We are incredibly fortunate to have proactive, passionate business owners in Scribner who truly care about the well-being and future of our town. With over 70 thriving businesses and next to no vacancies downtown, Scribner is a rare gem in rural America—a vibrant and bustling community that many small towns can only dream of. This success speaks volumes about our people, our values, and the support of our residents who make shopping local a priority.
The recent sale of Lee’s Market beautifully highlights the strength of our community. After decades of dedication from Lee and JB Burkink, Scribner’s grocery store—a cornerstone of our town—is being handed over to none other than JB’s close friend, Joe Wolfgram. This transition isn’t just heartwarming; it’s critical to the continued success and stability of our town.
The reality is, grocery stores are vital to rural communities. According to the USDA, over 2,000 rural towns in the U.S. have lost their grocery stores since 2005. When that happens, retail sales decline by 20-40% over time, and residents are forced to drive 10-20 miles or more just to buy groceries. These closures often set off a domino effect, weakening the local economy and making it harder for small towns to thrive.
Thanks to the commitment of local business owners like Joe, Scribner doesn’t have to worry about becoming part of those statistics. Keeping a grocery store operational in a rural town is essential—not only for economic stability but for the health and well-being of the entire community. Lee’s Market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a lifeline that has helped keep our town strong and vibrant for decades.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Lee and JB for their years of dedication, for building a legacy of service, and for providing Scribner with one of its most vital resources. The community wishes you nothing but the best in your next endeavors. And to Joe, we are thrilled to see Lee’s Market enter this new chapter with such a strong foundation and a bright future.
Thank you to everyone who supports local businesses—you are the heartbeat of Scribner and the reason we continue to thrive while so many others struggle. Together, we’ve built something truly remarkable. Here’s to our shared past, our thriving present, and a future full of promise!