The fire that ravaged Valentines

Perhaps you were here on that terrible night of March 6, 1999, when the explosion and fire destroyed much of Valentine's Marina. There had been no rain for months, and everything was tinder-dry. The flames leapt from the dive shop to the tree of the house next door. Volunteers brought our 25-year-old fire truck to the scene, but the pump wasn't working, and the hoses weren't well sealed. Water was squirting everywhere except toward the fire.

Through the grace of God, the wind continued to blow out toward the bay, and the volunteers used the contents of the swimming pool to extinguish the fire. Next day, the sickly smell of smoke pervaded the village, but the fire was out, and no one was hurt.

What about next time?

Next time, will we be so lucky? We have upgraded the water system and installed new hydrants as a start at protecting ourselves. But what we really need is a new fire truck. The current truck shown here is nearly useless for the conditions on Harbour Island. (See FAQ for details and photo of proposed new truck.)

How you can help

JOIN THE BRIGADE :
The Brigade of Supporters for Harbour Island's Fire Truck #1

ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS:

$50 - $99 Fireman's Brigade
$100 - $249 Lieutenant's Squad
$250 - $499 Captain's Company
$500 - $999 Commander's Battalion
over $1000 Chief's Circle

CAPITAL GIFTS:

$1000 - Supporter
$2500 - Benefactor
$5000 - Guardian
$10,000 + Honorary Fire Chief

As a supporter at any level, you will receive recognition in publicity and an annual sticker to display at your home or business, or on your golf cart, car, truck, or boat.

If your support is at the $500 level or larger, you will receive a special commemorative Fire Fighter's cap.

Donors of $1000 or more will have the opportunity to have a picture of you and your friends with the fire truck.

MAIL YOUR DONATION:

Make out a check to the Briland Modem Fund, with "Fire Truck" written in the memo line. If you want an American tax deduction, mail it to:

Briland Modem fund
10153 Riverside Drive Suite 244
Toluka Lake, CA 91602

If you don't need an American tax deduction, you can mail your check to:

c/o Keith Wells at the Royal Bank
PO Box EL27024,
Harbour Island, North Eleuthera
Bahamas

Your check will help us all sleep better at night knowing the protection we need is available. This web site will keep you posted on the status of the drive and where the money goes.

Valentine's today