Story Published:
Sep 4, 2008 at 5:46 PM CST
Story Updated:
Sep 4, 2008 at 6:40 PM CST
Just one day after the massive fire that destroyed Mackinaw's only grocery store, the reality for some people is just setting in.
Residents stood on street corners, and drove past the I-G-A grocery store viewing its charred remains.
People are still in shock the building, which has been a landmark in Mackinaw for more than a century, has burned down.
And residents say old habits die-hard.
"It's like when your electricity goes off in your house, you still flip on switches....I still am halfway out the door going to get something at the I-G-A and realize that it's not there", said store owner Jon Thetard.
"We're gonna have to go to Minier, the I-G-A there or Morton or Pekin...hopefully the town will support the Zehrs and go to Minier", said store owner, Melissa Lessard.
The family that owned this I-G-A, the Zehrs, also own the I-G-A in Minier.
The village Mayor says he is looking to get transportation for those unable to drive so they can to their shopping in a nearby town.
Since the initial fire was put out yesterday, firefighters have had to suit up two more times to extinguish flames in the store.
Friday, Sep 5 at 5:31 PM LA wrote ...
Econ 101 for LL. Small stores can't purchase in bulk and pay more for same products. Residents like having convenience of store in town and willing to support store by paying a little more. Others only use it when convenient for them and complain they aren't getting the bargains from the mega store. Many small towns would be thrilled to have the convenience of a local store which also helps support and strengthen the community. May there not be many who feel as you do. Blessings to the Zehrs!