LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
PARIS—A unique blend of creativity, community spirit and holiday cheer is making waves thanks to a local craftsman from Rosedale, Ind. Known for transforming vintage tailgates into handcrafted benches, the artist’s work recently became the centerpiece of a clever promotional campaign designed to bring locals together and boost one small business’ sales.
The idea began simply: reward customers for exploring beyond their usual orders. At On The Tracks Cafe, guests could earn a raffle ticket by purchasing one of the daily specials or trying a dessert. The prize? A one-of-a-kind tailgate bench.
“We do specials every day—things like chicken noodles or chicken salad that aren’t on the regular menu,” Dustin Reed, co-owner of On The Tracks Cafe, said. “The idea was to get people to try something new, boost sales and add a little excitement for our customers.”
The artist from Rosedale crafts benches out of vintage tailgates sourced from junkyards. They are not only functional, but each piece is unique, combining rustic charm with a sense of nostalgia. Each selected tailgate has a distinctive character and is combined with sturdy timber to create benches that are as practical as they are eye-catching.
“He’s been a friend of mine for over 20 years,” Reed said. “I bought one of his benches for my own home, and it’s just beautiful. He does an amazing job.”
Unlike traditional giveaways, like televisions and gift cards, the handmade bench offered something genuinely distinctive.
“It’s not something everyone has,” Reed said. “It’s personal and has a story. That’s what makes it special.”
The promotion has been a successful drive for On The Tracks Cafe, with many customers enthusiastically participating. Some guests would start their day with breakfast at the restaurant, then return in the afternoon to purchase a qualifying lunch or dessert to increase their chances of winning. While the exact number of entries has yet to be determined, curiosity has been high and the community response has exceeded expectations.
The promotion ended on Sunday, Dec. 22, when a local teenager having lunch at the cafe was called upon to be the official raffle drawer. Patrons watched with eager anticipation as the name was announced; Debbie Hays was the lucky winner of the one-of-a-kind Chevrolet tailgate bench.
As the holiday season continues, the cafe’s creative promotion serves as a reminder of the power that small acts have to bring people together. Whether trying a new dessert, enjoying a hearty special or admiring a beautifully crafted bench, the Edgar County community found joy in celebrating local artistry and the spirit of giving.