The Town of Mount Airy would like to recognize and thank the many individuals, organizations and businesses in our community that offered support during the 1010 South Main Street fire yesterday.
The property referred to as “The Old Chevy” building that sits between historical homes and quiet neighborhoods has been an icon for the residents of the four county area. The Fire Marshall and first responders were quick to action. Joining the Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Company, who have always been first rate, were companies from Carroll, Frederick, Howard, and Montgomery Counties. Numerous engines, tankers, towers, ambulances, rescue squads, and canteens were onsite to offer support. Maryland State Troopers were joined by the Mount Airy Police Department (MAPD) to include Chief Doug Rietz, Sgt. Curt Snyder and Cpl. K9 Unit Russell Halterman. The MAPD spent the evening providing around-the-clock security.
Town staff that joined me in secondary support efforts was Brian Johnson, Public Works Director, who was quick to monitor and provide updates on critical water station statuses for the rescue crews, Katie More, Administrative staff, who remained at Town Hall to update our social media and answer phone calls for information from media, citizens, and authorities. Main Street Manager, Ashley Collier and Special Projects Coordinator, Amethyst Tymoch aided in the procurement of food and drinks from area business and restaurants for the First Responders. The Mount Airy Public Works Department was able to provide assistance with heavy loading equipment and clean up services on site.
We thank those in the Mount Airy Community who stepped up to provided much needed food and services for our First Responders: The Greene Turtle, New York J & P Pizza, Carter Que BBQ, The Upper Deck Sports Bar and Grill, Snowie’s of Maryland, Safeway, Burns Heating and Air Conditioning, Ridgeville Gas Station, Bruce Curley, Donnie Brightwell and to many of the citizens that carried water and ice from their personal homes to help.
The neighbors surrounding 1010 South Main Street graciously opened their yards, porches and even homes to rescuers and volunteers. Two animals were evacuated during the fire and were tended to by community members until animal control or the owners could be located for assistance.
While the building structure itself is a total loss the iconic Chevrolet façade is still standing. Every effort will be made to work with the property owner and preserve the signage for a later determined use.
Mount Airy has a long history of fires, but with that we have a strong history of community outreach and support. So many members of our town and surrounding neighbors came to our aid in the first response efforts. It’s these volunteers, staff, citizens and so many more that make us the Heart of the Four County Community. Road closures will continue in this area, so please avoid if possible. Updates will be posted as we have them. Thank you Team Mount Airy.
For additional information please check the Town’s website (www.mountairymd.org ), Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/TownofMountAiry), as well as, Twitter (www.twitter.com/mountyairymd)
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