Crossroads Music Wins $5,000

(SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb.) — A longtime Scottsbluff music store is getting a $5,000 boost to help keep its business growing in an increasingly competitive online marketplace.

Crossroads Music, owned by Richard and Jeni Castro, received the money through the statewide “No-Bid” Giveaway, organized by Nebraskans for Accountability and Honesty. The couple plans to use the funds to renovate part of the store’s Broadway location and add dedicated rooms for music lessons.

The giveaway was launched by Nebraskans for Accountability and Honesty in response to controversy surrounding a $2.5 million state contract awarded without competitive bidding. The organization offered 10 grants of $5,000 each to Nebraska businesses through an open application process. The initiative drew 742 applicants, according to published reports.

Jeni Castro learned about the contest from a billboard, submitted an application video and never expected her family to be selected.

Lessons are currently held in space at the mall, but rising rent has made that arrangement increasingly difficult. Bringing lessons into the store will help the business reduce overhead costs while keeping instruction under one roof.

The money will also help the Castros continue serving musicians and schools throughout the region. Richard Castro said online competition has made running a traditional music store challenging, and school-related work — including band instrument repairs — remains essential to keeping the business operating.

Crossroads Music has a history in the community spanning more than 40 years. The business previously operated as Barbour Music before the Castros took over in 2015. The store moved to its current Broadway location in 2009 under the Barbour Music name.

Today, Jeni Castro teaches guitar, while a second instructor offers piano lessons. Castro said she has openings for new guitar students.

The Castros believe a local music store offers advantages that online retailers cannot easily replicate. Customers can try instruments before buying, and Crossroads sets up guitars at no additional charge — a service that can cost about $40 elsewhere.

The store also aims to remain competitive on price while offering the personal service and product knowledge customers may not get from an online purchase. For instance, employees can explain differences in quality, including why two speakers of the same size might cost $200 or $1,000.

The renovation is expected to begin in mid-November and take a day or two. The Castros hope to have the new lesson space ready by the end of November.