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Citizens of the Lynchburg community gathered to take part in the opening of Lodge Cast Iron’s newest location on Fri., May 10.

The store was open to the public before Lodge’s traditional “cornbread cutting,” which is their version of a ribbon cutting.

Members of the Metropolitan Lynchburg-Moore County Chamber of Commerce were in attendance, along with Lodge officials from their headquarters in South Pittsburgh, Tenn.

Officials thanked the community and business owners for their hospitality and excitement, along with Jack Daniels and the Chamber and the store staff.

Lodge CEO Mike Otterman spoke briefly at the end of the opening.

“I’m just curious whether 150 years ago, Joseph Lodge met Jack Daniels and hung out and talked about this idea,” he joked. “Thank you guys for being here.”

He thanked the Lodge leadership and marketing for making the store look beautiful, and also commented on Lynchburg.

“The town here is gorgeous and so quintessential Americana,” he said. “We just feel so at home here, so thank you for welcoming us.”