Those present for the USDA RD check presentation were:  Nancy Larsen, SEFP Enterprise Facilitator;

Philip Svartoien, SEFP; Amber Taylor, Store Manager; Luverne Langerock, SEFP; David Bender, Menno

State Bank; Sheri Lewis and Trace Davids, State USDA Rural Development.

Menno Development worked with SEFP to create their IRS Non-Profit status and save their grocery store

campaign.  Investors stepped forward and purchased the store.  The next step was to apply for the

9006 Energy Efficiency Grant through USDA Rural Development to enhance the lighting in the store and

replace old inefficient freezers and coolers. 

This matching grant demanded that the group have 75% of the funds “in hand”.  Once the information

was identified and typed, it was sent to Sherri Lewis for final critique, packaging and delivery to the

State Rural Development office.  Months after submission, the news came that this very competitive

Federal Grant was successful.  Thanks go to all for cooperating for the good of the Menno Community.