To the raising of the Stars and Stripes and the strains of the national anthem, more than 100 people gathered Wednesday morning for the opening of

the new Walmart Neighborhood Market at 1001 North Green street. Store manager Gene Taylor and Morganton Mayor Mel Cohen made it official, cutting the ribbon and opening the doors for early shoppers, local dignitaries and Walmart associates who arrived early for the 7 am ceremony and first day of business. The 41,000 square foot building features not only traditional grocery store items but also an in-store pharmacy with a drive-through. The Walmart Neighborhood Market will be open 24/7 and provide about 100 full- and part-time jobs. Taylor cited himself in talking about growth opportunities the company provides for its associates, recounting how he started as an hourly worker, eventually advancing to manage a store.