The 2024 Kansas Department of Commerce awarded “To the Stars” business awards in September. Republic County Economic Development nominated County businesses.
Cuba Cash Store and Noah Cardi won a regional award for North Central Kansas in the Non-Traditional Talent Pools category. This division honors companies that have gone above and beyond to hire those with prior involvement in the justice system, youth, seniors or individuals with disabilities.
For 135 years the people of Cuba have been going to the same building for groceries and for foods that are key to the strong Czechoslovakian heritage of the area. The building and business changed ownership for the first time in three decades when Cheri Cardi, of Cuba, bought Cuba Cash Store in October 2016. Loyal customers continue to support the store. And the desire to keep a grocery store in the 135-year-old stone building lives on. The local grocery store is an integral institution of rural communities and in rural life.
Not only does the local grocery store provide the sustenance of life, it fills the roles of economic driver, community builder, employer, and meeting place. Running a small rural grocery store in a town of one hundred and thirty-eight people is essential to the community, but it also comes with immense challenges. But, Cheri and her son Noah have continued to provide this essential service throughout the years.
Noah is the light of the town. He mans the register, takes out groceries, and greets everyone with a smile. While the world might characterize Noah as having challenges, the town knows that he has no limits. Cuba residents show up to help unload the truck weekly and in turn, Cuba Cash provides Czech bologna, kolaches, some of the best sandwiches around from the meat case, and grocery staples. Cuba is an amazing town with the ability to fundraise and celebrate. Cuba Cash is integral in providing the groceries for the Cuba Rock-a-Thon, the Cuba Harvest Festival, and the annual Republic County Czech Club king and queen crowning each year.
For more information on the To the Stars Business awards go to: kansascommerce.gov/tothestars/kba2024/#h-merit-award-winners
