Early morning fire claims popular Schroon Lake restaurant

SCHROON LAKE | A popular eatery was left in charred rubble after a massive early morning blaze Saturday. The fire at Sticks & Stones at 739 Route 9 was reported just before 4 a.m. as flames tore through the iconic bar and grill. With temperatures hovering in the low 20s, volunteer crews from Schroon Lake, North Hudson, Chilson, Ticonderoga, Horicon, Minerva, Chestertown and Pottersville battled the fire through the pre-dawn hours as winds fueled the fast-moving flames. The fire prompted a temporary road closure on Route 9 by Charlie Hill and it was an all-out coordinated effort to quell the fire. As day broke, only a blackened skeleton of the former restaurant still remained. Word of the fire spread quickly as hundreds of residents near and far were shocked by the devastating loss and shared fond memories of the popular spot favored by area residents, hikers, snowmobilers and seasonal adventurers. Sticks & Stones was opened Friday night, offering a wide range of specials for the busy holiday shopping weekend, with live music set to return to the spacious Adirondack-style bistro Saturday night. Owners Gary Tromblee and Stephen Holmes, who opened the local landmark in 2013, somberly gathered Saturday to survey the damage and reel in the unfathomable loss. As they dealt with the devastating aftermath of the fire, Sticks & Stones owners said they were heartbroken by the loss but "incredibly grateful that no one was harmed, as the safety and well-being of our families, staff and all of you are our top priority." "For now, please keep our employees in your thoughts. We will share in the coming days how our community can be of support." They thanked the far-reaching outpouring of support as hundreds of condolences, fond memories and photos were shared on social media as the community looked to assist with any immediate and future needs. As the bistro is now a total loss in the height of the busy holiday season, owners quickly hoped to rally help their employees who are now abruptly without work. Sticks & Stones planned to create an account and online fundraiser to raise money for staff during the difficult uncertainty ahead. They expected to launch the fundraiser Monday, and those interested were asked to check their official Facebook, Instagram or website for links, more information and updates moving forward. Within hours of the fire, Schroon Lake Community Church began organizing a dinner benefit for displaced staff on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 4-6 p.m. Organizers said their "hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the owners, employees, and everyone who has been touched by the restaurant of Sticks and Stones. Almost everyone has had a good belly laugh, good meal or a good cry with friends, families, loved ones, colleagues, or strangers. It fed our souls and our bodies. As we continue to be Schroon Lake Strong, we will band together as we do every time we face adversity, tragedy and loss." In neighboring Chestertown, Main Street Ice Cream Parlor quickly launched a raffle for a $100 gift certificate, with all proceeds going to the fire-affected staff. In Warrensburg, Canepa's Pizza Shop is donating 30 percent of Friday, Dec. 5's sales to the impacted employees fund. Sen. Dan Stec and Assemblyman Matt Simpson also offered heartfelt condolences as the local business community pledged its support to the longtime community staple. Schroon Lake Marina recalled their years of friendship, catered events and memorable business gatherings at Sticks & Stones, offering support however possible. "We stand firmly behind you with our full support, and we will help hold you up during this incredibly difficult time. Our tight-knit community feels the impact of this loss in a profound way. To Gary, Steve, your staff, and your families—please know that we are here for you." Adirondack General Store owners said, "Our small towns are built on places like theirs — where we gather with family, meet friends, and make memories. When something like this happens, the whole community feels it. Please know your neighbors, friends, and fellow local businesses are standing shoulder to shoulder with you as you navigate the days ahead. We're here for you however we can be — today, tomorrow, and in the weeks to come — and we believe this community will help you write the next, brighter chapter."

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Early morning fire claims popular Schroon Lake restaurant

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