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KIRKSVILLE, MO -- New Kirksville students received a warm welcome from the city on Thursday evening.

The Kirksville Area Chamber of Commerce held a welcome event for students from Truman State University, A.T. Still University and Moberly Area Community College.

For a couple of hours, the Adair County Courthouse lawn was filled with tables from churches, grocery stores, clothing stores and more.

“Blink of an Eye” owner, Keith Jackson, said this was great for students to see what Kirksville has to offer.

“We came to the New-Student Welcome because we felt it’s a good opportunity to let the students know what's available in downtown Kirksville,” Jackson said. “And, that they don't have to go to Columbia or Kansas City for all their needs.”

Steve Taylor with Steve’s Garden Deli said students are vital to the community.

“The reason we are here is because the students are so important to us,” Taylor said. “You know, I’ve always felt like education is the main industry in Kirksville.”