Greeley Fire and Rescue turns 50 with a bang!

Parade, party and pyrotechnics planned

By SANDY LONG

GREELEY, PA — Fifty years ago, Greeley Fire Chief Bob Schmidt’s father, Artie, and other community-minded volunteers established the Greeley Volunteer Fire and Rescue (GVFR). Bob was 18 at the time, and became a founding member of the fledgling fire company. This weekend, the GVFR will celebrate its 50th anniversary on August 16, making history by hosting the first parade and professional fireworks display ever to take place in the village of Greeley, located in Lackawaxen Township.

A family-style party, featuring music, food, games and more, will follow.

Earlier this year, the firefighters hosted their annual fundraising barbeque, adding a special surprise by giving away more than 600 chicken dinners at no charge to the delight of unsuspecting guests. “We served Greeley and surrounding communities for 50 years but we couldn’t have done any of it without community support,” said Schmidt. “This year, we wanted to mark our anniversary by showing our gratitude. We will continue to celebrate and show our appreciation to our supporters on August 16 with a parade and giant party topped off with a fantastic fireworks show after sundown.”

According to Schmidt, the parade will begin on August 16 at 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of Route 590 and Greeley Lake Road. It will follow Route 590 to the firehouse grounds near the intersection of Market Road (formerly Butcher Road) where the all-day party will begin.

The parade will feature motorcycle and car clubs, fire apparatus and volunteers from miles around, horses, local politicians, a military honor guard and much more. The party will include pony rides, kids games, raffles, games of chance, the best food in town, beer and soft drinks, all followed by an unforgettable pyrotechnic display. A beautiful quilt, handcrafted by Peggy Sue Goble, will be raffled. Plenty of free parking is available.

The GVFR was organized by community-minded friends and neighbors who saw a need and acted to provide for the safety of family, friends and neighbors, according to Schmidt, who acknowledged the proud tradition of selfless service provided by its dedicated volunteers, many of whom are the children and grandchildren of its charter members. From its first vehicle, a 1929 Larabe Fire Engine, to today’s fleet of six trucks, the GVFR has seen consistent growth.

Schmidt also applauded the “tremendous community support” provided by area businesses and individuals. “They’re here for us because they care,” said Schmidt.

The public is encouraged to join in the celebration. A rain date of August 17 is planned. For more information or directions to Greeley call the firehouse at 570/685-7537.