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independent@htc.net |
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If it happens in Monroe County, it's news to us! |
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Weekend Wrap-Up - December 23, 2007 Millstadt Home Damaged By Fire
A home on the north end of Millstadt was damaged by fire Saturday morning. Firefighters quickly arrived on the scene at 300 Deanewood and were able to save the home of Paul and Rebecca Czerniejewski. Just after 8 a.m., smoke detector sounded in their home. When they opened the door to their garage they noticed a large fire coming from a refrigerator. After dialing 911, Paul, Rebecca and their children safely exited the home. Millstadt Police Officer Bill Casto was the first on the scene. He noticed a large wall of fire coming from the garage and smoke billowing out of second floor windows. The fire had spread to two vehicles parked in the driveway and into second floor living quarters. Rebecca Czerniejewski told him everyone was out, but the family pets, a cat and a gerbil, were still inside. Braving the growing flames, Casto made his way into the basement where the cat was believed to be. “Smoke was up to my waist. I searched as long as I was able, but I could not locate the cat,” said Casto. The officer then headed back up stairs and grabbed several Christmas presents under the family tree before exiting the burning structure. “That police officer deserves a lot of credit for his effort,” said Mark Oman, a neighbor who watched the events unfold. “He did one heck of a job.” Millstadt firefighters were soon on the scene. Calls were also made to Smithton and Columbia departments to assist. Those two departments arrived shortly thereafter. Firefighters climbed aboard ladders to pour water onto the roof, while others entered the burning structure and extinguished the fire from within the home. The fire was under control in about a half an hour. “Firefighters were able to save the pets,” said Millstadt Fire Chief Kurt Pellmann. “The steel door between the garage and living quarters really held the fire back until we got it under control.” Fire damage was contained to the garage, while the rest of the home received smoke damage. The Czerniejewskis have made other living arrangements until their home is repaired.
VFW Delivers Holiday Gifts To Veterans
Mike Grubb of Waterloo celebrated his 50th birthday at his home Saturday evening. Family and friends gathered for an evening of good food and refreshments. Most of the men in attendance kept their eye on the television to watch the Illini versus Missouri Braggin’ Rights game. Marie Kelley celebrated her 50th birthday Saturday with a dinner with family and friends. Her husband, Jerry, picked up the tab. Scott and Angie Corey hosted their annual Braggin’ Rights Game party at their home in Valmeyer. Attendees Mark Bundy and Allen May celebrated Illini’s victory over Mizzou with their traditional uncorking of a bottle of champagne. “I wouldn’t have bet a plug nickel on Illinois’ chances of winning their eighth straight,” said Bundy, a loyal Illinois basketball fan. “But I am very glad they were victorious.” |
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