Published: Friday, June 27, 2008
Firefighters save Everett landmarks from blaze
The raging fire that destroyed Stewart Title Co. in downtown Everett Wednesday night could have easily consumed more buildings if not for the quick response of firefighters.
With the blaze quickly out of control, Everett firefighters, with the help of crews from Marysville, Naval Station Everett and Paine Field Fire, worked to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Their efforts saved at least two community landmarks from damage -- the YMCA and the Everett Performing Arts Center.
Fortunately, while Stewart Title Co. lost its building, it didn't lose its business -- thanks to the use of computer records, which are routinely backed up. Business will continue without much interruption.
The YMCA is such a vital part of this community it's impossible to imagine it not being there. The gyms, the pools, the family, teen and youth programs, the summer camps, the childcare. But the old building that houses so much life wouldn't have lasted long against the inferno. Employees, including a preschool teacher, were at the building, opening windows to help ventilate and just be there in any way to help. The way we do when something important is threatened.
Thankfully, the fast-acting fire crews saved the Y, a true downtown gathering place. As is the Performing Arts Center, home to Village Theatre and all of its productions and programs. The theatre had more than 18,000 subscribers to its 2007-2008 mainstage season and its youth education program serves more than 53,000 young people in the region annually. In 1998, Everett contracted Village Theatre to be the resident performing and management company at the center. Other groups rent the facility for performances and concerts.
The value of these two community treasures is incalculable. In a resurgent downtown that is still striving to realize its potential, the presence of the YMCA and the PAC is mandatory. We thank all the firefighters for preventing a real disaster.
With the blaze quickly out of control, Everett firefighters, with the help of crews from Marysville, Naval Station Everett and Paine Field Fire, worked to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Their efforts saved at least two community landmarks from damage -- the YMCA and the Everett Performing Arts Center.
Fortunately, while Stewart Title Co. lost its building, it didn't lose its business -- thanks to the use of computer records, which are routinely backed up. Business will continue without much interruption.
The YMCA is such a vital part of this community it's impossible to imagine it not being there. The gyms, the pools, the family, teen and youth programs, the summer camps, the childcare. But the old building that houses so much life wouldn't have lasted long against the inferno. Employees, including a preschool teacher, were at the building, opening windows to help ventilate and just be there in any way to help. The way we do when something important is threatened.
Thankfully, the fast-acting fire crews saved the Y, a true downtown gathering place. As is the Performing Arts Center, home to Village Theatre and all of its productions and programs. The theatre had more than 18,000 subscribers to its 2007-2008 mainstage season and its youth education program serves more than 53,000 young people in the region annually. In 1998, Everett contracted Village Theatre to be the resident performing and management company at the center. Other groups rent the facility for performances and concerts.
The value of these two community treasures is incalculable. In a resurgent downtown that is still striving to realize its potential, the presence of the YMCA and the PAC is mandatory. We thank all the firefighters for preventing a real disaster.
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