Chouteau Snow Cone Stand Owner Gets Community Support After Break-In

The owner of a snow cone stand in Chouteau said her business was broken into twice in a week.

Wild Willie's Sno Cones owner Brittany Tate said these break-ins caused about $2,000 in damages and stolen items, but she has felt a lot of support from the community. 

Tate said she decided to open up the stand as a way to spend time with her family this summer. 

"We have our kids up here working too, and it's just been something to keep us together during the summer, and also keep us busy," Tate said. 

She was devastated when she noticed someone had broken into the building and gone through some of the things inside the stand Tuesday. 

The next night, Tate said it happened again. This time, the damage to the stand was worse. 

"We came to some broken windows, the door was kind of beaten in and they stole candy, and supplies, syrups and things like that," Tate said. 

While it's discouraging someone would do this, Tate said she felt complete support from the community. 

Customers have asked her how they can help her out. Some people have donated supplies. 

The love shown by others has been a bright spot for Tate after what happened. 

"It panned out to be something positive, in spite of what it actually was," Tate said. 

The stand is now open 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 117 West Main Street in Chouteau.