Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen-38Th Reunion, 1999-09-08, Page 23THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 1999. PAGE A-3. Firefighters on the job By Bonnie Gropp Citizen staff Anytime a large number of people gather in one place, there is a potential for risk. As the annual Huron Pioneer Thresher Reunion and Hobby Show attracts thousands each year to the fairgrounds at Blyth it is reassuring to see the highly visible presence of the Blyth firefighters. As a first response team, members of the department are prepared to handle virtually every type of emergency, from fire to heart attack. As proof, last year they dealt with both, ironically at the same time. Chief Paul Josling said that shortly after a woman came to tell them there was a car fire another woman informed them that someone was having a heart attack. “With only two of us there at the time it was hectic for a few minutes but everything turned out alright.” A minimum of two firefighters are on site from the noon hour until 6 p.m. One stays with the emergency van, which is parked in an open area near the arena, while the other walks through the campgrounds. When they are not at the Reunion the men are busily preparing breakfast on Saturday and Sunday morning of the event or sleeping. They are, however, only a phone call away. There is a pay phone in the arena and the registration desk is also often open so that the fire department can be contacted in an emergency. Also, Josling says, there are nurses among the Reunion members who are often on-site. “There is always assistance available to deal with emergencies.” One of the most common first aid needs is bee stings. “There are piles of them every year,” says Josling. Another situation the department sees frequently is lost children. “Because the van is easy to spot we get little ones coming over in tears, at least one a year, telling us they're lost. Even little ones seem to realize the firefighters can help them.” Tiffin CONTINUED FROM A-2 was to allow someone younger to modernize the process and utilize computer technology. That job was left to Tiffin. The transition went smoothly, he says, having taken over the responsibilities early in the year with time to adjust to the busy schedule of the show. “I have to be here all day for the week of the show,” says Tiffin. “I have to hand out the cash drawers in the morning for the gate and stay until the money is collected for the dances.” Tiffin’s statements must be prepared for the annual meeting in October then ready to go to the auditor in November. “There is then down time until February,” he says, “but with the show getting bigger, there is less off time.” Asked what keeps the younger generation involved in the Reunion, Tiffin says it is the camaraderie of the association. “They are like an extended family. The executive is a close-knit group of friends.” Tiffin also asserts that his rural upbringing and appreciation for heritage have kept him interested. Though he had hoped someone else would assume the duties of the flea market when he became treasurer. Tiffin has now held the dual role for five shows. “I have things down to a science,” He says. “It is more like a hobby. This is my way to contribute.” THRESHERS' DIRECTORS Directors for the 38th edition of the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Show are, on back, from left: Tom Penhale, Brad McBride, Judy Sloan, Bill Andrews and Bill Vincent. In front, from left: Annette Vincent, Paul Josling, Edgar Daer and Cathy Thomson. Friends • Threshers • Tractor Men • Neighbours & Visitors The Village of Blyth extends a warm welcome to all visitors here to celebrate another Thresher Reunion THE VILLAGE OF BLYTH AND HE BLYTH PUBLIC UTILITIE t# COMMISSION / to the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association on their 38th Annual Reunion WELCOME TO