The Worthington Times

“Worthington is going to prosper”

Wendy Caudill had held a professional position in the mental health field for many long years, first in Fort Wayne, Indiana then in Owen County, when the “burn-out” started. Needing a break one day, she took a lunchtime drive through the country, ended up in Worthington and decided to stop at a store called Antique Alley. On her way in, she noticed a small sign—Shop For Sale. It was one of those moments when a life-changing decision is made without a second thought. She bought the store.

In the almost three years since that day, she’s moved, cleaned, fixed and painted—redecorating every corner in her own unique style. The walls are covered with framed art, Fiesta ware and handmade quilts are stacked on shelves, carnival and other glassware fill pie safes and cupboards, flowery overstuffed couches and rocking chairs sit on Oriental rugs—all accompanied by cheery chirps from a pair of parakeets.

Wendy says she’ll eventually move to Worthington but for now, she drives 30 minutes from near Cloverdale to get to work. She doesn’t mind and says, “Worthington is worth it.”

When Wendy looks at Worthington, she just doesn’t see a small town in decline. She sees a beautiful, peaceful town with a bright future. She sees opportunity. She talks about good traffic on the highway, the town’s great location on the traveler’s way to Shakamak and McCormick’s Creek State Parks, Greene-Sullivan State Forest and the Goose Pond, the Downtown Worthington Renovation Project, and new shops opening downtown.

Wendy’s enthusiasm is catching. Her sister caught it and now runs the Log Cabin Treasures store next door. Wendy is proud to be a businessperson in Worthington and says the people here have been welcoming. She is grateful for all their helpfulness, especially mentioning Denise Green of Worthington Antiques.

Wendy would like to meet more townspeople and we need to meet her. She’s part of a new hopeful attitude in downtown Worthington. Go take a look, introduce yourself, and meet the lady who says, “Worthington is going to prosper.” It’s refreshing. Welcome to Worthington, Wendy.