Arthur Milnes
Northern News Services

FORT LIARD (Jul 10/98) - New, improved -- and big.

That's what a visitor to the Liard Valley Store and Motel walked away thinking after visiting the Fort Liard landmark.

Now more than 20 years old, the store, which also offers motel services, moved next door to a new building which has been under construction all year. With more than 1,000 square metres of floor space, on one floor this time, the store's grand opening was held June 21.

"It's a good location for the people it serves," proud owner Joanne Deneron said in a recent interview. "A lot of the people it serves are here in up town."

Respected elder Corrine Timbre, who uses a wheelchair, helped cut the ribbon, officially opening the store. The store is accessible to those who are physically challenged.

Besides all the hard work by the 13 people who work at the store, Deneron says that numerous Fort Liard residents helped get everything ready for the big day. And, a crowd of about 200 people were on hand to take part in opening ceremonies, which, among other things, featured a cake prepared by staff at the health centre to celebrate the day.

Among the store's features are: a walk-in cooler, fast-food outlet -- fried chicken is on the way -- air-conditioning, a larger line of hardware, Tupperware and the big hit so far, soft and regular ice cream to help beat the summer's heat.

"Snickers," was the answer little Janel McKee gave when asked what her favorite Liard Valley Store and Motel ice cream flavor was while at the store last Thursday.

The store is open seven days a week. Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.