Expressions relocates downtown
By KATHRYN PENROSE news1@kilgorenewsherald.com

"It is not perfect and we have no sign hung yet, but we met our deadline," said Carl Clower, owner of Expressions Hallmark.

Clower and his staff moved boxes and bags of gifts, glassware, greeting cards and much more this week in order to re-open by Oct. 1.

The shop has moved into the old Longhorn Drug building at 104 N. Kilgore Street.

"It is amazing, when you look around, because it's still the same merchandise — with the exception of some seasonal items," Clower said. "The backdrop is just improved."

Clower selected two tones of beige for the walls and painted the exposed beams and ceiling jet black, highlighted with pot lights. He also has covered the walls with unique art and placed a different display at every turn, including the glassshelved suit displays from the days of the Toggery where Clower worked in the '80s.

Clower said he wants the store decorated to attract business.

"I simply want Expressions to remain Kilgore's gift shop," Clower said.

Fallon Burns, Main Street manager, said Expressions is an amazing addition to downtown Kilgore, as well as an anchor.

"Carl's shop is perfect and offers a bit of diversity," Burns said. "I could not be more excited for our downtown merchants. This store is going to bring a lot more foot traffic into the Main Street area."