The fire last Tuesday evening at Ellsworth House, an apartment building for low-income seniors, could have been much worse. But Mercer Island firefighters were ready. The crew that responded to the scene knew all about the structure and its residents. As a result, they called for extra help to ensure that the residents would be safe and the building could be saved. Fire units from Bellevue and Seattle responded to the scene along with extra aid cars and ambulance units. Two Metro buses were called so that the residents who evacuated could be out of the cold.

As it turns out, those buses were not needed as the staff at the nearby Roberto’s Restaurant took in the residents to keep them warm. They fed them all dinner and let them stay as long as they needed. Later they fed the firefighters, and in true neighborly fashion, they refused to let anyone pay.

Thanks to our outstanding firefighters for their excellent preparation and foresight. Kudos to Roberto’s and their staff who, through their generosity, exemplify what community is all about.

Tatters, the clothing boutique owned by Islander Michele Tesler, has been named the 2007 Business of the Year by the Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber has recognized Tesler because of her giving to other organizations through her business. She has donated to many social service agencies and groups on the Island and beyond. But perhaps her greatest gift was that she believed in the business community and chose to begin her business here, implying that if we build it, they will come.

Another good neighbor.

Editor’s note: You may have noticed a slightly different look to the Mercer Island Reporter this week. Our new design is still being finalized. Let us know what you think. E-mail editor@mi-reporter.com.