Lori Gutsche, a dedicated server at Medicine Creek Café, a subsidiary of Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation (MCEC), has been selected as MCEC’s August Employee Spotlight recipient. With over three years of service under her belt, Lori’s commitment to her work, her warm heart, and her infectious sense of humor make her an invaluable asset to the cafe’s team.

The employee spotlight feature highlights MCEC workers who’ve gone above and beyond in their roles and duties and have been nominated by their managers to receive recognition for their efforts.

“Lori is a stand-out server that shines when she’s with our customers,” said Medicine Creek Café Manager Stephanie Gauna. “She’s an incredible team player and is always there to help whenever needed. Lori’s dedication to her fellow coworkers and customers creates a positive atmosphere at the café.”

Heather Bridge, the café’s assistant manager, echoed Gauna’s sentiment, expressing admiration for Lori’s diligence and genuine care.

“Lori has a huge sense of humor and a warm heart,” Bridge said. “She truly cares about all of us here at the café – both her coworkers and our customers alike. Her attention to detail ensures our customers leave satisfied, and we consider ourselves incredibly lucky to have her on our team.”

“Lori is a stand-out server that shines when she’s with our customers. She’s an incredible team player and is always there to help whenever needed. Lori’s dedication to her fellow coworkers and customers creates a positive atmosphere at the café.”

Medicine Creek Café Manager Stephanie Gauna.

Lori’s approach to her work is rooted in a strong work ethic and a natural inclination to help others.

“In all honesty, I feel like I’m always keeping myself busy,” Lori said of why Gauna may have selected her for the spotlight. “If I see that something needs to be done, I do it. If I see that somebody needs help, I make sure to assist them in any way I can. I don’t have to be asked. I know there’s always something I can do to help.”

Beyond her admirable dedication to her job, Lori cherishes the connections she forges with customers. Interacting with new faces each day sparks satisfaction for her daily.

“I just like meeting new people and getting to know them,” Lori said. “Sometimes it’s hard to make some customers happy, but when I work to solve a customer’s issue, I begin to build a relationship with them that could lead to them becoming a regular at the café. I love seeing all regulars and being part of their lives.”

“In all honesty, I feel like I’m always keeping myself busy. If I see that something needs to be done, I do it. If I see that somebody needs help, I make sure to assist them in any way I can. I don’t have to be asked. I know there’s always something I can do to help.”

Medicine Creek Café Server Lori Gutsche

As a cherished member of the Medicine Creek Café team, Lori also appreciates being part of a business owned by the Nisqually Indian Tribe. “I think it’s great. It’s amazing to know that I’m part of helping the Nisqually people thrive,” she expressed.

Outside of her passion for her work, Lori finds immense joy in her family life. As a single mom of a teenage son and adult daughter, Lori understands the value of support, especially in raising children. Equipped with this perspective, Lori relishes being able to support her daughter, a stay-at-home mom, when she visits home with Lori’s grandchildren two-to-three times a week.

A proud grandmother, Lori beamed with affection as she described her grandbabies, a two-year-old grandson, and a nine-month-old granddaughter.

“My grandson’s a wild one, let me tell you, and the little girl is at the age where she likes to imitate him,” Lori said. “It’s funny because he’ll be roughhousing with me, and she’ll crawl on top of me and growl. I love it.”

When she’s not busy at the cafe or spending quality time with her family, Lori stays active and enjoys fitness. “I am extremely proud of my fitness journey. I work hard to stay healthy for my family and those I love,” she said.

In her free time, Lori loves to head out to the beaches, whether it’s Ocean Shores or the occasional trip to Seaside, Oregon. She also embraces her inner child, hopping on her grandson’s big wheel and taking it for a spin, or going body surfing with her son in the ocean’s freezing waters.

Lori Gutsche’s vibrant personality, dedication, and love for life have made her invaluable at Medicine Creek Café. Her laughter and positivity uplift those around her, creating an environment where both colleagues and customers feel valued and cared for. As she continues to bring warmth and joy to the cafe, Lori Gutsche remains a shining example of the extraordinary people that make MCEC an exceptional organization to be part of.