Around 40 attend EDCVFD annual meeting

Approximately 40 association members attended the 2025 Annual Eastern Douglas County Volunteer Fire Department Association meeting this past Tuesday, June 3. The evening started with a fish fry, followed by our annual meeting.
Meeting highlights included an informative State of the Department presentation by Chief Hammett as well stating the need to increase community participation to pay their annual dues. It was noted that in 2024, only a little over one third of community members and businesses paid their dues.
Time was also taken to recognize several former Board members; Mark Keller, Steve Moody, Ed Rogers, Christine Schuette and Brenda Massey and current Board member Nikki Hammett for their time and efforts supporting both the department and community. Nikki’s work has brought in over $575,000 in grants for equipment, gear and improve department recruiting and retention efforts.
The high point of the meeting was the announcement that Down-Home Realty has agreed to be the main sponsor of the 2025 Vanzant Community Picnic, July 11 and 12. 
Last but not least, the winning name was drawn for the department $1,500 Gift Card raffle to Mountainside Outfitters. Congratulations Joseph Hickey, of West Plains.
The department would like to especially say “Thank You” to Shelly Smith, owner of Down-Home Realty, as well as all other picnic sponsors and community members who continually support our department.
If you would like to help work at this year’s picnic, bake a cake or pie for the cake walk, or pay your annual association dues, please contact any department member for assistance.