Subway opens in Marmaduke

The employees of Subway at Marmaduke would like to invite the entire community to see the new restaurant. Pictured are, from left: Front--Tracy Emerick and manager Brenda Burns. Back--Stacy Sidenstrider and owner Phillips Toombs.

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The opening may have been surprising to some, considering the size of the town, but restaurant owner Phillip Toombs says the small community was one of the deciding factors.

"We like small towns because it's more of a one-on-one atmosphere between you and the customer," Toombs said. "You're more likely to develop stronger ties.

"We also looked at the factories and the school. There's a solid backbone here in Marmaduke. We felt that it was time Marmaduke had a fast food business."

Toombs is no stranger to operating a well-known franchise. He and his wife, Connie, previously have owned successful Subway restaurants in Paragould and Kennett, as well as Gosnell, where Toombs worked for 25 years as a teacher and coach.

The restaurant, which has been in the works for the last two years, is housed in a brand new building Toombs had constructed. The building is the first Subway in Arkansas to feature the particular Tuscan design, featuring vibrant colors and hanging lamps above the tables.

"We put a lot of effort into giving it (the restaurant) its own distinct look," Toombs said.

The restaurant is managed by Brenda Burns of Rector, who along with daughter Jackie Burns and Marsha Christian has been with Toombs at their Paragould Subways. The restaurant also employs Stacy Sidenstrider, Monica Hodge, James Tomlinson, Clifford Crowe and Ashley Shelton.

"We've got a really good crew," Toombs said. "That's part of the strength of the community. There's a good workforce here."

Subway opened at the end of January, but three days after it began welcoming in customers, the ice storm of Jan. 27 hit, resulting in a loss of power which shut down the shop for two weeks.

Despite the auspicious start, Toombs says he is pleased with the restaurant's reception.

"All in all, we're real pleased with the turnout we've had."

Subway is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.