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Robert Ruark Inn Re-opens In Southport

May 4, 2012 - Southport, NC - The elegant and well-known, Robert Ruark Inn re-opened late in the first quarter under new ownership. Rick and Linda Pukenas, recently of Wake Forest, North Carolina purchased the Inn, located at 119 North Lord Street, in late February 2012. They will personally run and manage the business' operation. The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting Celebrating the re-opening April 24th.

The Robert Ruark Inn is named after acclaimed writer and author, Robert Ruark who grew up in Southport, North Carolina. Many of his childhood memories were captured within the pages of his books. The property underwent a total restoration and renovation by the late Jeff Ward who owned both the property and Cornerstone Construction.

Rick and Linda Pukenas have restored and owned six historical properties over the past 25 years. Rick has an administrative background in education and Linda has served in marketing management positions in such companies as Commerce Bank (now TD), Harrah’s Entertainment, GMAC and most recently, First Bancorp (FBP).

The Pukenas duo felt this was the perfect business as it included their passion for historical properties, their desire to own a customer service focused business and is located in Southport, a coastal NC town they’ve grown to love and cherish.