Photo by Ashley Tyson
Store manager Anthony Porchia cuts ribbon with employees signifying the opening of the new Neighborhood Market Walmart. The new store is being affectionately called the “Tiger-Mart” by locals.
Walmart Neighborhood Market holds grand opening Wednesday
January 26, 2015
The new Walmart Neighborhood Market off of Summerhill Road had a grand Wednesday morning, Jan. 21. The varsity cheerleaders and Tiger band were present for the ceremony, as well as Titus and Trochia.
Store manager Anthony Porchia expressed his support for the city and his future plans to involve the district.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to give back to the community and to involve Texas High in different things,” Porchia said. “We’re excited to be here, not only to be of service to the community but to be of service to the school. It’s all about taking care and giving back to the community.”
During the ceremony, Porchia gave out several grants to various organizations in the community on behalf of the Walmart corporation. TISD received a grant for $1500. Grants were also awarded to Liberty Eylau ISD, Junior Achievement, Mount Grove Baptist Church and Harvest Texarkana Regional Food Bank.
“I’m pretty pumped because they have already given us a grant, and I have actually met with the new manager and he has voiced his hope that when we need things we will come to him first,” Student Council sponsor Susan Waldrep said. “I think that this will be a great exchange for our all of our extracurricular activities because they will have that partnership with Texas High and I really appreciate that.”
Gage Martin, store manager Anthony Porchia, Katie Johnston and Garett McDonald pose with a grant for the high school given by the Neighborhood Market Walmart at grand opening.
Walmart Neighborhood Market
Students present at the ceremony were impressed by the store and its close proximity to the school.
“It’s really convenient for everyone at Texas High because it’s just right down the street,” Senior Ashley Martin said. “I think it will be very beneficial for TISD.”
The store employs 95 staff members and is the first to open of the three new Walmart Neighborhood Markets coming to the Texarkana area. Each of these locations has a deli, bakery, fresh produce section and pharmacy.
“We are here to take care of you for everything you need,” Porchia said. “Without you there is no us.”