Futules’ Harmar House gives update on Facebook
Nick Futules Jr. offered thanks to various people Saturday and gave an update on the aftermath of a fire Wednesday, Aug. 30 that destroyed Futules’ Harmar House banquet hall and downstairs lounge and apartments.
In a Facebook post, Nick Futules Jr. began by thanking everyone who offered their condolences and for their willingness to help. He also thanked “the fire responders risking their lives trying to save our business.
Futules Jr. is the son of co-owner Nick Futules Sr. In correcting earlier reports, he said the other owner is his uncle, Tony Futules Sr.
“I feel horrible for the upcoming customers who booked our hall the rest of the year and next year,” Futules Jr. wrote.
“I’m beginning the process (of) returning everyone’s deposits. I just got my computer recovered and need time to sort out the mess.”
As far as the business goes, Futules said, “Today, it’s uncertain what’s next.”
Futules thanked “the thousands of people who supported out business over the last 25 years.”
“It’s been an emotional roller coaster for me and my family. I’ve been crying since the night of the fire.”
Futules said the fire started with spontaneous combustion in “freshly laundered bar rags in a bin.” He said security cameras captured the incident.
His Facebook post included several photos of the damage to the banquet facility and kitchen area.
It also included a photo of the Futules’ Harmar House sign in front for the building that was taken a day before the fire.
The message board read: “September is our 25th anniversary.”
At least two dozen people had expressed sympathy in replying to the Facebook post less than an hour after it was posted.
Dave Williams is the TribLive night news editor. A Harrison native and Tarentum resident, Dave has worked for the Trib and one of its predecessors since 1978. He started as a sports reporter but soon transitioned to news. He became an assistant city editor in the late 1980s, briefly served as editorial page editor, but mostly has served as night editor for about 30 years.He can be reached at dwilliams@triblive.com.
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