East Dundee picnic has lower turnout than last year, but still turns a profit

As much as it tried playing the spoiler, the bad economy did not rob the East Dundee Firefighters' Association of raising money to help local charities.

High unemployment and job uncertainty kept some people from buying the $12.50 meals at its annual July barbecue, which took place July 17. Enough were sold, though, to make a small profit.

"We don't hold this as a fundraiser; it's a community event," said Paula Roland, association treasurer "It's a chance for people to get together and have a good time.

"We sold about 110 fewer meals than last year, but that's OK. We have enough to cover our bills and some to give to charity."

Which group will receive money and how much it will receive will be decided in the coming weeks by association members.

Then, members may also decide if they will hold their second annual meat raffle.

The barbecue replaced the annual firemen's carnival, which was held for more than 50 years. Three years ago, it ended when amusement companies refused to supply the rides and carnival games because they said Max Freeman Park is small and they were no longer making money.

Summer could not pass without at least one event, so the association members started their barbecue. They hired Fay's Barbecue to cater it. With every meal sold, East Dundee firefighters received $4.50.

In 2009, they sold tickets for 500 meals. This year, only 390 tickets were sold.

"We do have some expense to pay out of that," Roland said. "We paid for the insurance, the advertising, the tents and the games. They aren't cheap. And we also have to pay for upkeep of the park."

On a good year when the carnival was helping, the association spent its profits on protective clothing or small equipment, such as coats and boats for firefighters.

The turkey raffle, which also has been discontinued, was another fundraiser. Until three years ago, each November, the association bought cases of turkeys and hams and raffled them off during the weekend before Thanksgiving.

Its popularity outgrew the Third Street fire station, though. Now, association members will decide if the economy will make the sale worth it.

"It's a shame because there are things the fire district needs, but we don't have the money to buy them," Roland said.

"We have two (fire) engines that should be replaced, but we don't have the money."