June 22, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 9 Dear Readers: It is with great pride and gratitude that I congratulate the members of the Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Fire Department upon the organization’s 100th Anniversary, which will be celebrated at the Town Green on June 25. From the first hand drawn rig to the 1937 Ahrens Fox Engine to today’s modern equipment, much has changed about the way in which the department provides fire protection for Ho-Ho-Kus residents. However, its goal remains constant: to provide A Message from the Mayor residents and neighbors with the best trained and equipped fire protection and rescue services available in response to a call for help. Organized in 1911, the volunteer department adapted and grew over the years by establishing a Junior and Ladies Auxiliary which have promoted town-wide involvement from residents. Today’s volunteer ranks are filled with a diverse spectrum of the community from local business owners to students, plumbers, stock brokers, mechanics, arborists, business professionals, borough employees, parents, coaches and retirees, among others. Beyond its fire fighting and emergency services role, the department’s influence is woven throughout the social fabric of the town. It has provided invaluable safety information to the residents as well as assisting in every town event, celebration, and observance over the years. What hasn’t changed since 1911, however, is the spirit of community service which inspires these volunteers to perform their selfless job of protecting approximately 4,000 Ho-Ho-Kus residents. The training and education requirements have increased markedly. As volunteers they do not receive a salary for responding to life threatening emergency situations or for training drills. However, the department’s professionalism is unsurpassed and has earned the respect of its counterparts throughout New Jersey. Residents of the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus are fortunate to have such a fine group of trained and dedicated volunteers. Despite all these changes, the essence of the job has remained the same…neighbors willing to step forward to help their neighbors. As we celebrate the centennial of the Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Fire Department and the dedicated service of volunteers who protect the lives and property within our town, it falls to each of us to do what we can to keep that spirit of community service alive for the next 100 years. I hope you will join in the celebration of the 100th year of service to the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus on Saturday, June 25. On behalf of the residents of the Borough of Ho-HoKus, please accept my heartfelt thanks and congratulations on 100 years of exceptional service. Sincerely, Ho-Ho-Kus Mayor Thomas Randall Congratulations on your centennial