SPEEDWAY, Ind. — Community.
For some reason, in this pandemic age, that word has more importance. It's a word that brings to mind collaboration, help and love. For Brooke Minnix, that word is everything.
Minnix operates B. Erin Designs, a boutique tucked away behind the iconic Charlie Brown's Pancake and Steak House in downtown Speedway.
In a town where racing is a way of life, her shop is filled with racing-themed merchandise from flags to clothing and accessories. When the race was postponed in May, she initially thought it could be devastating for her business. That thought changed quickly.
Minnix's dad, mom, sisters, cousins and friends helped with her little business and, despite the economic downturn, her store is making it. People have been coming in to buy gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and just because they want to be a part of making a local business succeed.
For Minnix, it's also been a time to help other local folks, including artists like Hoosier Justin Patten.
"Justin put his stuff in our store a couple of weeks ago, and that's what everybody is buying right now...all the garden flags, the regular size flags, the T-shirts, the stickers," Minnix said. "That's what everybody's into right now because that's the newest thing he does. His artwork is beautiful."
A look inside B. Erin Designs boutique
Minnix also credits the management and customers at Charlie Brown's for making this business venture work as some guests combine trips, visiting her shop after a meal at the restaurant.
Community.
It's what has kept this boutique alive. On race day, community will be here, blending the sound of foot traffic to the sound of cars up the street at the Motor Speedway.