Floodwaters damage downtown McCaysville businesses, including family-owned grocery store

MCCAYSVILLE, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Floodwaters damaged businesses across downtown McCaysville, including IGA Hometown Foods, which Edward Vest’s family has owned for nearly 25 years, and Toccoa River Outfitters, owned by Benjamin Bruce.The floodwaters severely damaged Vest’s store and swept through his family’s legacy.“I had probably $600-$700,000 worth of inventory,” Vest said.Vest said the store is where he got his first job, where he met his wife and where his family built a life. He said he is now left wondering what comes next.“It’s devastation, just to be honest with you. It’s our life. It’s been a good life, but it looks like maybe our life has come to an end, as far as working,” Vest said. “This was a life changer for sure. If there’s ever been a life changer, you know, this is one of them.”RELATED COVERAGE: Mandatory curfew in place after more than 80 rescued from flooding in Fannin CountyStore windows were shattered and buildings were damaged across downtown. The Masonic