By CRISTINA JANNEY

Hays Post

Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., 2510 Vine, is under new ownership and management as of Wednesday.

Eric Brincks, who has owned and operated the store for more than 10 years, has handed over the business to Alex Salgado of Liberal.

Brincks had the opportunity to move to a store in Ankeny, Iowa, and he jumped at the chance to move closer to family in the area.

“It is just one of those things, and ultimately, it just fell together very fast,” Brincks said.

Brincks said he has enjoyed his time in Hays and wishes Salgado the best as the store moves forward.

“I have had a lot of fun with the store,” he said. “It has transformed quit a bit. Hopefully, it will continue on the good path it is on.”

Brincks last day was Tuesday. Salgado has already been at the store for several days and is getting accustomed to the routine. There will be no interruption in operation at the store.

Salgado is in the process of moving some items around in the store and plans to offer more athletic shoes and insoles.

“Our mission is to help people have healthy, happy feet,” he said.

Salgado has moved to Hays from Liberal where he was an assistant manager at a Brown’s Shoe Fit. He brings with him his wife, Francis, and son, Mateo, 6 months.

“I am happy to be here. I am looking forward to meeting everybody, and I am thankful for the opportunity,” Salgado said.