On their latest Spartan Day excursion, a group of six Triumph students and two staff sponsors spent an hour at Cheyenne Stitch, the city’s preeminent source for local sport apparel, with a start at The Florista, a coffee/tea food truck.
The Florista has a variety of unique beverages, and their specials often follow a literary theme, especially toward fantasy and young adult titles. Students Kaylee Syroka and Eve Parker laughed at the current Twilight-themed offerings. “I’m tempted to get the ‘Where the Hell You Been, Mocha?,” referring to a popular Twilight meme, “based on the name alone”, Parker said.
While waiting for their drinks to be prepared, students began their conversation with Steve Sears, the owner of Cheyenne Stitch and several associated embroidery and real estate ventures, including The Florista, which houses its production in Sears’ property. Sears shared the origins of Cheyenne Stitch and described how its offerings have evolved over time. He emphasized how social issues, including mental health awareness and humanitarian aid, are central to his business philosophy and community connections.
“A business can be a strong start to something bigger,” Sears stated. “Once you have a vision, an idea of what you want your business to be, it can become so much more.”
Inside the facility, students met Sears’ wife and business partner, Lisa, and toured the retail store and production space, where embroidery, pressing, and detailing, among other processes, take place. The group learned how products move from design conception through manufacturing and into retail. Steve also highlighted partnerships with the county’s two school districts, particularly in outfitting their sports teams and booster groups with apparel.
Looking toward the future, Steve shared an exciting business idea: an apprenticeship program that would invite district students to earn credits and gain valuable job experience within such businesses. The students were highly engaged in the conversation and expressed genuine interest in helping refine and participate in the proposal. Student Caden Clark, who is interested in pursuing apparel manufacture after high school, said “This could be like, my school, right? Can I take my classes here as a job?”
“Why not?” was Sears’
response, echoed by staff members Justin Earnshaw and Sandra Bott. Earnshaw asked rhetorically, “We’re an alternative school, aren’t we? Why shouldn’t we do something alternative?”
Steve also discussed his personal long-term vision, including his “offloading” plan for post-retirement life. While that stage may be many years away for the students, they appreciated hearing how intentional planning and a positive mindset can shape not only a career but also a fulfilling retirement.
By the end of the visit, students came away with more than an understanding of clothing manufacturing and retail—they also gained insights into leadership, community service, and the importance of investing energy into meaningful work. And some hilarious puns to accompany some truly tasty drinks.
