CARLYLE - The grand opening of King's Department Store on May 17 was not only a chance to recognize the new owners, but to celebrate the contributions of a Carlyle champion.
King’s Department Store came alive on May 17 for its grand opening, starting with complimentary beverages served by Michael’s Coffee Shop and Bakery, and then the first giveaway took place.
Draws were done all day, every half hour until the store closed in the evening.
In the morning, live music was heard from the Blend and the official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held.
Former owner Ken King was on hand for this. He said, “I am not 100 per cent, but I am not 10 per cent either.”
He had surgery earlier this year and has been battling health issues ever since.
The store was filled with people as they greeted King and told him how great it was to see him.
He spoke about the 42 years he had the store, and although he was not ready to retire, he had no choice. He was happy to see Jade and Travis Moore as the new owners, as he can see the passion they have for the business.
An emotional Jade Moore thanked Ken for all he had done for King’s and for being her mentor and her teacher. She promised to continue the business the way he had for 42 years.
“It is like a magical day on Main Street,” said Moore.
“Your legacy is not what you leave people, it is what you leave in people,” added Blair Andrews.
After the ribbon cutting, Mayor Jen Sedor presented King with a plaque from the town called the Carlyle Champion Award in honour of his work.
It said King was instrumental in putting Carlyle on the map as a destination stop, in which people want to see what this small town had to offer.
King always respected his customers and supported the community through many donations over the years.
Council believes a champion is what they feel Ken has been for Carlyle.
Sedor said they will be forever grateful for all of King's contributions in helping build up Carlyle into what it is today, because everyone knows where King’s Department Store is.
The day continued with Kuzin Restaurant serving chicken pancit and later Jacquie Walbaum performed.
Dennis Feduk served his well-known sweets while Sheila and Pete performed until closing.
It did not end there. The Office Bar and Grill held happy hour at the store and more giveaways happened.
The store was filled with people most of the day. They wanted to visit with King, and wish the Moores as well, and do some shopping.
Jade Moore thanked her hard-working staff and is grateful for all their support and for being a resolute team.
“I cannot do this without them,” she said.
Moore had promoted the other businesses that held their grand openings as well and encouraged people to go check them out.
Moore is excited about this new adventure the store brings. She hopes to make everyone proud by keeping King's the way that people know it.
Be sure to watch the Observer and SaskToday for coverage of other grand openings that occurred on Main Street in Carlyle on May 17.
