MOUNT AIRY, N.C. -- The grand opening yesterday of Sheetz' newest store drew approximately 200 people to the 6,500-square-foot location, according to the Mount Airy News. This is the 43rd Sheetz store to open in North Carolina and the chain's 422nd site overall.

"This is definitely something to cheer about for the city of Mount Airy," Mayor Deborah Cochran said before the 11 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony. "We are so elated that [Sheetz officials] have selected Mount Airy. We can't wait for the Sheetz experience."

Approximately 70 people waited in line for the opening of the store, located at 2905 Rockford St. near Interstate 74, starting Wednesday night, according to the report. Sheetz provided them with complimentary breakfast Thursday morning. The first 50 people in line received a $100 Sheetz gift card. Food and beverage samples were also available, and customers could play games to win prizes.

The new store is expected to employ 25 to 30 workers and add $3.5 million to Mount Airy and Surry County's tax base.

Food options at the store include hot and cold subs, deli sandwiches, salads, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, breakfast sandwiches, burritos and other items, said Monica Jones, public relations manager for Sheetz. The store, open 24 hours a day, also offers drive-thru service and a car wash.

Sheetz, based in Altoona, Pa., expects to open two more stores in North Carolina by the end of June, stated Charlie Sheetz, who presented a $2,500 check to Special Olympics-North Carolina during the grand opening event. "North Carolina is definitely an area where we are concentrating," he said.