As the first Friday of the month rolled around, representatives from Stuart Chamber of Commerce businesses gathered to share ideas and good conversation. Though this event at Ruby’s Pub and Grill was a little extra special, as it was also the setting for U.S. Congressman David Young’s most recent visit to Adair and Guthrie counties.

Young spoke about the importance of these types of events in strengthening a community. “I think it’s important for events like this where people get together who own businesses and share ideas, share what works and what doesn’t work. Maybe how to compliment one another up and down the street and within a community. You know relationships matter. Not just people to people but, businesses can enhance one another, help one another out, refer each other back and forth.”

Young says the biggest challenge to business growth is technological infrastructure and broadband Internet. Young spoke casually with those gathered about a variety of topics, including: Farm Bill legislation, foreign tariff policies, abortion, and technology. The First Friday events rotate at a different Chamber business every month.