As the Carman Country Fair gets into full swing this weekend, a familiar sight will once again take to the streets during Saturday’s parade (July 12). Members of the Carman Dufferin Fire Department will be walking with boots in hand, ready to collect donations from the crowd.
Fire Chief Chris Lemky shared his excitement about the fair and the department’s annual boot drive, a longstanding tradition that raises funds to support local firefighting efforts.
“This year, everything from the boot drive is being dedicated to our regional training site,” Lemky shared. “We saw a real need for this site a few years ago, and it’s coming along great. The support we’ve received has been incredible.”
"This community gets behind us with everything we do." - Carman Dufferin Fire Chief, Chris Lemky
Earlier this year, the second annual Firefighters Ball raised approximately $20,000, with all proceeds going directly toward the development of the training site, an initiative Lemky says will benefit not only their department but the entire mutual aid district.
“This community never ceases to amaze us,” he added. “Whether it’s the ball or the boot drive, people show up, they give generously, and they stand behind what we do.”
While the boot drive is focused on fundraising, Lemky also emphasized that it's a great chance for the public to meet their local firefighters face-to-face. “We try to get as many of our people involved as possible. It’s one of the easiest events to get volunteers for. Everyone wants to be out there.”
Along with the boot drive, Lemky shared that he's looking forward to other highlights of the fair, including the Saturday night fireworks and the new addition of dirt bike barrel racing, but he says nothing beats seeing the kids enjoy the rides and families coming together.
The Carman Country Fair parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. Keep an eye out for the firefighters, and don’t forget to bring a few bucks for the boot. Every donation, large or small, helps strengthen fire services right here at home.