New owners for Kingston Mini-Mart

Jean Doran MatuaVideos are back at the Kingston Mini-Mart, but that’s not the only change there. On Feb. 22, new owners officially took over the little gas station and market right on Highway 15 in Kingston. Theresa and Gary Hauan bought the Mini-Mart, and Theresa and their daughters Ruth and Kate work in the store. Sandy Smith is also back, working part-time.

More changes are visible inside the store. The old freezer is out, and a new upright freezer is in. Shelves have been moved around to make it seem more spacious. Stock is being rotated, with new items being added. They now carry meats from the French Lake Butcher Shop, including steaks and ground beef. They have greeting cards along with every-day necessities like Kleenex and canned peaches.

The store will continue to change, as the Hauans put their mark on it. The State lottery is coming. Inventory will gradually increase. Ultimately, they envision log siding some day, and a nice Texaco awning for the gas pumps. But that’s a way off.

Meanwhile, the Mini-Mart is open from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week (although hours may change for summer). They accept Visa/MasterCard and WIC. Video rentals are only $1.50 weekdays and $2.50 weekends. You also get a free cup of coffee with a gas fill-up.

The Hauans live about five miles south of Kingston. Daughter Ruth, a senior at Dassel-Cokato High School, will serve as store manager. Gary continues to work as a CPA. Before buying the store, Theresa dealt in antiques on the internet and welcomes the chance to get out of the house. “It’s been a lot of fun,” she said of her new role. “And lots of nice people, too!”