Equipment Fundraiser for Newton Firefighters

Would you like to work on a real movie set?  Do you need new fitness equipment?  How about a date with a bachelor firefighter?  These are just some of the valuable and fun auction items up for bid at the Equipment Fundraiser for the Newton Firefighters. The event, sponsored by the Jessica Locke Firefighters Fund, will be held at American Legion Post 440 on March 26th at 7 p.m.  Newton residents Linda McLaughlin, Linda Anderson, Nancy Dangelo Kearney, Denise Kelly, and Patty Mosca have joined together with local businesses to raise money for the purchase of new fire equipment.

"The firefighters deserve our respect and financial support,” says Linda McLaughlin. “Their work is so vital. I am thrilled and proud to be part of this event.”

Some of the items the group is looking to purchase with proceeds from the auction are: 

• Zodiac Rescue Boats w/ Trailers        

• Jaws of Life w/ Mass Transit capability

• Air Bags

• Exothermic Cutting Torches

• Mobile Data Units (Laptops for Trucks)

• Mustang Survival Suits 

• 24-volt Cordless Extrication Tools

These tools are critical components not only for fire rescues, but also for water, ice and accident rescues. "Most of the residents don't realize that a lot of the equipment Newton firefighters are using is well below par,” said Jessica Locke, executive director of the Firefighters Fund. "Just a few weeks ago, Engine 10's fuel tank dropped out from underneath the truck on the way back from an alarm.  It's over 20 years old, and shouldn't be on the road."  

The Newton firefighters are very appreciative of all the efforts being put behind this fundraiser. “We want to thank the Firefighters Fund and all the residents and businesses who have given so much time and effort to help us," says Tom Lopez, President of the Firefighters Union Local 863.  “With the tough fiscal climate it has been difficult, if not nearly impossible to meet the growing list of capital needs in the fire department over the last several years. It is with great hope that with the money raised, we will be able to meet some of the most critical goals in order to keep the citizens and firefighters of Newton safe.”

Auction items include a Reebok Mountain Bike; a year’s pass for unlimited car washes at the Quick & Clean Car Wash in Waltham; a four-day weekend getaway in Stowe, VT; a Pilates Reformer Exercise Machine;  and a private party for 20 children at the W. Newton Cinema.  BOA President Scott Lennon will be the event auctioneer.  

Available for purchase will be a Newton Firefighters calendar, created by the Graphic Arts Department at Newton North High School, with photography by Linda McLaughlin and Nancy Dangelo Kearney.  

"The students did a beautiful job, and the firefighters went the extra mile to give us some great photos," said McLaughlin.

Comic Tony V will be part of the evening's entertainment. Named “Funniest Person in Massachusetts” by Showtime television, Tony V has appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and several sitcoms, including Seinfeld.  There will also be a bagpipe band, DJ, dancing and appetizers. 

 "Everybody's been so great about providing us with donations for the auction. This fundraiser will show the firefighters how appreciative the community is of their everyday sacrifices," says Locke.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.firefightersfund.org.  For more information please call 617-924-9999 or contact jessica @firefightersfund.org.