Mike Parker: Grifton Lions ready to roar for First Responders
Back in September of 2024, I wrote a column about the Grifton Lions Club planning an appreciation day for first responders. That day is quickly approaching. In fact, the “First Responders Appreciation Day” will kick off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, at the Grifton Train Depot. The Grifton Lions have reached out to first responders in Lenoir, Pitt, and Greene counties – 50 departments in all.
One highlight of the “Appreciation Day” will be cooking competitions. Some may want to enter the Rib Cook-Off. Others may want to show off their talent at the Mac & Cheese competition. Some others may want to showcase their expertise in preparing Desserts. All cooking competitions will award trophies to the winners.
Those who compete in the Rib Cook-Off must do the cooking on-site, but those who enter the Mac & Cheese and Dessert competitions may prepare their dishes off-site. Young people 13 and under may enter the Dessert Cook-off for free. Those 13 and above must pay $50 to enter the Rib Cook-Off, and $15 to enter either the Mac & Cheese or Dessert competition.
Each first responder who comes to Appreciation Day will register for door prizes. Raffle tickets will also be available for a 50/50 drawing. Each ticket will cost two dollars. The Lions hope to sell 1,000 tickets. A variety of vendors will also be onsite.
Those who attend can also have vision and hearing screenings for free. A special KidSight vision screening will target the visual needs of children.
At least two helicopters will grace the grounds: an ECU Health Helicopter and its crew and an NC Highway Patrol Helicopter and crew. ECU Health will also have information about stroke awareness and prevention. Other health and wellness opportunities too numerous to mention in this column will also be present for this special day.
The Grifton Little League will sell hot dogs and cotton candy during the event.
The Grifton Lions Club is still seeking sponsors to help raise money to fund the contributions that will be made to individual first responders as well as to departments.
“We are not trying to make any money,” said Charlie Herring, one of the organizers. “We just hope to break even.” The plan is to raise money to donate to first responders and to departments.
The top level of sponsorship – the Platinum Level – is $5,000. Those supporting at the Platinum level will be recognized as a Premiere Event Sponsor with exclusive logo placement on all event materials. The Platinum level sponsors will also receive mention in all press releases, advertisements, and media coverage.
Other levels are Gold Sponsorship at $1,000; Silver Sponsorship for $500; and Bronze Sponsorship for $250. Platinum, Gold, and Silver sponsors will have the opportunity to have a booth at the event to promote the company or services.
Those who give less than $250 will be recognized as Community Sponsors.
Consider becoming a sponsor to show your appreciation for the work of these brave men and women who put the needs of others first.
As I wrote in September, I live about a half mile from the North Lenoir Volunteer Fire Department across from Smith’s Café. I am within easy earshot of the fire alarm that summons the volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel. That alarm can go off at any time – day or night – and during any kind of weather.
When I hear that alarm, I know a dozen or more volunteers will answer that call.
I dare say few of these brave men and women ever hear “Thank you” for the life-saving services they render. Sponsoring and attending this event will be an excellent way to show gratitude for the selfless work these brave men and women do for our community.
If you have questions, comments, or suggestions, contact the Grifton Lions Club at girftonlionsclub@gmail.com or call 252-468-0596. You can also visit the Grifton Lions Club Facebook page [ https://www.facebook.com/griftonlionsclub/ ].
Mike Parker is a columnist for the Neuse News. You can reach him at mparker16@gmail.com.
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