Chief takes pie in the face for a good cause

    Grape Creek – Folks came out from across Cherokee County to help the Grape Creek Volunteer Fire Department raise money for a much-needed new fire station on May 24.
    Today at the station, firefighters doing shifts sleep in sleeping bags on the ground, while the department’s equipment and vehicles are outdated. Some vehicles are proving more costly for the department to keep on the road than a new one would.
    The first Hens & Heroes Fire Department Fundraiser had much to offer the community. For just a donation, folks enjoyed a tummy-filling barbecue meal including a pulled pork sandwich, macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, baked beans and more.
    Kids had plenty of games and activities to keep themselves busy, while adults were in line signing up for different raffles. The fun raised about $2,000.
    A cakewalk was not only fun to participate in but entertaining to watch. Participants walked from number to number building anticipation as to whom would be walking away with a prized cake. The number “16” drawn in icing was atop the delicious dessert in honor of Grape Creek Fire Station 16.
    Fire Chief Alan Andrews took a hit for the department by volunteering to take a pie to the face at the throwing hand of anyone who purchased a ticket to do so. Kids and adults enjoyed the chance to hit the target, which was Andrews’ smiling face and taunting words coming through a hole in the photo board.
    Andrews’ short-term goal for the department includes selling the older fire trucks in order to purchase one good engine. In the long term, he wants to have a new station equipped with generators.
    The new station would also serve as a shelter for folks during tornados. His disaster plan would include firefighters going out into the community and looking at the roads to make sure people are safe, bringing them back to the station if needed.
    As with any costly endeavor, it takes time and perseverance. Andrews said he is in it for the long haul, and any donations along the way will be greatly appreciated.
    The department is also need of more volunteers. The chief thanked Tammi Smith, president of Appalachian Lady Homesteaders, whose help made the event not only possible, but a success.
    Details: Call the Grape Creek Volunteer Fire Department at 828-361-3979.