By Jeff Reynolds, former staff member
Note: Below is just a sample of the accomplishments of our lending staff from Sept. 1, 2015, to Aug. 31, 2016.
Panhandle Region: More than 62 students took a QuickBooks basic training course and received one-on-one assistance in QuickBooks.
South Central Region: Linda Kuhlman and Jodie Harper started a business utilizing an abandoned restaurant near Minden. At South Side Diner, LLC, the duo serves up hearty, made-to-order breakfasts and delicious, quick lunches. They received a Center for Rural Affairs loan and technical assistance including bookkeeping and online/social media marketing.
Southwest Region: 15 participants attended a Business Plan Basics class in North Platte in May 2016. With successful completion of the course and a written business plan with financial projections, participants are eligible to receive a $1,000 Business Plan Basics Boost Loan to implement their plan. Some participants use the funds to increase their presence in different markets and to increase inventory.
Southeast Region: Mitzi Snyder and her husband applied for a Center loan and purchased a building, opening Mitzi K’s Day Spa & Salon. Mitzi is an esthetician and has had a skin care business in Beatrice since 2008. Mitzi K’s currently employees nine staff.
Northeast Region: With a loan and business support from the Center, Arcadio Zepada purchased a food truck and opened Tu Casa in Madison in 2004. He moved the truck to Norfolk seven years ago. Recently, Arcadio and his brother, Ebodio, moved into a restaurant space.
North Central Region: (Featured photo) Kristy and Greg Parr recently moved Custom Sports to Norfolk with the help of a Center loan. The business offers custom embroidery and screen printing, and has nine employees including family members.
