To the Editor:

It was heartbreaking, but not surprising, to read that the Java Veterinary clinic burned to the ground last October. The original clinic, Linder Veterinary, was a typical, sterile and bland clinic one expects for a medical facility. The Java Center was destined to be very different. Since opening in 2011, it transformed from a typical clinic to a lush, tropical jungle-type venue seemingly constructed from bamboo and reed and complete with vines. The impression on entering the facility, ways of entering a scene from the The African Queen. I loved it, but thought to myself: "Who would insure such a place?"

The fact that fire departments from 9 municipalities responded to the 3 a.m. fire in Massena speaks volumes of the dedication of our volunteer fire departments and rescue squads: Countless volunteers leave the safety and comfort of home and bed to battle flames and risk exposure to dangerous chemicals and rapidly evolving structural failures, to try and rescue, safe and protect strangers and their property. It leaves me in awe.

To say it is unfortunate that Dr. Perez has decided to file claims against all 9 fire departments is putting it mildly. It is shocking. Countless individuals labor after- or alongside regular jobs to contribute resources, time and skills to keep these acts-of-mercy available for everyone. Imagine a world where volunteers no longer jump to the front when a fire erupts: what then? The North Country has no resources to hire career firefighters. Homes and businesses will be lost. Instead of blaming fire departments for attempting to rescue an ill-advised and un-insurable building, Dr Perez should consider contributing a fraction of his earnings to their operations.

Monique Tirion
Potsdam