Holiday shoppers from across the River Valley made their way to the Fort Smith Pavilion Shopping Center (Nov. 28) on Thursday. But one shopper in particular used the deals to repair his life following the tornado that struck Moore, Okla., in May.
Brent Myers said he was been camped out at the shopping center for a week before Thanksgiving. He said the wait has been worth the while. Six month after losing their belongings, the Myers family said they are using the deals to not only rebuild their home, but also their lives.
"I had my phone with me, and I texted for help and it wouldn't go through,” said Myers. “I started yelling for help."
Myers said his house collapsed on him during the disaster.
"Along with a tree that we didn't own,” he said. “That had to come from somebody else’s yard because we didn't have a tree in our yard."
As Myers waited first in line outside Best Buy, he said he is ready to replace the things the tornado took from his family.
"I've been here for a week standing in the weather---the ice, rain and cold, below freezing.”
Myers' son Ryan said it’s been difficult losing the things he needs but remains hopeful.
"I'll be happy, and I know my family will be happy once they get the things that they lost back," he said. “Washers and dryers, refrigerator, everything."
Myers said after he wraps up his shopping, he is headed straight to the Bass Pro Shop in Oklahoma City, looking for more bargains.