LIVERPOOL – The Liverpool Firefighters Association Ladies’ Auxiliary hosted its 50th anniversary banquet at the fire hall April 7.
John Long, the Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department’s second deputy chief, was the event’s master of ceremonies.
“The ladies’ auxiliary has raised a lot of money for the Liverpool Firefighters Association (LFFA) over the years,” he said.
Long said the money has helped buy many things, such as a breathing apparatus, fire hose and thermal imaging camera, among other things. The auxiliary has raised more than $500,000 for essential firefighting equipment over the last 50 years, added Long.
“Not only have these funds gone to help save tax payers’ money and property from destruction, most importantly it’s gone to help save lives,” he said.
Long thanked the auxiliary on behalf of firefighters, families and community members.
Kim Masland, MLA for Queens-Shelburne, thanked the association for inviting her to attend what she called “this incredible milestone of 50 years.”
Masland said one of the things she likes most about doing her job is being able to stand in the legislature and talk about all the wonderful things that happen in Queens and Shelburne counties.
“On March 23, I actually rose from my seat, and I spoke on the floor of the legislature about you folks, the ladies’ auxiliary,” she said.
She then shared the statement she made.
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Liverpool Firefighters Association Ladies’ Auxiliary, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. This tremendous group of ladies has worked tirelessly over the years raising funds for the fire department to buy necessary equipment and to help the community in times of need. They host suppers, catered events, hold flea markets and a very successful annual Christmas craft market, to name but a few things. With many long-serving members, this dedicated group of ladies volunteers their time for the good of the community and they deserve our recognition and thanks for all their hard work.”
On behalf of the province, Masland thanked the auxiliary for its commitment and volunteer work. She presented the women with a certificate of appreciation and recognition.
Mayor David Dagley brought greetings from the Region of Queens.
“Volunteers in Queens County are very valuable,” he said. “They actually are the strength of Queens County, and I want to offer my congratulations and thank you for all of the work that volunteers do. Tonight we’re here to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ladies’ auxiliary.”
The mayor thanked the other ladies’ auxiliaries and fire departments in and beyond Queens County. He gave a certificate to the auxiliary on behalf of the Region of Queens.
“The Region of Queens Municipality expresses appreciation to the ladies’ auxiliary of the Liverpool Firefighters Association for 50 years of dedicated service and commitment to the Queens community, which continues to benefit from your longtime presence and strong leadership support,” read Dagley.
Auxiliary member Vanessa Weagle talked about Rebecca Munroe, who has been on the auxiliary for 18 years and president for 16.
“Becky does many things behind the scenes that many of you don’t get to see. She is the backbone to our organization,” said Weagle. “We don’t know what we would do without you or your dedication to the ladies’ auxiliary.”
Throughout the evening, many gifts of appreciation were handed out. After a meal and speeches, there was a dance at the fire hall.
