One tough decision

RUSK-Business at some convenience stores in the city of Rusk is booming thanks to the recent proposition passed back in May allowing restaurants and stores to sell alcohol. So how is this working for the city? And how do residents feel about it?

Most of the people we spoke to Tuesday said this is one of the best things to happen to the city. But there were still a few who had a completely different view.

Business has been busseling for many Rusk businesses who have started to sell alcohol. Some locals tell us people are buying alcohol by the buggy load at the local Brookeshire Brothers.

But not everyone is happy to see the change.

In the spring of 1990, the Pate family opened BDJ'S in Rusk.

"For 19 years we've had a wonderful business," Jan Pate said.

Not only did Mr. Jan Pate own the store, he also was and still is the pastor of the First Church on the Hill in town.

But when the city turned wet just a few short months ago he was faced with one tough decision. Either to start selling alcohol and go against what he believed, or sell the store.

Knowing the store wouldn't survive without selling alcohol, he decided to put the store up for sale.

Fast forward to today, BDJ'S has a new owner, been renamed to Pick N' Pack number 2 and has a brand new look.

"We're going to add freezers and a drive thru window," Manager of Pick N' Pack number 2, Tammy Maness, said. "I think the stores going to really bloom," she said.

But overall, most people are excited about the change.