Published: July 18, 2008 10:48 am         

Ring the bell!

Fundraiser brings in $16K for Santo fire department

By Lacie Morrison
lmorrison@mineralwellsindex.com

SANTO – Despite higher fuel costs and grocery bills contending for consumers’ cash, generosity was found Saturday among the attendees of Santo Volunteer Fire Department’s second annual barbecue fundraiser where they raised more than $16,000.

SVFD Public Information Officer Brian Gordon said, “People were very, very generous. We were overwhelmed.”

In previous fundraisers, Gordon said they had music programs but decided to try a different approach last year with a barbecue, which “involved more people in the community.”

The barbecue fundraiser saw nine cooking teams practicing their food finesse, competing for the best brisket, chicken, chili and Spam, among other items. According to Gordon, catering from Natty Flat Barbecue fed between 150 and 175 people.

Food wasn’t the only draw as the department raffled off a trailer and rocking chairs while a silent auction and door prizes also captured attendees’ interests. For the youngsters, a Bounce House provided athletic entertainment while sno cones offered a cooling treat. The “Blues Brothers,” of Mineral Wells, attended the event while Care Flight, Air Evac and the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office also made appearances.

“Thanks to all our wonderful citizens and sponsors who made this event a success,” Gordon said. “We felt very blessed to receive such an outpouring of support from the community.”

Gordon said the $16,000 raised is the highest amount donated compared to previous events. While the amount doesn’t cover all of the department’s expenses, he said it helps pay for those costs incurred above what is covered by what the county contributes to the department.

Established in 1960, the Santo Volunteer Fire Department has approximately 30 volunteers and five units.