By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Governor Laura Kelly and administration announced the creation of the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) fund last Friday. The fund is shelling out $5 million in loans to restaurants, bars and convention centers that were in need of funds to make up for losses during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Department of Commerce announced that 344 Kansas businesses received part of the HIRE loans.
There were several local companies that applied and granted loans as part of this offer.
Baked Blessings Catering – Great Bend
Shai & Shiv LLC - Great Bend
Mug’s Downtown Bohemian Bakery – Ellsworth
Love Gambino’s Pizza - Rush Center
2011 Russell Ventures – Russell
Timothy’s Restaurant – Russell
Waudby’s Sports Bar & Grill – Russell
Midland Railroad Hotel – Wilson
More than 1,400 applications were received for the one-time, zero-interest loans up to $20,000.