After many years with the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department, Julie Dijkstra, 56, made a strong, but unsuccessful run for sheriff in 2010. Last year she returned to her home town to become chief of police.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Nappanee.
What schools did you attend?
I graduated from NorthWood High School and Ball State University
What is your fondest memory of growing up in Nappanee?
My favorite memories are walking up town to the Rexall Drug Store where my dad was a pharmacist and sitting at the counter drinking Cokes with my friends and riding our bikes to the community pool in the summer.
Describe the essence of Nappanee
in your eyes
Nappanee is a community where people truly do care about each other. I’ve always known Nappanee was a great place to live and in the past year I have learned it is also a great place to work.
What about Nappanee would you like to see changed or improved?
We need to continue to work with kids and find positive ways for them to stay active and productive.
What is Nappanee’s best kept secret?
There is so much to do in Nappanee. There are great places to shop and eat. You can see plays and movies and the library always has a full schedule of activities.
Who We Are
Related Photos
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Chief Julie Dijkstra confers with Capt. Doug Weaver in her office that's decorated with family photos and signs of her love of the Cubs. Dijkstra took over as the new Nappanee police chief Jan. 1. Denise Federow | The Goshen News
WHO WE ARE PROFILE: Julie Dijkstra
- Who We Are
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WHO WE ARE: Hispanic storefronts dot the community
As the Hispanic population in Goshen has grown over the years, an increasing amount of Hispanic-owned store fronts now dot the business landscape in the city.
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WHO WE ARE: Soccer's popularity keeps growing
When exploring reasons for the increased popularity of soccer in Goshen one fact that can’t be denied is the cultural diversity the city has and its contributions.
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WHO WE ARE: Technology is changing the face of business
Business fronts are no longer just on Main Street. They fit in phones, computers and tablets.
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WHO WE ARE: Goshen's park leagues are not forgotten
Since my daughter was 8 years old she has played travel softball. Our family vacations are always planned around weekend regional tournaments, four-day state tournaments, and even week-long national tournaments.
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WHO WE ARE: Local churches using technology
Turn your hymnal to page such-and-such and proceed to make a joyful noise.
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WHO WE ARE: Living the lake life in LaGrange County
When people in Elkhart County hear about going to the lake, they typically assume you are speaking of Southern Michigan or of the lakes in Kosciusco County.
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WHO WE ARE: Infrastructure changes with needs
Elkhart County residents have come along way since settlers traveled on foot and horseback through the forests on Indian paths 180 years ago.
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WHO WE ARE: A growing interest
Ever wish you had a better idea of where your food comes from? Ever wish you could see first hand what that food went through before it got to your plate?
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WHO WE ARE: Misconceptions about the Amish
The Amish religion has been part of the Elkhart and LaGrange county communities and cultures since the mid-1800s.
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WHO WE ARE: 175 years of communication
The community’s need for reliable information is as old as the city itself. The Goshen News is proud to trace its roots all the way back to 1837.
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