Craig Golbesky currently serves as the Event Coordinator at The Barker Mansion in Michigan City. He holds a Master’s Degree in Art & Entertainment Administration from Valparaiso University, where he taught for several years. With two decades of managerial experience and a background in theater, Craig is excited to use his skillset to ensure that The Barker Mansion remains a place where history, entertainment, and special events come together seamlessly to captivate and enchant guests for decades to come.

Melissa Gronek has been a proud Michigan City resident since 2020, after moving from her hometown of Valparaiso, where she was a part of the VHS graduating class of 2007. She attended Valparaiso University and Purdue University before obtaining her Business Associates Degree in Accounting from Ivy Tech in 2013. She has quite the extensive work history, ranging from Retail/Inventory Management at a Pet Store, to Logistics, and finally Accounting, giving her a vast array of knowledge and an extensive skillset.

Melissa has been with Peepers since 2017 and has had the opportunity to showcase and utilize her skills in multiple departments of the Company. Having such a vast work history, she was able to contribute to the successful implementation of SOPs to create efficiencies within her previous departments of Product, Logistics & QC, and Finance, before entering the world of Operations and Distribution. She has been in her current role of Senior Operations Manager since 2020 and strives to ensure all Warehouse and Operations processes are at full efficiency to meet service level agreements for all B2B and B2C customers. She does this while maintaining a fun work environment with clear growth paths to provide opportunities for her team. She strives to keep her team engaged by having monthly awards and team building activities. By using a balance of fun and innovative technology, she has helped cultivate an exceptional work environment. 

When she is not working, no matter the season, Melissa takes every opportunity to be at one of Michigan City’s greatest treasures, the beach and lake! She might be seen camped out in the sand reading a book or drawing, catching a stunning sunset with her dog Stella, or getting some exercise by exploring the coastline, whether it’s on foot or on a paddle board. She loves riding her bicycle around town exploring all the local businesses, breweries, and restaurants. She may not have been born in MC but she feels like this is her true hometown.

Michele is excited to be working in Michigan City and the historic downtown. She has fallen in love with The Barker Mansion and the great significance the Barker Family has to Michigan City. Responsible for delivering a memorable, educational and engaging visit to the mansion, Michele oversee tours, weddings, teas, programming and special events. She is excited for visitors to see all the spectacular restoration that has gone into what she calls the “gem” of the city.