Ben Wheeler Rallies to Save Christmas for Local Small Business

BEN WHEELER — Gum Creek Mercantile on Highway 64 in Ben Wheeler suffered major damage to its store after storms hit early Sunday morning, but neighbors are rallying to the cause. According to a news release from the Ben Wheeler community, Gum Creek moves into the downtown area across from Moore’s Store Restaurant this week. The release says the move will be a great Christmas gift to owners Joey Stanger and Shaun and Laura Crook. Laura Crook says she never expected the support and that the help “has been a bigger impact than can be expressed.” Laura Crook said. This Thursday is moving day. Several volunteers will help pack up and unpack Gum Creek for a Christmas Grand Opening at 4 p.m. Friday. Laura Crook is inviting everyone to the celebration Friday evening and all day Saturday. She promises “hot cider, warm hugs and plenty of cheer.”