The American Dream is Alive and Well

My husband, Tom, and I were out running errands this weekend and stumbled on a true example of the American Dream.

We had just finished shopping in Hallstead and decided to take a break for some ice cream. Our go to place was destroyed in the flood last year and
didn't rebuild, but we saw a new place, JEM'S, in the Rob's Market Plaza. So we figured we'd give it a try.

The owner, Joe, greeted us as we walked in. The decor was bright and comfy, with a hopscotch field going down the hall to the restrooms. Cute.
We ordered and Joe and his daughter were very pleasant.

As we sat and enjoyed our treats, Joe came over and we asked how he decided to open here. You see, the plaza was engulfed by flood waters last year.
We were surprised someone would give this location, or even an attempt at business in the area,even a thought.

Joe said he had a good job for years, but with the economy tanking, his company started laying folks off. He was a longtime employee, so one of the first to go. In a snap, he went from a stable income and life to unemployment. Being in his 50's he knew it was going to be tough to find work.

So, he decided to take a risk. He did his research and opted to open an ice cream parlor. He also opted to serve lunch foods too. He took his lifesavings, bought some equipment from the ice cream place we were mourning and hoped that the American Dream was alive and well.

So, far, JEM'S is doing well. It is the only year round ice cream place between Susquehanna and Hallstead, so there are plenty of customers to be had!

Joe decided to help another local business, so he serves ice cream products from a local dairy farm. Spreading the love, I call it.

Tom and I were impressed. Joe and his family were taking a risk because he knew this was the way to be employed. And he believed in the American Dream. I had heard of people doing this, but this was the first time I had talked to such an inspirational one. Even with the American economy, and our area in particular, being in the toilet, Joe was succeeding. Wow.

I have hope now. With people like Joe out there, the 'Dream' can live on. Granted, it's scary and a risk, but sometimes you have to have faith like Joe did and take the leap of faith. Many Americans are too scared or don't know where to start. What I took away from this meeting was that there is always someone willing to tell you how they laid out their roadmap so you can too.

Hmmm. With all the open storefronts in Susquehanna, I may have my 'plan b'. Live on American Dream and God bless America!