April 10, 2012
Dear Honey Run Friends,
I have spent the last 30 months looking at the past of how Honey Run has been operated since the doors opened in November 1982. I have listened to your stories and memories, received cards from many of you, held countless conversations with Marge Stock and Margaret Schlichting (our founders of Honey Run), and reviewed past news articles and photography. During this process I have dedicated most of our focus to sentimental recollections of these bygone days. As I look forward to celebrating Honey Run’s 30th birthday this fall it has become evident that it is time to let go of how we did things in the past and begin looking forward to our future.
When you are through changing, you are through. – Bruce Barton
I recognize that change is difficult, but it is also exhilarating. If Marge Stock was not willing to fight through the local resident objections in 1980 Honey Run would not exist, now 30 years later, we peacefully cohabitate a small stretch of county road 203 in Holmes County and work together to provide for our families and worship our Creator. Thank God for change. The future of Honey Run is full of promise. We are improving the physical attributes of the facility, enhancing our team member training and skills, and implementing your suggestions all the while being respectful of our heritage. The final and most important element to Honey Run is not something we can provide; only you can. That is you and your experience. I have come to view Honey Run as a canvas. The canvas is the foundation, the home that holds the love and joy and you, the artist, paint upon this foundation. I invite you to come and create your Honey Run experience on our nearly completed renewed canvas.
One side note, if you are not familiar with Bruce Barton’s work you should look him up. He was a fascinating author and lived an interesting life. He also created the character of Betty Crocker and many other notable ad campaigns. I hope to see you soon at Honey Run.
Sincerely,
Jason Nies
I’m glad you spoke about change in your newsletter Jason. I was just at Honey Run with a friend the end of March. It had been a few years since my last visit I think. And I am an old timer with a 1st visit sometime after the Honeycombs were built and when Marge and Margret (and the sheep and goats) were very much present. My husband and I were there many times. A few years after he died, a friend and I stayed a few times. I have alway wondered – worried – about the inn changing since I have always loved it. But it has changed and I still love it. Honey Run still has the same peaceful feel it always did. The surrounding countryside, the Amish buggies and clip-clopping of the horses add to the serenity. Change has made the inn better with the gormet dining and upgrading overall. When I drive up the driveway I am in another world. When I leave my cup is filled. Thank you.
Jason,
Very nice epistle noting the 30 year celebration of The Inn. Being from the same Village as the architect, Granville, Nancy and I have always felt a closeness to The Inn through the years. Although we lost ‘Spooge’Blum several years back, we sense his presence in all pirces of The Inn and Honeycombs,
Nancy and I are looking forward to seeing you and The Inn at the forthcoming music seminar at months end.
Cheers/
Jim and Nancy Siegel
Dear Jason,
Thanks for helping me to remember what a special place The Inn at Honey Run is and always will be. I’ve been coming to visit for nearly 20 years. Although life has changed with every year and every visit, there is a feeling that remain at Honey Run that feeds and heals the soul. That is why I mention your Inn in my book, Energy Makeover. May the healing continue. I hope to be back often and will keep singing your praises.
best regards,
Betsy Muller
I knew Marjorie back when I worked with her , her father, Margaret and others downtown in the Hanna Building. Marge would spend her weekends in Millesburg with the Amish ladies. When she first opened the Inn my husband spent two weekends with the Amish helping them to work on the wooden furniture, The Inn is beautiful and the food is delicious and the Honeycombs are very nice too.