Andrea Downing, or Andie as she’s known around the office, retired last week after 24 years as a sales person for the Lake County Leader.

Beginning her career in 1999, Downing was hired by then-publisher John Schnase. She’s seen the Leader and Advertiser through three owners: Todd and Carmine Mowbray, Lee Enterprises, and now, the Hagadone Corporation.

Over the years, she has enjoyed getting to know all her clients and many of them have become friends.  

“I like people,” Downing said with a smile. 

She’s left her mark as a professional, calm, personable and creative sales representative.

Plans for retirement include expanding her tie-dye clothing line. She caught the “tie-dye” bug several years ago and began producing tie-dye sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, onesies, and pretty much anything she could tie-dye. She also does special orders.    

Another perk of retirement will be spending more time with her grandchildren, Hayden and Haley.

Taking over Downing’s duties is Taurie Matt, who began working full time at the Lake County Leader Sept. 6. She can be reached at [email protected].