Wayne County CEO Students Visit Cider Barn Tree Farm & Ice Skating
On Wednesday, October 22nd, Wayne County CEO students had the opportunity to visit Cider Barn Tree Farm & Ice Skating, located just south of Fairfield off Highway 45. Owner and operator Mindy Brokaw graciously provided breakfast and shared her entrepreneurial journey with the students.
Mindy spoke candidly about the unique challenges of running a business that depends heavily on the weather. She discussed some of the lessons she’s learned along the way, including the importance of maintaining operating capital rather than spending all of it during the startup phase. She also shared the story of how she acquired the ice-skating rink—only to face an unseasonably warm first winter that made it difficult to keep the ice frozen.
Despite those early setbacks, Mindy persevered. In recent years, colder winters have brought success to the skating side of her business, though the recent summer’s heat and drought have challenged her tree farm operations. In addition, her business as an event venue continues to grow. She now hosts weddings and parties and is already booking events into the fall of 2026.
Students had the opportunity to visit and feed the animals at the farm and take part in a scavenger hunt Mindy had prepared. Collected items included pinecones, a persimmon leaf, and an acorn! Before students left, Mindy gave them a bit of “homework.” Always looking for new opportunities for growth and expansion, she encouraged students to brainstorm ideas for future events she might host at Cider Barn.
A big thank you to Mindy for her hospitality and for providing such an inspiring and hands-on visit. She is always a wonderful host! And I can't forget to mention Huck! He was our greeter, crumb cleaner and even saw us off to school!
