Bridgestone Retail Operations and the City of Selma celebrated the reopening of Firestone

Complete Auto Care with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday. 

Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr., Bridgestone officials and Dallas County Sheriff Mike Granthum participated in the event to reopen Firestone, which was damaged from the Jan. 12, 2023 tornado that destroyed 40% of the Queen City.

Perkins said going through the tornado was a hard time for Selma and grateful the company rebuilt its business on 610 Broad Street.

“I thank Bridgestone for willing to restore the property and make Firestone stronger,” Perkins said. “Earth, Wind and Fire is one of my favorite groups. This is like Earth, Wind and Fire for me.” 

Firestone store manager Thomasina Willis said the community response has been great for its return. 

Granthum said Firestone always looked out for its customers.

Dan Becker of Bridgestone said the goal was always to come back to Selma.

“We chose to rebuild and it was a good decision,” Becker said. “Selma is happy with the decision.”

Firestone regional manager Matt Coffin said Selma deserved the company to return.

“Selma went through an unbelievable tragedy,” Coffin said. “We’re proud to be back in Selma and build better than ever.”

Firestone area manager Matt McMillian, whose district stretches from Selma into parts of Georgia, said residents no longer have to drive into Prattville or Montgomery for service.

Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce executive director Sheryl Smedley offered a unique perspective.

“Firestone believes in Selma, Alabama, and Selma, Alabama believes in Firestone,” Smedley said.