Eleven years ago, Dwight and Darcee Yancey saw the potential of a local mismanaged business.  While they knew relatively nothing about the dry cleaning or laundry industry they did know they could work hard and learn the ropes.  That was eleven years ago.  Today, they are proud to say that they continue to work hard at growing their customer base at Shawnee Cleaners located at 707 E. Independence in the Del Plaza shopping mall in Shawnee, Oklahoma.  The term hard work isn’t an exaggeration either; customers drop off and pick up their clothes Monday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Many would say all dry cleaners and launderers are the same, but Shawnee Cleaners’ customers would argue that personal service, convenience and flexible hours make all the difference in the world.  That work ethic and personal service was apparent to the Citizen Potawatomi Community Development Corporation (CPCDC) when the Yancey’s sought assistance to obtain newer equipment and remodel the company’s entryway.

Although the business had been running for several years, the Yancey’s experienced challenges many small entrepreneurs face.  “Small businesses have difficulty providing adequate cash flows for traditional financial institutions”, recalls Mr. Yancey.  “We didn’t have a consistent proven track record and felt apprehensive about approaching a conventional financial source.  Banks seem to have a stigma of requiring its customers to be a perfect fit of their credit mold, and it was somewhat intimidating.” After reading an advertisement about the CPCDC in the How Ni Kan, the Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal newspaper, the Yancey’s decided to call.  The Yancey’s felt as tribal members they could confidently approach the CPCDC and have their situation assessed objectively and not be scrutinized as individuals.

Standing behind Shawnee Cleaners newly stained counters the Yancey’s respond to what they remember about dealing with the CPCDC.  “The CPCDC offered solutions when others wouldn’t even hear us out.  Its staff was able to recognize the merit of our endeavor and believed in us.  Once we got all of the information needed from me to the CPCDC, our deal was wrapped up in just a few weeks.”  With newer equipment and a fresh facelift, Shawnee Cleaners has kept pace with other cleaners and actually increased turn around time for their customers.  “Before we received help from the CPCDC we felt like we were suffocating as a business.  Now, we have the capacity to grow and have a much more positive outlook.”  The Yancey’s are especially proud to have created the capacity to provide services for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.  “While servicing the nation represents a great opportunity for us revenue wise, we hope to show our appreciation to the tribe with extremely competitive pricing, dedication to quality and providing exceptional service.”

The CPCDC proudly supports Shawnee Cleaners and hope you too will take the opportunity to let the Yancey’s earn your business…and with hours like 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday it’s hard to say you won’t have a chance!

The Maverick Hotel, LLC

The all-suite Maverick Hotel, LLC located at 101 South Broadway in Tecumseh, Oklahoma.  The hotel’s name retains the legacy of the The Maverick Saloon which opened in Indian Country August, 1896 in the very spot the hotel now stands.  Known as being the “best remembered” of all Tecumseh saloons, it remained in operation until 1898.  In 1902, the corner lot was sold and the Exchange Bank of Tecumseh was built.  One of the first brick buildings built in the area, this beautiful two story structure was completed a year later in 1903 – four years before statehood.  Over a century later, destiny would have another twist for the site of the once saloon.  In 2006, the building was purchased by Bob & Cherie Trousdale, underwent extensive renovation and opened its doors in May of 2007.

This boutique hotel is truly a unique experience for the most discerning traveler.  This chic hotel boasts spacious and stylish accommodations at an exceptional value bringing the feel of the big city to small town America.  Whether you need a place to celebrate, a comfortable place to escape after a long day’s work or are visiting for leisure come and experience the intimate haven of comfort and style.  The hotel offers two spacious suites with contemporary amenities perfectly suited for today’s business and leisure travelers to include:

• Flat panel televisions
• Spacious bathrooms with large tiled walk-in showers
• En-suite kitchenettes stocked with complimentary snacks and beverages
• Complimentary high-speed, wireless internet
• Complimentary continental breakfast in the lobby

If that were not enough, the owner’s of the hotel, Bob and Cherie Trousdale, also operate this charming facility and will gladly customize packages and services to accommodate most any request.

Located in the heart of the quaint town of Tecumseh, the Maverick Hotel is a short stroll to Smokehouse BBQ, Zocalo’s (Mexican cuisine) and an Italian eatery Gliori’s Restaurant.  Of course, if you want soak in the luxury of your room and snuggle under the covers Pizza Hut delivers!  Already, travelers from all over the United States have delighted in the experience of The Maverick Hotel in addition to guests from Italy, France and Peru.

Although the Trousdale’s saw the vision of success for their establishment, turning it into reality was no simple task.  Mr. Trousdale recalls, “There were two major challenges we faced in bringing our business idea into reality.  The first was physical and included the design, demolition and renovation of the facility.  The second and greatest challenge we faced was the financing of the project.”

After acquiring a construction loan from a bank, unexpected overruns began to occur.  Due to the rising cost of materials, labor and the addition of a sprinkler system, another loan was acquired at a local bank.  With terms less than desirable, they began to consider alternative resources.  After reading about the award winning program offered by the CPCDC in the How Ni Kan, the Trousdale’s thought they should at least investigate their options.  Reflecting on visiting the CPCDC the first time Mr. Trousdale said, “At the CPCDC offices, we were received with a willingness to listen to our ideas, given expert advice, and offered help in every respect.  I was challenged to rethink my business plan.”  The counsel has proven accurate and after six months of business the Trousdale’s exceeded their goals and are excited about future growth. 

“In my business ventures, I have not worked with a more discerning group.  Their service was fast, accurate, and flexible enough o meet my needs.” reports Mr. Trousdale.  “Primarily, being able to depend on the knowledge, expertise and efficiency of the CPCDC staff has allowed me to focus on growing my business.  I am able to focus on marketing our facility and taking special care of the guests who depend on us.  Having developed a personal relationship with the CPCDC, I feel they truly are excited about our project and share our desire for success.  That gives me peace of mind.”