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Members of the local government and Chamber of Commerce gathered early Friday morning for the official ribbon cutting of Rural King. It has been just over two years since Rural King purchased the former K-Mart building, and this marks their first location in Georgia.

Store manager Brian Debusk addressed the gathered crowd. “Rural King is a part of the community, we want to be part of the community,” he said. He welcomed them with free popcorn, something Rural King is famous for offering customers, along with coffee.

Mayor Edward Reynolds spoke at the ceremony. “I don’t think you’ll find a better community to be in,” he said. “Our city is certainly well behind you guys. We appreciate the opportunity that you’re bringing to our community, not only with your products but with your employment and your people. I think you’ll find that we’ll be a great match for you.”

Chamber president Karen Tobin also spoke. “On the behalf of the Chamber, we like to think that we are the connectivity between the community and your business,” she said, “and so with the help of the city and the county that has made this possible for you to be here, we are so honored to have Rural King here in our community.”

According to Debusk, the store has already hired over 70 people, and is still looking to fill some jobs. Those interested can visit www.rktalent.com.

“I just want to welcome everybody coming out, thank them for coming out and supporting us here,” he said. “It’s great to be a part of the community.”