Two familiar faces in downtown Great Bend have decided to hang up their aprons and retire from the restaurant business.

Dennis Crouse and Rick Riggs, who will no longer own and operate RePerks and Tellers 1872, will be recognized for their contributions to the growth of downtown Great Bend at an upcoming retirement reception.

The public is invited to the event, which is set for 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at RePerks, 1216 Main. Crouse and Riggs will officially retire the next day.

“We wish Dennis and Rick all the best in their retirement,” said Sheryl Cheely, MyTown board member. “They deserve to kick back and enjoy some leisure time.

“We are truly grateful for their years of committed service. They always have been diligent but worked especially hard during the COVID pandemic and throughout the construction of Tellers 1872. We will miss seeing them and savoring their recipes.”

MyTown seeks tenant

MyTown board members are looking for an entrepreneur to fill the void at RePerks and/or Tellers 1872.

The coffeehouse will close for a short time but re-open after Thanksgiving; Tellers, 1919 Lakin, will be closed until a new owner is found.

“We are looking for someone who wants to own and operate one or both businesses,” said Mark Bitter, MyTown board member. “They would lease the properties from MyTown, which is always available for guidance. However, the owner would be responsible for the day-to-day operations.”

Current employees will be retained and the coffeehouse will revert to its original name – Perks.

“It is important to note that the new owner wouldn’t need a capital investment because both businesses are turnkey operations,” Bitter emphasized. “As a result of the fire in 2020, the kitchen has been completely rebuilt.

“There is no need to invest in new ovens, freezers or other necessary restaurant equipment,” he elaborated. “Everything is up-to-date and waiting for new leadership.”

For more information about the two properties, contact Mark Bitter by calling 620-793-0415.