Cafe seeks funds to reopen

A local business is hoping the community will give them the boost they need to reopen.

When LaRae Sifuentes and her family first took over Bird Dawg Cafe and renamed it Loco Ketchup Cafe, many were excited to hear it would be open all year long.

Loco Ketchup Cafe was humming along for a number of months, and many were enjoying the addition of delicious Mexican fare to the menu. As planned, Sifuentes then closed the cafe for the holidays to make time to update the 75-year-old building's interior.

However, she was unable to reopen in mid-January as scheduled, leaving many to wonder why.

In a Facebook post on March 17, that question was finally answered.

"So here's an update on why we haven't opened," wrote Sifuentes. "Right now we are having to start all over and get an almost 75-year-old building up to code. It seems like every corner I turn there's a brick wall."

Specifically, Sifuentes has had to address water and heating issues, an electrical issue with the walk-in freezer and an outdated fire suppression system. Most issues have been addressed, but the most recent hurdle has been the required addition of a mop sink, which of course means changes to the building's plumbing.

 So now, two months after her planned reopening date, Sifuentes – a New Rockford native and graduate of NRHS – is looking to patrons for help.

"My start-up budget has covered most of the bills and costs but has run short," she explained. "I'm not one for taking handouts, but I'm at a standstill and need some help from our amazing customers."

To help get the cafe reopened, a GoFundMe page has been set up to take donations, with the goal of raising $5,000.

"I know our community needs another business to keep thriving," said Sifuentes. "So here's me putting aside my pride and hoping you guys want to see us open as much as I do."

As of press time, nearly $2,000 had already been raised from 30 individual donations.

Sifuentes said she's very appreciative for the support that's already been shown by so many, and if all goes smoothly, she hopes to have enough funds to get everything up to code and her cafe ready to open by early April.

Whenever the cafe opens, Sifuentes said patrons will immediately notice a few changes to the inside. Gone are the dog pictures and camouflage features, and replacing them are a fresh coat of paint, more modern interior and brand new booths.

Those interested can donate by at this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/opening-up

A benefit account has also been set up at the Community Credit Union in New Rockford.