Fire fighters 'put the boots' to local residents - again!
By Kyra Hoggan
Postponed last week after the Lemon Creek jet fuel spill and subsequent evacuation, this fundraiser proves the Pass Creek Fire Department can’t be dissuaded in their desire to boot locals around a little for a good cause.
If you get pulled over by fire fighters near the mailboxes going into Pass Creek between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. this Saturday, don’t be alarmed.
You’re not about to get a ticket, you’re about to get some free fire-prevention information, a little bit of fun swag, and an opportunity to hand over your spare change to help the firefighers raise money to help Muscular Dystrophy (MD).
You’ve heard the expression ‘big boots to fill’? Well, you haven’t seen anything until you get a load of one of the massive fire boots these volunteer firefighters hope to fill with change to help, among others, several local people who suffer from the debilitating group of diseases.
“It all started in 1954,” said volunteer firefighter and first responder Graham Cloutier. “There was a family in Toronto with a child who had MD. The family couldn’t afford equipment (and treatment). They didn’t know where to turn for help, so they went to their local fire hall – it just kind of snowballed from there. I think all the departments fundraise for MD now.
“It’s a neat story.”
Pass Creek fire chief Brian Bebelman said it’s one of their most effective fundraising efforts.
“The guys that did it last year were out there in heat that was probably over 35 degrees,” he said. “I was amazed – they raised over $1,300. I was very proud of them.”
Cloutier said residents who weren’t planning on driving that route can feel free to detour and come say ‘hi’, perhaps even sharing some spare change.
In related news, watch for upcoming Source coverage of the Pass Creek Fire Department’s coming charity golf tourney in Salmo, probably in early October, to raise money for the same cause.
