Chamber Members, potential Chamber Members, and everything in between. The day was here and we had all the food prepared, now came us to wait for people to show up. For a small, home based business, a new Chamber Member, and a business of only 1 year, we were very pleased with the attendance. People casually connected with people they may never have before, people inquired about becoming a Chamber Member, and everyone had a great time. We cannot wait to hold another event to see it grow.
Without the help of OTA, this update would not be but a figment of my imagination. I would have never put myself out there to even let my voice be heard or to even do the things I have so far. It is unheard of the new kid coming forward, but it has been accepted with open arms and ears. With all the kind words of the community and the “I appreciate what you are doing” with a firm handshake and gestures, this is totally possible for others and I hope inspires some to do the same!
Read more about Linsey here.
