Some would say all good things must come to an end, but the aftermath from this year’s S.A.V.E.S the Day fundraising events will last a lifetime.   These events create memories and fellowship that does not dissolve easily.   Although the weather was not what we all hoped, the events were unstoppable.

With spirits high and drives long, golfers played through this year’s 6 ^th annual S.A.V.E.S. the Day golf tournament, held at the Meadow Creek Golf Resort, regardless of what the weather held.   Although golf is played as an individual stroke play, this tournament was played as a four-person scramble, which leveled the playing field by allowing each team to select the best shot for each hole after everyone teed off.   To make the game even more interesting, as well as raise additional funds for Emergency Services, “Mulligan’s,” were sold for five dollars, which allowed golfers an extra two hits.   For an additional five dollars, Sam Huston, golf pro for Meadows Creek Golf Resort, offered drives at the 10 ^th hole.   There were also other games, within the tournament, such as, long drives, closet to pin, longest put, and closet to the line.   It was reported that the course was in great shape and that cheers of the golfers were heard throughout the course as golfers “Birdied” and “Eagles” were sunk.   First gross winners of this year’s tournament were Joe and Theresa Martin, Marianne Nelson and Eben Massingil followed by Darrel Deide, LaDonna Deide, Paul Bradley, John Molini, who placed 1 ^st net.   2 ^nd net went to Jan Martin, Marty Martin, Tom Kellie, and Travis Reese and third net went to Art Doo, Jerry Conger, Sherilyn Tamura, and   Duane Tamura.   “Most Fun” went to Jason Noble, Rusty Benz,   Chris Malvich and Toby Warner, who may be responsible for all the cheering heard on the golf course.   A special thank you goes to Sam Huston, Dwight and Corby Dickey, and the staff at Meadow Creek Golf Resort for all their efforts that made this tournament fun for everyone and a tremendous success for our Emergency Services.

Those who opted to forego the golf tournament and head to the park for the S.A.V.E.S. for Kids, had a fun-packed afternoon. Amongst the impressive display of Emergency Vehicles were several activities for kids to choose from.   A special report came from a New Meadows resident, 10 year old Emily Martin, who described the event as “Awesome!”   Emily, whose favorite game was the egg toss, talked about how fun all the different games were, as well as, what it was like to be handcuffed by the police, not for any wrong doing, but, rather, to demonstrate one of the many facets of being a police officer.   The S.A.V.E.S. for Kids activities came to a close with a grand finally of all the Emergency Vehicles leaving.   When asked what it was like to see a helicopter take off for the first time, Emily said, “It was peaceful.”

After a day of activities, it was off to the BBQ and Live Silent Auction, which was held in doors at the Emergency Service Building.   All the hard work of the local S.A.V.E.S. the Day volunteers shined through as you entered a building that was brought to life with a   garden of bright and cheery colors, and with music from the band “Live Wire” that filled the room with the sounds of a good old fashioned community gathering.   Amongst the beautiful atmosphere was an extensive display of items for auction that was not only impressive, but reflective of the generosity of various businesses from New Meadows and neighboring towns, as well as from individuals within the community.   The night was kicked off with the golf tournament awards and an introduction to the firefighters, commissioners, EMTs and Rick Tousley, who coordinated S.A.V.E.S. for Kids.   Rick talked about the success of the event and then joined with Mac Qualls to honor Tillie Beeman, who saved the life of a fellow student. In addition, Jeff Luff, our local Fire Chief, came forward to pay tribute to the Peterson family, made up of three generations of family members that have together contributed 70 years of service to the community.   Larry, Chris, Mark, Justin and Lewis, who is away serving his country in the military, were all presented with custom t-shirts in recognition of their service.   After special recognition was given to Energy Seal and Westcraft Wood for their generous contributions to the Emergency Service Building, auctioneer Kelly Chamberlain revved up the crowd as he both excited and entertained his way through the event.   When the paddles weren’t flashing Frisbees were being tossed into the crowd, with door prizes taped underneath.   Whether it was fun or prizes this event offered something for everyone.  

To produce an event that is both perfectly organized and successfully executed requires the conjoined efforts of people, like the volunteers for S.A.V.E.S. the Day, who dedicated their time, talents and material items.   To the volunteers and the public who took the time to join in these activities we sincerely thank you for your participation and contributions, which ensured that this year’s S.A.V.E.S. the Day was a huge success.