Business & Tech

Chandlee Jewelers Reopens Days After Van Drove Into Store

"We're slugging ahead, making headway," owner says.

Though the storefront of Chandlee Jewelers remains boarded up, it was back to business Monday for owners Larry and Bryan Exum, just five days after a van crashed into the building.

The shop is open for repair orders and sales, but they're not yet operating at the normal pace, Bryan said. 

Evidence of last Wednesday's accident that sent one customer to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries remained, but the store is remarkably pieced back together.

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Bryan is too.

She placed beads onto display shelves with a smile, though she admitted she'll likely be dealing with the post-traumatic stress for quite some time.

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Customers dropped by Monday to check on everyone, she said.

"Every body's been very kind and understanding."

Replacement glass for the storefront windows is expected to arrive Thursday and temporary showcases will be delivered by the end of the week, Bryan said.  The store will undergo additional renovations in the coming year with new carpet and showcases throughout.

"We're slugging ahead, making headway," she said.

Bryan continues to be thankful that no one was seriously hurt.

"It's a miracle at this time of year," she said.  "I mean, it's a miracle at any time, but it's really a Christmas miracle."

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