Highland Restaurant 'Definition Of Community' In SPS Fire

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA —It served as the command center during the SPS Technologies fire.

While nearly 70 fire companies battled the fire at the 600,000-square-foot Highland Avenue building last month, the Highland Avenue Restaurant and Bar was serving firefighters hot meals during several bone-chilling days.

"We want to mention the support given to us by the Highland Restaurant and Bar," the Weldon Fire Company said at the time of the fire. "They have provided us with meals, bathroom facilities, and a warm place during these frigid temperatures. We cannot put into words our true appreciation for their hospitality. They are the definition of community."

The Highland Restaurant said that to say the first 48 hours during the mid-February fire "hasn’t been shocking and eye-opening is an understatement."

"Watching such a horrific event take place in our close-knit neighborhood makes us appreciate our blessings every day. We are so thankful that no one got hurt, our business and staff remained safe, and that our facility was able to provide a warm, safe place for the team of authorities to navigate this tragedy," the restaurant said in a Facebook post just after the fire.

"Needless to say, the work, perseverance, and dedication of all police staff, volunteer firefighters, county officials, and all else involved working tireless perpetual hours is a true act of bravery and kindness, and they should be recognized as our everyday heroes," the restaurant said.

Many businesses suffered during the fire due to evacuations and shelter-in-place orders. But they're trying to bounce back since the disaster.

"Like others, the Highland Restaurant and Bar has suffered an interruption in business due to this event," the Weldon Fire Company said. "Please consider patronizing this establishment to show them the same support that they have shown us throughout this tragedy."