Local favorite restaurant to sell business

A familiar gathering place on Main Street in Crane may soon have a new owner. The owners of the local restaurant Festus Jacks, Jill and Mark Evans, recently announced through social media that they have made the difficult decision to sell their business. The announcement came in a heartfelt video shared with the community, where the couple opened up about the decision and thanked their customers and supporters for standing beside them. Earlier this year, Mark experienced health issues involving his heart. Following those health concerns, the couple began considering what would be best for their family and ultimately decided that putting their health first was the right choice. 

While the decision to sell the restaurant was not an easy one, the Evanses said they intend to continue serving their customers and keeping the doors open while they look for a buyer. For many in Crane and the surrounding communities, the restaurant has become more than simply a place to grab a meal. It has served as a familiar meeting place where residents could enjoy a home-cooked meal, catch up with friends and neighbors, and support a locally owned business. 

The Evanses expressed their sincere appreciation to the community for the support they have received throughout their time as restaurant owners and especially during Mark’s recent health challenges. 

The couple emphasized that the decision to sell was a difficult one and not something they made lightly. However, Mark’s health and the importance of taking care of themselves ultimately had to come first. 

For now, customers will still have an opportunity to enjoy their favorite meals and visit with the Evanses and their staff. The restaurant is currently operating on shortened hours, which will remain in effect until further notice. 

Customers are encouraged to keep an eye on the restaurant’s social media page for updates regarding hours, menu offerings and any future announcements concerning the sale. Although the Evanses are preparing for a new chapter, they said they are grateful for the years they have spent serving the Crane community and for the friendships and memories made along the way. 

As the restaurant remains open during the transition, the Evanses are inviting the community to continue stopping in, enjoying a meal and showing their support while they determine what comes next. 

The eventual sale will mark a change for one of Crane’s familiar Main Street businesses, but for now, the Evanses are focused on continuing to welcome their customers and serving the community they have come to know and appreciate.