FRANKLIN PARK, Allegheny County — For Randy Soergel, the snow storm this past weekend was a life changing event.

All four greenhouses at Soergel Orchards's popular garden center collapsed under the weight of 22 inches of snow.

The hot houses were empty, but uninsured.

Soergel, 54, said even if he could, he likely would not rebuild the houses in time for the March 1 start of his growing season.

But what seemed like a major disappointment, he said, has turned into a major inspiration.

Soergel said businesses throughout the region, including Butler County businesses, have been pitching in with whatever help or assistance they can.

"The support from people in this industry has been overwhelming. I am so impressed with the people out there who are taking care of things even through it's not their problem," he said.

"At first when I tried to talk about the greenhouses, I was getting emotional. Now, when I talk about the generosity of others it's making me emotional."

Soergel said he still will have a retail season, but he will be selling other people's annuals and hanging baskets.

He said he is not sure if he will ever rebuild the greenhouses he has been tending to since 1980.

"Maybe I just need to rethink my philosophy," he said.