There's a little bit of everything in Mimi's Market, American and Hispanic Goodies, but there will be a greater amount of items and services once owner Beatriz Gomez completes her goal.
Gomez opened her business mid-December and has items one would find in any other market - refrigerated juices, dairy items, canned foods, snacks, a selection of health and beauty aids. But Mimi's also has items not found in just any convenience store - Mexican spices, hojas enconchadas (corn husks), queso fresco (cheese), art and jewelry from Mexico.
A corner of the market is a small office where Gomez provides services such as a public notary, translations and assistance with citizenship forms. Pre-paid phone cards and money orders are also available.
"The store isn't just for Mexicans, that's why it's called 'American and Mexican Goodies,'" said Gomez. "Trying to please both communities is very important because the two communities are together more and more."
Appreciated by people of any ethnic origin are tamales, which Gomez hopes to feature on certain days of the week.
Besides hot food, she also plans to have more crafts from Mexico, fresh fruit and vegetables. She said many people have shown interest in having a meat market.
"The Valley is a good place for a butcher - there's a lot of cows," she said.
Gomez and her family have lived in Gardnerville for four years but previously lived in South Lake Tahoe where she offered translation services for the courts.
Gomez said it was her dream to have a market in the Valley with a diversity of products for both Mexican and American cultures.
"Everyone is welcome," she said.
Mimi's Market is at 1685 Highway 395, No. 1 in Minden. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Info, 782-4169.
What: Mimi's Market
Where: 1685 Highway 395, No. 1
When: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Info: 782-4169
