Is the national financial crisis coming home to roost?

Although no principals involved were willing to talk about it, at least one local bank is apparently tightening its credit practices, in the process apparently putting a squeeze on one local grocery store.

Rumors and stories spread through the Staples community last week that the Helling’s Food Pride store was closing. Some versions had it closed or closing up that night, some had it closing by week’s end. Neither happened and as of Tuesday afternoon, Helling’s Food Pride, located on Warner Road alongside Miller True Value, was open for business.

Contacted Monday, owner Craig Helling was unwilling to discuss details of his business’s financial situation with the newspaper. Rather he motioned to the front of his store, that his cash registers were running, as proof his business was open and operating.

He indicated he is unable to talk about his future because of the uncertainty.

Others in the community are concerned. Mary Stangle-Hess, owner of Heritage Design and Radio Shack and also one of the organizers of the recently formed Staples Business Group, issued a plea for others to come to the aid of

Craig and Vickie Helling.

In an e-mail she wrote, “I just came from Helling’s.

They are NOT closed, but are in a real financial crisis - just like many of us. I want to let you all know if you are struggling, you are not alone.

“Some of us are more vocal about it than others. I have no problem telling you that I am having one heck of a time here, but I am doing everything in my power to stay in business and keep a positive attitude.” she wrote.

Stangle-Hess told her fellow business owners there is help.

“There are options out there to help us - and there are many right here in our own backyard.

“Please do not be too proud, stubborn or ashamed to ask for help. We are a community that cares about each other; and now more than ever, we need to support each other. Please support Helling’s, your local businesses and each other. We will get through these tough times.”

Helling’s Food Pride has in the past had loans from the Staples Economic Development Authority’s revolving loan fund. One loan taken out in 2004 for $30,000 was paid off in 2009, on schedule. Payments on another loan for $20,000 for equipment upgrades, which was taken out in October, 2008, are up to date, according to Jerel Nelsen, Staples EDA executive director.

Nelsen, who said he was not involved in any current talks with the Hellings, was unwilling to discuss the specific situation, other than to confirm the above. He said the banking industry is receiving pressure from federal and state regulators to keep loans up to date and this perhaps is reflected in the situation in Staples.