New Businesses Providing Boost to Rooks County
by Roger Hrabe 
(updated 12/2/2011)

New businesses continue to spring up around Rooks County.  The growth reflects a renewed effort on the part of the cities of the county and the Rooks County Economic Development Office to encourage local entrepreneurs to start businesses and create jobs.  Creating jobs one or two at a time can have a tremendous long-term impact on area downtowns and the economy as a whole.

Indigo by JasmineOpening on a limited basis at 318 1/2 Main (located between Lindee Lou's and Sand Creek Mercantile) is Indigo by Jasmine.  The quaint little jewelry and accessory shop is run by Vipuwan Thangsuwan, or "Pook" as she is known by her family and friends in Stockton.  Pook recently opened Indigo by Jasmine in Hays at 111 West 8th Street, and decided to make the Stockton store a part-time extension of the Hays business.

Indigo by Jasmine has a little bit of everything for everyone and rivals anything you can find in other stores of its kind.  The necklaces range from unisex necklaces made of wax string and silver to beads and crystal in all  the unique styles and fashions that are so popular today.  Her jewelry can be mixed and matched, from cuff and Chinese bracelets to pearl and chandelier earrings, as well as rings, hair clips, bows and head bands decorated with crystals to animal prints.

The Stockton store will be open on Monday and Tuesday from 111:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including the noon hour.  She is also available after hours those evenings by calling 785-259-7213.  She will spend the remainder of the week at her Hays store from Wednesday to Sunday during the hours of 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Top Notch DesignsCourtney Hrabe is the owner of a new business in Plainville called Top Notch Designs.  Top Notch Designs can handle all of your screen printing and embroidery needs on items including coats, bags, towels, t-shirts, hats vests, scrubs, and baby clothing.  Brands that are carried include Holloway, Augusta, Gildan, Bella, Hanes, Columbia, and many others.

Right now Courtney is running the business out of her home located at 106 S. Kansas.  Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  You can reach Courtney by phone at 785-656-2693, by e-mail at topnd@ruraltel.net, or on Facebook.

Xtreme Hydrographics, one of the latest new businesses to open in Rooks County, brings the latest custom coating technology to Northwest Kansas.  Owners Rob and Jana Sutton of Damar, hope the idea of custom coating everything from ATV's and guns, to something as small as a pen, will catch on throughout the area.

Xtreme HydrographicsThe Suttons used the Rooks County Micro Loan program to help get their business off the ground.   They become the 20th new business to use the local program to help start a new business.

Xtreme Hydrographics offer a state-of-the-art Water Transfer Imaging Service that allows you to customize your Sporting Goods, Vehicle Parts & Accessories, and any other Personal or Home Good that can be safely submersed in water.  The applications are endless.  Check out their website for more information at  http://www.xtremehydrographics.com/   You can also contact them directly at 904-955-8069 or email rob@xtremehydrographics.com.  Rob and Jana look forward to serving you.

Sand Creek MercantileSand Creek Mercantile officially opened their door on October 1, 2010 at 316 Main in Stockton.  If you like shabby vintage, and some time-worn things, with a few new items here and there, you might want to stop in this new business run by Cheryl Calvin. SCM features unique items such as distressed furniture, chairs, dropleaf tables, headboards, home decor and a host of other vintage items that have been lovingly used and are looking for a new home.  The store hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and then on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

 

Tyler's AutomotiveOpening September 7, 2010 in Plainville is Tyler's Automotive.  Tyler Ganoung, a Plainville graduate, has been working in the automotive repair business for a number of years and has now set out on his own.  Tyler is operating the business at 201 W. Mill Street in Plainville.  Tyler's Automotive is open M-F 8-5 and Saturday by appointment.  He can be reached at 785-656-2225.

 

Lil' Tigers PreschoolSometimes when one door closes, another door opens.  Such is the case with Stockton latest entrepreneurial venture--Lil' Tigers Preschool.   With the budget cuts forced upon the local school district, Stacey Keas found herself as a victim of the downsizing.  But still with a passion for teaching, Keas decided to open a preschool in Stockton and continue working with area youth. 

With the help of husband Doug, and the labor of young men from Teen Challenge in Alton, the building located at 511 Main was renovated from office space to rooms that are kid and learning friendly.  Bright colors on the walls, newly-covered floors, and plenty of bulletin board material make the rooms inviting.  Parents have access to the rear of the building for loading and unloading, so they do not have to find parking on Main Street. Lil' Tigers Preschool can be reached by calling 785-623-1918.

Plainville Self StorageA new self-storage business in Plainville replaced several dilapidated buildings along Highway 183 in August, 2010.  Plainville Self Storage is owned and operated by Thea and Steve Baldwin, and is located just to the south of the intersection of U.S. 183 and Mill Street.  The storage units range in size from a small room, to big enough to hold an RV.  For more information on renting a unit, call 785-737-3351.

Another new storage facility to open is Discount Storage Units in Damar.  The units vary in size from 10 x 10, to 10 x 20.  Interested renters can call 785-737-8016 for more information.

Shirley May's Deli & CateringShirley May's Deli & Catering set up shop in a former convenience store location in Stockton at 303 Main in May, 2010.  Shirley May's not only offers catering services, but also has a complete deli, with customers able to order fresh deli meat and made-to-order sandwiches.  Shirley May's is part of Webster's Supermarket, a long-time fixture in downtown Stockton.   Contact Shirley May's at 785-425-6751.

Stitch and ChatterStitch and Chatter opened its doors at the end of April, 2010 at 513 Main in Stockton. Idona and Dennis Duncan created the business for quilters and sewing ladies/gentlemen in and around the area..   The two saw the need for this type of store in town and have created a cozy atmosphere where people can come to shop for material and supplies, or to have their sewing machines repaired.

Stitch and Chatter was conceived so people can find the items they need for sewing and quilting since some store franchises are phasing out their material sections.  Business hours at this time are from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays.  They will also be open some evenings.  Just give them a call at 785-415-2015.  Check out their hours or look online for their e-mails at doandunk@hotmail.com  or www.stitchandchatter.com

Carousel BakeryCarousel Bakery and Cafe opened its doors to the public in May, 2010 at 1003 S. Cedar in Stockton.  The business is owned by Laurie Calvin and Dominic Antonini.  Specialties at the new establishment include pastries, special occasion cakes, and will soon offer lunch.  Laurie was employed as a pastry chef in Wichita before moving to Stockton.  Dominic also lived in Wichita for several years, but grew up in Tucson, Arizona.  They can be reached at 785-415-2222.

 

Cardinal Drive-InThe Cardinal Drive-In in Plainville has opened once again after a long absence.  Owners Pam & Doug Emerick officially opened the facility on April 21, 2010, and are now offering drive-in, dine-in, or carry out orders.  In addition to daily specials, the Cardinal offers 8 varieties of ice cream.  They are open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, and are a smoke-free facility.  Orders can be called in at 785-434-2513.

Several new businesses have recently started operations in Stockton.   Robert Wise Art & Engraving is a new business started in April 2010 by local Stockton artist Robert Wise.  Well-known by locals for his artwork, Robert's new business focuses on awards, plaques, gifts, signage, and  memorialization.  Engraving and artwork can be done on marble, wood, granite, plastic, glass, metal, or tile.    Robert can be contacted at 785-425-8816, or by e-mail at artist1@ruraltel.net

Mark Kuhlmann, as part of his existing business (Kuhlmann Remodeling & Construction), has built a cabin in south Stockton that is available for lodging.   Kuhlmann Lodging is fully furnished, and includes 2 bedrooms, one large bath, and a full kitchen and appliances.   The cabin is available for rent at $50 per night for 1 or 2 people, and $75 per night for 3 to 4 people.   Children 12 and under stay free.   To reserve the cabin, call 785-425-6491 or 425-8090.

Cune's Corner, located at 101 South Foster in Stockton, had their official opening on March 15, 2010.  Miranda (Byfield) McCune opened the quaint ice cream shop in the east part of Stockton on Highway 24 and offers a variety of ice cream concoctions to tempt everyone's tastebuds.  In addition to ice cream treats, Friday and Saturday offerings include full meal specials.  

Miranda said she opened up the business because she really likes serving the public and has been working in restaurants all of her life.  She is very excited about the venture and is receiving help from her husband, Justin, and son Sam, as well as her father, Kendall and mother Neva. Business hours are 3:00 p.m. to10:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.  Orders can be called in at 785-415-2020.

The Happy Frog PondOn Saturday, November 7th, 2009, The Happy Frog Pond in Damar celebrated it Grand Opening.  Kaylon Roberts, who owns the building and funded it's refurbishment, gave a speech and dedicated the establishment "To all of our ancestors, who, like ourselves, experienced long hours of hard work and many hardships. At the end of the week, they took time to gather together, relax, and enjoy themselves.  Here's to us keeping with that tradition."

The Happy Frog Pond is a non-smoking establishment. It is open from 3pm-midnight Mon-Sat and is located on Main Street in Damar. You are invited to come out on Sat, Nov 14th for karaoke, every Tuesday night for Pinochle and every Wednesday night for Poker.

 

Liberty Buildings, LLCA ribbon cutting ceremony was held October 23, 2009 to kick off the Grand Opening for Liberty Buildings LLC of Plainville.  Liberty Buildings is an authorized dealer for Span-Tech Fabric Covered Buildings Wick Buildings, and Sentinel Building Systems.  Visit their website at www.libertybuildingsllc.com. .   The new business is owned by Roger Comeau, with Rod Cellmer as salesman.  The new business is now located at 100 SW 9th St.. For information call Rod at 785-477-3472 or e-mail at rodc@ruraltel.net

 

DMW PhotographyPlainville resident Danielle Waggoner officially began her new business, DMW Photography, in August of 2009.  Since then she has been busy doing wedding photography, senior pictures, and family/child pictures.  For now, her studio is located at 217 1/2 W. Mill St. in Plainville, but will change when a new house is completed.  She can be reached at 785-303-0707, by e-mail at info@dmwphotography.com, or danielle_waggoner@yahoo.com.  She also has a website from which you can view her work at www.dmwphotography.com

 

 

Plainville Auto BodyJack Goering, with partner Rick Brown, opened Plainville Auto Repair in July, 2009.   Located in the former JJ's Auto repair shop at 310 N. Jefferson,  Goering and his son Phillip will be working together in the shop.  The elder Goering has 30 years of mechanic experience.   They plan to offer full auto and truck services, from farm trucks to tractors and semis as well.

Goering can do repairs from transmission and engine replacements, to tire sales and alignments, with fully updated diagnostic equipment.  Goering has the capability of performing a flash of a vehicle's computer system for major vehicle brands.  Currently Goering has clients from as far away as Wichita.  The business will be operated under the name Plainville Auto Repair. They can be reached at 785-434-4728.

 

Spangenberg PhillipsNew to Stockton in 2008 is Denae Denio with Spangenberg Phillips Tice Architecture.   Denae is located at 104 N. Walnut and specializes in interior architecture, but contact her for all your architecture needs.   SPT has someone on staff who can handle your needs.  To contact Denae, call 785-425-6272.

A new business in Plainville will help meet the needs of construction companies and others that have temporary job sites.  ASC Portables is owned by Lance and Angie Armbrister of Plainville, and provides portable restrooms for temporary job locations.  Lance can be reached by cell phone at 785-623-3443, or at 785-434-4765.

Starting a new construction business in March 2009 is Greg Balthazor doing business as G and K Remodeling.  G & K will do painting, drywall, windows, doors, and general remodeling.  They can be reached at 785-425-6340.

Another new construction business was started in Plainville by Roger Morris.  Morris, a former school principal, is now back in Plainville and has started a Home Improvement/Handy Man Services business.  Kitchen and bath remodeling, new cabinets, countertops, decks, interior and exterior painting, windows, floor installation, and siding are just a few of the areas that can be completed.   Call 785-737-6010.

The latest business addition to the city of Palco is Get Hooked Kansas. Jessica Schwab has opened this home-based business that will distribute a unique brand of fishing equipment at trade shows, local and area events, online, and through distributors throughout Kansas.   This fishing equipment is unique in that the design makes it very portable and especially useful for hikers, campers, and travelers.  To get a look at the equipment yourself, visit Jessica's website at www.gethookedkansas.com. She can also be reached at 785-737-4146.  

Three new construction businesses in Stockton began operations in the summer of 2008.  Mtb Construction is owned by Duane Pulec.  They do concrete removal & replacement, concrete flatwork, pole buildings, and misc. carpentry.   They can be reached at 785-425-8585. Also opening is Mudd Construction Co.  Mike Faris is the owner of this new business after years of working for Roy Construction in Stockton.  The services Mudd Construction will provide include concrete construction (flatwork, foundations, basements, storm shelters, and repairs; metal buildings, new construction and repairs, carpentry, and snow removal.  Mike can be reached at 785-425-7136.

The exercise equipment purchased two years ago by the Stockton Recreation Commission for the town's wellness center, has found a home in the former Rooks County Health Center Clinic on Main Street.  The Stockton Recreation Commission has now opened the Stockton Recreation Fitness Center to the public.

Stockton Recreation Fitness CenterThe center includes a set of free weights, twelve isolation machine weights used for upper and lower body workouts, three exercise balls, inclining treadmills, elliptical bicycles, three stationary bikes, a Stairmaster, etc.

The Recreation Commission has established membership prices for a variety of needs.  Single memberships are $17/month; Member & Spouse, $27/month; Member & Family, $37/month.  An Annual Single Membership is $170; Member & Spouse, $270; and Member & Family, $370.  A Guest Daily Rate is $5, and Guest Weekly Membership is $10.

A keyless entry swipe card system is in place that allows people to use the facility at their convenience and it will be activated when memberships are paid.

DNA TransmissionAfter years of working in the city of Denver, Colorado, Doug Earl and his wife, Nancy, have moved back closer to his home and opened their own business, DNA Transmissions, located in Stockton. Doug, who was originally from Woodston and attended Stockton High School in the late 1970's, decided to go out on his own after building transmissions and working on cars for other companies over the past 30 years.

The two set up shop on August 12, 2008 in the Ballard Auto & Sand Toys building at 524 Main Street in Stockton.  Doug can work on any make, any model or any year of car, both foreign and domestic, with all work guaranteed.  Services offered include automatic, standards, transfer cases, brakes and suspension, electrical, diagnostics, engine repair and rebuild, differentials and much more.

Their business hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.   Telephone numbers are 785-425-6777, and 877-425-0777.

Starting a new construction business in Damar in May, 2008 is Dustin Christensen.  Dustin will do garages, additions, remodels, roofs, framing, and siding.  He can be reached at 785-230-8400.

Also starting a new construction businesses in Plainville are local residents Justin Balthazor and Blake Waggoner,   Precision Construction & Roofing, and Shawn Smith, Shorty Construction.  Precision Construction can be reached by calling 785-577-6097 or 785-259-3875.   Shorty Construction can be reached by callling 785-434-4947 pr 785-259-4287.

April's Imagination is a new small business in Stockton that makes customized and personalized gifts (photo mat, books, stationary).  April Chesney is the owner of the new business that began operations in May, 2008.  The website for April's Imagination is www.aprilsimagination.com.  She can also be contacted at 785-259-8792 or e-mailed at april@aprilsimagination.com

Hrabe Flooring In April, 2008, Hrabe Flooring began as a new business in Plainville.  Matt Hrabe began the business after working in the flooring business in Sabetha, Kansas for nearly a year.  Matt can handle all of your carpet, hardwood, laminate, and tile needs.  On June 11, 2011, Matt opened a new retail space at 215 W. Mill St. in Plainville and now has a complete showroom of all the available flooring materials that he has available. He can be contacted at 785-688-4066 or 785-650-9535.

 

 

 

Clipper EnergyClipper Energy, LLC purchased the former Prairie Ag & Auto building located on Highway 18 (NW 3rd) in Plainville in November of 2007.  Clipper Energy is involved in oil exploration and production, and has expanded their operations to the Rooks County area.

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Farmer's National BankAfter operating out of temporary offices for several months, the Farmers National Bank formally opened their new facility at 306 S. Cedar in Stockton on May 7, 2007.  The new facility is one of several branch banks for Farmers National.  They also operate banks in Phillipsburg, Agra, Logan, and Kensington.  Drive up hours are now available also from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  The bank can be accessed online at www.farmersnationalbankonline.com, or calling 785-425-7007.

 

The DugoutThe Dugout Sports Bar & Grill opened the weekend of February 27, 2010 in Plainville at the former location of Aces & Eights Bar & Grill at 105 E. Mill Street. The restaurant features daily specials, as well as the normal lunch and dinner meals.   Hours are Tuesday - Thursday for 11:00 a.m. to close, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2 a.m.,  and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m..  Phone is 785-688-4160.

 

Equity Builders in Stockton does general contractor work and remodeling.  They can be reached by calling 719-248-4905.

Blaine's Electric, LLC opened for business in 2007 in Plainville.  Blaine Brown is owner of the new business and is a master electrician specializing in residential and commercial service.  Call Blaine at 785-656-0611.

Lindee Lou'sLindee Lou's Gifts & Floral is a new business opening February, 2007 in Stockton focusing on planning weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, bridal showers, baby showers, proms and any other type of special occasion.  Located at 322 Main, owner Linda McLaughlin has a large supply of rental items, flowers,  and other items needed for your special occasion. Contact Linda at 785-425-8521 or e-mail to linmac@ruraltel.net

Servo Source, located at 1224 Main in Stockton, opened in early 2007 and manufactures and tests components for CNC Mills, and Servo II Retrofits.  Owner and President Everett Reeve started the company in California, but had contacts back here near Stockton and had spent some time here and liked the community.  He decided that he could conduct his business from here.  Including himself, there are two local employees.

 

Your Insurance Corner - PalcoYour Insurance Corner of Stockton celebrated the opening of a new branch office in Palco on Friday, September 15, 2006 with a ribbon cutting and open house.  Located in a newly-refurbished building on Main Street, the business will serve the insurance needs of the Palco area.

Mark Lowry, owner of the new business, is excited about the new office and becoming a part of the Palco community.

C & J Welding, LLC started operations in Plainville in November, 2006.  Clifford Husmann, a long-time local welder, is the new business owner.  He can be contacted at 785-434-7380, or on his cell at 785-303-0016.

 

Little Rooster Day CareA group of Palco citizens saw a need for Palco residents, and went forward with the idea of bringing a day care to town.  Lil' Roosters Day Care opened for business on September 5, 2006. "We were concerned, and realized young parents needed a place to take their kids," said Chris Desbien, Day Care Board member.  She explained that many parents work out of town, and take their children to Day Care in that town, where they also begin pre-school and then school.  

With day care in Palco, the idea was to keep kids in town for not only day care, but on through pre-school and their school years. The Lil' Roosters Day Care is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and has rates for full-time, part-time, and drop-in children.  It serves breakfast, lunch, and a p.m. snack.

End of the Line HobbiesEnd of the Line had their grand opening in Stockton on May 27, 2006.  Located at 422 Main Street, End of the Line is a hobby store that is also the home to the Stockton Area Train Club.  They have plenty of train, plane, rocket, car and slot car hobby items on hand.  Radio control planes and cars are on order with owner Marian Conyac stating that if the club doesn't have it, they can order it in.  Public hours for the train club are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Saturday, and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.  Appointments can be arranged by calling 785-425-6606.

 

 

Bonnie Plant FarmThe Bonnie Plant Farm of Union Springs, Ala., purchased the complex formerly occupied by The Tomato Factory in the Plainville Industrial Park and is now in the process of planting for the Spring and Summer of 2006.  Four new greenhouses have been constructed for a total of 17 greenhouses and 70,000 square feet of growing space. The facility will produce starter plants mostly of vegetables and herbs, but a few flowers will be grown. The plants will be trucked to a territory including the area of Kansas west of Topeka, and a portion of Nebraska and the Oklahoma panhandle.

American Eagle DrillingOne of several new oilfield businesses that began operations in 2006 is American Eagle Drilling, LLC.  The company yard is located on W Road, one-half mile west of U.S. 183.  The company can be reached by calling 785-434-2079.

Another new oilfield business is Flatland Tank Service in Plainville.  Plainville native John Plante started the business in response to the resurgence in oilfield activity.  Flatland Tank Service can be reached at 785-434-6016.

 

 

Stockton Funeral ChapelThe Stockton Funeral Chapel, located at 805 N. Cedar in Stockton, opened in September, 2005 in an empty church building.  The building has been renovated to provide a comforting atmosphere for families.  Managers of the business are Mike and Denise Kemp, and assisted by Deb Jones.  Contact information for the firm are on a website at www.stocktonfuneralchapel.com, or phone 785-425-6255.

 

 

Ballard's Ballard Auto's and Sandtoy's opened in September, 2005.  They are now located blocks south of U.S. 24 on Hwy 183 in Stockton.  For sale at the new location are used automobiles, as well as ATV's.  The owner of the new business is Scott Ballard.  To contact Scott, you can call 785-994-6296.

The OfficeThe Office, located at 1209 Main Street in Stockton, officially opened for business as of August 1, 2005.  The new building houses snooker and 8-ball tables, darts, video game arcade, and tables for card games.  There is also plenty of room for dances.  The Office, owned and operated by Rick Lowry, also serves pop, snacks, sandwiches, pizza, beer and wine coolers during their business hours of noon to 12:00 a.m.

 

 

Cornerstone Building & DesignAnother business that officially started on August 1, 2005 is Cornerstone Building & Design, LLC.  This Plainville-based construction business is owned and operated by Michael Reed.  Reed is also looking for a permanent location in Plainville, and is currently operating from 610 S. Section Line in Plainville.  Reed has already undertaken several projects in the area including renovation work for Rooks County Economic Development, Unrein Healthmart, and the tornado-damaged Nova Theatre in Stockton.  Reed can be reached at 785-434-4892 or 785-650-1586.

 

Stockton ChiropracticDrs. Dustin Cheney and Susan Buchanan-Cheney of the Phillipsburg Chiropractic Clinic have now opened a satellite facility in Stockton as of January, 2005.  The Stockton Chiropractic Clinic is located at 504 Main.  The business fills a void in chiropractic care in the community of Stockton.  Customer should make an appointment by calling 785-425-6060.


 

Mortensen Computer Systems has officially set up a permanent residence at 318 Main in Stockton as of December, 2004.  Shawn Mortensen has operated his company on a part-time basis in Stockton for just over a year, but now that he has a permanent home in the Stockton Business Center operated by Rooks County Economic Development.  The company services computers, sells new computers, and installs software.

Gifts & MoreOpening the week of September 20, 2004 was Gifts & More located at 122 W. Mill in Plainville.  Owner Carol VanDyke's business offers Candy Bouquets, gift bags, pops and balloons, and many other items that would be great gifts for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.  Included in the list of products are numerous KU and KSU items.

 

 

 

Nex-TechRural Telephone/Nex-Tech has now opened offices in both Stockton and Plainville.  Rural Telephone has purchased the rights to provide cable television in both communities and will now provide bundled services that include cable, local and long distance telephone service, and high-speed Internet service.  The office in Stockton is located at 523 Main and opened in October, 2004.  The Plainville office is located at 112 S. Main, and opened in December, 2004

 

 

Stockyard CafeRenewed activity on the west edge of Plainville along Highway 18 has let people know the Sale Barn Cafe has re-opened.  On Thursday, May 27, 2004, Pat Hageman, along with members of the Plainville Chamber of Commerce, performed a ribbon-cutting to officially announce the restaurant's opening.  Hageman, the sole owner of the facility, said the restaurant offers another choice for people who enjoy dining out, with a full-service menu. In March of 2009, the cafe was sold and is now owned and operated by Shelly Nordyke, and is known as the Stockyard Cafe.  The restaurant is open 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily.  Their phone number is 785-688-4164.

 

Simple Business SolutionsSimple Business Solutions opened in Plainville in November, 2003 to fill a need in the business accounting area.  Maria Simon and Lana Zajic started the business that will do accounting, billing, and collections for small businesses that don't have the manpower or expertise to do that type of work.  Located at 118 W Mill in Plainville, SBS hopes to grow as business increases.

 

VanDyke Rifle DesignsAlso opening in November 2003, is a home-based business in Plainville called VanDyke Rifle Designs.  John VanDyke opened the business in his home to capitalize on the market for custom-built rifles.  A website at www.vandykerifles.com, has enabled John to market his product to people from all over the country.

In 2009, John constructed a new building on 17 Road north of Plainville that will allow for more room for the operation.

 

 

 

 

Polymer ServicesFormer resident, Randy Prater, has purchased the former Helmrich and Payne building in Plainville and has moved the offices of Polymer Services into the building located north of the city limits on W Road.  The company specializes in injection of polymers into oil wells which helps limit salt water entry into the well.  The company employs five people at the present time.  The business officially opened in November, 2003.

 

Auto WashAuto Wash features an automatic wash bay that allows customers to stay in the car and let the machines do the work.  That feature will surely be appreciated during the cold, winter months.  Previously, the closest automatic wash was located 30 minutes away.  There are also bays available for hand washing cars as well as larger trucks.  Local businessman Don Brown contracted with Stockton builder, Roger Roy, to see to the completion of the entire structure.  The business had it official ribbon cutting on October 10, 2003.  In August 2010, the business was sold to Don and Laura Moffett.

Main St. TradingAlso opening in 2003 in Stockton is the Main Street Trading Post which has combined the Main Street Treasures and Trading Post stores into one large antique and collectible shop.  The new business is located at 505 Main.  Inside you will find unique items, collectibles, antiques, and more.  

 

A&T Trucking began operations in May of 2003.  Alvin and Tressia Paramore own the new company that will contract haul loads around Kansas and around the country.  The Paramore's used the county Micro-Loan program to purchase the vehicle and provide working capital.

Businesses that opened from 2000 to 2003 included Prairie Ag & Auto, Home Resort Spas and Timeless Oak, Portraits by Michele,   Dollar General, Picture This, and Kuhlmann Remodeling & Construction in Stockton.

Other businesses starting up or changing ownership include Palco Grocery and Deli, and Jane's Manes in Palco; Hide it Here Storage, Precision Body and Paint, Plainville Short Stop, White Eagle Resources, Windshield Repair of Plainville, and Stat Medical Billing in Plainville; Prockish Products and Designs, and Outback Framing in Stockton.

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