H-E-B re-opens renovated store in flood damaged Meyerland

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When the Memorial day deluge made a sopping mess of Meyerland much was taken.

In the often painful five months since, many wondered what of the life they once knew would return.

On the corner of South Braeswood and Chimney Rock at least one answer has emerged - a local keystone of commerce and comfort is back in business.

"We were absolutely glad to come back and open up. It's the right thing to do,"  said Seth Gravesmill, store director.

Long time customers, almost giddy with delight, realize in a world ruled by the dollar it could have gone differently.

"Thanks for coming back," said Barbara Freilich to HEB workers know  as "partners".

And on a day of wheeling down widened yet familiar aisles the message received by Meyerlanders resonated with a sense of restoration.

"It means that we're still important. There's a lot of homes for sale, the community could change drastically, but I'm hoping most people will stay and remodel," said Susie Daum who claims she's been shopping regularly at the store since her girlhood.

 Those who've suffered through the uncertainty and fought for recovery say there's more than symbolism in the return of this relatively small yet vital store.

"It demonstrates that Meyerland is a viable, livable place and destination for the community," said Joel Dinkin of the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center.

"They could have easily gone away and that would have been another blow to the neighborhood and by re-opening they are standing with the neighborhood and helping Meyerland recover," said Chris Bell, a Meyerland flood victim and Mayoral candidate.

To most in this neighborhood it's a pretty big deal - a Texas business looking beyond it's bottom line, to do what is best for Texans.