GREENE – While most area residents were sitting down to enjoy their traditional Thanksgiving feasts, volunteers from seven local fire companies were battling a blaze in Greene’s downtown business district.

Emergency responders were alerted of the structure fire by a 911 call placed shortly before 2 p.m., reported Greene Fire Chief Dan Montgomery. When they arrived, they found the back of Foo Chow Restaurant (46 Genesee St.) and Thomas Real Estate (50 Genesee St.) in flames.

While the investigation is ongoing, First Assistant Chief Mark Colwell said the fire is believed to have originated in a portion of the slope-roofed addition which runs along the back of the commercial block owned by Foo Chow.

The building which houses the restaurant, however, sustained only minimal damage, Montgomery said. The rear portion of the Thomas building sustained much more severe damage. The front of the historic structure, where the real estate office is located, had limited smoke and water damage. Windows at the front were broken by responders to gain access.