Thursday, August 5, 2010

Manton Fire Department Barbecue and the Jaws of Life

Of all the wonderful community events in our small town of Manton, my favorite is just about to take place this coming Saturday, August 7th: the Annual Manton Volunteer Fire Department Barbecue. It is the best attended local event, with the possible exception of the Manton Apple Festival in October, so I know I will get to visit with lots of friends, some of whom I haven't seen since last year's BBQ. It's a great meal for ten bucks: BBQ Tri-tip or Chicken, Veggies, Salad, Beans, Roll and a Soda or Bottled Water. And don't forget the fabulous homemade desserts which are available for just a little bit more.

The proceeds go to a most worthy cause, the purchase of additional equipment for the fire department. This year the goal is to raise money for The Jaws of Life, a heavy duty apparatus used to extricate persons trapped in vehicles following a collision. As a former volunteer firefighter myself, I can testify that this equipment would be a great asset to the emergency responders. Most of the traffic accidents in our area involve high speed encounters with immovable objects. In such cases, major structural damage often occurs, making the extrication of victims quite difficult. Put very simply, the Jaws of Life could help save lives. Donations are welcome and greatly appreciated by the volunteers.

Perhaps the most enjoyable moments of the annual barbecue follow the meal, when the raffle begins. My wife has been known to buy $100 worth of tickets, and I'm sure she's not the only one. Raffle prizes range from locally produced bottles of award-winning wine to getaway weekend trips, but there is no doubt what my wife is going for: the handmade quilt! Seems like that's the prize everyone wants and I swear, one of these years she's going to win it!

Whether you are a local resident of Manton or someone just visiting from out of town, it's hard to beat the good vibes, community spirit, and just plain down home fun of the Manton Volunteer Fire Department Barbecue. As always, the location is at the Fire Station on Manton Road just as you come into town and the food is served from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Don't miss it! But if you do, the 32nd annual BBQ will be the first Saturday in August, 2011. Put in on your calendar now! See you there, this year or next.

Tom Knight, Broker
Manton Realty