Masons contribute to VFD

Justin Champion, Worshipful Master of the Henry Marsh Bell Lodge presented two checks to the Whitehouse Volunteer Fire Department on Tuesday. Fire Chief Ronny Fite gladly accepted the donations.

As they do each year, the Masonic brothers of the Henry Marsh Bell Lodge #1371 presented a check for $500 to the Whitehouse Volunteer Fire Department.

Along with the annual donation came an additional $250 from the YesterYear BBQ dinner the lodge served at the fire house in June. This type of community support is essential to the continued outstanding service provided by the volunteer fire department.

Each summer the citizens of Whitehouse are asked to contribute to the operations of the volunteer fire department. While the voters approved the creation of Smith County Emergency Service District #2, the department will not receive any funds from the EDS until late 2007 or early 2008 so the community's continued financial support is necessary.

One of the things the department is looking at is the construction of a second fire station out in the rural area. By doing this they can ensure that everyone within the fire coverage area is within five miles of a station, which can result in a reduction of homeowners' insurance costs.

"We will also be looking at the purchase of additional fire apparatus and equipment, as well as funding for additional paid parttime employees," said Fire Chief Ronny Fite. "These employees are scheduled to work during the week while most of our volunteers are at their regular jobs. This ensures a quick response during a time where we have been short handed in the past. They also perform regular daily duties, such as upkeep of the station, equipment, fire inspections, fire education and other related fire activities."