Big John’s Fire

In reading the article on the front page of the Orange County section about the fire at Big John’s (“Music Club Turns Into Firebox; One Man Dead,” Jan. 11), I was personally upset and offended that the concentration of the article was directed toward the local bands. The bands playing there were not the heart of what Big John’s was really about. Not to mention the fact that Steve Scott Ayotte (the employee who was killed in the fire) did not get the recognition he so rightly deserved.

For many, Big John’s was a second home. Many of the employees have worked there for six to eight years. People have a tendency to become rather attached to a place and the people that go there. From the outside, Big John’s looked like just a pool hall. On the inside, however, it was not. It was a second home for many of us, myself included. We have all grown to be a family. The fire at Big John’s has hurt the “family” more than anyone else.

Steve Scott Ayotte was an employee at Big John’s. Steve was a very loving, sensitive and compassionate young man. With his loving smile and warm eyes he managed to brighten up even some of the loneliest nights. He had an aura that surrounded him that was powerful. And even though he is not with us now, when we are together as a family, Steve is still present. The walls at Big John’s are still standing and if Big John’s is rebuilt, Steve will be a big part of it.

SHERRA EWING

Villa Park