A large crowd gathers for ribbon cutting. Another business in Colquitt officially opened last Friday, June 19.

A large crowd of wellwishers gathered at 116 West Main Street for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Dee's, a gifts and home accent shop.

Anthony Cobb, president of the Colquitt/Miller County Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the large crowd and thanked the owners, Debra Bryan and Tomi Lynn Heard, for bringing such a nice business to Colquitt.

Dr. Carl Marshal, pastor of First Baptist Church of Colquitt, led the group in prayer.

Cory Thomas, speaking on behalf of the City and County, expressed his appreciation and offered his help to the new business if needed.

Howard Small, chairman of the Development Authority, also wished the new business and the owners well.

Representing the Community Development Corporation, Debra Atkinson, offered Debra and Tomi Lynn good wishes for suc- cess of their business.

The new owner then thanked her Lord, husband, family and friends for being so supportive in helping her to achieve what she has always wanted to do.

However, Debra and Tomi Lynn are not just beginning in business. They started out with a booth at Market on the Square in October, 2007, with just a few flower arrangements. They then started to add personalized gifts and home accents. "It looked really slim, but God blessed our hard work, and we grew to two booths later, and then in the fall of 2008 we added a Christmas booth," commented Debra.

In April of 2009, the business was blessed to expand out on its own. "We have truly been blessed to have this opportunity to have our own business, and we are very thankful. It has been a lot of hard work and a lot of hours put into it and a sacrifice for our families, but we are praying it will pay off. We are so thankful for each and every one of you that have supported us, and we hope that you will continue to do business with us," said Debra.

She then invited everyone to have refreshments and register for door prizes.

Dee's hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.