Annual fundraiser to aid fire service

Friday, September 12, 2008

REELSVILLE -- In a house fire, every second counts, which is why rural fire departments like the one that serves the Reelsville area is so important.

But just having a fire station isn't enough. Having the proper equipment to fight a fire and a staff of volunteers willing to risk their lives to protect life and property is just as important.

A lot of people may not realize it, volunteer firefighter Ken Hurst said, but the tax money generated in the township goes mainly for insurance and other expenses for the fire department.

When it comes to paying for equipment, it's up to the firefighters themselves to raise it, which is why Hurst is hoping the public will come to the fire department's yearly fundraiser, planned for Saturday, Sept. 27.

"It's our main fundraiser of the year," Hurst said. "So we're really encouraging people to come out and support us that day."

The 27th annual Chili Supper and fourth annual combined car show will take place throughout the day at the fire house, located on U.S. 40 in southwestern Putnam County, right next to the Reelsville Elementary School.

"We'll have our car show, chili supper, lunch for the firefighters and live entertainment," Hurst explained. "It will be a lot of fun."

The schedule for day includes the following:

* Car/Motorcycle/Truck Show registration: 8:30-11 a.m.

* Car/Motorcycle/Truck Show judging: noon to 2 p.m.

* Winners Announced: 3 p.m.

Prizes will be given for Best of Show, Fire Chief's Choice and Best in Category.

* Lunch: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Lunch includes breaded tenderloins and the fire department's famous homemade onion rings.

* Chili Supper: 4-8 p.m.

Hurst said that in addition to the food and car show, there will be live entertainment provided by local groups and a 50/50 raffle.

Tickets are $1 apiece or six for $5. Tickets can be obtained by contacting a firefighter. There are a number of prizes available, including a $100 gasoline card from Gas America and a package of car-washing supplies donated by O'Reilly Auto Parts.

Anyone with questions about the day is asked to call Hurst at 765-721-1282.

"We just encourage everyone to come out," Hurst said.

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