By Staff
Last Friday's fire in downtown Niles once again showed the dedication of our area firefighters.
Many had been part of a procession to Silverbrook Cemetery for the young firefighter Vincent Dixon, who had died following a car accident.
These servants donned their gear over their formal clothes, in the heat, to battle the blaze at Sue's Hallmark at Main and Third streets.
The first ones at the scene were not sure what the problem was going to be, as there was just a report of noises, a possible electrical problem. It wasn't long before smoke began pouring out of the back of the building.
They are to be praised that no one was hurt during the long afternoon, except for one firefighter who apparently was injured by something falling on him and others for heat exhaustion.
The good news is no one died.
It is unfortunate that Sue's was a total loss, but it was not due to the efforts of the many fire departments involved.
What they did do was keep the fire from destroying the entire block.
Working with heavy equipment, in the heat, is not an easy job.
Coordination between the fire chiefs and departments was excellent. They are all to be praised.
Also to be praised are the many people who saw a need and steppe dupp to help, whether it was to bring water to the hot firefighters or those who worked to save items which were rushing down the drains.
Many of those helping, like Sue Millin and Pat Majot, who attempted to save items for Sue, did so just to be kind. They weren't asked.
More good news is that Sue Majerek has plans on rebuilding. The structure has been in the Majerek family for 50 years. The tradition of this local shop will not be lost.
We hope others join us in thanking all of the firefighters for the 20 departments who came to the aid of Niles business community.
We also stand behind Sue and her decision to rebuild.