LETTERS: A tradition ends

To the editor:

For the last 40 years on the third Saturday in July, the South China Volunteer Fire Department has held a fundraising auction. Over the years it has become our major fundraiser, and has been eagerly awaited by folks from China, and surrounding towns. It has been going on so long that we have firefighters who were not yet born when the tradition of the “Fireman’s Auction” began. Over the years we have used the funds raised along with lots of volunteer labor to build our station, purchase our fire trucks and fill many other needs.

Unfortunately, the tradition is over. I have the sad duty to advise you that due to the restrictions promulgated by the governor in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we will not be holding an auction in 2020. It is our sincere hope that we will be able to pick up where we left off when things return to normal.

In spite of this situation, we still have a need for funding beyond that which the taxpayers provide, so this year, if you would like to make donations of cash instead of items to sell at auction, we would be pleased to accept them. Please make checks payable to the South China Volunteer Fire Department and mail them to PO Box 325, South China, Maine 04358.

We thank you for all the support you have provided over the years and for that which you may be able to provide in the future. Rest assured that despite the pandemic, the members of the South China Volunteer Fire Department will be there for you when you need us whatever your emergency may be.

Dick Morse, Fire Chief
South China Volunteer Fire Department