FROM STAFF REPORTS

CALERA — Advance Auto Parts Inc. recently celebrated a ribbon cutting and grand opening for its first store in Calera at 7951 U.S. Highway 31.

Company officials said they chose this location for the 7000-square-foot store because it’s convenient for customers and because of the area’s growing number of “do-it-yourselfers” taking care of their vehicles.

Neal Kelley is the new store’s manager and works with nine other Team Members there. A 10-year veteran of the auto and retail sales industries, Neal has been with the Advance Auto Parts team for five years.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Other area stores include locations in Chelsea, Alabaster and two in Pelham.