Village Store's grand opening is planned for Aug. 28

 SALISBURY — The brown paper is still in the windows at Peter Becks Village Store, but inside the store is taking shape.

Co-owner Peter Feen said he and partner Becky Belcher are waiting on deliveries from Patagonia, Woolrich, Merrell and Ibex — “big names for us.�

The store has in place items from Bill’s Khakis (chinos and shirts); Leatherman and Eliza B. (belts, made in Essex, Conn.); Filson luggage, wallets and shirts; colorful repp ties from Collared Greens; equally colorful and somewhat whimsical ties from Vineyard Vines; backpacking gear and day packs in varying sizes.

And tennis balls. No longer will enthusiasts have to travel to big box stores or hope to find a stray can at a chain drugstore.

The tennis balls are priced to compete. “Two cans for $7,� Feen said cheerfully.

Feen’s father, Bob, was trundling in framed photos last week as well as a beautifully restored trunk and other assorted items, for decoration purposes.

“He’s a collector —� began Peter Feen.

“A hoarder!� Bob Feen said over his shoulder.

A couple of handmade wood bowls sat on the central counter, made by Woody Mosch of Bethlehem, Conn.

Peter Feen and Mosch’s son Carter built two benches from old skis that had been donated by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association. They will be outside the store. They are superior to standard benches for sitting, as the skis have some give to them (although perching on the end where the skis tip up could be problematic).

Feen said the schedule looks like this: a grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 28, and a soft opening beginning around Aug. 18.

If the brown paper is out of the front windows, they’re ready for customers.

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