Staff report
GOLD HILL ó Firefighters from across eastern Rowan County got a very tasty thank you Friday evening.
Members of Gold Hill Wesleyan Church served up barbecued chicken and pork to firefighters from six departments as a way of thanking them for their service.
Luther Morgan, a church member, had talked with the Rev. Harold Bumby about doing something to show community support for firefighters.
A week or so later, the tragic fire on March 7 at Salisbury Millwork killed two firefighters, Victor Isler and Justin Monroe.
“When that happened, we talked again,” Morgan said. “We decided if we’re going to do this thing, let’s do it.”
Church members agreed and got busy working to get donations for the dinner and for door prizes.
“The next thing you know, we had the money to buy food and $700 for door prizes,” Morgan said.
Several businesses throughout the area donated gift certificates.
Bumby sent out invitations to firefighters and their spouses from Liberty, Gold Hill, Pooletown, Rockwell Rural, Richfield-Misenheimer and Granite Quarry departments.
On Friday morning, Morgan and other volunteers began cooking the chicken and pork and preparing the rest of the menu.
Morgan, a retired Norfolk Southern engineer, was also in charge of quality control.
“I did a lot of sampling. You know, you can’t serve it, if it ain’t no good,” Morgan said. After extensive sampling, he determined everything was delicious, including the homemade desserts.
Church women provided cakes, pies and puddings.
Morgan estimated they served 140 firefighters and their spouses.
“The firefighters were very, very appreciative,” said Morgan, adding that it went over so well, they may consider another event in the future. “We had a good time.”
The event held in the Family Life Center included patriotic entertainment and a presentation on the Sept 11, 2001, attack on the World Trade Center.
Most of the guests also got a door prize. The church gave away 83 door prizes including a few $100 and $50 bills.