Super Walmart opens

It's been several years in the making, but the Walmart Super Center in Willows is finally open.

The store held a grand opening Wednesday, complete with city officials and community members to show off its new grocery and bakery sections.

Store managers and staff also showcased the store's expanded and updated layout for other merchandise.

"It is awesome," said Willows resident Melanie Lane. "It saves a trip to Chico. We've used the Super Center before in Anderson. Walmart has good quality meat."

Sherry Shippy said the store did not have what she was looking for Wednesday, but she is thrilled it is open.

"It is the best thing that could happen to Willows," she said.

Richard Kelstrom drove down from Orland to shop for batteries.

"I just happened to come on the opening," he said. "Once I get used to where everything is ,it will be all right."

Walmart officials said the store is adding 60 new jobs, bringing the number of employees to 230.

Willows City Manager Steve Holsinger said the store's completion is "outstanding" since so many people doubted the project would take place.

"Good things come to those who wait," Vice Mayor Jeff Cobb told the crowd for the opening.

"Willows residents have waited a long time for the store to arrive," Holsinger said, and now it is here.

Holsinger thanked Glenn County officials for their support of the project since they had to coordinate the realignment of Airport Road for safer access into the Walmart complex.

The county also worked with the Federal Aviation Administration on the project, which cleared the way for the roadway improvements.

"This will have a significant economic impact on Willows," Holsinger said. "I think it will be a springboard that pushes the city to a new plateau."

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1770 and Cub Scouts Pack 68 served as color guards at the morning ceremony. Walmart Associate Rebecca Maness performed the National Anthem.

General Manager Gabrielle Long said a number of activities are planned at the store through the weekend.

The Willows Fire Department will have its Smoke House in the parking lot today, and Willows police will have its Search and Rescue unit.

An Xbox tournament also is planned from 2-6 p.m. in the store's new electronics section, Long said.

Meat, bakery and deli sampling, face painting and a plant care demonstration for children are set from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Willows also will have a "Save the Pool" hot dog fundraiser.

Contact Rick Longley at 934-6800 or rlongley@tcnpress.com.