Ramara/September 20, 2024 – Ramara Fire and Rescue Services, along with the Ramara Firefighters Association, were the recipients of a $20,000 donation from the 'Lake Simcoe Rescue Run' Charity Poker Run, which was hosted by the Performance Boat Club of Canada on August 17 in Lagoon City.

Fire Chief Tony Stong expressed his appreciation, stating, “I want to thank the Performance Boat Club of Canada and President Carl McBride for making the Lake Simcoe Rescue Run a resounding success. This financial donation, which will go towards the purchase of new navigational equipment and search tools, offers an incredible boost to the Ramara Fire and Rescue Services marine and ice water rescue efforts. Your support is crucial and deeply appreciated.”

The charity poker run had several boats in attendance that traveled to five different points on Lake Simcoe. The boaters collected a playing card at each stop and, at the end of the run, laid their cards on the table for a winning hand to be determined.

"With the support of community sponsors and participants, our charity poker run was an astounding success," states Carl McBride of Performance Boat Club of Canada.

Performance Boat Club Events Inc. is a not for profit corporation with a mission to promote safe and responsible performance boating through education, awareness, responsibility and organized boating events. With the help and support of the performance boating community, our goal is to contribute to local communities through charitable fund-raising activities. Since 2007, the club has raised over $870,000 for various charities in southern Ontario! www.performanceboatclub.ca

Dwaine Fisher and his family from Fisher Excavating and Grading, the title sponsors, presented Ramara Fire and Rescue Services and the Ramara Fire Association with the entirety of the funds raised by this event from their sponsors and donors.

Fire Chief Tony Stong adds, “When organizations like this support local emergency services, great things happen for the betterment of our communities. Not only does it make it safer for our responders in an emergency, it positively impacts the outcome of these events on many occasions.”

Curious to know more about Ramara Fire and Rescue Services? Explore volunteer firefighter opportunities, fire burn ratings, fire safety tips, and emergency management information on our website at www.ramara.ca/fire. Stay informed and get involved!

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Media Contact

Ashley Watson Manager of Business, Communications and Community Engagement

Township of Ramara

705-484-5374 ext. 322