ORANGE

Calling them “great ambassadors,” city officials recently commended Timothy Brooks, 22, and Nicolas Brooks, 19, for their heroic efforts in trying to rescue a mother and her two small children from their burning home earlier this year. The two young men entered the smoke-filled home on Hart Street on Jan. 8 and attempted to pull Shawn Silvers, 28, 4-year-old Brittany and 6-year-old Lance from the fire. Despite the brothers’ efforts, Silvers and her children died of smoke inhalation. City Councilman Mike Alvarez applauded the brothers and presented them with certificates of distinction.