Bright’s Department Store at the Carbon Plaza Mall, Mahoning Township, unveiled a new beginning yesterday.

The store, owned by Laneco, had a grand opening which featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, free carnations and a grandeur appearance created by an extensive remodeling project.

Store manager J. Patrick Keating said the remodeling of the store cost in excess of a quarter-million dollars. Brights has 55 employees and occupies 50,000 square feet.

Bright’s was founded in 1883 and had stores in Lansford and Lehighton before occupying the Carbon plaza site in 1976. In 1983, Laneco purchased the store.