Fireworks Stand First Copeville Business To Reopen After December's Tornado
Follow CBSDFW.COM: Facebook | Twitter
COLLIN COUNTY (CBSDFW.COM) - The opening of a fireworks stand in the small Collin County community of Copeville marks the first business to reopen in the community since the December 26 tornado.
The tornado destroyed all the town's businesses along Highway 78, including USA Fireworks' three buildings.
Owner Cody Wisdom said he never considered not rebuilding.
"Hopefully it gives the town a sense of hope that we can recover," he said.
Wanting to show his commitment to the community, Wisdom is replacing his two outdoor stands with a 6,00 square foot air-conditioned indoor facility.
The new building is still under construction and should be open in time for the New Year's fireworks season.
"This is my dream," Wisdom said.
Wisdom and his family have sold fireworks in Copeville for 14 years.
But while Wisdom has gone big, the other businesses in town that were destroyed by the tornado; a gas station, a restaurant, a daycare, and a feed store, have shown no signs of rebuilding.
Many in Copeville fear they have gone away for good.
"I hope not," said Wisdom. "I hope this (his new building) will stimulate others to rebuild."
(©2016 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
