Title
Proclamation celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Port Vue Volunteer Fire Department.
Body
WHEREAS, Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 of Port Vue will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year; and
WHEREAS, the fire company was founded on July 13, 1908 on its current site at 1800 Romine Avenue; and
WHEREAS, in its earliest days, a steam whistle served as the company's first fire alarm, with the number of blasts signifying which of Port Vue's six wards was in trouble; and
WHEREAS, throughout the past 100 years, the fire company has grown to include significantly more high-tech equipment, including a $194,000 Mack Engine; and
WHEREAS, Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 is staffed largely by volunteers and exists on a budget provided through donations, fundraising efforts, and borough funding; and
WHEREAS, in addition to providing Port Vue residents with fire protection, the first company has also held a variety of fundraising events in the community including street fairs, picnics, and dances; and
WHEREAS, under the current leadership of Chief John Kerr, the fire company boasts 60 members, 31 with more than 25 years of experience and 19 of whom have joined within the past two years, a true testament to the company's commitment to providing its firefighters with excellent training opportunities;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council congratulates Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 of Port Vue on the momentous occasion of its 100th anniversary. Furthermore, we wholeheartedly thank all members, past and present, who have risked their lives in order to protect the residents of Port Vue.