Page 14 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • May 19, 2010 100th ANNIVERSARY Mayor extends Fifty-four volunteers formed department congratulations Dear Readers: I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation and congratulations to the Allendale Volunteer Fire Department on the occasion of their 100th Anniversary on May 22, 2010. All of the residents both past and present owe a deep sense of gratitude to all the men and women who served to protect our homes and families for the past 100 years. The fire volunteers spend hundreds of hours responding to the call without compensation in a spirit of community and self-sacrifice. Also I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the spouses and children of our volunteers who support them each step of the way. A sincere thank you to each and every one of you. The Allendale Volunteer Fire Department has a long and proud history of dedication to service to our town. I know that I speak for every resident when I say we are incredibly proud of all of you. Mayor Vince Barra Allendale Volunteers with their first horse drawn rig. When the residents of Allendale resolved to form a fire department, they called a meeting on New Year’s Eve of 1909 that drew 54 men. This dedicated group represented one third of the adult male population of Allendale at the time. Those who attended the meeting elected a committee of seven to organize the department, and within the first months of 1910, a constitution was written, committees were formed, a place to meet and store equipment was established, and money was raised to purchase the first hook and ladder truck, which cost $995. The first equipment was purchased with donated funds, and borough residents still provide financial support of the department one century later. The department had a great sense of pride, which was evident when the department made its first appearance in Ridgewood’s annual Fourth of July Parade. The men from Allendale supported the orders from their chief that there would be no smoking while in formation, and that fines (continued on next page) CONGRATULATIONS to the ALLENDALE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT on its 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Allendale Chamber of Commerce www.allendalechamber.com ����� ������������������ �������������������������� ��������������������������� ����������������� ����������������� ���������������� ������������ ������������������������������������� ���������������������������