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Carrillo retiring after 29 years with Cabela's

After being a part of the Sidney community for nearly three decades, the Cabela's retail marketing manager Connie Carrillo is bidding farewell to the area.

Originally from Bridgeport, Neb., Carrillo came to Sidney once her parents moved to the area. She began working at the old downtown Cabela's retail store before her 10 years as marketing manager.

"I have been in retail for 29 years and I kind of just fell into this position, and now there's one of me in every store," Carrillo said. "I've really worked in every area of the building except hunting and firearms. Just in the position that I am in, I really think I was born to do what I'm doing."

Throughout Carrillo's time at Cabela's she has seen the growth of the company and its several stores.

"I was able to help open the Owatonna store in Minnesota, and that was only our third store," she said. "It's just crazy to see how much has changed and how many stores we have now."

According to Carrillo, retiring from Cabela's is a bittersweet feeling. Carrillo plans to move to Scottsbluff to start a new chapter in a new community.

"I've been in a lot of positions, but this particular one has actually been so rewarding for me, just to see an event come together with the community and community efforts like the kids fishing day is one of my favorite things," she said.

The kids fishing day has been a community event long before Carrillo, however she has continued the tradition every summer.

"That is one of my favorite events, because the kids and the community really look forward to it, and it really shows what Cabela's stands for," she said. "Watching the kids run up to me with a fish in their hands, and they're so excited to show me their fish and just being outdoors, you just can't put a price on that."

Although she is leaving, she said the memories and the connections she made won't go forgotten.

"I am going to miss the people who I've gotten close to not only at Cabela's and in the community."

"Mr. Cabela used to say 'we sell fun,' and we do, but we also have a lot of fun here too. I've met a lot of great people during my time here, and it's kind of like leaving my family," she said. "It's been a ride that's for sure, a great ride."

Being able to spend time with family is something Carrillo is looking forward to after her retirement.

"This is a new adventure in my life and I'm so happy, but sad to be leaving because there's been so much growth over the years and I'll always want to be a part of it. I've enjoyed my time at Cabela's and I'm truly going to miss it."

 

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