News Release

Local Firefighter “Hangs Out” for
Muscular Dystrophy Canada

(Thursday, June 23, 2005) – This Friday, at 12-noon, Joe Triff will begin his assent to the top of a 100 foot ladder. This courageous firefighter from the Westphal Cole Harbour Firefighters Association (WCHFFA) is perching for 50 hours in support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC).

This weekend celebrates the 16th anniversary of the Annual Don Crook Memorial Ladder-a-Thon that is being held at the Sobeys parking lot of the Forest Hills Shopping Centre. While Joe sits in the air from 12:00pm Friday to 2 pm Sunday, other members of the WCHFFA will be collecting donations from the public through their boot drives and BBQ sales. Last year, the firefighters raised over $23,000 during the weekend, this year they hope to top that.

Since 1954, Canadian firefighters have been helping MDC provide essential services to families affected by neuromuscular disorders living in HRM. Their funding goes towards providing mobility equipment, information, support, and hope.

The WCHFFA has been the biggest supporter of MDC-Atlantic, raising over $410,000 since 1983, with $257,000 coming directly from the annual ‘Don Crook Ladder-a-Thon’. They are a dedicated group of firefighters that initiate, organize and execute various fundraising activities.

Starting at 8:30 am on Sunday the WCHFFA will be putting on a Muster (fire truck display) to celebrate the end of another successful event, and to congratulate Joe for his 50 hours in the sky. The day will consist of competitions, relays, demonstrations, a chance for individuals to try their hand at putting out a fire and a fire truck parade through the community to mark the finale. Sparky, the Dalmatian, will also be making an appearance.

Have fun this weekend supporting a good cause. Help us make muscles move!

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For more information please contact:
Mike LeRue
Media Relations
Westphal Cole Harbour Firefighters Association
902.430.3820