Fire scene in 2800 block of 30th Street (Liam Verster/ Vernon Matters photo)

By Kevin Rothwell

moving to U.S.

Vernon salon calls it quits after devastating fire

Jul 17, 2023 | 4:30 PM

One of the businesses razed in a massive fire in downtown Vernon on July 4th will not be rebuilding.

Jax and Kings Hair Salon was one of six businesses destroyed in the early morning fire in the 2800 block of 30th Street, that is being investigated as suspicious.

“I am writing to inform you about recent events that have impacted Jax & King Salon and our team. It is with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news that our salon experienced a fire, completely destroying the premises. As a result, I will be unable to offer my services for the month of July, as I navigate through the necessary processes with our insurance company,” owner Paul Miller said in a statement released on social media.

Miller indicates that after careful consideration and discussion with his team members, he has decided not to rebuild.

“After much consideration, I have decided to move to San Diego to live and work with my husband, Jaylin Seng. In addition, I will be exploring editorial and fashion opportunities in Los Angeles. Our dedicated staff members have also found new salons to continue their remarkable work,” Miller said.

Possible firearm involved

One person apprehended in connection with suspicious activity in Coldstream

18h ago

Fatal Collision, Highway Closed

One person dead in crash near Revelstoke

19h ago

Salaries

Vernon Council to discuss lesser pay increases

21h ago

Two staff members are taking positions with Oak and Ash and another to Creekside Landing Retirement Residence.

Meantime, a Go Fund Me campaign for another impacted business, Okanagan Eatery, reached it’s $20,000 goal and has been taken down.

“I wanted to thank everyone again for the generous donations,” owners Dustin and Chelsea White posted on social media. “This community has provided our family with more than we could ever expect and then some! We are so heartbroken from our loss and the loss for downtown.

The owners appreciate how supportive the community has been.

“From sending us money, encouraging words, food baskets, food truck ads, offered us your kitchen, OFFERED US JOBS!! Everything means so much to us, while we wait for the investigation and insurance,” the White’s stated. “We thank you for the love, Vernon. If you have anything else to give, please find the go fund me of the other businesses and donate!”

“We haven’t heard much from the RCMP or our Insurance company in relation to the investigation. I suspect it will take some time,” building owner Gary Batula told Vernon Matters.