Jacque’s Place in Sargeant is nothing fancy.

Thursday, March 28, 2002

Jacque’s Place in Sargeant is nothing fancy. It is the only grocery store in this little haven and the only spot to get a cup of coffee and something to munch on.

The owner, Jacque Nelson takes a relaxed approach to running her small business.

She is the caretaker for her grandson, Gabe and a neighbor’s child, three-year -old Jade. They spend the day with her at Jacque’s Place. Nelson has a crib that Gabe naps in and a couch for Jade to lay down for a cat nap. Toys are on shelves for the children and the customers that stop in usually have a word with the two children before they make their purchases.

"I used be a cook at the Hayfield school. This store needs to be in Sargeant. I am here for the people. I have been here eight years," said Nelson.

Nelson was hand-picked by the town to take over the grocery store. Danny and Diane Limbo were the former owners and Danny had to sell the business for health reasons. Nelson knew nothing about running a business but Danny Limbo convinced her to take over the store as it is a necessity for the town of Sargeant.

"I was scared at first to take over the business. Danny had me come in one day to show me the ropes and he said I would be on my own the next day. I learned how to do everything here pretty much on my own," said Nelson.

When Nelson first took over the store she sold grocery and hardware goods. Nelson is gradually getting out of the hardware business. Her first year of running the store she says was her easiest.

"It should have been my hardest but the suppliers didn’t put demands on my orders like they do now. Now the suppliers have to make quotas. My place is so small. If I don’t make the minimum order, I can’t get supplies," said Nelson.

Because of the demands of suppliers, Nelson must keep good track of what sells. The months of December through April are the slow months in her business. This winter she was debating whether to close up shop but she says she will keep the store open.

"It’s good for Jade and Gabe to have this store. I am going to remodel it soon, the building is over 100 years old. My husband Roger will be doing a lot of the work, he is very supportive. He is the one who supports me emotionally and financially," said Nelson.

Jacque’s Place has a coffee crowd stop in every afternoon. Nelson said some of the coffee patrons have diabetes so she doesn’t have to a have anything special for them to eat. She does offer microwave pizza or sandwiches. Nelson has a counter top with stools and two tables for people to kick back, relax and catch up with each other.

She keeps essential items on hand for the people of Sargeant and surrounding area. She has dairy products, bread, frozen pizza, soda pop and over the counter medications. She also rents out videos. She never has the latest box office videos as that would cost more, but last years hits are still enjoyable to view.