H.V. firefighter barbecue is here at last

CORN SHUCKER:
Austin Dunton, 5, son of firefighter Mark Dunton, Jr., shucks corn in preparation for the 22nd annual Happy Valley firefighters’ barbecue and dance Saturday, July 19.

Lightning-sparked wild fires throughout Shasta County have created a tough three weeks for Happy Valley firefighters. Engines and crews have rotated in and out of fire duty for days at a time. On the home front, however, preparations are well underway for the 22nd annual Happy Valley Volunteer Firefighters Barbecue, Auction and Dance on Saturday, July 19.

The tri-tip dinner, held at the Palm Avenue fire station near Happy Valley Road, begins at 5 p.m. Organizers hope outdoor temperatures will have cooled a bit, but if not, plenty of shade trees and a cooling mist system will provide a comfortable atmosphere. Beer, wine, sodas and water will be available.

Games will be organized for the children, as well as other activities that will entertain them until dark. A $2.50 charge will be requested, but it will cover all the children’s activities throughout the evening. They will be under the supervision of trained firefighters. Who could ask for better caregivers?

The very popular auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. Thanks to so many organizations and individuals that generously donated items for auctioning off to the highest bidder.

Presale tickets for the dinner may be purchased at local businesses, the fire hall or from individual firefighters.

Finally, from 8:00 p.m. until midnight, folks may dance to live music provided by LTD. For those who don’t feel like dancing, there are many other choices. Horseshoes, the Big Spin and just plain conversation with old friends may be enjoyed.

Presale tickets for the dinner are $10 for adults and $4 for children ages 12 and under. Prices for each ticket category go up by $1 at the door.

The Happy Volunteer Fire Department depends on this summer fund-raiser to provide supplies, equipment, clothing and other needs for a year. Not only is it the department’s largest fund-raiser, it is the biggest social event of the Happy Valley summer. So, come on out for a great evening of fun and good food even as you support your local firefighters at the same time.

For further information or to make donations, call 357-2345.