How far do you go to get a gallon of milk or a loaf of bread? In rural communities, accessing supplies can be a challenge. Many rural grocery stores have closed, but today we’ll learn about one which has newly opened.
Last week we learned about Shane Tiffany who owns and operates the Tiffany Cattle Company with his brother Shawn. He also operates a new full-line grocery store in rural Kansas.
Shane grew up in Morris County and met a student named Morgan from nearby Alta Vista. They became high school sweethearts and ultimately were wed.
In 2007, the Tiffanys came back to take over the local feedlot. In 2010, they moved to Morgan’s hometown of Alta Vista. “We love the community and love the people in the community,” Shane said. In fact, Shane found himself elected mayor. But something had happened in Alta Vista as the Tiffanys were moving there: The local grocery store was closing its doors.
“There had been a store in Alta Vista since the beginning of the town,” Shane said. “It had been in its current building since the 1970s.”
As mayor, Shane Tiffany recognized the importance of such a local service. It’s a source of business, jobs, sales tax revenue, food, and a social hub. Without it, the nearest store was 13 miles away. Shane approached various companies about reopening, to no avail. Continue reading “Kansas Profile – Now That’s Rural : Shane Tiffany – Part 2”
