Editorial

The 125th Fire Department Celebration honoring over a century of service to the Gray community was scheduled for September 17. There were to be day-long events, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display, and including a fantastic parade of apparatus from all over New England.

Hurricane Ophelia and the ever-changeable weather conspired and the forecast was bleak for any outdoor events that day. The Celebration was canceled and that was a heartbreaking decision that had to be made.

Council Chair Gary Foster noted at the Tuesday Council meeting that the volunteers' hard work was noticed and he extended his regrets that the celebration had to be canceled. Hopefully the Fire Department and the Fire Association will be able to pull the Celebration together for a future date. And this time I hope the weather cooperates.

That the Fire Department in Gray has existed for 125 years in continuous service to people in need is something that is celebrated every day, no matter if there is a parade or fireworks. And no weather event can alter that fact. Congratulations to the Fire Department and The Monument wishes you well as you continue your service.