Ellsworth’s volunteer firefighters need support of the community

Dear Editor, I wanted to share some comments about a local resource some of us take for granted until something catastrophic happens.

Ellsworth County is very blessed and fortunate to have volunteer firefighters. In my opinion, the sacrifices these men and women make often get overlooked. We as a community owe it to them and their families to support and help fund their training. These people volunteer their time and resources unselfishly for the benefit of the local business, community and travelers through this area. It’s not uncommon for them to immediately respond at all hours of the day or night, including weekends and holidays. A large percentage of response activity is related to roadway crashes and emergencies. Others responses are to fight pasture, home and business fires. They also donate some of their personal time to work on and maintain the fire department equipment in addition to participating with intermittent training throughout the year. This training enables them to be better prepared for emergency situations. Additionally, they also donate their personal time teaching our youth about fire prevention and safety.

I would like to challenge the local communities and businesses to show them support by thanking them in person and by donating to the upcoming eighth annual “Throw For The Soul” disc golf tournament Oct. 15 at the City of Ellsworth Golf course, where temporary baskets will be utilized since Krizek Park is still under construction.

All proceeds from this local tournament fundraiser are earmarked for the construction of a new Ellsworth Fire Department Training Facility that other surrounding fire departments can also utilize by scheduling with EFD. This facility will enable the volunteer firefighters to better train for multi-story house and business fires including repelling and actual interior blackout fires and rescues. Besides benefiting people in this area, the specialty training will help ensure the safety of the firefighters so they can safely return home to their families.

There is still time to show your support and sponsor the fundraiser with raffle prizes and/or hole sponsorship. Donations are tax deductible via a receipt from the fire department. Help me send a strong message to the local volunteer fire departments that we care by showing your support and please thank them in person for their hard work and unselfish sacrifices.

God Bless and please call my cell should you have any questions about supporting the event at (785) 826-5913.

Dave Cox Ellsworth

Ellsworth County is very blessed and fortunate to have volunteer firefighters. These men volunteer their time and resources unselfishly for the benefit of the local business, community and travelers through this area.